The Sanest Guy in the Room: A Life in Lyrics

Don Black's memoir, “The Sanest Guy in the Room: A Life in Lyrics,” offers readers a captivating glimpse into the world of one of the most prolific and successful lyricists in the history of popular music and musical theatre. Black's storytelling is as engaging and witty as his lyrics, making this autobiography a delightful read for music enthusiasts and casual readers alike.

The book chronicles Black's journey from his humble beginnings in London's East End to his rise as an Oscar, Golden Globe, and Tony award-winning lyricist. Black's self-deprecating humor and unpretentious style shine through as he recounts his collaborations with musical legends such as John Barry, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Michael Jackson.

One of the book's strengths lies in its behind-the-scenes anecdotes about the creation of iconic songs and musicals. Black's accounts of writing “Born Free,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” and “Sunset Boulevard” provide fascinating insights into the creative process and the music industry's inner workings. His stories about working with stars like Matt Monro, Quincy Jones, and Barbra Streisand are both entertaining and illuminating.

Black's honesty about his successes and failures is refreshing. He doesn't shy away from discussing projects that didn't quite hit the mark, offering a balanced view of a career spanning over five decades. This candor adds depth to the narrative and makes Black a relatable figure despite his extraordinary achievements.

While the book is generally well-paced, some readers might find certain sections a bit meandering. Black occasionally goes off on tangents that, while interesting, can disrupt the flow of the main narrative. Additionally, those looking for in-depth analysis of lyric writing techniques might find the book lacking in this area.

Nevertheless, “The Sanest Guy in the Room” succeeds in painting a vivid picture of a life dedicated to the craft of songwriting. Black's warmth, humor, and genuine passion for his work permeate every page, making for an enjoyable and often inspiring read.

In conclusion, Don Black's memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of songwriting or the history of popular music and musical theatre. While it may not delve as deeply into the technical aspects of lyric writing as some might hope, it more than makes up for this with its wealth of personal stories and insights into a remarkable career in music.