I’m very pleased to announce that the 170 proposals below have made it on to the so-called shortlist. Fingers crossed, every single person who submitted a proposal has received an email from me today, bearing either good or bad news. (Please do check your spam folders or whatever, because I ran into a bunch of technical glitches this afternoon but I’m sure as I can be that all the emails did actually go out.)
All of the proposals on this shortlist had *something* about them – enough to make me think they’d make a book worth reading. And yet so many of the proposals that didn’t make the cut were good, too; there’s definitely an element of luck to all of this, and I can only apologise to those who feel hard done by.
As for what happens next…a small group of us will consider these 170 proposals as closely as we can, and maybe 6-8 weeks from now we’ll have reduced this list to a much more manageable size. Feel free, in the comments below, to wax lyrical about Bill Fox, AC/DC, what on earth do we think we are doing, etc.
UPDATE: I GET THE SENSE THAT A HANDFUL OF PEOPLE DIDN’T GET AN EMAIL TODAY, DESPITE MY BEST EFFORTS. IF YOU’RE ONE OF THEM, PLEASE EMAIL ME AT MY REGULAR WORK EMAIL, AND I’LL SORT THIS OUT – THANKS! (david at continuum-books.com)
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2 Live Crew – As Clean As They Wanna Be
AC/DC – Back in Black
AC/DC – For Those About To Rock
AC/DC – Highway to Hell
Agnostic Front – Cause for Alarm
Animal Collective – FEELS
Aphrodite’s Child – 666
Arcade Fire – Funeral
Aretha Franklin – Amazing Grace
Arthur Russell – World of Echo
The Beatles – The Beatles
The Beatles – The Beatles
The Bee Gees – Best of the Bee Gees, Volume 1
Ben Folds Five – The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner
Big Country – The Crossing
Bill Fox – Transit Byzantium
Black Uhuru – Showcase
Bob Dylan – Self Portrait
Bob Dylan – Time Out of Mind
Britney Spears – Blackout
Britney Spears – Blackout
Bruce Springsteen – Darkness on the Edge of Town
The Cars – The Cars
The Chills – Submarine Bells
The Cramps – Songs the Lord Taught Us
Crowded House – Together Alone
Cyndi Lauper – She’s So Unusual
Daft Punk – Discovery
D’Angelo – Voodoo
David Bowie – The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
Devo – Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo
Digital Underground – Sex Packets
Dinosaur Jr. – You’re Living All Over Me
Dinosaur Jr. – You’re Living All Over Me
Donovan – Gift From a Flower to a Garden
Drive-By Truckers – Southern Rock Opera
Drive-By Truckers – Southern Rock Opera
The Drones – Gala Mill
Duran Duran – Rio
The Eagles – Greatest Hits
ELO – Out of the Blue
Emmylou Harris – Pieces of the Sky
Erykah Badu – Mama’s Gun
Fairport Convention – Liege and Lief
The Fall – Hex Enduction Hour
Fennesz – Endless Summer
Fugazi – 13 Songs
Fugazi – In On the Kill Taker
Garth Brooks – (in…) The Life of Chris Gaines
Gary Numan and Tubeway Army – Replicas
Gary Wilson – You Think You Really Know Me
Genesis – The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway
Gillian Welch – Time (The Revelator)
Girl Talk – Night Ripper
Grateful Dead – Anthem of the Sun
Grateful Dead – The Closing of Winterland
Hall and Oates – Rock ‘n’ Soul Part One
Herb Alpert – Whipped Cream and Other Delights
The Hold Steady – Separation Sunday
Husker Du – Zen Arcade
The Incredible String Band – The Hangman’s Beautiful Daughter
The Incredible String Band – Wee Tam and the Big Huge
Iron Maiden – Iron Maiden
J Dilla – Donuts
The Jam – All Mod Cons
Jane’s Addiction – Ritual de lo Habitual
Jawbreaker – 24 Hour Revenge Therapy
Jefferson Airplane – Crown of Creation
Jellyfish – Spilt Milk
Jimmy Eat World – Clarity
John Lennon – Live in New York City
Johnny Cash – American Recordings
Johnny Cash – American Recordings
Kanye West – 808 & Heartbreak
Karen Dalton – In My Own Time
Kiss – Destroyer
The Knack – Get the Knack
Kraftwerk – Trans-Europe Express
Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Leonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen – Various Positions
Lil’ Wayne – Da Drought 3
Little Feat – Sailin’ Shoes
Liz Phair – Exile in Guyville
Liz Phair – Exile in Guyville
Lou Reed – Metal Machine Music
Madonna – Ray of Light
Main Source – Breaking Atoms
Manu Chao – Clandestino
Massive Attack – Blue Lines
The Mekons – Fear and Whiskey
The Melvins – Lysol
Metallica – Metallica
Metallica – Master of Puppets
M.I.A. – Kala
The Millennium – Begin
Moby Grape – Moby Grape
Modest Mouse – The Lonesome Crowded West
The Monkees – Head
Mothers of Invention – Freak Out!
The Mountain Goats – All Hail West Texas
Namco – Katamari Fortissimo Damacy
Neil Young – Tonight’s the Night
New Order – Power, Corruption and Lies
New York Dolls – New York Dolls
New York Dolls – New York Dolls
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds – Tender Prey
NWA – Straight Outta Compton
The O’Jays – Back Stabbers
Operation Ivy – Energy
Paul Simon – Graceland
Pearl Jam – Vitalogy
Pere Ubu – Dub Housing
Pharcyde – Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde
Phil Ochs – Rehearsals for Retirement
Phish – Junta
Phish – Rift
Pink Floyd – The Wall
The Police – Synchronicity
Portishead – Dummy
Public Image Limited – Metal Box
Pussy Galore – Exile on Main Street
Radiohead – Kid A
Radiohead – Kid A
Rage Against the Macine – Evil Empire
Randy Newman – Good Old Boys
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Blood Sugar Sex Magik
REM – Automatic for the People
The Residents – Commercial Album
Richard Hell and the Voidoids – Blank Generation
The Rolling Stones – Some Girls
The Rolling Stones – Some Girls
Rush – Moving Pictures
Rush – Moving Pictures
Sandy Denny – Sandy
Scott Walker – The Drift
Sleater-Kinney – One Beat
Slint – Spiderland
Slint – Spiderland
Smashing Pumpkins – Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
Steve Reich – Music for 18 Musicians
The Strokes – Is This It
Suicide – Suicide
Talk Talk – Spirit of Eden
Talking Heads – Remain in Light
Talking Heads – Remain in Light
Television – Marquee Moon
They Might Be Giants – Flood
They Might Be Giants – Lincoln
Townes Van Zandt – Townes Van Zandt
USA for Africa – We Are the World
Vampire Weekend – Vampire Weekend
Van Halen – MCMLXXXIV
Various Artists – Dave Godin’s Deep Soul Treasures Vol 1
Various Artists – O Brother, Where Art Thou? Soundtrack
Various Artists – Reservoir Dogs soundtrack
The Violent Femmes – Violent Femmes
Warren Zevon – Warren Zevon
Ween – Chocolate and Cheese
The White Stripes – White Blood Cells
Wilco – Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Woody Guthrie – Dust Bowl Ballads
X-Ray Spex – Germ Free Adolescents
X – Los Angeles
X – More Fun in the New World
XTC – Wasp Star (Apple Venus Vol 2)
Yoko Ono – Plastic Ono Band
Young Jeezy – Let’s Get It
Young Marble Giants – Colossal Youth
The Zombies – Odessey and Oracle
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My picks:The Jam – All Mod ConsLou Reed – Metal Machine MusicMassive Attack – Blue LinesMetallica – MetallicaM.I.A. – KalaNew Order – Power, Corruption and LiesPearl Jam – VitalogyPink Floyd – The WallPortishead – DummyPublic Image Limited – Metal BoxRadiohead – Kid ARage Against the Macine – Evil EmpireTelevision – Marquee MoonVampire Weekend – Vampire WeekendAs well as (not on the list):Spiritualized – Ladies And Gentlemen We Are Floating In SpaceSwervedriver – Mezcal HeadIncubus – A Crow Left Of The MurderMagazine – Real LifeBuzzcocks – Another Music In A Different KitchenThe Prodigy – The Fat Of The LandThe Doors – The DoorsThe Smiths – The Queen Is DeadAt The Drive-In – Relationship of CommandRide – NowhereSlowdive – SouvlakiOasis – Definitely MaybePublic Enemy – Fear of a Black PlanetThe Libertines – The LibertinesThe Verve – Urban HymnsJunkie XL – Saturday Teenage KickTricky – Pre-Millennium TensionThe Jam – The GiftBlack Rebel Motorcycle Club – Black Rebel Motorcycle ClubBloc Party – Silent AlarmBlur – ParklifeAll absolute classics in my opinion, I would buy 10 copies of each of those books without hesitation…
My picks:X – either of the albumsSandy Denny Lou ReedHerb Alpert – Whipped CreamDylan – Time Out of MindEmmylou HarrisAnd for most intriguing proposal, I would say the Garth Brooks/Chris Gaines thing — IF it’s got substance and it’s not just high-concept.
i think i would read just about any of these books if the idea was well-executed.
Jimmy Eat World’s “Clarity” is the overlooked “Pet Sounds” of this generation. A book about it could be fascinating.
God… If you ever make a book on the Darkness of The Edge of Town album, by Bruce Springsteen, I’ll not only buy several copies for my friends, but I’ll put mine on my center table, alongside with my Gentlemen book!Greetings from Brazil!J.
Pieces of the Sky — Emmylou Harris, most definitely!
I’ve just listened my 29 year old vinyl copy of AC/DC’s ‘Back in Black’ for the first time in … probably 25 years, and – occasional dodgy lyrics aside – I reckon it deserves a 33 1/3 for that awesome guitar tone alone.
I agree that the kiss pitch gave itself a headstart with the ready-to-go demographic, but i’d be very interested to see what angle it takes- it still had to be a killer proposal.
very cut i didn’t make it, but i’ve got to say that KISS was a pretty savvy move- any subject with its own freakin’ army is bound to get a publisher interested. good luck!
very cut i didn’t make it, but i’ve got to say that KISS was a pretty savvy move- any subject with its own freakin’ army is bound to get a publisher interested. good luck!
