Crying in the Rain: The Perfect Harmony and Imperfect Lives of the Everly Brothers

The Everly Brothers, Don and Phil, were a ubiquitous presence in the '50s, clad in snug suits and skinny ties, with honey-dipped harmonies. Mark Ribowsky's book Long Time Gone: The Perfect Harmony and Imperfect Lives Of the Everly Brothers reveals facts from exhaustive research and first-hand interviews, tracing the character and influences of these hardy but flawed men.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 02 April 2024
Publisher: Globe Pequot Press

The Everly Brothers, known affectionately to their fans as Don and Phil, appeared almost as an ethereal presence during the formative years of the Baby Boomer generation in the blandly regimented 1950s. They were a ubiquitous sight, clad in snug suits and skinny ties, their hair neatly Brylcreemed, never raising their voices when they sang. The two prim-looking country boys with dark, curiously penetrating eyes and flawlessly blended honey-dipped harmonies settled into sentimental, soothing, and sometimes lovelorn voices that resonated with the uncharted cultural landscape of their time.

Despite their immense talent, the Everly Brothers have until now never received a definitive biography. In Long Time Gone: The Perfect Harmony and Imperfect Lives Of the Everly Brothers, author Mark Ribowsky delves into the intricate details of these hardy but flawed men, tracing their character and influences from their teenage years to their old age, all while cruising along the mighty "Mississipp" in a near-novel-like fashion. The book serves as a fitting companion to an unforgettable collection of songs, heard on countless albums and covered thousands of times, whose recording has long since passed but will forever remain etched in the memories of music enthusiasts.

The Everly Brothers' journey began in the small town of Shenandoah, Virginia, where they were born to Charlie and Carrie Everly. Despite their humble beginnings, the brothers possessed a natural musical talent that was evident from an early age. Don, the eldest, took up the guitar, while Phil, the younger, picked up the banjo. They started performing together at local events and quickly gained a following in their community.

In 1954, the Everly Brothers signed with Cadence Records, and their career took off. Their first hit, "Bye Bye Love," released in 1957, became a nationwide sensation, and they quickly followed it up with a string of hits that included "Crying in the Chapel," "All I Have to Do Is Dream," and "Wake Up Little Susie." The duo's sound was characterized by their tight harmonies and their ability to blend country, pop, and rock influences seamlessly.

However, behind the scenes, the Everly Brothers were not without their challenges. Don and Phil were often at odds with each other, and their personal lives were often fraught with drama. Don struggled with drug addiction, while Phil battled depression and alcoholism. The strain on their relationship was evident in their music, and their final album, "The Everly Brothers," released in 1960, was a somber reflection of the tensions that had been building for years.

Despite their personal struggles, the Everly Brothers remained one of the most influential musical acts of their time. Their music touched the hearts of millions of people, and their influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who followed in their footsteps. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, and their songs remain timeless classics.

In conclusion, the Everly Brothers were a remarkable duo whose talent and influence transcended their time. Their journey from humble beginnings to national fame was marked by personal struggles and challenges, but their music remained a testament to their enduring legacy. Long Time Gone: The Perfect Harmony and Imperfect Lives Of the Everly Brothers is a must-read for music enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the power of music to connect people and shape culture.

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493077786