Dave Grohl is the lead singer for the Foo Fighters; a Rock band formed in 1995. It’s no surprise that someone who has the ability to write some of the most streamed songs also has the ability to captivate and inspire others through long form Storytelling. This memoir is divided into 5 parts with multiple stories within each section. We are taken along all the major events in Dave’s life that lead him to where he is today. From teaching himself how to play the drums to performing Blackbird by The Beatles at the Oscars. I appreciate how vulnerable Dave was in sharing the hardest moments of his life. I respect him for his work ethic, commitment to his family, and how grateful he is for every day of his life.
Of the many stories, one in particular sticks out the most. Dave had just finished playing drums for The Heartbreakers because their drummer at the time couldn’t play. Tom Petty, the lead singer, loved Dave so much that he offered him to join the band. During this time Dave wasn’t playing drums for Nirvana and had just secretly solo-recorded what would be the Foo Fighters first album. As he returned home and thought through the offer, he picked up a box of cassettes full of the newly recorded album that was ready to be shared with the world. It was as if everything Dave had ever wanted was served to him on a silver platter due to Toms offer. Yet, though it was the more uncertain option, something in his intuition told him to pursue the box of cassettes. Without that decision, the Foo Fighters wouldn’t have become the 15 time Grammy award winning group they are today.
The Foo Fighters have had a wonderfully successful career and have faced an unfair amount of tragedy. What this memoir teaches you is that the emotions we feel and challenges we face are also dealt with by those who seem invincible to us. Tragedy is not fair and it’s a painful feeling, but emotions are what connects us as humans. I encourage you to read this book whether you are a big music fan or not. It inspires you to bet on yourself, trust your intuition, and be thankful for every moment. It’s also a reminder to cherish the days you have with your favorite people and to find joy in the little things in life. Each of us, with our many passions and interests, has the ability to turn our dreams into reality. So what’s stopping you from pursuing your box of cassettes?
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