After that uncomfortable public skewering of cult-crit hipster cleverness by Stephen Colbert the other night, maybe Dave et al. are rethinking some of their choices from the shortlist. Might that mean that we, the reading public, will be denied the likes of Britney, Ween, and USA For Africa? Oh the humanity. Oh the irony.
David…dude, any chance of an update? Howz it lookin? How about some clues? Newies or oldies….biggies or obscurities….factz or fiction? Are you gonna short the short list even more? Whats goin on?!!!!!!!! Man, this is killin me!
My choices:Neil Young – Tonight’s the NightTalking Heads – Remain in LightMekons – Fear and WhiskeyThe Fall – Hex Enduction HourX – Los AngelesPiL – Metal BoxNew York DollsLet the writing begin!
Noted in passing by a friend of mine:”I saw a Lebron James commercial the other day in which (to get himself pumped up for a game!) he’s overheard singing along w/ his iPod….to Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Time After Time’!”
SLINT!!!!! Hell ya I’d read a fucking book about Spiderland! Hope that one makes the final cut.
Pretty please times 50 for:The Arcade Fire-FuneralDaft Punk-DiscoveryGirl Talk-Night RipperNWA-Straight Outta ComptonThe White Stripes-White Blood CellsHow has Remain in Light not been done yet?Thanks for all your hard work!
“I could be wrong, but I don’t believe 33 1/3 are attempting to canonize, nor are they interested in hagiography, narrative or biography”Actually, Sir, you are a little bit wrong. A few past editions have been biographical in nature. So there. Anyway, other than that you are right. I suppose.QuizMaster, mate, I know where you are coming from. I was as pissed off as you when the list was revealed and Britney/Eagles/Garth Brooks et al made it through over my efforts. However, we don’t what made David choose these proposals over ours. I was a 1st time writer and I knew it was pure chance that it might be good and get through. Well, it turns out it was OK but not good enough for publishing. So, yep, it hurt to see shitty albums being accepted but well I got over it. One plus is that I have started my own review blog to do my thing. So, in that sense rejection helped me start writing as a hobby part-time. Who knows what it might lead to?One point I do agree with you is that even taking into account intellectual analysis of ‘good’ albums, the vibe seems to be books exploring the excesses of bad culture and what they say about our culture now. Other than academics and ‘what the hell?’ curious readers, I can’t see who these books would appeal to.Anyway, do try next time. I will 😉
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Holy shit, QuizMasterChris. Go cry to someone else.Viva Animal Collective/Arcade Fire/Britney Spears/Girl Talk/Vampire Weekend/Wilco!
The Hold Steady – Separation Sunday get a vote.I was very happy to see it on the list.
QuizmasterChris:Sir, I could be wrong, but I don’t believe 33 1/3 are attempting to canonize, nor are they interested in hagiography, narrative or biography. The arduous, yet sadly necessary, persistent reiteration of the series objectives to some of those whose proposals succumbed to the initial cull, as well as the naïve underestimation of the competitiors’ proposals has been astonishing. The ability to contextualize, to analyze, offer critique, make distinctive and/ or unique correlations between the record and another position is the only prerequisite this series has ever had. Seemingly, some have used their failure to capitalize on the transparency of the initial instructions as a vehicle for driving aggressive, vitriolic dialect towards those who succeeded. The inability to see one’s own shortcomings does not a good writer make…So, may 33 1/3 pluck Britney and Madonna from their tabloid-dwelling misery and place them in the considered contexts of the prospective author’s writing; for I have faith in an intelligent readership, able to brush aside any initial prejudices and embrace new perspectives.
Eurythmics – Savage
(with comment above)As someone whose shortlisted proposal has as its subject a record that many would log in the “forgotten in X years” file, I really think that those of you who present this idea of a definite expiration of appeal and significance should consider this proposition and afford writers the chance to prove their album “worthy” of discussion instead of blindly disregarding their work on basis of subject alone.
Have you ever considered that perhaps a thoughtfully and passionately written book about said potentially forgotten album might serve to help keep the album from fading into the void? Sure, we all like to have our tastes reaffirmed, but might this series of books also serve, in particular cases, as an argument for the significance of a record that might be otherwise swept under the rug? Please consider this position as you knee-jerk away at the sight of a particular title without any knowledge of the context in which that record is being presented.
As one of the rejectees, I didn’t mind quite so much until I saw two things:1) the SIZE of the “shortlist”, which isn’t very short at all, and2) the frequency of complete and total crap on that list. No one can possibly have anything interesting to say about ‘artists’ who aren’t even writing their own material.B. Spears? Seriously? TWO B. Spears proposals make it? Lil Wayne?! Really..? Crazy.That really makes me feel like not submitting again, because it feels like monkeys were throwing darts to pick these.And a lot of that indie rock and rap recent crap will be very much forgotten in X years, I agree with the poster who said that.Even when I look at some of the selections that made it through in the same genre of music I submitted, I just sort of shake my head. Far less influential stuff, and not conceivably as interesting.Preempting any comments about how “the proposal” was more important than the album, I have to say that if you’re starting with a crap album, what’s the point? Garbage in, garbage out.I don’t have anything posted yet to provide a link to, this being the 1st time I’ve seen these comments, but I might post it to my blog, then come back here and post the link.”It is just missing the point to debate the merits of the album titles, lacking knowledge of the proposals.” Um… NO. Why not pick albums randomly then… how well would they sell? The entire point is that these books connect to the music in specific albums which for whatever reasons stand out from the crowd. Big Country and Madonna album are weak. Weak!
But (and I’m in no way suggesting that the Pulp Fiction proposal was this), what if a proposal for a title with huuuge crossover potential was the very worst of all 597 suggestions? It can’t make the shortlist just on the basis of the record it’s about. If it were unpublishable, it shouldn’t be on the shortlist. Period. And the other suggestion, that it’s all about the money, is illogical. Wouldn’t David therefore shortlist the 170 titles with most crossover appeal, probably including Pulp Fiction? And, in fact, wouldn’t he just draw his own list up and commission known writers to heighten commercial appeal? We’re going around in circles here…
Maybe the pulp fiction proposal wasn’t one of the best ones but for it not to make a 170-title shortlist full of shitty albums no one cares about is ridiculous.
u guys r retarded. U think David cares about the quality of the book? It’s about money, bottom line and anonymous is right, more people would read anything abt pulp fiction than the best book ever about husker du. A book on pulp fiction has crossover appeal that would broaden the series’ fanbase. It would lead to more sales of pretentious books like ones about husker du, not to pick on that band or the guy who wrote that proposal. I’d love to read a book about the compiliation of a cool sdtk and what’s cooler than pulp fiction?
I love the shortlist. I hope lesser-known writers get a look-in. I’d hate to see the final chosen ones full of rolling stone/ spin/ pitchfork writers. Horrible. May as well head-hunt and not bother with the open call. I also hope the eventual list contains some real controversies!
To the two people who submitted proposals for the SLOAN album ‘Twice Removed’ and didn’t make the cut: sorry you didn’t make it! As the guy who wrote a proposal for it last go around and got rejected as well…I feel your pain. At least now I know it wasn’t just because my proposal was bad. I guess it’s just an album that has made 0 impact south of the Canadian border! FYI: my own write-up of the album can be found in my book project/blog right here: http://myreccollection.livejournal.com/285063.htmlEnjoy and take care (and don’t feel bad…it’s nothing personal I’m sure!).
You know there is such a thing as electronic music not made by Kraftwerk (the only legends most people are willing to recognize) and Girl Talk (the only flavor of the month people are willing to recognize). You should try to broaden your horizons. There’s a whole world of music out there you’ve completely ignored.
The Talking Heads appears to be the most interesting and worthwhile listed (in my opinion).
sad to see slapp happy go.
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girl talk and the zombies sound swell to me.
these posts all running together would make an interesting 33 1/3 book.
According to the shortlist, 33 1/3 could easily keep the “one artist, one album” policy going for another round. Only a handful of these titles are from acts already covered in the series. That said, I would just as eagerly read “Kid A” or “Some Girls” as I would almost any title on the list.
Dear 3:54 posting, Your posting makes no sense. Isn’t the first step to pick an interesting album – then attempt to say something interesting about that album? I dare you to write a coherent posting.Think.
The series should totally do a box set of the J Dilla, pharcyde and erykah badu books. I’d read all three.
>>>I'd love to read a book on the Violent Femmes…not to pick on you but i wouldn't… i'd like to read a book about a specific album, it's creation, interesting aspects of the recording sessions, it's significance, it's effects on art/society…problem as i see it is just because you believe you've chosen a "great" record (which may or may not have even been released on ACTUAL vinyl) you think you can write an interesting story about it… i dare you to write anything about vampire weekend that would may me even wanna read the back cover.
I'd love to read a book on the Violent Femmes; they're so not your typical band. Same with They Might Be Giants; I saw the documentary on them and didn't really realize they got their start in the vaportrail of the NY no wave scene. Other than that, I think the Dinosaur Jr. book would be a fitting epitaph to an American indie scene that — with the downsizing that happened with Touch & Go this week — is pretty much kaput.
For what it’s worth, I’d eagerly take a look at a book on:AC/DC – Highway to HellBruce Springsteen – Darkness on the Edge of TownThe Cars – The CarsThe Cramps – Songs the Lord Taught UsDrive-By Truckers – Southern Rock OperaThe Eagles – Greatest HitsELO – Out of the BlueFugazi – 13 SongsGillian Welch – Time (The Revelator)The Hold Steady – Separation SundayThe Jam – All Mod ConsJohn Lennon – Live in New York CityJohnny Cash – American RecordingsKiss – DestroyerThe Knack – Get the KnackLiz Phair – Exile in GuyvilleLou Reed – Metal Machine MusicNew Order – Power, Corruption and LiesNew York Dolls – New York DollsNWA – Straight Outta ComptonPussy Galore – Exile on Main StreetREM – Automatic for the PeopleRichard Hell and the Voidoids – Blank GenerationThe Rolling Stones – Some GirlsThe Strokes – Is This ItSuicide – SuicideTelevision – Marquee MoonVan Halen – MCMLXXXIVThe White Stripes – White Blood CellsX – More Fun in the New World
honestly – your writing sucks. get over it mr. pulp fiction.
Well put Pseudo. I hope that we’re done now.
