SANEST GUY IN THE ROOM: A Life In Lyrics

Born in Hackney, he said 'when I was born I had jaundice and from then on the family called me The Chinaman.' Don Black is the songwriter's songwriter, a composer's dream collaborator and the man behind some of the 20th century's greatest musical hits. Shirley Bassey, Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Henry Mancini and Barbra Streisand are just some of the artists Black has worked with over the years. Add to this his frequent collaborator West End legend Andrew Lloyd Webber in what can only be described as a remarkable musical career. Interwoven with the stories behind songs such as 'Diamonds are Forever', 'Born Free' and from writing Broadway shows to 'naff assignments' and TV themes from Downton Abbey to Eastenders. With photos of Don at Hollywood parties with the likes of Sophia Loren and Liza Minnelli and Alan Jay Lerner, one of the theatrical titans. Packed with names and anecdotes and all the magic of music and theatre, the book reveals the essence of Black's craft and is a poignant tribute to his wife Shirley, his biggest inspiration. An astonishing musical journey and an insight into a life behind the lyrics, 303pp with colour and b/w photos.