Gram Parsons: God’s Own Singer

Gram Parsons was a contradiction. Born into a wealthy Southern family he embraced country music, which was traditionally the preserve of poor whites. He was briefly a theology student at Harvard, but was to descend into a demonic world of drink and drugs whilst singing about the virtues of the Christian life. A genius who never experienced mainstream success whilst alive, his records sold by the truckload after his death. This enthralling book lifts the lid on Parsons' short life (he died in 1973 aged only 26) and is the result of seven years painstaking research by country musician and journalist Jason Walker. Through interviews with colleagues, friends and collaborators Walker traces Parsons' life and career from the formative years to his early death, including his work with the Shilos, the International Submarine Band, the Byrds and the Flying Burrito Brothers, as well as his solo career. All the key events, such as his friendship with Keith Richards and the Rolling Stones and his relationship with Emmylou Harris, are covered in a book that brings this creator of Cosmic American Music back to life. Revised and updated, this new edition contains an exclusive interview with Michael Martin who, along with Phil Kaufman, stole Parsons' body and cremated it in the Joshua Tree National Park. This well-reviewed book will satisfy the most demanding of fans as well as those who are new to the music of a man whose spine-tingling voice is truly that of God's Own Singer.