A brick in coffee table format, this is the Beatles' story essentially from "the horses' mouths," with plenty of photos and other supporting material. An absolute must-have.

The quiet Beatle speaks! First published in 1993 but re-released after his death with a new intro by his wife; another must for any Beatles fan.

Clapton's authorized biography, also by Coleman (like Lennon's, above). Sometimes slammed for being a bit uncritical; I don't necessarily think so. Also includes brief excerpts from Clapton's diaries.

SRV's offical biography, authorized shortly before his death. An obvious labor of love.

Apart from the above, the closest insight you get into the way the man's musical sensors work. Includes info on his guitars (although NOT the signature Strat & Martin - published too early for those).

Meanwhile, Knopfler's friend Mr. Sumner shows us (and MK?!) how to tell your own story eloquently and captivatingly. Err, except for the early '80s, that is.

... and the only guy still left from the old days! Comprehensive, great insights, and dry wit you'll instantly recognize if you've ever heard an interview with Mick Fleetwood.

As straightforward as her lyrics, Etheridge's memoir from childhood through the new millennium. More compelling stuff.

The authorized version on the rest of CS & N ... worth it for Henry Diltz's photos alone; but overall pretty comprehensive, even if you won't learn as much about the songs as you might like to.

Relies primarily on secondary sources (except for an interview w. Meisner) & probably doesn't contain a lot that fans don't already know, but largely fact-based and at least a good intro for newbies.

NOT all that "definitive" - essentially reunites Marsh's "Born to Run" & "Glory Days," without adding much for '87 - '03 (as if the Boss had stagnated then!), but for what it is, as good as it gets.

The rest of the story, as told by the band's remaining members ... err, well, actually, not quite. Still, a nice coffee table book; just bear in mind Mick & Co.'s talent for self-promotion.

Insightful and evenhanded - the subtitle says it all. Finally!