Barre, Abrahams Interviewed in New Book

"Unsung Heroes of Rock Guitar" is a collection of in-depth Q&A interviews with fifteen of rock music's most underrated guitarists, many of whom have been very successful as members of popular music groups, but whose music is more recognizable than their individual names and faces.

Featured players are Mick Abrahams (Jethro Tull, Blodwyn Pig), Randy Bachman (Guess Who, Bachman Turner Overdrive), Martin Barre (Jethro Tull), Craig Chaquico (Jefferson Starship), Larry Crane (John Cougar Mellencamp), Rik Emmett (Triumph), Peter Frampton, Gary Green (Gentle Giant), Bruce Kulick (KISS), Howard Leese (Heart), Doug Marks (Metal Method), Trevor Rabin (Yes), Stephen Rothery (Marillion), Ty Tabor (King's X), and Richard Williams (Kansas).

"It's been quite an eye-opening experience, researching and writing this book," says author Sterling Whitaker. "People tend to think of rock stars as being rich and famous and living happily ever after on their royalties, but that's rarely ever the case. Many of my interview subjects had horror stories about getting ripped off by managers, record companies, and even their own band members. Hardly anyone walks away with the kind of money you might imagine."

A guitarist himself, Whitaker feels that his experiences and struggles in trying to build a career in music have given him a special insight into his subjects. "This book gave me an excuse to call up a bunch of players whose work I like and ask them the questions I've always wanted to know," he says. "If it brings people to a better understanding of them and their music, then that's my reward. Well, that and the money!"