Re: “I submitted the one on the Pulp Fiction soundtrack and if the bottom line is to sell books, I don’t see how it wasn’t one of the 175 most commercial proposals… So in that respect, I think David messed up….There’s just no way Husker Du or The Incredible String Band sells more copies than Pulp fucking Fiction. No way!”I guess there’s no point in making this point over and over, but this comment reflects a misunderstanding of what this evaluation process must be about for David et al. Based on my own experience as an author and editor, I’d estimate that the quality of the proposal, as they see it, likely matters about 80% and the suitability of the album 20%, or something in that ballpark.So, to spell it out, most likely the editors would say that a smart, elegantly-written, surprising, engrossing, funny proposal on ANY album, no matter how seemingly odd or obscure, would be at least taken seriously; whereas a run-of-the-mill, pedestrian, predictable, sparkless, or even just OK (not to mention mediocre or badly written) proposal on the very album they’d most like to feature in the series would be dismissed out of hand.It is just missing the point to debate the merits of the album titles, lacking knowledge of the proposals. And, needless to say it would be very easy to hire a fleet of freelance writers to churn out copy on the 20 biggest selling albums of all time, but that’s not what the series is about and such books would not be successful or sell well. I guess these points have been made too many times but I had to chime in.
Yoko OnoNick CaveCyndi LauperWow. Cool.
Hey, Pulp Fiction guy; yes, I think you’re too Hollywood for this crowd. Because, yes, more people went to see Pulp Fiction in the theaters than saw Husker Du live, but that doesn’t mean that one is better than the other. If we’re talking Art, and the lasting importance and influence of style and attitude, then Pulp Fiction’s warmed-over Urge Overkill cover versions hardly match up to the some of the bands and records represented on the shortlist. Because while Pulp Fiction’s influence in the film-world was large (witness the numerous knock-offs that followed it), its influence in musical circles was much, much smaller (e.g. no long-lived resurgence of surf music).
Wow, that is quite a list. I am super-excited about this next series of books. I am particularly excited about Phil Ochs and Karen Dalton making the list.
Pulp Fiction soundtrack guy: I have information about how that soundtrack came about which might be news to you. e-mail me at snippy@sprynet.com
I would love to see 33 1/3 books on:1. AC/DC – Highway to Hell2. Bob Dylan – Time Out of Mind3. The Cramps – Songs the Lord Taught Us4. The Drones – Gala Mill5. The Fall – Hex Enduction Hour6. Johnny Cash – American Recordings7. Karen Dalton – In My Own Time8. Leonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard Cohen9. Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds – Tender Prey10. Portishead – Dummy11. Suicide – Suicide12. The White Stripes – White Blood CellsPlease make shore these 12 make the final cut.Cheers
Just want to say:Rehearsals for Retirement is a great record, and in it lies the death of, not only Phil Ochs, but 60s idealism. A great book could be written about that one.Marquee Moon and Liege and Lief, on the other hand, are simply important records that really need to be represented in the series, even if it’s not this time around.As you were.
Nice to see folks posting their proposals online… perhaps there’s a way to aggregate them all or collect them into a cohesive listing? It’s great getting to look them over. Perhaps some other people who’s proposals ended up getting rejected would be interested in collaborating on something resembling a compilation, where everyone has a 20-30 page chapter to write about the album they proposed… unless David feels that would be stepping in on the 33 1/3 turf!
I appreciate the open submission process and the time and effort it took David to read all of the proposals but I submitted the one on the Pulp Fiction soundtrack and if the bottom line is to sell books, I don’t see how it wasn’t one of the 175 most commercial proposals. Personally, I think it’s among the top 10 most commercial proposals, but maybe that’s because I’m more of a movie guy than a music guy, and this is a music series after all. I can appreciate that Reservoir Dogs made the list and maybe that proposal was better written, and maybe you could even argue that’s a better soundtrack, but it’s not more influential than Pulp Fiction, nor is Dogs as big a movie/phenomenon than Pulp. A book on the Pulp Fiction soundtrack transcends the 33 1/3 series and had the ability to take it to places it’d never been before. So in that respect, I think David messed up. But I AM thankful I had the opportunity to submit a proposal. Best of luck to the rest of you. There’s just no way Husker Du or The Incredible String Band sells more copies than Pulp fucking Fiction. No way!
Anyone have a favourite rejectee proposal? I vote for ‘Different Class’!
Reading through the list of proposals that made the cut, I’m glad to see Emmylou Harris — Pieces of the Sky on the list!Good luck to everyone.
I have enjoyed looking and reading the rejected proposal’s people have been posting on their blogs. So I have posted my proposal for The Screaming Trees Dust on my blog http://www.restlesskind.blogspot.com …. and I plan on writing the book for myslef anyway.
Where’s the love for 80’s hardcore punk?
Agreed – that Crowded House album is a bit special. Due a critical re-emergence for sure.
By the way, no one mentioned the Mekons Fear and Whiskey as something they are looking forward to. So I’d like to say at least I am.If I could afford to buy 5000 copies, I’d promise to do so.
For those of you who may be interested in reading my proposal for The Nation of Ulysses “Plays Pretty for Baby”http://ohshithistory.blogspot.com/2009/02/nation-of-ulysses-proposal.htmlLet the healing begin…
Just wondering how many proposed on a record they’d never actually bought, just ‘acquired’ on the internet. I did, and didn’t make the shortlist!! Karma.Anyway, here’s my definite YES list -Scott Walker ‘The Drift’Lou Reed – ‘Metal Machine Music’The Melvins – ‘Lysol’Erykah Badu – ‘Mama’s Gun’The Beatles – ‘White Album’Good luck, all.
I can’t BELIEVE you’re using YOUR series to cover POPULAR albums instead of what I WANT. YOU’RE NO BETTER THAN THE ARTISTS! YOU’LL BE SORRY! WHY don’t you like me? I LOVED YOU! We could have BEEN TOGETHER! ps. Both my friends thought my proposal was “PRETTY GOOD.” So chew on THAT!
Rather disconcerting amount of belly-aching going on here…Meanwhile, the Crowded House one is a great choice. As well as being an amazing record there’s certainly a huge audience/market for that, sure to “sell 5000 copies” as is required.Also: Wilco, Zombies, Television.
For the amusement of the masses, I have also posted my rejected proposal. Enjoy.http://nanotear.blogspot.com/PS – I wasn’t the least disappointed this time. Last round I was, because I pitched Black Sabbath and got beaten by a (well written) piece of fiction.
Without the benefit of reading the proposals…The Nick Cave could be great.The Femmes could be great.They’d fly off the shelves.
“Destroyer” definitely.”Darkness on the Edge of Town” Way over due”Songs The Lord Taught Us” Timely.”Back In Black” Yes.”Dust Bowl Ballads” Historic.”Time Out Of Mind” Awesome.
was stoked to see The Chills on the list. the Dunedin sound was very influential and we couldn’t have bands like Pavement without it.more here: http://tinyurl.com/djqc7v
If just one of these anonymous whingers had the guts to actually leave comments under their name I’d have more respect for them. As it is popping in to bitch without your name doesn’t say a lot — and I say this as one who was rejected with no hard feelings at all last go-round.
“Interestingly, those who are bitching about not making the shortlist and criticizing the editor’s “taste” would probably do well to actually read Carl Wilson’s book, which deals with the idea of taste in thoughtful and intelligent detail.”Seconded. The book is amazing. I’m thinking about assigning it to a class at some point.
Against my better judgement, I’d also like to point you towards my rejected proposal too:http://thenapierrecordshack.blogspot.com/In fact, I would reccomend all ‘rejectees’ (especially the recent bitter ones too) to do the same. The blog will now be my ‘honing device’ to sharpen my writings kills before the next submission date, whenever that is.
As someone who found out about the open submissions only days late, I’m envious of those who got the opportunity to prepare their proposals and get feedback on their ideas, accepted or not. So bring on:O Brother… (film and bluegrass!)Sleater-Kinney – One Beat (best post 9/11 album out there!)Garth Brooks (the hubris of new country!)NWA (gangsta! gangsta!)Lauryn Hill (still out there?)Modest Mouse (maps and math!)USA for Africa (glad that problem got fixed!)2 Live Crew (ooooh…Parental Advisories!)As far as the selections go, I’m not reading these books to be told what constitutes a canon of great albums, but sometimes that happens anyways. I’m not reading them for biographies, but sometimes that happens too. I’m interested in thought-provoking music criticism and theory. The albums are a source of inspiration, a starting point. If it ends up in a discussion of surrealism, taste, christianity, or close-readings, then good – whatever gets you there. I don’t know what’s behind the proposals out there. I hope the albums close to my heart are great. If not, I might still read them. But I’m more likely to read about an album if the analysis is engaging, even if the album isn’t. Best of luck in the selection process. You know I’ll be there next time.
Following the lead of another commenter on here, I posted my rejected 33 1/3 proposal on my blog if anyone would care to look at it: http://thevoiceofenergy.wordpress.com/2009/02/17/my-33-13-proposal/
TWO BEST CRITICS ON THE PLANET? WHAT DOES THAT EVEN MEAN??They have good taste, or write better than the average blogger dork, or have big magazines behind them? Is one of them Alex Ross, or doesnt he count? He actually writes about MUSIC, after all, not about BANDS. THE USA for Afirca thing I could see, the beginning of a nasty trend of save the world bullshit… Geldof and Bono… yuck.. But anyone who troubles over Britney deserves to spend the next year listening to her…. I am always amazed at critics – mostly newspaper writers since they have little choice — who are forced to like pretty much everything… why on earth would a 40 year old man want to listen to Britney or My Chemical Romance and how could they possibly be qualified to judge that drek, since it is not for them. Get a teeny bopper to “critique” teeny bopper music. Then again, bubble gum is hardly worth critiquing — the current version of it isnt even song-based, it is all about dance beats and production. makes one long for the days of Wig Wam Bam or Sugar Sugar. Would be nice to see books on the LEAST pop albums on this list, eg. The Fall, The Cramps, Yoko, Pussy Galore, Mothers, X Ray Specs… xxx
“Two of the best music critics on the planet right now are the ones responsible for one of the Britney Spears proposals, and the one for USA For Africa” – that is one of the funniest things I’ve read in years. I think we all deserve an explanation as to why two “great minds” would spend/waste so much time on these albums.
