BOOK REVIEW: From Cradle to Stage by Virginia Grohl

Shane | 10 August 2017 | Reply

BOOK REVIEW: From Cradle to Stage by Virginia Grohl

Hachette Australia
May 2017
Paperback, $32.99
Reviewed by Shane Pinnegar

Biography / Music

7.5/10

“Grohl” y’say?

Yep – Grohl. As in, Virginia, as in Mother-Of-Foo-Fighters’-Dave – Grohl.

Over the course of the past few years Virginia befriended mothers of other global rock and pop and country stars, and set about interviewing them in relaxed surroundings, discussing their progeny’s talent and careers.

The result has a lot going for it: for starters, it’s a fascinating premise, to look at these mini-bios from the perspective of the artist’s mother (or stepmother). Often they provide an illuminating glimpse into the childhood of their children, and the time when the creative spark struck them.

Virginia imbues her conversations with warmth and bonhomie, striking a pose halfway academic and halfway grandmotherly, obviously bonding deeply with many of her subjects, but the book suffers a little from there being so little thread connecting each chapter. Obviously everyone’s story is different – every artist found their spark in different ways, entering music via different influential means.

At its best, From Cradle To Stage examines Virginia’s own story – and that of her famous son. The most interesting chapters are Dave’s intro, and his Mum’s exploration of his discovery of music and experiences in the industry; and a discussion about her friendship with Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain’s mother Wendy (who declined to be interviewed, but generously agreed to be featured through Virginia’s memories).

These are emotional chapters in Dave Grohl’s life – life changing, in fact. Virginia succeeds here in reminding us all that the changes in a rock star’s life also have great impact to their families.