Does the Noise in My Head Bother You? - A Rock 'n' Roll Memoir

This book puts you inside Steven Tyler's head like you wouldn't believe. From early childhood on. I've always loved the musician, now I am totally impressed with the man. What a life he led. What a mind!

Definitely seems like this book was rushed out during the popularity of Stephen Tyler being an American Idol judge...
I am an Aerosmith fan - but this book was kind of rambling & all over the place. You want to read an excellent book about Aerosmith? Read "Walk This Way - The Autobiography of Aerosmith" where it's done in interview style with all of the band members, family, friends, etc. THEN read this book.

I really like rock and roll memoirs, and Aerosmith is one of the greatest American bands of all time. Unfortunately, Mr. Tyler is not the best author. It is a classic case of real life probably being better than the printed story. It took me a very long time to get through it, and perhaps it is best read a chapter at a time. It seems to me to ramble and jump around...not a good combo. He does have a really great sense of humor, and it comes through in the book. There are better rock bios out there: Ozzy, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Slash, Fleetwood Mac, etc., but if you are a fan, it is still worthy of a read.

This is a great book. Steven Tyler writes exactly as I imagine he speaks. It's funny, and serious, and honestly revealing of his life. I loved reading it and by the time I finished it I felt as though I'd known him for years:)

After the shock of the language factor I found this memior very engratiating like its author. Having grown up in the same area and era as Mr Tyler I could relate to his story I recommend this book to all who love Areosmith and the 60's

I have always liked Steven Tyler But after reading the book I lost some respect for him. He put too much out there and the drugs, drugs and sex and sex were over the top. He claims his children read this, WOW. I think it should have a warning on the cover this book is not suitable for all ages. It was also a hard read it was all over the place sometimes I had to read things over again and I am an avid reader but I got totally lost sometimes.

Book was just awful. Mr. Tyler didn't even bother to check his facts. He also comes across as an extreme narcissist whose problems are all the fault of someone else. Particularly appalling was the implication that his ex-wife shouldn't have been upset about his cheating with groupies because he is a rock star after all.

good story, bad telling. i found it hard to follow the rambling, out of order stories. the stories were good and interesting, but mostly in a conversational way, it's like you're in a room talking with him. i am surprised his editor let him keep it like that. okay read, good stories, but sometimes it's like one huge run-on sentence. fascinating drug stories; as a former addict myself, in 3 days i will be 8 years clean, i can relate to some of those.

371 pages of text, 3 page "Semiprologue", 32 pages of color and b&w photos throughout Tyler's life. Take the dust jacket off and there are wrap-around photos of Tyler in full regalia and mic stand. The inside front and back pages have the same series of photos.

In a nutshell-if you like Steven Tyler/AEROSMITH (originally spelled ARROWSMITH for about 5 seconds-Tyler wanted HOOKERS, but changed the spelling to A-E-R-O) you'll like this book. With the help of David Dalton, a long time Rolling Stone Magazine contributor, Tyler tells his tale in much the same style as he would in a conversation. His comments are sometimes off the wall and colorful, but somehow seem to help tell his life story. A quick glance at the chapter headings will prove my point. But Tyler writes in a very straightforward, in your face, no-holds barred style. Throughout the book Tyler constantly lays things out, no matter the subject matter, which helps paint a better, fuller picture of both his music, and himself.

Beginning with his birth, we learn about his parents and their strong influence on his adult outlook , his early formative years, friends and acquaintances, and his discovery of music. There's a lot of background details that help fill in Tyler's early life-a boyhood in many respects like other kids of the era, and how he found his way to music, and his decision to make music his life. Tyler talks about the comparisons between Mick Jagger and himself, and how the press played up their similarities. But Tyler makes no bones about Jagger/The Stones-he idolized them, along with other r'n'r stars of the day. We also learn about the many personal and band escapades-involving sex/drugs/r'n'r during the many years when the band was touring hard-and partying just as hard. If you've ever wondered about the highs and lows of a r'n'r band, this portion of the book will give you a good look into what it's all about. But Tyler tells his story with both great insight and humor, using that Tyler way with words, and that peculiar turn of a phrase that never seems to fail him.

For fans of the band, the book gets really interesting when the original band (with guitarist Ray Tabano), decided to try and "make it", by moving to Boston. This portion of the book really has the flavor of AEROSMITH-the song choices, the small clubs, trying to get by, and the beginning of their recording career, and the recording of various albums, and Tyler's on-going feud with guitarist Joe Perry The many details are what make this book worth reading-all the trials and tribulations that Tyler and the band went through in order to make music, and persevere in the music business.

Tyler also talks about his family-especially his four children. This is where he opens himself up and shows that underneath all that bravado, he's a caring, sensitive man. Tyler also talks about his stints in rehab, and the many physical maladies that have plagued him for a number of years, a number of which were caused by his r'n'r lifestyle. The book is also a cautionary tale of how excess can lead to ruin-his marriages and divorces, his troubles with his band mates, his regrets when looking back at parts of his life when the conflict of home life and his band made life almost intolerable, and so on. But in the end, Tyler (now a judge on American Idol) has adjusted to his sixth decade, living in Laurel Canyon, where many of his idols once lived, able to look back at a lifetime of music making.