My faves:Phil Ochs – Rehearsals for RetirementCyndi Lauper – She’s So UnusualThe Police – SynchronicityLeonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard CohenTalking Heads – Remain in Light
I think what Anonymous wants (and I wish that people commenting here were using consistent screen-names, rather than just Anonymous…) is not so much to read new ideas as to have his existing old ones validated.For myself, if an artist is popular and I don't know why, I'd quite like to find out in case I'm missing something. *Someone* bought the Hall & Oates album listed up there, and maybe that someone saw something I'm missing. (BTW the ones on that list that I'm most likely to but *all else being equal* are XTC, Zombies, Monkees, Mothers of Invention).And with that, I'm out of here – no point continuing to butt heads on this…
So juicy! Keep the blog-bile and sadness coming! I mean, what else are you going to do as a rejected fan boy living in your mother’s basement?
The funny thing is that I know that two of the best music critics on the planet right now are the ones responsible for one of the Britney Spears proposals, and the one for USA For Africa. Don’t you want good books, full of interesting ideas? Why does this have to be about your unimaginative little rock canon?
Interestingly, those who are bitching about not making the shortlist and criticizing the editor’s “taste” would probably do well to actually read Carl Wilson’s book, which deals with the idea of taste in thoughtful and intelligent detail.
How many people reading this, irrespective of whether their proposal was acceptd or not, are currently rolling their eyes and saying, Get over it! You weren’t picked. Nothing you say is going to change it. Boo hoo! Another album that you deem unworthy of discussion pipped you to the post. Boo hoo. Get over it. Grow a set. You know? You big baby.
“Remind me again why he’d be turning in his grave?”His namesake never sung something as beautiful as ‘God Only Knows’ or harmonised on ‘Till I Die’. He only wants to dally with Sea-Lion Dion. I know it’s a ‘great book’ but FFS, it’s Celine Dion!! Scum of the earth. Have u heard her version of ‘You Shook Me All Night Long. I may not be a big fan of AC/DC but I share their shame. Yuuuk!
Edit 2:Do you really fucking think The Eagles or Garth Brooks etc are worth discussing in any shape or form? C’mon? Really? Does anyone who subscribe to 33 1/3 REALLY LIKE them and want to hear more? Honestly? Yeah, honestly? Even in a mad what-the-hell let’s post something that no-one will expect in their nightmares? No, really explain to me why the hell anyone wants to read a book about these acts and others (Big Country, Cyndi etc) because they are all really poor relations in the vast expanse of popular culture. Slint, The Pixies, Grand Master Flash, James Brown, Amalia Rodrigues, Miles Davis, Kraftwerk and The Associates amongst others have total value (and I haven’t mentioned the band I proposed there). Britney, USA 4 Africa, Big Country etc DO NOT. It’s because, It’s not that I think they the really bad ideas are shit proposals but more because, well…for me and other rejectees these shitty acts are NOT worthy of being worked on by 33 1/3. That’s not a ‘reaction’ to new or lesser albums, it’s just a bad idea to reward ones that many feel are poor as it many denigrade the series overall. (and before anyone steps in – and I have pointed this out before, with one exception – this does not include some very new albums)
Carl Wilson’s namesake duetted on TV with Belinda Carlisle and Olivia Newton-John, was in a band with members of America and Chicago, sang on records with Elton John and Dave Lee Roth, and the last album he was on that was released in his lifetime was an album of remakes of Beach Boys songs by country ‘hat acts’ like Toby Keith and, indeed, a member of the Eagles.Remind me again why he’d be turning in his grave?
I should add…until the bloody Celine Dion book last year, it was a ‘proper’ field. Now, any clever psuedo-journo can now write a jokey book about about a poor album for fun. Thanks Carl Wilson, your name sake will turn in its grave.
Do you really fucking think The Eagles or Garth Brooks are worth discussing in any shape or form? C’mon? Really? Does anyone here REALLY LIKE them and want to hear more? Honestly? Even in a mad what-the-hell let’s post something intellectual for the sake of it context? No, really explain to me why the hell anyone wants to read a book about these and others (Big Country, Cyndi etc) because they are all poor relations. Not because, I think they are shit but more because, well…for me and some who were rejected are NOT worthy of being worked on by 33 1/3. (and before anyone steps in – and I have pointed this out before, with one exception – this does not include some very new exceptions)
Second the last comment – just because some nerds on here are determined to establish that there is a certain amount of crap still on the shortlist, when they’d rather pick something apparently more worthy means nothing. If the proposal sucked it doesn’t matter how f*cking ‘cool’ the album of your choice is – because at the end of the day Continuum are selling the books, not the albums. Let’s say I pitched for Kiss or something all you cool kids think is ‘crap’ and – I could easily go over to some Kiss mailing list and say, ‘hey, guess what – if you go over to the 33 1/3 blog you can witter on endlessly about how brilliant your favourite band is.’ Won’t make any difference to what books are chosen. Likewise the attempt to name the ‘crap’ albums that don’t deserve to be written about.
Anon at 1:11 – what are you talking about? Who’s to say YOUR choice of albums isn’t ‘crap’? What standards and criteria determine what is good? Is it because it’s cool? Because somebody told you it is ‘cool’, or because it is presumed to rest within the usual canon of so-called greats that have already been written about over and over …Whether or not an album is crap – however that is judged – doesn’t really matter. What this series is about is writing, and let’s face it – so far all everybody has written about their chosen albums is a proposal. Too bad if you think your proposal was ‘better’ – but it was only 2000 words. The book will take you maybe a year to write, and for hardly any reward.
1:11I agree with everything you say and your selection of preferred proposals…BUT doesn’t it…well even in the back of your mind…only for a smidgeon…bug you that some really crap albums got ahead of your proposal? Honestly?
A few people have mentioned that the Fall album is hard to get. Does that mean that it doesn’t warrant coverage? Can’t a book set out to INTRODUCE you to music you don’t necessarily know? It doesn’t have to be about preaching to the converted does it? Who’s to say that a book can’t drive a reissue, can’t introduce new people to a band etc etc etc. If you don’t know The Fall, you’re missing out…
I was rejected this time around, and I agree with those who have pointed out how ridiculous the bitching is. Let’s not forget that, much as he might try to be fair, this is one man’s subjective opinion–rejected proposals weren’t necessarily AWFUL, and he wasn’t trying to tell you to quit writing, but rather that it wasn’t what they’re looking for this time around. I’ll also echo the sentiments above that, if you’re really interested in journalism, you’d do well to grow a thicker skin and get used to having ideas rejected. With the caveat in mind that I haven’t read any proposals aside from my own, here are some albums that I would love to read about based on the merits of the music:Fennesz – Endless SummerWeen – Chocolate and CheeseX – Los AngelesSuicide – SuicideSteve Reich – Music for 18 MusiciansPiL – Metal BoxPere Ubu – Dub HousingThe Pharcyde – Bizarre Ride II The PharcydeMassive Attack – Blue LinesKraftwerk – Trans-Europe ExpressJane’s Addiction – Ritual De Lo HabitualTubeway Army – ReplicasThe only proposal I flat-out don’t get is Girl Talk. I understand that he’s popular, but please be aware that he is far from the first person to make a mashup, and the lineage of copyright-thumbing sampling goes far, far back. All GT did was make it cool for hipsters.
I will echo the question: How many women made the cut?
Might I interject here with the Greater Internet Dickward Theory?http://spaghettitesting.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/internetdickwadsmall.jpgThe first rule of journalism is, you don’t talk about Fight Club. I mean, you get the fuck used to getting rejected.
Okay the two questions on everyone’s mind. One: how many titles will get picked for the “final cut”?And two, who the heck is Rage Against The Macine?
Note to David…I would prefer that you use the following rejection e-mail next time around, at least for me… thanks to Andrew Hickey for writing it… “Mwahahahahaha We are turning down your lovingly-written masterpiece about a Proper Rock Album and instead going to start making millions from books about flash-in-the-pan one-hit-wonders, for we are evil”thanks Andrew it made me… dare I say it… Smile.
Not to condone law breaking, but ‘in print’ is hardly relevant anymore…cough…cough…and for the record, I’d LOVE to see a book about Hex Induction Hour.
jesus… i hope what you “rejects” write is more interesting than your whining…
Yes, when I saw that Bill Fox made the first cut, my first thought was, “Aha, aggressive lobbying makes more difference than they’ve let on!”Come to think of it, I’m still thinking that…Regarding 5:16’s comment: out of the whole shortlist, I can only find two titles listed by Amazon as out of print, the Fox and the Fall. But chime in out there if you find others!
Yeah! Testify, brother! Lol.
I’d like to take a moment to express my outrage that you’re even CONSIDERING albums that I’m not personally interested in, by bands that are not widely revered in my peer group!
“Incidentally, if you think your proposals were so good, why not show them to the rest of us? Mine’s at http://andrewhickey.info/2009/02/15/smile-though-your-nose-is-running/ – are you brave enough to let others see your similarly-rejected works?”I’ll see yr “Smile” and raise you an Escovedo – check out my own rejected pitch here: blindlimejefferson.wordpress.com
“Anonymous, what strange world are you living in where only ‘music journos’ would buy a book on Britney Spears or Garth Brooks, while the average punter is queueing up for a book on a forty-year-old Yoko Ono album?…don’t spoil opportunities for yourself and the rest of us by behaving like a spoiled, petulant child. “Sing it, Hickey!
To all those that didn’t make it: if you think your pitch is worthy send it around to other publishers or better yet, go ahead and write the book anyway and publish it yourself, and market it yourself. I’ve done it and while I haven’t make a dime on it, it was a rewarding experience that taught me more about being a writer than any paying gig I’ve had. Actualize the things you see for yourself.
5:16 – Because this series of books is not a marketing campaign for the albums it covers. I wrote a pitch for Hex Enduction Hour and four other records, and went with the one (different record) that I thought sounded like the book I really wanted to write, and thankfully got in.
Uh, could I raise a point here? What’s the use of having a book about a record that’s out of print or available only as an expensive import? Like, you can’t even buy “You Think You Really Know Me” or Pussy Galore’s “Exile on Mainstreet” any more (not to mention the Bill Fox record, whoever he is). And Amazon has ONE new copy of “Hex Enduction Hour” and it’s an import being sold for for $35. This versus, you know, something like “Remain in Light,” which we all may own but it’s also picking up NEW fans. I just think it’s silly to have a book accompany a record that no one can buy. It’d be like writing a book about “Chimes at Midnight” or “The Day the Clown Cried.” Interesting, yes; but limited.
Night Ripper!
