Diary of a Player
How My Musical Heroes Made a Guitar Man Out of Me
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4.5 • 16 Ratings
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- $17.99
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- $17.99
Publisher Description
A candid country music memoir from superstar guitarist and songwriter Brad Paisley, this personal and humorous account traces his journey from small-town West Virginia to becoming one of Nashville’s most celebrated performers.
Long before CMA Awards and sold-out arenas, Brad Paisley was an eight-year-old boy handed a Sears Danelectro guitar by his beloved grandfather, Warren Jarvis. That Christmas gift became more than an instrument—it became an identity. In Diary of a Player, Paisley reflects on the relationship that shaped him, the mentors who guided him, and the relentless passion that drove him from local stages to the top of country music.
With warmth and wit, Paisley recounts the highs and lows of life in the music industry: songwriting breakthroughs, career-defining performances, backstage moments with fellow artists, and the discipline required to master his craft. Through it all, the guitar remains his constant companion—equal parts refuge, creative outlet, and lifeline.
Blending humor, heartfelt tribute, and behind-the-scenes insight into the Nashville music scene, this memoir offers fans an intimate portrait of a country music star who built his career one string at a time.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
In his first book, Grammy Award-winning country star Paisley pays tribute to the legendary musicians who helped him along the way. Any guitar aficionado will love this tale of extraordinary musicians gladly guiding a talented youngster a journey that began at the tender age of eight when Paisley's grandfather gave him his first guitar. With the collaboration of Wild, who is steeped in the country music scene, Paisley offers a story accessible even to country novices. In junior high, Paisley and his "modernly mature band members," a generous group of older mentors, the C-Notes, were sometimes referred to as Brad Paisley and the Seniles. As he confides: "all those days and nights when I was so busy not doing my homework I was growing the deep musical roots that have put me where I am today." His respect for his Nashville colleagues lends warmth to his presentation: "The art of our town comes from painting an honest picture in living color." Paisley certainly entertains in this charming story of his road to success.
Customer Reviews
Touched
I am, a player too. About four years ago, I first heard the song "I'm Gonna Miss Her" and my life was forever changed. I never liked country music but now it rules my life. Brad Paisley is the epitome of a man with a passion for his instrument. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it made Brad real to me. We even share a few experiences, like my son muting the strings when I play...loved that little story. To anyone who buys this book, you will get a glimpse into them life of a superstar AND a regular guy who just LOVES to play. It made me laugh, it made me cry. You'll thoroughly enjoy every page.
Todd
My only wish is that book had been longer. But how could it be the story still goes on. This is an account of a true gentleman guitar player who has hand the the talent and determination to become a true country music superstar. It seems he has been guided by the the hand of God and his guardian Angel Grandfather. It was a great read and I am a bigger fan than I was before. Thanks Brad I can't wait for "Part II".
Amazing
Brad gets very personal! Love how down to earth he is and such a family man!!
Love him