Reviews

• Kenny Aronoff shares his inspirational, cautionary, and captivating story of reaching the highest levels of the music business in his autobiography Sex, Drums, Rock 'n' Roll! Aronoff may not have the name recognition of some rock stars, but he's immensely respected within the industry as a rock drummer par excellence. Aronoff discusses his childhood, formal musical training, and his first big break with John Mellencamp, which eventually led to work with other artists in the musical who's who. As one might expect, Aronoff has a few crazy, sordid tales to tell about life on the road, but Sex, Drums, Rock 'n' Roll! succeeds because he also shows a thoughtful, reflective side. Aronoff tries to portray personality conflicts fairly and from all sides, and his technique of including brief comments by the people in question is highly effective. Aronoff displays a striking and relentless drive to achieve his goals. From his early classical studies to competing with other drummers for work, he never gives up, always pushing himself to practice harder and do better. This aspect transcends drumming and becomes an overriding theme in his life. Of course, there's a price to one's personal relationships that goes along with flying around the country at a breakneck pace, and Aronoff is not shy about detailing his difficulties in this respect. He's blunt and honest about his own shortcomings, and about applying the same effort to improving his family life as he does to his drumming. The book consciously does not drift too far into drummer-speak; while there are a few descriptions of “triple flam-a-diddles,” a “one-hand press roll,” and the like, Sex, Drums, Rock 'n' Roll! is always more about Aronoff's personal journey. Rock-and-roll fans will enjoy reading about Aronoff's adventures with Mellencamp, John Fogerty, Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney, and other big names, but in the end, what makes the book work are the same things that propel Aronoff's music: a steady beat, impeccable timing, and always hitting hard. – Foreword Reviews
• “Subtitled 'The Hardest Hitting Man in Show Business,' this autobiography by versatile session and touring drummer Kenny Aronoff is a testament to the adage that 'success happens when opportunity meets preparation.'...The overall story told here is one of hard work – from hours of practice to keeping a ridiculous schedule that can involve doing a late-night session or concert in one city and then flying overnight to a different city (or country) for a morning session or rehearsal. So many rock or celebrity autobiographies only focus on the successes and glories; Aronoff has certainly had his share of those, but he balances out those stories with descriptions of the hard work and challenges, making this a valuable read for anyone wishing to nurture and sustain a career in the music business.” – Rhythm Scene Magazine
• “This master drummer...writes with a fan's flair and passion for the music; the pages fairly burst with energy and Aronoff's love of rock and roll.” – Houston Press
• “In colorful and conversational language, Aronoff details events throughout his rich life; the lesson here is ultimately about having a dream and working everyday to make it come true.” – Desert Star
• “Whether you are a drummer, a fan of rock and roll, or just want to get off on this guy's inspiring energy and spirit, Kenny Aronoff's Sex, Drums, Rock 'n' Roll: The Hardest Hitting Man in Show Business is a fantastic read about a kick-ass life.” – VintageRock.com