Author: Keith "Wild Child" Butler
Year: 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Company
"Miles Beyond: The Eddie Hazel Biography" is a comprehensive and detailed biography of the late Eddie Hazel, one of the most influential guitarists in funk music history. Written by Keith "Wild Child" Butler, a close friend and collaborator of Hazel, the book provides an in-depth look at Hazel's life, career, and impact on music.
The biography delves into Hazel's early life, his musical influences, and his rise to fame as a member of the legendary funk band Parliament-Funkadelic (P-Funk). It explores Hazel's unique guitar style, which blended elements of rock, jazz, and blues, and his contributions to some of P-Funk's most iconic songs, such as "Maggot Brain" and "Mothership Connection."
The book also examines Hazel's struggles with drug addiction and his eventual decline in health, leading to his untimely death in 1992 at the age of 43. It features interviews with Hazel's family members, friends, and fellow musicians, offering personal anecdotes and insights into his life and character.
"Miles Beyond: The Eddie Hazel Biography" serves as a tribute to one of the most talented and influential guitarists of his generation. It provides a comprehensive look at Hazel's life and career, highlighting his exceptional musicianship and the enduring impact he left on the music world.