For anyone who wonders if Steven Tyler is for real-this book will amply prove that point. His jive-talking, flavorful, sometimes off-color word usage, sometimes semi-nonsense style of writing keeps the interest up throughout this book. At times you get the feeling that Tyler is telling you his tales one on one, which is very effective, and sometimes visceral, but always interesting. The combination of small details throughout gives added depth to his story. It's an honest (as he sees it) look at a man, his music, his life in and outside of music, and how they all intertwine. And for all the jive bravado, you get the feeling, that underneath is someone who wants to let people know that, in many respects, he's just like us-an example-the book is dedicated to his mother. If you've ever wondered (as I have) if the persona he throws out is all there is, this book will help you see past all that. You may be surprised.

If you're interested in the other side of the r'n'r coin, so to speak, check out the book "And On Piano Nicky Hopkins: The Extraordinary Life of Rock's Greatest Session Man". As much as Tyler ultimately "made it" in music, Hopkins story (truly perhaps the greatest session man in r'n'r) is altogether something different. This book is a window into the r'n'r lifestyle of a man few could match.

WOW. This is one of the most mesmerizing autobiographies I've ever read (actually, I listened to the unabridged audiobook, which is narrated very well).

The cliche of sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll certainly applies to Steven Tyler's life, with rather extreme amounts of all three. But we also learn that Tyler is no fluke. He "made it" because he's a true artist - talented, creative, expressive, passionate, sensitive, visionary, perfectionistic, hardworking, and ambitious, but also sometimes undisciplined, volatile, and destructive towards both himself and others. Honestly, considering his history of drug use, I often wondered how he's still alive. And the stories about sex just plain blew my mind.

Beyond all of the rocker stuff, we also find that Tyler has a genuinely philosophical and spiritual side. Clearly, he's thought (and read) a lot about the big questions, and he's wise enough to have understood that answers are difficult or impossible to find. If I remember correctly, he makes a statement about concluding that he "doesn't know anything." He's also reflected a lot on his unique life and the forces that influenced his course (a classical pianist father, progressive and liberal mother, spending time in the woods, finding a soulmate in Joe Perry, etc.), and I'm impressed with his level of self-awareness. Definitely not a shallow guy.

All of this comes across clearly, and with great impact on the empathetic reader/listener, because Tyler speaks with great transparency and conversational directness (including much profanity). It seems that very little, if anything, is held back, and many closets are opened so that you can see the skeletons. The resulting narrative is admittedly somewhat disjointed, and sometimes not even chronological, but all of these vivid stories ultimately come together to form a mosaic which works. By the end, you will know Steven Tyler, at least to the large extent that he's willing to share himself with us. And in my case, I also identified with him much more than I anticipated. I'm no rock star, but many of his experiences and aspirations are familiar to me, so this book evoked memories from my own past.

If you like biographies, rock music, and/or Aerosmith, this book is a must. In fact, I expect to make a second pass, which isn't something I normally do.

Mr. Steven Tyler's memoir makes me wonder how his story would have transpired if I was the girl in the white dress in Sunapee, New Hampshire roasting marshmallows by a campfire to golden perfection on a stick chosen by Steven Tyler in the 1960s. Some of his experiences: like a family summer home in the woods, Archie comic books, singing church hymns, wild salmon and broccoli and Claire de lune by Debussy relate to my 1960s childhood. So, he IS human after all. An intense and candidly written memoir of Tyler's life as a rocker; as intense as his stage performance and deep down love for his band and family. His story, conflicting at times, flows with Tylerisms, song lyric and memories of good and not so good times. Love, sex, rock and roll, with a wise reflection of a life that was wronged by greed in the music industry of the time. His story, style and language reflect who he is; soft and sensitive, yet rugged and coarse. He often mentions his Italian heritage, but leaves out the rest; I wanted to know even more. Steven Tyler is a legend who has let us into his life with this revealing but sometimes disjoined memoir. His motivation to entertain continues to live on. As his father advised: always have a backup plan... and he surely does! What next, Mr. Tyler?

I have only really liked Aerosmith since the last 8 years of my life or so......but after seeing Steven Tyler on American Idol especially, and how passionate and knowledgeable he is as a musician, and as a heartfelt human being (did you see that part of the show where he showed such compassion to that person in the wheel chair?), I felt compelled to read his autobiography. I loved his childhood (reminiscent of my own) but was absolutely astounded at how drugs got such a hold on him all through his career. Amazing that he lives to tell the tale! Though I enjoyed the read, I really left the book wondering about his family all through his touring years-as the band seemed to be mostly what he discussed. Questions like: Where were your mom, dad and sister in those years......what was your relationship with them like during that time and who raised his children-- how often did he get to spend their childhood with them? His style of writing is absolutely engaging--and kept me going --what a creative wit he has!!!! His description of scenes, stories and events are so hilarious and easy to imagine through his use of honest prose. He is a dynamo as a human--and has accomplished much-but what a shame that most of it has been at his own personal expense. God bless you Steven and thank you for your many gifts (esp. of your songs).

