Otherside

Every summer I read the same four books. They are considered classics close to my heart. The summer doesn't feel quite complete without reading them. Since August is quickly soaking up the sun and time, it's about time that I've divulged about these reads:

1)I'm With the Band- Pamela DeBarres

This is a decadent look back to a young groupie coming of age in the late 60's and early 70's. Miss P knows how to kiss and tell and this book is full of honest recollections about rock stars sexual escapades. However, Miss P's sincerity shines though out the book and it is an excellent read for lying around the pool.

2) No One Here Gets Out Alive- Jerry Hopkins and Danny Sugarman

The story of Jim Morrison's short but powerful life. It's a detailed account of the lizards king rise to fame and also his untimely demise. He really just wanted the world to admire his poetry and not try to grab at his crotch. I read this every summer which sends me deep into a Doors induced depression. At times I think that I am Jim Morrison frolicking in the desert with a Shaman. Other times, I think that Jim lead a fascinating life and we are lucky to have such a transparent account of his life.

3) Scar Tissue- Anthony Kiedis

One of my favourites. I usually read part of this during my annual trip to L.A. There is something about that city that is so fitting to read this post drug and sexual ride of the Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman's life. Kiedis tells it straight and at times he has you questioning whether if he is stretching the truth. Keidis has lived life in the fast lane on Sunset Blvd and Mullholland Dr. He is and LA vet and his autobiography is the perfect read to transport you to the land of Californication.

4) Catcher in the Rye- J.D. Salinger

I acquired this book last summer. Something about the title drew me in since last summer I was slaving away on a farm. Catcher in the Rye is a short read and kind of an easy one, but I think if you look under the layers, it is one of the most complex modern day novels. Reading about teenage anarchy is a perfect sun soaked read. Put on some Clash, lie down on a blanket and read to your hearts content.

Flower Children

These flower children photos are so reminiscent

of Miss Pamela DeBarres iconic flower child pose.

Photos by Ann He. Find more here

Self Saotoge

I'm starting to wonder if I am becoming my own worst enemy, that in the end I will be the one to sabotage myself.

I find that I can charm the shit out of anyone, but then when it comes down to action, like calling someone, I bail out.

I find myself signing myself up for things, feeling positive about it, and then withdrawing from it. Or not showing up at all.

I always feel like I am fighting against myself to get things done. I want to be charming and productive but the inner Virgo in me, says "Fuck no, go back to sleep".

Here is more about my indefinite dual personality:

"Leo/Virgo cusp people have the vitality and ambition to be successful in their creative endeavors and are industrious and efficient when working for a good cause.

The Virgin reflects the qualities of a virgin, rather than the definition: Virgos and Virgo cusps tend to be shy and somewhat nervous, and they may be undemonstrative.

The Leo/Virgo is a curious mixture of introverted and extroverted tendencies, modesty and flamboyance, and a capacity to see both the largest and the smallest picture in every situation.

Leo/Virgos are good businesspeople because of their methodical attention to detail and their ability to stick with a practical and organized routine. They are good organizers, and they tend to be popular, even inspiring.

Leo/Virgo cusps are gregarious and social, fun-loving and live life with enthusiasm.

The natural leadership of these people and their administrative prowess help ensure that their projects are successful.

Leo/Virgos enjoy exploring subjects or interests deeply.

They are very good at understanding the deeper meaning of what others say.

They rely on logic rather than emotion to make their decisions. They are reliable, practical and diligent, but they can sometimes seem picky or overcritical to those who aren't as discriminating as they are.

Leo/Virgos are decisive and direct, optimistic that they will succeed. Sometimes they exaggerate problems and overreact to stumbling blocks, but generally they are positive and their natural pride and stubborn streak keeps them from giving up.

Their warmhearted and outgoing personalities are fiery and abundant. They are cheerful and self-assured, and they are studious and sensible in business dealings.

They are skeptical of extravagant claims and promises.

Many Leo/Virgos, however, love to gamble, and may be brash and extravagant at the gaming table.

They also tend to be very health-conscious. They are concerned with diet and hygiene. This interest in health ensures they take good care of their mental and physical selves.

Their perfectionism and physical strength make them strive to excel in whatever sport they choose.

Leo/Virgo is devoted and sometimes jealous, but not especially flirtatious.

The great strength of Leo/Virgos is in their creativity and attention to detail, and their desire to be of service. They pick up on the little things that most miss. Thoughtful gifts or unique solutions to problems are second nature to those with this astrological placement. Their commitment to helping others makes them one of the most giving characters of the zodiac."

The just of this is that I want to be introverted and extroverted at the same time. I am shy and flamboyant at the same time. This is why I always feel like I'm fighting myself for control. This is definitely a fatal flaw. When I tell people I am born on the cusp, they say something like "Oh you are a cuspian, you are one of those." One of those Dr. Jekyll and Hyde characters?

It's a Gas, Gas, Gas...

One of the original Rock Gods.

He's written into history through

Pamela DeBarres memoir

and Warhol's paintings.

And imortalized in many songs like

"Swagga Like Us" by Kanye himself.

That Stones shirt that I have owned for 4 years now,

that I felt like a sham for wearing,

is now going to be worn proudly.

My love is growing, and Mr. Jagger

is becoming more and more fabulous

as the days go on.

He swaggers and I swoon...

All That Glitters Is Gold...

All that glitters is gold

We take a trip

that has no destination

but we are going there together...

With Flowers In Her Hair...

With flowers in her hair

she wears a smile

a true beauty

a kindred spirit

of another time

You Are Home

Almost Famous. My most favourite film of all time.

What do I love about this movie?

I love how most of it is based on things that actually happened in rock and roll history. It's a conglomerate of Cameron Crows life/ Led Zeppelin/ The Alleman Brothers/Pamela DeBarres.

It's about decadence, you know, drugs, sex and rock and roll.

This film inspired me to be a journalist. I want to be the enemy. I want to be honest and unmerciful when I write. I want to be living in this Almost Famous world.

The above is a clip from the film of a bonding sess. over Elton John. Here I am home.

I'm With the Band

It's about time I've credited this lady.

Miss Pamela DeBarres, Queen of the groupies in the late 60's and early 70's. The prettiest member of Frank Zappa created girl group The GTO's. Miss P. was romantically involved with many rockstars. To name drop a few: Jimmy Page, Keith Moon, Chris Hillman, Robert Plant, and Mick Jagger. To name a few.

She wrote a kiss and tell memoir called "I'm with the Band: Confessions of a groupie". You will have to read it to find out more about her trystes and who she rubbed shoulders with.

I admire Miss P for her freedom. She lived life to the fullest with such a vulnerable heart. She fell hard, got hurt, but moved on to love again. She is a true free spirit. Groupie is a little harsh but not necessarily a damning term. The character Penny Lane in Almost Famous is based off her, as well as the character Suzanne in The Banger Sisters. Needless to say, Miss P left quite a legacy.