Bob Gruen - Right Place, Right Time

 Gruen is one of the legendary photographers whose iconic pictures have graced an untold number of albums, magazines and more and who is still working to this day. After learning to take and develop photos from his mother, he had his first newspaper byline at 13 and has since learned how to be in the "right place" at the "right time".

It took a little time before Bob was able to make a living with his photos, but growing up in the New York area he had already taken pictures of legendary events such as Dylan's first electric concert at Newport. Befriending musicians and writers while working in photography-related day jobs, he managed to insinuate himself into the growing scene - which was a bit easier to do in the 60's and 70's than it is today - and was soon working with superstars like Ike and Tina Turner and even John Lennon!

Everything seemed to move faster in those days and Gruen became involved with the New York Dolls, documenting their first trip to LA among other adventures, Alice Cooper (he took photos at the fabled meeting of Dali and Alice), Elton John, Led Zep (the iconic personal jet pic), Kiss and anyone else who could provide a fun photo, or at least a paycheck! Of course, once the punk scene got going, that was a natural fit, as well (despite his mass of curly hair, mustache and flared jeans!), and he documented both the burgeoning NY and London scenes while still also taking pix of the big stars of the day at the same time - sometimes even the same day or night! He even managed to get on the bus for the fateful Sex Pistols American tour!

Gruen spends a lot of the book recounting his friendship with Lennon - obviously the biggest star that he knew personally - and his continued relationship with Yoko and Sean long after John's death. But, he continues to work with and befriend more current stars, as well, although once we're past the 70's, the names become somewhat less interesting to me, but that's just me, and he dedicates most of the book to those more thrilling times.

All in all, a fun trip through the best years of rock'n'roll with some incredible images and nice tidbit stories. He has had, and continues to have, an incredible life, and the book is a fine reflection of that life. Fans of the times and of his images will certainly enjoy this.