American Standard: Cheap Trick from the Bars to the Budokan and Beyond

Cheap Trick has sold over 20 million albums, been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and is one of Homer Simpson's favorite bands. American Standard: Cheap Trick from the Bars to the Budokan and Beyond tells the band's story, from their origins in Rockford, Illinois, to their massively successful live album At Budokan and the many ups and downs that followed. It is a rollicking tale of artistic genius, rock excess, hilarious misbehavior, chance encounters with musics biggest names, and international stardom.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2024
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

Cheap Trick has achieved remarkable success, selling over 20 million albums and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. However, despite their fame, they are often considered a club band with a cult following. Their origins in Rockford, Illinois, were humble, with a carnival-like stage show featuring mismatched characters. Guitarist Rick Nielsen, bassist Tom Peterson, and drummer Bun E. Carlos formed the band in 1973 and quickly gained a following in the Midwest.

Their breakthrough came with the release of their 1977 album, "Cheap Trick at Budokan," which became a massive hit in Japan and helped establish the band as international stars. The album featured a mix of hard rock and pop, with hits like "I Want You to Want Me" and "Surrender."

Over the years, Cheap Trick has continued to release successful albums, including "Dream Police" (1979), "Heaven Tonight" (1987), and "The Latest" (2017). They have also toured extensively, playing to sold-out crowds around the world.

Despite their success, Cheap Trick has faced its share of challenges. The band's early albums were criticized for their lack of musical complexity, and they were often seen as a novelty act. However, as the band matured, they began to develop a more sophisticated sound and gained a wider audience.

One of the key factors in Cheap Trick's success has been the chemistry between the band members. Nielsen, Zander, and Peterson have a unique dynamic that has helped to create some of the band's most memorable songs. Nielsen's guitar playing is characterized by his distinctive style, which combines blues, rock, and pop. Zander's vocals are powerful and emotive, and Peterson's bass playing is solid and steady.

Cheap Trick has also been known for its sense of humor. The band's live shows are often filled with jokes and pranks, and they have a reputation for being one of the most entertaining bands in the world. This sense of humor has been reflected in their music, with songs like "I Want You to Want Me" and "Surrender" featuring witty lyrics and catchy hooks.

In addition to their music, Cheap Trick has also been involved in various charitable causes. The band has supported organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the MusiCares Foundation, and they have also participated in benefit concerts for various causes.

Despite their success, Cheap Trick has remained humble and grounded. The band members have never forgotten their roots and have continued to work hard to create music that they love. They have also been involved in the music industry, working as producers and songwriters for other artists.

In recent years, Cheap Trick has experienced a resurgence in popularity. The band's music has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials, and they have been touring extensively. They have also released a new album, "In Another World," which has received critical acclaim.

Despite their success, Cheap Trick has faced some criticism. Some critics have argued that the band's music is too formulaic and that they have not evolved much over the years. However, others have praised the band's ability to create catchy and memorable songs that have stood the test of time.

In conclusion, Cheap Trick has achieved remarkable success, selling over 20 million albums and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Despite their fame, they are often considered a club band with a cult following. Their origins in Rockford, Illinois, were humble, with a carnival-like stage show featuring mismatched characters. Guitarist Rick Nielsen, bassist Tom Peterson, and drummer Bun E. Carlos formed the band in 1973 and quickly gained a following in the Midwest.

Over the years, Cheap Trick has continued to release successful albums, including "Dream Police" (1979), "Heaven Tonight" (1987), and "The Latest" (2017). They have also toured extensively, playing to sold-out crowds around the world. Despite their success, Cheap Trick has faced its share of challenges, but they have remained humble and grounded. The band's chemistry between the band members, sense of humor, and commitment to charity have been key factors in their success. In recent years, Cheap Trick has experienced a resurgence in popularity, and their music has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials. While some critics have argued that the band's music is too formulaic, others have praised the band's ability to create catchy and memorable songs that have stood the test of time.

Weight: 402g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493078066