Two thoughts:“I still don’t get these mad books based on nothing to do with either the history of the album or an analysis of the music itself. I thought the point of the series was to study albums, not to go off on your own pet project for the sake of beig clever(e.g Celine Dion). All the books I have read in this series have been along the lines of the former, not the latter. I’m baffled.”Yeah, I sort of am, too, even though I’m a big fan of this series. “Meat is Murder” is an all-time favorite record, and I really love Joe Pernice (have seen him live twice and have most of his records), and yet I loathed his book that was ostensibly about “Meat is Murder.” But hey, they’re trying to keep things interesting. That’s what reviews are for, and that’s what different perspectives are for. If you want facts and dates, there’s Wikipedia. Also, regarding all us commenters:“This is one of the toughest audiences to please.”Dude, you’re so right. We need to realize that we may be the writers, but we’re not necessarily the audience. Lots of people buy lots of books on bands and records, but they’re not as rabid as we are.
4:45…no really, my wife loves reading these. Honest.
So happy to see the Talk Talk album proposal is still in the running. If I had the ability to write one of these, that would be on my shortlist of albums to write about.Good luck to everyone who made the cut!
The Strokes disc, PJ’s Vitalogy, Neil’s Tonight’s the Night, New York Doll’s eponymous…these all sound fantastic. Oh, oh, oh – Marquee Moon, Richard Hell and the Voidoids…you make me happy. I hope this group winds up making the final cut. There’s my two cents.
a trashy showbiz biog for the wife.okay…but tell us how you really feel about women.
Two songs – True Colors and Time after Time – do not agreat artist make. Let alone worthy of a book. Unless, it’s a trashy showbiz biog for the wife.
I already included it on a wishlist above, but I am happy to re-emphasize my support of a Cyndi book. The gent who put it in the crap lump clearly knows nothing about the woman.
Not from me though*huffs in corner*
I’m the fellow (yes, I admit to being a fellow) who pitched Cyndi Lauper’s “She’s So Unusual.” I just sent Mr. Barker a query and wanted to mention it here just to make sure he knows about it.The “mail”‘s running about 5-to-1 for Cyndi. I’m lucky there. Thanks to everyone offering support.
Anon at 3.40pm: I just did a quick count, and we appear to have 25 women authors left in the running. Which is a slightly higher ratio than we started with.
There is no point to the series other than writing about music interestingly. Sometimes you can more effectively get at the essence of a subject by tracing the contours instead of piercing it through the middle.
Hey all. I just wanted to say I’m kinda glad (and relieved) that I was rejected this round. This is one of the toughest audiences to please – I did propose a newer album but I would never go back on how I wanted to approach it. It is near and dear to my heart for so many reasons much like so many of these albums up here. But yeah, if you are one of the people disqualifying a pitch because it’s a newer album, I say, just because it’s not something you lost your virginity to 30 years ago, doesn’t mean that it’s not worthy. (Next time, I’ll pitch Hole, if you get my drift *wink wink*)Go Arcade Fire, Animal Collective, and especially, Wilco! Oh yeah – and everyone else who did a great proposal!
Dear bitter people above,Since you’ve clearly never submitted a book proposal before, let me tell you how it USUALLY goes:1) Work your ass off customizing your proposal for a dozen or so different publishers.2) Ship off hard copies to each of them, at your own expense.3) Receive no word at all from 9 of them. (Did it get lost in the mail? Did it fall behind a desk at the publishing house? Who knows!)4) Receive at least two form letters telling you that they do not even consider proposals without a literary agent attached. And, if you’re lucky, get a form letter from maybe one of the publishers telling you that you “do not meet (their) needs at this time.”(And it’s not unheard of to then a year later hear about some book coming out that sounds suspiciously like the idea you had proposed, from one of the publishers to whom you sent a proposal. Nothing you can prove, of course…)NOW, contrast that to the 33 1/3 method. Here you have very clear guidelines and deadlines, as well as encouragement from the publisher. You get immediate acknowledgement of your proposal. And then you only have to wait two months before learning their decision, which is handled in a polite, prompt manner. You can even ask questions about it, and usually get an answer.In other words, you all just experienced the most open, most transparent, most writer-friendly book proposal process you will probably ever encounter. And yet you’re bitching about it…It’s okay to be disappointed, even upset, but the tone a lot of you are taking (especially those of you who single out a proposal based on its title alone and complain about it, despite not knowing the slightest thing about it) is outrageously unprofessional and childish, and suggests you might want to consider a different career if this is how you respond to rejection. Because that’s what being a writer is about, kids. So grow up or get out.Anyway, I can’t wait to see which ones get picked up. There’s a lotta interesting stuff here.
Re: 3:43″After all, The Dark Side of the Moon is an amazing, epochal work, but if someone sent in a proposal that consisted of nothing but “This record rocks and everyone knows it!” over and over again, then that proposal would not have been chosen”I see what you’re say mate (and thanks for not jumping down my throat) but my proposal was not like that: it was a exploration of the history behind my album’s creation. It was a turbulent time and I had a new angle on it based on some new material that had just surfaced.I still don’t get these mad books based on nothing to do with either the history of the album or an analysis of the music itself. I thought the point of the series was to study albums, not to go off on your own pet project for the sake of beig clever(e.g Celine Dion). All the books I have read in this series have been along the lines of the former, not the latter. I’m baffled.
Anonymous, what strange world are you living in where only ‘music journos’ would buy a book on Britney Spears or Garth Brooks, while the average punter is queueing up for a book on a forty-year-old Yoko Ono album?Some of those titles jump out at me as things I’d love to read a book on (for example Begin by The Millennium) while others I can’t begin to imagine wanting to read anything more on (I really don’t think the world needs another book on the White Album) but that has only a passing connection to the merits of the album (the White Album is probably in my all-time top ten).You haven’t read the proposals – you don’t know what the quality or commercial potential of those books would be. If Ms Spears herself had decided to do a proposal on her own album, for example, it would be foolish for them not to publish it. I can think of at least three different ways you could do a decent book on the Eagles’ Greatest Hits, and so on.What you seem to be singularly failing to understand is that the list of books being put out under the 33 1/3 imprint is not some MOJO-style attempt at creating a definitive canon of ‘all time great albums’ but rather a collection of interesting books. You have surely heard the saying that you can’t judge a book by its cover – well, you have just judged eight potential books on a lot less information than that, while the shortlist has been put together after *actually reading several thousand words by the authors*.If you worked so hard on your proposal, why not submit it elsewhere? Or just self-publish? If you genuinely think that the book you want to write will be of the same quality and commercial potential as the books already in the series, and that your judgement on this is better than that of professional editors who constantly read through these proposals and make these decisions for a living, then prove them wrong.But in the meantime, don’t spoil opportunities for yourself and the rest of us by behaving like a spoiled, petulant child. BTW, for those of you who wanted to read the rejection email, despite the impression some people may have given, it didn’t say “Mwahahahahaha We are turning down your lovingly-written masterpiece about a Proper Rock Album and instead going to start making millions from books about flash-in-the-pan one-hit-wonders, for we are evil”, but rather:”I’m sorry to say that your proposal for the 33 1/3 series didn’t make it to the shortlist. We had so many good proposals this time around, it was something of a lottery trying to decide which ones to keep, and which to turn down. And I know that we’ve ended up turning down some very solid proposals.Due to the volume of submissions, I can’t respond to each one individually (hence this mass email, for which I apologise). If you really, really want some feedback on your proposal, feel free to email me at my regular work address – david@continuum-books..com I’ll do my very best to get back to you, but it might take quite a while.Bear in mind that Continuum does publish extensively , outside of the 33 1/3 series, in the areas of music, film, and pop culture in general. If you’re interested in submitting a proposal for a different type of book, I’d be happy to take a look at it. You can go to our website at http://www.continuumbooks.com, click on the “Authors” tab, to see guidelines on how to submit a book idea. We are an academic publisher at heart, so proposals based on original scholarship are more likely to be seriously considered. Again, you’ll get a sense of what we publish by spending a few minutes on our website.Thanks once again for sending us your proposal. It was a pleasure to read them all, and we really do appreciate your interest in the series.Very best wishes,David”
Someone above said – “that Garth Brooks record. Maybe the proposal was for some sort of hallucinogenic mini-novel wherein the author is going to either channel the Brooks character (or else Brooks himself)”.That’s the idea – LSD-infused positive vibes. As Jerry Garcia would’ve said, ‘not a bummer, man.’
good luck to all. I didn’t get chosen (and neither did the two others that submitted for the same record). I’d read a LOT of these..so good luck.
Hey, everyone, something to keep in mind is that this is about the proposal more than the record. After all, The Dark Side of the Moon is an amazing, epochal work, but if someone sent in a proposal that consisted of nothing but “This record rocks and everyone knows it!” over and over again, then that proposal would not have been chosen. So, we can’t just make the decisions based on the record itself. Like, that Garth Brooks record. Maybe the proposal was for some sort of hallucinogenic mini-novel wherein the author is going to either channel the Brooks character (or else Brooks himself), trying to figure out the WTF-ness of it all. That would be totally cool, even if the record itself is not. So that’s really the missing piece here. This is about more than just canonization, saying one record’s better than another.
Yes, David: How many of the original 75 female authors made it through?
Newness =/= crappiness.It may be too soon to tell with some bands on this list, but if you look at the selling power of many of these bands that started out small (ie: looking at the Billboard position of Animal Collective’s new album) might provide some insight on the importance of the internet in the neo-indie band world, and on a more simple level, the sheer public popularity of previously ignored musical stylings.It’s just a thought…But I think more people would want to read a well written proposal on something like Wilco than an OK proposal on some seminal 70s rock group.
Oh FFS..just because I mention my three favourite bands in passing above, you judge the whole bloody message and its thrust as ‘archaic’. Did you really read it? No, you didn’t. Look at what proposals I said would be interesting: Yoko Ono, Ziggy, The Monkees’ ‘Head’, The New York Dolls S/T, Emmylou and Marquee Moon. I’d also say Slint, Woody Guthrie, Kid A, PiL, Kraftwerk are good too. I didn’t mention them as I didn’t want you to think this was all a love fest for 33 1/3.
Some of these blog comments read like the first few pages of John Darnielle’s book…written by the 15 year old in the psych ward.
If there was a facility to edit your comments after posting, I would have gone back and changed the mistakes. But there isn’t. Stop fucking being childish, moron.
