This is a preview of the Shortform book summary of Turn It Up! by Tom Werman.
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The writer transitioned his professional focus toward a role within the realm of music production.

Tom Werman's story starts with his shift from a conventional upbringing to establishing his own space in the unique world of rock music. The book explores how his early experiences with music sparked a deep passion for the medium, steering him off the traditional corporate path.

The author's conventional upbringing and scholarly pursuits

The passage highlights Werman's early life and educational history, underscoring the clear contrast between his traditional family roots and his burgeoning passion for rock'n'roll, deemed unsuitable by his family members.

The writer found comfort and refuge in music during his formative years, which helped him cope with the challenges of being bullied in a peaceful suburb near Boston.

Tom Werman looks back with affection on his childhood during the 1950s in Newton, Massachusetts, a time when it was common for the community to feel so safe that many left their doors unlocked. However, this tranquility was disrupted by antisemitic bullying, which instilled in him a profound resentment against unfairness. This experience led him to find solace in music, particularly in Elvis Presley's rebellious rock'n'roll. The author discovered a feeling of defiance and emotional liberation through Elvis's music.

Werman's passion for rock'n'roll was evident as he not only learned the lyrics to numerous songs but also adopted the iconic stage presence of Elvis. Music became his refuge, offering a vibrant escape from the monotony of everyday life. Werman emphasizes that his life was continually enriched and his satisfaction grew through his perpetual engagement with music. He also shares his early captivation with folk tunes and his first attempts at becoming proficient with stringed instruments, emphasizing how artists such as Jim Kweskin and Bo Diddley shaped his musical tastes.

Context

  • Antisemitism was a prevalent issue in mid-20th century America, affecting many Jewish communities and individuals, influencing their social experiences and personal identities.
  • The 1950s saw the rise of rock'n'roll as a unifying force among youth, creating a shared cultural experience that could transcend personal struggles and foster a sense of community and solidarity.
  • The post-war suburban boom led to rapid development and population growth in areas like Newton. This expansion sometimes brought underlying social tensions to the surface, including racial and religious prejudices.
  • Experiencing unfairness at a young age can lead to the development of strong personal values centered around justice and equality. These values can influence a person's career choices, relationships, and advocacy efforts throughout their life.
  • Engaging with music, especially genres that emphasize individuality and resistance, can play a crucial role in shaping personal identity and providing a sense of belonging to a community that shares similar values and experiences.
  • Elvis's energetic performances and charismatic persona captivated young audiences, encouraging them to embrace new forms of self-expression and individuality, which was particularly appealing to those feeling marginalized or misunderstood.
  • Learning song lyrics was a way for fans to connect deeply with the music and its messages. For many, memorizing lyrics was a form of personal expression and a way to internalize the themes of rebellion and freedom that rock'n'roll embodied.
  • The act of learning and playing music can enhance cognitive skills, improve concentration, and provide a sense of achievement and purpose.
  • Music has been shown to have therapeutic effects, helping individuals process emotions and reduce stress, which could explain how Werman found enrichment and satisfaction through his engagement with it.
  • Common stringed instruments in folk music include the guitar, banjo, and mandolin. Learning these instruments often involves understanding both rhythm and melody, which can be foundational for exploring other musical genres.
  • Jim Kweskin was known for his work with the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, which played a significant role in the folk revival of the 1960s. His music often combined elements of folk, jazz, and blues, which could have introduced Werman to a diverse range of musical styles and the idea of blending genres.
During his time at Columbia University, he steered several rock bands toward stardom and chose to follow a path in music production.

During his tenure at Columbia University, Werman's enthusiasm for tunes grew as he took charge of rock bands and delved into the music culture of the 1960s. He narrates how the harmonies of The Beatles ignited his enthusiasm, which in turn inspired him along with his bandmates to cultivate a distinctive sound, inventive spirit, and individual style.

Werman recounts the captivating experience of observing the esteemed group's dynamic performance at Carnegie Hall. He additionally provides a detailed...

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Turn It Up! Summary The author's ascent to prominence was characterized by his proficiency in music production and talent identification, as well as navigating challenges while working with various bands.

The text explores how Werman navigated the complexities of developing artists and crafting records, highlighting his initial triumphs and the obstacles he encountered while working within a corporate framework that often conflicted with his artistic perspective.

The author first achieved success during his tenure at Epic Records.

The summary highlights the initial phase of Werman's career with Epic Records, along with the challenges he faced in convincing his superiors of the potential of the emerging artists he identified.

The writer played a pivotal role in catapulting the group Speedwagon to fame, which in turn significantly boosted his stature within the realm of the music industry.

Werman recounts his early victory in finalizing an agreement with Epic Records, emphasizing his confidence in REO Speedwagon's prospective achievements. Tom Werman narrates his first trip to Champaign, Illinois, where he observed the band's energetic live act and recognized the crucial role played by their young manager in their achievements. Werman shares his experiences from an REO Speedwagon performance, emphasizing the group's musical expertise and the captivating essence of...

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Turn It Up! Summary The transformation of the music industry and the author's transition to a different career path.

The section explores the decline in Werman's involvement in music production as the rise of grunge music and changing tastes among consumers took hold. He narrates his adaptation to the changing landscape of the music business and his ultimate decision to pursue a completely different career path.

The writer had to adapt to the changing landscape of the music industry and the rise of Nirvana, which heralded the beginning of the grunge movement.

This subsection delves into the significant shifts in music production that occurred as the 1990s began, highlighting the impact that the emergence of grunge had on the trajectory of Werman's career.

The author acknowledged a change in preference towards a less refined and more spontaneous musical style, moving away from the polished, controlled sound he had previously preferred.

Werman recognizes the difficulty in adjusting to the evolving tastes in music, emphasizing his understanding that the audience now favored new trends over the meticulously crafted sound he previously preferred. He remembers an important conversation with his daughter, who was enthralled by the raw, energetic essence typical of bands like the Beastie...

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Turn It Up! Summary The author recounts his struggles with substance dependence and its impact on his professional life, as well as his reflections on the music industry.

The book ends with a detailed look at the author's struggle with addiction, how it affected his career, and his reflections on the wider world of music and the role of critics.

The writer's initial encounter with and subsequent dependence on cocaine, which played a significant part in driving his creativity.

This subsection describes how Werman initially encountered cocaine and how its use shifted from occasional leisure to a dependency for managing his professional responsibilities.

The author's increasing dependence on cocaine, a substance widespread in the music production environment.

Werman recounts his initial experience with cocaine, describing its appeal as a stimulant that enhanced his creativity and social confidence. He emphasizes its prevalence in the music scene, pointing out that it was present not only during recording sessions but also at industry gatherings and throughout business discussions. Werman recounts the exhilarating vigor that came from studio sessions fueled by cocaine, recognizing its contribution to his creative workflow and its assistance in sustaining prolonged work periods during high-pressure situations.

He describes the way...