📖 Overview
Not Dead & Not for Sale is Scott Weiland's autobiography chronicling his life as the lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver. Weiland recounts his path from a child in Ohio to becoming one of rock music's most recognizable voices in the 1990s and 2000s.
The memoir traces Weiland's musical evolution alongside his personal struggles, including his experiences with addiction and relationships. He provides an insider's perspective on the grunge era, the music industry, and the interpersonal dynamics within his bands.
The book includes Weiland's reflections on songwriting, performance, and the creative process behind many of his most famous works. His account moves between past and present, incorporating journal entries and other personal materials from throughout his career.
This autobiography examines themes of artistry, self-destruction, and the search for redemption in the midst of fame. The narrative provides insight into both the allure and isolation of rock stardom while exploring questions of identity and authenticity.
👀 Reviews
Readers found this autobiography candid but shallow, with many wanting more depth about Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver. Several noted the book feels scattered and lacks focus.
Readers appreciated:
- Raw honesty about drug addiction struggles
- Behind-the-scenes stories from touring
- Insights into his songwriting process
- Details about his childhood trauma
Common criticisms:
- Too short at 224 pages
- Jumps between topics without proper context
- Minimal coverage of band relationships
- Feels rushed and unfinished
As one Goodreads reviewer noted: "It reads like scattered journal entries rather than a cohesive narrative."
Ratings across platforms:
Goodreads: 3.5/5 (2,800+ ratings)
Amazon: 4/5 (300+ ratings)
Barnes & Noble: 3.5/5 (40+ ratings)
Multiple readers mentioned wanting more stories about specific albums and band dynamics, with one Amazon reviewer stating: "The music takes a backseat to personal struggles, which isn't necessarily what fans wanted."
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🤔 Interesting facts
🎸 Scott Weiland wrote much of the book while in the middle of a reunion tour with Stone Temple Pilots in 2008, often working on it during late nights on his tour bus.
🎤 The book's title comes from lyrics in the Stone Temple Pilots song "Dead & Bloated," which appeared on their debut album Core.
📝 Weiland collaborated with journalist David Ritz, who has co-written autobiographies for many music legends including Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin.
💊 The memoir reveals that Weiland's first experience with heroin occurred while touring with Stone Temple Pilots in 1993, marking the beginning of his decades-long struggle with addiction.
🎼 The book includes previously unpublished lyrics and poetry written by Weiland during various stages of his career, offering insight into his creative process and personal struggles.