I have mixed emotions about this book. I read both "Walk This Way" and Joey Kramer's "Hit Hard" before I read this one, so there's a lot of rehashed ground here. The first half of Stephen's life is the most interesting, and it's great getting inside his head to understand where all his creativity comes from, but the 2nd half (what I'll refer to as the "Tim Collins" wars) actually made me cringe with embarrassment for Tyler. I am happy that Aerosmith were able to successfully wean themselves off a lot of bad habits, but I've not really been following their music or career much after "Get A Grip". I'm one of those old school die-hard fans that long for them to just shed all the trappings of the hit-making regime, and go back in the studio, just them, and maybe get Jack Douglas one more time and make a rough and raw edged rock record without any outside help or interference. I'd love to see what they can come up with the old way (well without all the illicit substances, that is). Stephen lays it down the best when he decries a lot of the latter period, and I am sorry that's the kind of management it takes to keep a classic powerhouse like Aerosmith tuned and running, but I guess they all had to swallow that bitter pill to get where they are today. I still have not finished this book, because the 2nd half is just really hard stuff to have to wade through, it's almost like a textbook for the modern music industry written by a PHD Dr. Magillacutti or something. Unlike the previous two books mentioned, which I pretty much gobbled up in one sitting (each), I'll have to take my time to absorb the rest of this. I will finish the book eventually, and I do seriously commend Tyler for his brutal honesty, the music world of 2014 really needs it. Best line in rock: "Vaccinate your ass with a phonograph needle"..and that's my favorite Aerosmith song of all time. Thanks Stephen Tyler for sharing and inspiring us.

Unless you are a true blue die hard Aerosmith fan, don't buy this book brand new, Buy it used, or you can borrow mine.

Walk This Way was WAY BETTER, this booked is laced with innacurate information.

Like when he was on "Good Morning America" With Matt Laurer...

This book is only for die hard fans, if you don't know the deamon of screamin well you will likely dislike the man after reading this book.

I love aerosmith and obssessed with them, I didn't even like the book.

I received Steven Tyler's book but my husband grabbed it and started reading it. He keeps laughing while he's reading. Must be a very good book because my husband is a very picky reader and he really seems to be enjoying this book! Ocassionally when my husband is reading, he will read bits and pieces to me that are extremely witty and funny. I have been very impressed with Steven Tyler's wit and intelligence. I wish my husband would hurry up and finish this book so I can read it! Thank you Steven Tyler for letting us peek into your life!

I like the guys music and the book was interesting. slow and boring through some chapters but once you get through that it was great. explains a lot about him and doesnt leave much out. Steve seems like a real lovable guy.

Excellent service when buying/receiving this book.
An in depth look at the rock & roll lifestyle lived to excess by one of the generations best vocalists.
Steven Tyler is one strange dude! Well written & very informative.

although interesting at times it was also a bit tiring. It was very repetitive and lacked a smooth flow. It kept jumping back and forth in Mr. Tylers history. way to much emphasis on the various drugs, for which he provided names, he used. I found it difficult to maintain interest in it at times.

Having read the band Biography 'Walk this Way' several years ago, I was anxious to step into Mr. Tyler (Tallerico's) brain to experience a more personal point of view on the chaotic ride that was the rise to fame of America's longest running original rock and roll band.

The emotionally taxing and often deadly lifestyle that is the rock world is one that definitely is not for everyone. Certainly not for me. Yet it is fun to vicariously step into someone else' shoes for a moment or two. I certainly enjoyed the book, gleaning a deeper insight into my favorite band. I'm just glad it was Mr. Tyler's life, and not mine.

Rock on Aerosmith and thanks for decades of great entertainment.

This is an awesome book, I have enjoyed reading this book. The way he tells the story of his life makes you
feel as if you are there watching it in real life. i recommend this book to anyone who enjoy's a good story.

I have always loved Aerosmith and of course Steven Tyler....I mean who doesn't? The book is more than I expected...right down to him being a little boy, to family life, to how he started out....to becoming the legendary rock star is his.
Definitely a book for his fans!!!!

I have loved Aerosmith forever especially Steven Tyler. He is such a crazy who's open and honest. He is what he is....however, his heart is good. I love his journey and his talent, plus he's from my original neck of the woods - I grew up in New Hampshire. He's compassionate and kind and can still sing, even the high notes. Love that guy!

Being a long-dedicated nonfiction writer myself, one who is constantly searching for truly talented writers, after reading the first 27 pages of Steven Tyler's new book, I must give him due praise for his amazingly captivating,
writing style, WRITE ON BRILLIANT STEVEN, WRITE ON...

HE LET IT ALL HANG OUT ,brought back memories of my childhood and teen age years of the seventies (downeast). Also makes you look into the mirror in your sixties and say yippee I made it!

I knocked it out in a couple evening sessions. He writes like he interviews on tv. A lot of rants that are funny and thought provoking. Addiction, partnership, and sex. Lots of trash about the Aerosmith band and managers. American idol is mentioned but no dirt there. The story is not over for him so there is no ending. A good bio. I enjoyed Red and Life more.