Best Pop Artist Biographies Books of 2025

The biography of Leon Russell, written by Bill Janovitz, is a tribute to the legendary musician, composer, and performer who influenced many artists such as Elton John, George Harrison, and the Rolling Stones. The book covers Russell's journey through the music industry, from touring with Jerry Lee Lewis to founding Shelter Records and discovering Tom Petty, the Gap Band, and J.J. Cale. Janovitz also delves into Russell's struggles with substance abuse, depression, and stage fright. This New York Times Bestseller is a must-read for any music lover interested in the history of rock & roll.

Barbra Streisand: The Albums | The Singles | The Music is a must-read for any fan of the iconic singer. Written by Matt Howe, the book takes readers on a journey through Streisand's extensive recording career, exploring every album, soundtrack, and single she has released. With meticulous research, Howe uncovers undiscovered gems and provides a fascinating exploration of how the greatest star assembled her unparalleled body of work. The book has received high praise from industry experts and publications, including BroadwayWorld.com and Library Journal. Overall, this definitive book on Streisand's recording career is a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.

The Cry Baby Coloring Book is a fun and unique way to experience the world of Melanie Martinez's iconic character, Cry Baby. With explicit content, this coloring book takes readers on a journey of self-discovery as Cry Baby navigates the challenges of fitting into society. The book also includes information about Martinez's sophomore album and film, K-12, making it a must-have for fans of the artist. Overall, the Cry Baby Coloring Book is a creative and entertaining addition to any collection of popular music books.

A new addition to the All the Songs series, Prince: All the Songs is an extensive exploration of the iconic musician's songbook. Spanning almost 50 years of his career, the book delves into every song Prince ever released, from B-sides to EPs. Author Benoît Clerc goes into detail about the inspiration behind each song, the recording process, and the musicians and producers involved. With over 600 pages and stunning photography throughout, this book is a must-have for every Prince fan. The book is a major achievement in its breadth and its unique view of Prince's life through his music.

Me: Elton John Official Autobiography is a revealing and honest account of the legendary musician's extraordinary life. From his humble beginnings as a shy boy with dreams of becoming a pop star to his rollercoaster lifestyle as a chart-topping superstar, Elton John's story is full of drama. The book also sheds light on his struggles with drug addiction, his journey to sobriety, and his loving relationship with David Furnish. The autobiography is a must-read for any fan of Elton John's music and anyone interested in the personal life of a living legend.

Para Selena, Con Amor (Spanish Edition) by Chris Perez is a heartfelt tribute to the late Latin music superstar Selena. In this book, Perez shares the story of their relationship, from their powerful friendship to their forbidden romance and ultimately, their interrupted marriage due to Selena's untimely death. Through his memories, Perez offers a unique perspective on Selena's sincerity, vulnerability, and strength, while also dispelling some misconceptions about her life and death. The book includes exclusive photos and is a touching tribute to an unforgettable icon.

The Meaning of Mariah Carey is a memoir that tells the story of the global icon's life, from her childhood to her triumphs and traumas as a musical prodigy. Mariah Carey writes with honesty and depth about her experiences, offering readers a new understanding of her resilience and the human spirit. The book is an instant classic of pop diva lit, with arresting writing that renders Carey as much a spiritual force as a musical one. Overall, the book is a full-circle triumph for Carey and a must-read for fans and anyone interested in the complexities of the human experience.

This special edition of LIFE James Taylor is a celebration of the iconic singer-songwriter's life and career. With rare family and archival photos, readers can track the rise of James Taylor, known to fans as JT, and his influence on popular music. From his struggles with life, love, and loss to his friendships and collaborations with other legendary artists, this book offers a comprehensive look at his journey. As a fan or a newcomer to his music, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of popular music.

Livin' On A Prayer: Big Songs Big Life is an inspiring memoir by Desmond Child, the ultimate hitmaker who contributed to some of the biggest global hits of music icons. In collaboration with legendary music biographer David Ritz, Child shares his very personal and unbelievable journey of climbing his way to the top amid extraordinary circumstances. From his unconventional upbringing to navigating the trials of being a Latino gay man in the macho world of rock and roll, Child's story is a testament to willing oneself to succeed and overcome impossible odds. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves music and wants to know the man behind the hits.

The Beatles Anthology is a remarkable book that tells the story of the band through the eyes of Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, and Yoko Ono Lennon. It includes full transcripts of the television and video series, as well as personal stories and rare vintage images. The book covers everything from their early years in Liverpool to their rise to fame and eventual breakup, making it a must-read for any Beatles fan. The inclusion of materials from both Apple and EMI archives, along with recollections from associates like George Martin and Derek Taylor, makes this anthology an unprecedented release of photographs, documents, and memorabilia. Overall, this is an extraordinary project that will leave readers feeling closer to The Beatles than ever before.