Revolución To Roxy: Phil Manzanera's Musical Odyssey and Autobiography
Phil Manzanera, a renowned rock guitarist, embarked on his musical journey at the age of 15 with a desire to join a band. Despite his mother's initial unfamiliarity with rock and roll, he found his way into the music scene through connections like David Gilmour of Pink Floyd. Manzanera, now 75, shares captivating stories from his career in his autobiography, "Revolución To Roxy," which delves into his experiences with Roxy Music and collaborations with iconic artists like Gilmour.
In an upcoming event at the Quinlan Room in Minneapolis on May 20, Manzanera will engage in an on-stage interview with DJ Mary Lucia, discussing his book and performing select songs from his extensive repertoire. The autobiography not only chronicles his professional endeavors but also delves into his family history, spanning various countries where he lived during his formative years, accompanied by over 100 photographs capturing intimate moments and global adventures.
Manzanera's motivation to pen his autobiography stemmed from a desire to make sense of his five-decade-long journey in the music industry. Reflecting on encounters like meeting David Gilmour at a young age and his mother's support in purchasing his first guitar, he highlights pivotal moments that shaped his distinctive guitar sound characterized by a focus on textures and atmospheres rather than technical prowess.
His collaborations with Brian Eno and Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music underscore the dynamic relationships within the band, each member contributing a unique element to their collective sound. Despite the challenges and occasional rifts, the shared passion for music unites them in a "weird, dysfunctional family" that continues to resonate through their ongoing projects and collaborations.
Manzanera's encounter with Bob Dylan and the unexpected success of having his riff sampled on a Kanye West and Jay-Z track exemplify the unpredictable nature of the music industry. While acknowledging the financial gains from such ventures, he emphasizes the intrinsic love for music as the driving force behind his creative pursuits, transcending fame and fortune.
As Roxy Music bids farewell to live performances, Manzanera hints at future endeavors, including potential box sets and unreleased tracks to preserve the band's legacy. Despite the conclusion of their touring days, the commitment to honoring their musical heritage remains steadfast, ensuring that Roxy Music's influence endures for generations to come.