“So there are 8 crap proposals on crap albums that have usurped proposals by people who have worked hard and long on worthy ideas about ‘real’ albums.”Holy moly. For the umpteenth time, “crap” album does not denote “crap” proposal. Please come to terms with that.Also, what qualifies a record as ‘real’?’ Are you trying to imply that Garth Brooks created the Chris Gaines album in an alternate universe? ‘Exile on Main Street’ is, in my opinion, a ‘fake,’ blues-rock hack job, yet it has warranted an overwhelming amount critical attention, including a book in this series. In short, the object is not important. It is HOW you approach the object that gives your writing strength and relevance. And, if I may: Velvets, U2, and the Beatles? It’s 2009, guy. Your precious canon is archaic. Renew your subscription to Rolling Stone and sit this one out.
“How are we supposed to encourage new people top write of they are beaten by someone pop culture intellectual showing off his skills by dallying with the dregs of popukar culture?”Did you think that maybe the 8 you hate so much could spell and … uhm … write sentences in English?
My top picks are:Big Country – The CrossingBritney Spears – Blackout (x2)Cyndi Lauper – She’s So UnusualDuran Duran – RioThe Eagles – Greatest HitsGarth Brooks – (in…) The Life of Chris GainesIron Maiden – Iron MaidenUSA for Africa – We Are the WorldVan Halen – MCMLXXXIVand Bill Fox
If you do decide to publish either of the TMBG or the Modest Mouse book, I will buy them on the day they come out.
2:51….I was not suggesting that smart arse. Those bands have released bad albums too. Oooh funny that, eh? Sod off you sarky git.
Yes, goodbye Anon at 2:39 you’ve been carping for too long. Oh, so you love U2, the Velvets, the Beatles and that should be enough to get you the deal. Man, what an individual you are …
Well, I don’t quite agree with the last post (perhaps a little too strong, n’est pas?) but I can see where many of the ‘pissed off’ people are coming from.Ok, I was ‘heart-broken’ when I heard the news but I have mellowed out somewhat but I am still…well, disappointed that so many [i]crap[/i] and ‘way out’ selections have made it ahead of others who have put in worthy and hard-working selections about albums they love. How are we supposed to encourage new people top write of they are beaten by someone pop culture intellectual showing off his skills by dallying with the dregs of popukar culture? For example:Big Country – The CrossingBritney Spears – Blackout (x2)Cyndi Lauper – She’s So UnusualDuran Duran – RioThe Eagles – Greatest HitsGarth Brooks – (in…) The Life of Chris GainesIron Maiden – Iron MaidenUSA for Africa – We Are the WorldVan Halen – MCMLXXXIVSo there are 8 crap proposals on crap albums that have usurped proposals by people who have worked hard and long on worthy ideas about ‘real’ albums. Not jokey concept books that only music journos will read. It’s just being clever for the sake of being clever. Not helping to encourage the rest of us to even try. That is the jist of why I was so pissed off the other day: not the rejection, but the ridiculousness of what beat you out of the competition. I am going to try again but it’ll mean putting myself through all this again albeit more cynically which I think is a real shame. Maybe I’ll try and do a proposal on a Daniel O’Donnell album instead of my lovely Velvets, U2 or The Beatles. Hey ho. (In saying that, I am happy to see proposals on Yoko Ono, The White Album, Marquee Moon, The New York Dolls, Emmylou, ‘Head’ and Ziggy. Those sound pretty good)Finally, some have harped on about how some newer albums have creeped in ahead of their proposal. Surely, it’s too soon..they’ve yet to be seen as classic etc. Well, I disagree. I’d say the same as above but slightly differently: if these are the albums exciting the younger reader and writer, then don’t disencourage them by slagging off their new acts off the bat. Mind you, I’m not sure about Britney Spears, though. ;)I’m done. Good luck to the rest of you (except the 8 above). And I mean that.
“To all my brothers and sisters on the shortlist who are still one of multiple proposals: it felt good to get on the shortlist, right? And then you’re feeling kind of cocky, like, I am the last Blackout standing! And then you get to the shortlist and you’re like, shit. I AM FEELING THE SAME WAY. I CAN RELATE TO YOU”Dear SirFuck offSignedThe pissed off rejectees.
The continuum one. He said it might take a while for him to respond, but got back to me at least quite quickly, possibly because I replied approximately a nanosecond after receiving the rejection 😉
what is the email we can contact david if we want to ask him about our rejected proposal? the 33 1/3 one or the continuum one?
Without benefit of reading the actual proposals, I am most excited by the prospect of reading:Dylan – Time Out of MindDonovan – A Gift from a Flower to a Garden (rock’s first box set!)Fairport Convention – Liege and LiefGenesis – The Lamb Lies Down on BroadwayJefferson Airplane – Crown of CreationJohnny Cash – American RecordingsLou Reed – Metal Machine MusicMonkees – HeadNeil Young – Tonight’s the NightPortishead – DummyPublic Image Ltd. – Metal BoxScott Walker – The DriftTalk Talk – Spirit of EdenTelevision – Marquee Moon (shouldn’t be impossible!)X – Los AngelesYoko Ono – Plastic Ono BandYoung Marble Giants – Colossal YouthZombies – Odessey and OracleWould also love someday to see someone propose and sell a pitch for Graham Parker’s Squeezing Out Sparks. Listened to this for the first time in awhile over the weekend and it hit me between the eyes that Elvis Costello owes this album everything.
Pre-order list:Scott Walker – DriftMoby Grape – eponymousThe Mountain Goats – AHWTAnd, ok, Garth Brooks.
It’s a myth that being a professional writer is mostly about rejection. It’s mostly about *not hearing anything at all* after you submit a manuscript or query. It’s really remarkable that David and Continuum have opened up this process, and made a point to contact everyone individually not only in acknowledgment of their submission but with every decision along the way. The thing is, when you hear nothing, at least you can convince yourself that maybe they just were too busy to read it–the problem was with time and volume, not your talent and ideas. It turns out actually hearing “no,” after being given an equal chance, maybe feels worse. So if you didn’t make the short list, it’s ok to be disappointed and privately whinge about such-and-such crap record, but try to recognize what a unique experience this actually is, and use it to help build and tweak your next project.That said, my wish list (if of course these are the best proposals):Cyndi Lauper – She’s So UnusualThey Might Be Giants – FloodTalking Heads – Remain in LightBruce Springsteen – Darkness on the Edge of TownNew Order – Power, Corruption and LiesXTC – Wasp Star
emmylou! (possibly because i’ve just finished the burritos book, and am now jonesing for an emmylou harris companion piece.)also,talking heads – remain in lightnew york dolls – new york dollsmountain goats – all hail west txgary numan – replicasleonard cohen – various positionswoody guthrie – dust bowl balladswas sorry to see the daniel johnston write-up didn’t make it. next time, perhaps.
I feel very fortunate to have made the shortlist. I do honestly feel my concept is a good one, yet I was shocked when I got my email. Thanks David for all your hard work. I have had to invest in an institutional sized jar of antacids since Sunday though. These next few weeks are gonna be a killer. Good luck everyone, there are quite a few of my favorite albums on the list, which does not necessarily a great book make, but has admittedly been my initial criteria when buying books in this series. Good luck to everyone.
Some of you people really need to learn the meaning of the word ‘professionalism’. The 33 1/3 people didn’t need to open up for public submissions – the series is more than well-known enough that they could just go to known writers. Ultimately it’s their decision what books they put out, and they’re the only ones who have read all the submissions. The books have generally ranged from pretty-good to great, so I trust their judgement.They’ve also been very open about the entire process, and I know that when I emailed asking what about my submission had made it unsuitable (so I’d know what mistakes to avoid next time) I got a very polite, reasonable reply within a very short time. The rejection emails *were* just a standard mailshot, but that’s understandable enough, and if you want to know why your proposal was rejected you can always ask…Publicly berating people for daring to choose something other than your own masterpieces is a surefire way of making them think it’s not worth their time to open submissions in the future…Incidentally, if you think your proposals were so good, why not show them to the rest of us? Mine’s at http://andrewhickey.info/2009/02/15/smile-though-your-nose-is-running/ – are you brave enough to let others see your similarly-rejected works?
To all my brothers and sisters on the shortlist who are still one of multiple proposals: it felt good to get on the shortlist, right? And then you’re feeling kind of cocky, like, I am the last Blackout standing! And then you get to the shortlist and you’re like, shit. I AM FEELING THE SAME WAY. I CAN RELATE TO YOU. Still, congrats are in order!
Favorites:Animal Collective – FEELSThe Fall – Hex Enduction HourFennesz – Endless SummerMothers of Invention – Freak Out!Namco – Katamari Fortissimo DamacyNWA – Straight Outta ComptonOperation Ivy – EnergyRadiohead – Kid AThe Residents – Commercial AlbumScott Walker – The DriftSteve Reich – Music for 18 MusiciansX – Los Angeles
I would love to see a book on The Millenium’s Begin!
Hmmm AC/DC. Bon or Brian?
Yoko Ono and the Cramps. I would like to know how people with such little talent became important artists.
LMFAO@ Anonymous 'Definitely NO, NO NO….' and @ the responses! Hilarious! AC/DCThe Bee GeesThe CrampsDaft PunkD'AngeloDuran DuranEryka BaduThe FallGrateful DeadJane's AddictionJohnny CashThe KnackMadonnaThe MonkeesNew OrderNWAPortisheadPaul SimonTalking HeadsTelevisionThey Might Be GiantsX-Ray SpexHow about that? A few million sellers, bit of country, bit of R&B, bit of Rap, bit of Pop, bit of 80s, bit of Punk, bit of alt-Rock. And Paul Simon/ Grateful Dead for the classic MOJO-types. And some women. And The Knack. There you go, six weeks of work sorted out for you guys in 10 minutes. :)PS. Out of matter of interest, how many on the shortlist are women authors?
Top 5 -DevoFugaziScott WalkerSteve ReichWarren ZevonNow THAT would be a really short shortlist!(Most disappointing disappearance -Earth 2…)
too much whining and bitching. I proposed, got rejected and have moved on to my next idea. If you have anything about you at all, you’ll do the same. Suck it up
Re Katamari….erm, hate to break it to ya pal, these books are about ‘albums’, not games. Sorry to shatter the illusion.
Even in more mellower state, I still say ‘Garth Brooks???? WTF? Are you maaad?’
