From Beyoncé deep cuts to Dolly in photos: 5 music books worth unwrapping this holiday season

Beyoncé and Dolly Parton book covers
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The grit of gift-giving returns for another holiday season. Have no fear, 1 Minute Critic is here to eliminate decision fatigue for your hard-to-buy loved ones. 

Some of our favorite musical artists have turned from the stage to the page, transforming their iconic careers into must-reads. From Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles run to Patti Smith’s one-of-a-kind life perspective to a look inside Fleetwood Mac’s most iconic album, we’ve curated five of our favorite picks for holiday gifts to check off your list. 

‘Beyoncé — All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track’ by Benoît Clerc

"Beyoncé - All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track" book cover

Beyoncé fans want as much of her as she’s willing to give, which is why the latest edition of the All The Songs series is the ultimate treat for the Beyhive. A detailed look at some of the biggest hits of the 21st century, this track-by-track breakdown brings readers even closer to the pop star’s music.


‘Don’t Stop: Why We (Still) Love Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Rumors’ by Alan Light

"Don't Stop: Why We (Still) Love Fleetwood Mac's 'Rumors' " book cover

Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 album Rumors is so iconic that it inspired the most-nominated play in Broadway history. But the true story is even more compelling.

Former Vibe editor-in-chief Alan Light unpacks the story behind the album and its enduring legacy through interviews, insider perspectives, and a big-picture look at why Rumors remains one of the greatest rock albums of all time.


‘Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run’ by Paul McCartney & Ted Widmer

"Wings: the Story of a Band on the Run" by Paul McCartney book cover

Following the dissolution of The Beatles, Paul McCartney not only attempted the impossible but also succeeded. The Wings oral history offers a detailed account of the Liverpudlian’s adventures following a decade-long run with the Fab Four, when he formed a new band in partnership with his wife, Linda.


‘Star of the Show: My Life on Stage’ by Dolly Parton & Tom Roland

"Dolly Parton: Star of the Show" book cover

With the recent Dolly Parton musical premiering in Nashville and her new SongTeller Hotel opening this summer, Star of the Show is guaranteed to keep fans occupied until the next big reveal.

The third and final installment of her photographic trilogy, the book features 500 full-color photographs and recollections spanning her vibrant career.


‘Bread of Angels: A Memoir’ by Patti Smith

"Bread of Angels" by Patti Smith book cover

There’s no shortage of stories about Patti Smith, each more fascinating than the last, but hearing them in her own words is a treat unlike any other.

Adding to a rich timeline of memoirs that boasts Just Kids (2010) and M Train (2015), Bread of Angels offers another glimpse into her extraordinary mind.

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