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.