I never notice the Katamari proposal on the other list. I would honesty trade my first born for a book on the music from that game. It combines J-pop, power ballads, techno, children’s folk and much, much more!Christ, we NEED that book!Aside from that, I’m very happy about the love for Dylan’s Self Portrait. I’m glad someone else loves it enough to write a book on it.
Books I’d be interested in reading:Ben Folds FiveDigital UndergroundGarth Brooks (maybe)Lauryn Hill (definitely, especially if it talks about what she’s done to her legacy, as it were)PortisheadRadioheadSmashing Pumpkins
“”Why write a book about a forgettable indie-pop or pop-rap album when they’re simply products of the period.”To prove you wrong, guy…”That’s why I did it! This guy sounds angry. Did he pitch something old/obscure and is mad a newer album took his precious spot?
I, too, am interested in what the emails sent out said. I got an acceptance one, so I’d like to see the other end.
“Why write a book about a forgettable indie-pop or pop-rap album when they’re simply products of the period.”Or as I say “Why write a book about crappy 80s bands or 70s country-lite acts only deaf morons would listen to, they’re simply shite from the period”The rejection e-mail I got looked like a standard one sent to hundreds, by the way.
A very nice short list with some excellent choices, though many are a bit of a mystery to me, appeal-wise (which of course is what makes the world go ’round). Doing a proposal was a great experience, despite being rejected, and I will definitely try again.I got a very nice response from David B. when I asked for feedback. Turns out my proposal was well-focused and “beautifully written” (thanks Dave!) but apparently the previous book on Jethro Tull had not sold very well, so a second one was gonna be a tough sell. Of course, my take on it is that Songs from the Wood fans would be a more bibliophilic lot than Aqualung fans…So glad the Herb Alpert album made the short list!
“Why write a book about a forgettable indie-pop or pop-rap album when they’re simply products of the period.”To prove you wrong, guy…
Great list. My 15 picks (in alphabetical order) are:Animal Collective – FeelsArcade Fire – FuneralDinosaur Jr. – You’re Living All Over MeGary Numan and Tubeway Army – ReplicasJawbreaker – 24 Hour Revenge TherapyKraftwerk – Trans-Europe ExpressLeonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard CohenLiz Phair – Exile in GuyvilleNew Order – Power, Corruption and LiesRichard Hell and the Voidoids – Blank GenerationSuicide – SuicideTalking Heads – Remain in LightTelevision – Marquee MoonWilco – Yankee Hotel FoxtrotThe Zombies – Odessey and OracleAs far as the new artist debate, I think it’s ridiculous. It’s all about what the writer brings to the table—new albums can be dissected just as much as older ones!What did the rejection/acceptance emails say?
“Though I like many of them, nobody is going to be listening to any of these albums ten years from now. Why write a book about a forgettable indie-pop or pop-rap album when they’re simply products of the period.”Whoa whoa whoa. People won’t listen to Animal Collective or Arcade Fire in 10 years? You, dear poster, are SORELY mistaken. These two bands are some of the most influential groups to emerge within the last decade; both have massive amounts of staying power. Hell, I definitely plan on showing those two albums to my kids when I become a parent, and just like children of this generation brag that their parents saw Talking Heads or Sonic Youth back in the day, kids of the future will brag that their mom saw Arcade Fire or their dad was an Animal Collective fan. Geez. LIGHTEN UP.
"Definitely NO, NO, NO:Animal Collective – FeelsArcade Fire – FuneralBritney Spears – BlackoutThe Eagles – Greatest Hits (why a greatest hits album?)The Hold Steady – Separation SundayJimmy Eat World – ClarityKanye West – 808 & HeartbreakLil' Wayne – Da Drought 3Madonna – Ray of LightM.I.A. – KalaThe Strokes – Is This It?Vampire Weekend – Vampire WeekendWilco – Yankee Hotel FoxtrotYoung Jeez – Let's Get ItThough I like many of them, nobody is going to be listening to any of these albums ten years from now. Why write a book about a forgettable indie-pop or pop-rap album when they're simply products of the period.As for the strokes, I understand the seminal nature of that album, but it's just not that good.I vote way yes on Chocolate and Cheese, Spiderland, and O brother, though."The sheer broad-brush audaciousness of some of these comments is beginning to grate on my nerves. Has anyone mentioned that the merits of the proposal supersede those of the album being addressed? Yes they have… several fucking times. And you follow the critique of shelf-life and then endorse ween!? No bueno…
Very tasty list…my faves:Big CountryCrampsCyndi Lauper – She’s So UnusualDevo – Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are DevoFairport Convention – Liege and LiefThe Fall – Hex Enduction HourHerb Alpert – Whipped Cream and Other DelightsJohn Lennon – Live in New York CityKiss – DestroyerLeonard Cohen – Various PositionsNew York Dolls – New York DollsNick Cave and the Bad Seeds – Tender PreyPhil Ochs – Rehearsals for RetirementRandy Newman – Good Old BoysSlint – SpiderlandTalking Heads – Remain in LightTownes Van Zandt – Townes Van ZandtUSA for Africa – We Are the WorldWoody Guthrie – Dust Bowl BalladsYoung Marble Giants – Colossal Youth
Which publisher, oh anonymous one? *hint*
As long as you find the Pussy Galore proposal meritworthy, I won't carp that i didn't make the cut. I learned a lot. I totally appreciated the class and good manners David showed in dealing with this (sometimes whiny & insecure) lot. And I'm going to pitch to another publisher.My project also involves film and in that field are several publishers with similar series to 33.3 out there.Best of luck to the best writers! (you know who you are).
As long as you find the Pussy Galore proposal meritworthy, I won't carp that i didn't make the cut. I learned a lot. I totally appreciated the class and good manners David showed in dealing with this (sometimes whiny & insecure) lot. And I'm going to pitch to another publisher.My project also involves film and in that field are several publishers with similar series to 33.3 out there.Best of luck to the best writers! (you know who you are).
Definitely NO, NO, NO:Animal Collective – FeelsArcade Fire – FuneralBritney Spears – BlackoutThe Eagles – Greatest Hits (why a greatest hits album?)The Hold Steady – Separation SundayJimmy Eat World – ClarityKanye West – 808 & HeartbreakLil' Wayne – Da Drought 3Madonna – Ray of LightM.I.A. – KalaThe Strokes – Is This It?Vampire Weekend – Vampire WeekendWilco – Yankee Hotel FoxtrotYoung Jeez – Let's Get ItThough I like many of them, nobody is going to be listening to any of these albums ten years from now. Why write a book about a forgettable indie-pop or pop-rap album when they're simply products of the period.As for the strokes, I understand the seminal nature of that album, but it's just not that good.I vote way yes on Chocolate and Cheese, Spiderland, and O brother, though.
The final list, fer sure:Bruce Springsteen – Darkness on the Edge of TownThe Cramps – Songs the Lord Taught UsDevo – Q: Are We Not Men?Dinosaur Jr. – You’re Living All Over MeThe Eagles – Greatest HitsGarth Brooks – Chris GainesThe Jam – All Mod ConsJohnny Cash – American RecordingsLauryn Hill – MiseducationLiz Phair – Exile in GuyvilleModest Mouse – The Lonesome Crowded WestSlint – SpiderlandTalking Heads – Remain in LightTelevision – Marquee MoonThe Zombies- Odessey
Some great stuff here: 2 Live Crew, Arthur Russell, Digital Underground, J Dilla, Kraftwerk, Pharcyde, PiL, Richard Hell, Steve Reich, Suicide, Talkign Heads. Just a shame that Aphex Twin and Yellow Magic Orchestra never made it.
David, out of curiosity, could you tell us how many of the shortlist proposals are for fiction projects?
This is my 2nd rejection from Continuum and I don’t find it disappointing at all. It was fun and rewarding to write a proposal. And ultimately I believe my proposal was strong but the album was simply too obscure. Still, better in my mind to propose and album that is meaningful to me, than to seek one out that will just get my name in print. Looking forward to the future of the series and another chance to propose in the future.
despite not making the shortlist, there are a few on here than i’m genuinely excited about (pussy galore, 2 live crew, the cramps). i do think that i see a large number of books that could potentially skewer off into the realm of a personal creative nonfiction project (britney spears, animal collective, etc). cultural criticism, creativity, and flights of fancy are all well and good but i tend to think that the 33 1/3 series is at it’s best when the record is being dealt with in a direct and concrete manner and not merely as a plot device.
> a Kiss book about the corporatization of rock music could be fantastically interesting. I'd like to read about that too. I like entries in the series that are less furrow-browed appreciation/ seriousness, and more about a specific time and place in the cultural landscape.
So I’m gone. 🙁 And a few others I was looking out for! – Beatles For Sale, Aphex Twin, Phil Spector… Where are you?!? Darn.Anyway, there’s still some real gooduns. Most excited by:Scott Walker – THE DRIFT,Yoko Ono – PLASTIC ONO BAND,THe Residents, Woody Guthrie, Arthur Russell. Yes please!
You could just do some research, guy! You’re on the internet! Also, there are other ways of doing it – fiction, for example.
*Just out of curiousity, how many of the books published so far are critiques, and how many are historical accounts of the album’s background?*Sorry, this is a serious question. Not one of my sarky comments.
please don’t let the Kid A book be boring like the OKC one. really excited.
Some advice to our anonymous crybaby: if you want to have any future in writing, you need to learn to handle yourself more professionally. I worked hard on my proposal, too, and am disappointed that it didn’t make the short list, but I know that I learned plenty just from going through the process of writing and submitting it. For every 33 1/3 book someone writes, there are so many good proposals the editors have to pass on, and it’s ridiculous to take it personally.To lash out the way that you have isn’t going to change the editors’ minds–not this time or any other time you do it. It’s only going to make you look immature and difficult to work with.If you can’t handle rejection, writing is seriously not something you should stick with, because nearly all writers get rejected many, many, MANY times before they have something accepted. There are a lot of great possibilities on this list. I’m looking forward to seeing what books will be the next to join the series.Thanks to David and the other editors for such quick but careful consideration. While some people may not be happy with the decisions, the submission and selection process was organized and and nothing but professional, which I greatly appreciated.
You know what’s not on the list? Forthcoming Wilco album. Better luck next time, Tweedy!
Replicas!
i guarantee you that the eagles greatest hits will be on the final list. taking bets now.
I’m thrilled to still be in the running. Thanks for this opportunity and good luck to everyone. This has been a great experience so far, which is a rare thing in the current publishing world.I’d like to put in a shout for Dub Housing, Southern Rock Opera and The Cars, and am curious as to what world lies behind Katamari Fortissimo Damacy.
