American Standard: Cheap Trick from the Bars to the Budokan and Beyond

Article Contributed by gratefulweb | Published on Monday, September 9, 2024

Cheap Trick has sold more than 20 million albums, been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and earned a place as one of Homer Simpson’s favorite bands. But even after fifty years, Cheap Trick remains one of rock’s most beloved cult acts, known for their blend of infectious hooks and rock and roll mischief. From their origins as a club band to their groundbreaking success in Japan, Cheap Trick has a unique story—and now, it’s told in the new book American Standard: Cheap Trick from the Bars to the Budokan and Beyond.

This book dives deep into the fascinating history of the Rockford, Illinois band that took the world by storm with their live album At Budokan, which catapulted them to international fame. From their early days playing gritty clubs, where their unmatched chemistry began to shine, to their carnival-like stage presence—featuring Rick Nielsen’s signature bowtie and cap, Robin Zander’s heartthrob good looks, Tom Petersson’s stoic bass lines, and Bun E. Carlos’ ever-present cigarette and tie—Cheap Trick’s journey is full of rock excess, artistic brilliance, and unexpected twists.

American Standard pulls back the curtain on Cheap Trick’s path to greatness, using exhaustive research and exclusive interviews to tell the band's rollicking tale. Readers will get an intimate look at their chance encounters with music’s biggest names, their highs and lows in the industry, and what it really means to be "big in Japan."

Whether you consider them rock icons or one of music’s most criminally underrated bands, American Standard is a must-read for fans of Cheap Trick and rock and roll history.

Purchase American Standard: Cheap Trick from the Bars to the Budokan and Beyond today on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/American-Standard-Cheap-Budokan-Beyond/dp/1493078062

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