The USA for Africa author is Michael Jackson, isn’t it?
So funny to see stuff like Phish, Rush and Ween. You KNOW these dorky bands will sell books.
Really excited about the prospect of liz phair, the strokes, erykah badu, cyndi lauper & nick cave.
New Order…New Order…New Order.
keeping my fingers crossed for Talking Heads… 🙂
Superb list – expected it to be whittled down so there was no doubling up but that fact this hasn’t happened proves it truly was based on the quality of the proposals alone. Again, it is a truly remarkable feat from David to turn this around so quickly, and as someone else has already said, most publishers wouldn’t bother responding at all so we are indebted to him for that.The Crowded House, Zombies, Fairport Convention and Moby Grape seem the most essential ones for me…
To the person complaining about USA For Africa — I’ve read that proposal, and honestly, I seriously doubt anyone put in a better pitch this time around. It sounds weird, but once you know the angle (and the author), everything changes.
congrats to whoever got through with the Replicas proposal! I was stunned but pleased that two of us had chosen to examine this much-overlooked album.
Fab to see some of the british punk bands getting some recognition through this list outside of the more obvious ones. The Jam and X-Ray Specs both excellent candidates for sure.
I think this is a great list. I also think (as one of the people who didn’t make the cut) that sour grapes are a little out of place. We all know these books are great. The series is great. The people who run the series know what they’re doing. Obviously we’d all like to have our books published – but that can’t be. We knew that from the outset. If you are among the unchosen, you just have to get over it, wish the people whose books have made it through the latest round good luck and – like the man above says – try and do better next time. So: good luck to everyone on the shortlist! You’re in great company!
Just out of curiousity, how many of the books published so far are critiques, and how many are historical accounts of the album’s background?
I’ve just read the Celine Dion one and it kinda floored me. I mean, you could argue that, in order to really work, a 33 1/3 book has to be cultural criticism on some level, so I think the Garth Brooks thing could yield a really cool direction. Separation Sunday could yield a whole reappraisal of the state of rock music, so I’m rooting hardest for that one and the Spiderland one that my friend did.
Ha Ha…33 1/3 gets spammed.
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really excited about many of these! i would personally love to see The Cars, among others.
Very interesting selection
Seriously, I dislike Garth Brooks as much as the next guy, but if the proposal is solid cult. crit., and I trust David’s and Continuum’s judgment that it is as they haven’t really let us down yet, then I’ll give it a go. If the series is moving more in a cultural criticism direction — which the wild diversity of these proposals may or may not indicate — I’ll look forward to seeing how it pans out.The only thing I won’t like about it though is I can’t see myself plopping Garth Brooks or Kiss on the turn table for days at a time while I read the book (and I love that, right now, I’ve been reading “Shoot Out the Lights” for two days, and have listened to the album four times already). That being said, a Brooks/Gaines book about pop culture and constructed identity, or a Kiss book about the corporatization of rock music could be fantastically interesting. Some of the title might not look right, but did Celine Dion? And it’s one of the best books in the series.
“”For the love of God: it is not the merits of the subject but the quality of the proposal and the premises and discourse therein. Get a grip and be more considerate of the hard work and dedication of those whose proposals you are knocking based on title alone. This series is evidently leaning towards favoring cultural criticism and the strength of unique ideas over the reaffirmation of records everyone already understands to be “classic.” I implore you: get with it.”File under: pedantic. Two colons in one snide, snippy dismissal seems a bit excessive; hopefully you can mix up the punctuation a bit more if/when your proposal makes its way into publication. Be adventurous! “You counting colons: Hahahahahahahahaha!Define snide! I would imagine the bulk of those lurking this board would agree with me. Proof?: above!Anyway, your sore loser juice is everywhere. Towel?
*As someone familiar with the Garth Brooks album, I’d say there’s an excellent story behind it…*”Oh yeah….dickhead redneck country singer in ‘try something different’ shocker. Oh please….”Eh, call it as you see it. I’m sure I’d find whatever you’re listening to underwhelming, as well.
Lol. Oh that was good. First laugh I’ve had today!
“For the love of God: it is not the merits of the subject but the quality of the proposal and the premises and discourse therein. Get a grip and be more considerate of the hard work and dedication of those whose proposals you are knocking based on title alone. This series is evidently leaning towards favoring cultural criticism and the strength of unique ideas over the reaffirmation of records everyone already understands to be “classic.” I implore you: get with it.”File under: pedantic. Two colons in one snide, snippy dismissal seems a bit excessive; hopefully you can mix up the punctuation a bit more if/when your proposal makes its way into publication. Be adventurous!
*As someone familiar with the Garth Brooks album, I’d say there’s an excellent story behind it…*Oh yeah….dickhead redneck country singer in ‘try something different’ shocker. Oh please….
A huge thank you to David for not only reading all the proposals, but for trying to reach out to everyone to let them know, no matter what the outcome. I’m sure many of us have worked hard on a pitch for somewhere else only to never hear anything. Thank you David, your dedication to the series is inspiring.
As someone familiar with the Garth Brooks album, I’d say there’s an excellent story behind it…
Congrats to those who made it! It certainly appears to have been a tough decision.For those interested in reading proposals from those who missed the cut, feel free to peruse as you wish:http://perfectlines.wordpress.com/2009/02/15/just_short/
It’s actually quite affirming to hear someone who has been previously rejected has made the shortlist this time. I admire your perseverance and am definitely thinking about my next proposal.
Well, good for you sir. 😉
I’m not ashamed to admit that this was my third time submitting. This time I was completely mercenary in my selection of what album I proposed to write about, and worked quadruple overtime on my proposal. Even then, I was completely prepared to not make it again, given the volume of the competition.It paid off. I’m on the shortlist this time. But I didn’t go whining when I didn’t make it the previous two times. I just buckled down and did things differently this time – and even then, there was zero guarantee.
The Velvet Underground – Third.
Even without Darnielle's entry in the series, that Mountain Goats record is terrific. I'd buy that book in a stack with Devo, New York Dolls & AC/DC.
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hey heartbroken, so tell us, what album did you submit a proposal for?
Yes, but I bloody worked hard too pal. I’m not certain there’s much you can write in academic detail about those bloody acts. At least mine had historlogical context and a different perspective to the history of the album than had not previously been discussed elsewhere. Big Country? Oh that bloke who was in the Skids..wonder what was the story there???? Fascinating for millions, I’m sure.
You need to all stop focusing on the ALBUM and realize that it’s also about **the quality of the proposal** as well as the ability of the book to SELL. Maybe the Van Halen proposal was submitted by a really great writer? Maybe the Garth Brooks proposal is utterly fascinating? I’ve read some of the rejected proposals that people posted on their blogs and such. In almost all the cases of the ones I’ve read, the artists were certainly well-revered and worthy of books, but the proposals were boring or pedestrian or, I’m sorry to say, not very well written. Again, stop evaluating the list based on your personal standard of taste and think about everything that was involved. Submitting a proposal on Arcade Fire didn’t guarantee you a free ride just because it was Arcade Fire. It had to be a great proposal to stand out in a field of SIX HUNDRED.
” Sorry, I’m just heart-broken I didn’t get through and cannot believe those above got through. I’m a first-timer so this is my first rejection and cannot understand why acts as lousy as the above are worthy of such appraisal by 33 1/3 (and no don’t wave the Sea-lion Dion book at me).”For the love of God: it is not the merits of the subject but the quality of the proposal and the premises and discourse therein. Get a grip and be more considerate of the hard work and dedication of those whose proposals you are knocking based on title alone. This series is evidently leaning towards favoring cultural criticism and the strength of unique ideas over the reaffirmation of records everyone already understands to be “classic.” I implore you: get with it.
Oh, and Violent Femmes…Cave and Femmes, no brain-ers. …still sad about my own proposal… thank god for beer and cable 🙁
Speaking as the person who wrote the Big Country proposal, no one is more (pleasantly) surprised than me. Thanks for the good wishes, and best of luck to the rest of the list–there’s a good half-dozen in there I’d buy in a heartbeat.
Van Fucking Halen, USA for Africa, Big Country and Garth Brooks. What on earth are you guys on? Sorry, I’m just heart-broken I didn’t get through and cannot believe those above got through. I’m a first-timer so this is my first rejection and cannot understand why acts as lousy as the above are worthy of such appraisal by 33 1/3 (and no don’t wave the Sea-lion Dion book at me).
Sad not to make it… but, I should have read the long list more closely – didn’t see Nick Cave – yes, indeed!
Wait a minute…The Mountain Goats proposal made the cut?A book about a relatively recent album recorded by a guy who’s just published his own highly-touted book in this very same series? Hmmmm.
From the short list here are the ones I would like to see:The Cramps – Songs the Lord Taught UsDevo – Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are DevoThe Jam – All Mod ConsJellyfish – Spilt MilkJohnny Cash – American Recordings(x2)New York Dolls – New York Dolls (x2)Richard Hell and the Voidoids – Blank GenerationSuicide – SuicideVarious Artists – O Brother, Where Art Thou? SoundtrackVarious Artists – Reservoir Dogs soundtrackWarren Zevon – Warren ZevonX – Los Angelescongrats to everyone on the short list, and condolences to those who didn’t make it… I am among your number…
My predictions for books that will make it:Bill Fox – Transit ByzantiumBig Country – The CrossingThe Cramps – Songs the Lord Taught UsThings are in their favor.
Sleater-Kinney! So glad to see an important band like that on this shortlist… fingers crossed the book gets made.
Big Cun…sorry Country gets the vote over my proposal? FFS!
so many recent albums…very, very recent…
Probably the best thing about this list is that the proposal for Big Country’s The Crossing is still listed. Laughed hard at that – congrats to the wiseacre who took it seriously enough to make the cut.
The world needs more discussion of Phil Ochs.
If we didn’t get an email, but our pitch is still listed here how should we take that?
BTW: Congrats to those that made the cut. This was the first time I submitted a book proposal ever and even though I didn’t make the shortlist, I really enjoyed the experience. Thanks guys.
808s over The College Dropout? I’m intrigued. While 808s does warrant a book for sure, why the latest album instead of the one that made him famous?
“The Drones – Gala Mill”I really like the sound of that one…
Congratulations to all who made the cut, from one who didn’t (this time around, anyway). Some really exciting possibilities here. Look forward to ’em.