Tuned In - Memoirs of a Piano Man - by Jim Wilson

About the Book

Short Description

"An enthralling glimpse into the world of music and the artists who create it. ... A fantastic memoir." - Explore Authors Magazine

Book Synopsis

"An inviting mix of star-studded encounters and an affirmation of a persevering artistic spirit." - Kirkus Reviews

"A truly fascinating tale by a fascinating man." - Martin Short

"So much more than I expected. ... Highly recommended!" - Ray Romano

Tuned In: Memoirs of a Piano Man offers a message of hope to anyone pursuing a dream against the odds.

The unique convergence of Jim Wilson's two careers - piano technician/confidant to the stars and a globally successful recording artist - has led to extraordinary experiences with some of the world's most exalted music legends: singing Beatle songs with Paul McCartney, limo rides with Elton John, road trips with Carole King, and horseback riding with Dan Fogelberg. But beyond this everyman's unique telling of intimate celebrity tales, Tuned In is an inspiring story of one man's relentless pursuit of a dream, and a revealing testimony to the power of music in all our lives.

Emerging from a troubled childhood in a broken West Texas home, a young man moves to Los Angeles to pursue fame and fortune as a singer-songwriter. He soon strays from his mission when his piano tuning sideline blossoms into a career as piano technician to the entertainment industry's biggest names. His help in the development of the world's first MIDI-adapter for acoustic piano leads to him sharing adventures, sessions, meals, and laughs with dozens of his childhood heroes. His front row seat provides him with a rare and fascinating view into their creative processes.

But when his world is shattered by his dearest friend's sudden and untimely death, he is forced to question the true meaning of success. He returns to his heart's purpose, takes a leap into the unknown, and sets out on a solo career, recording and performing his signature style of piano-featured instrumentals. Along the way he battles countless obstacles, including crippling panic attacks.

After four Billboard Top-20 albums, two PBS specials, and over 75 million worldwide streams of his compositions, Jim reflects on his life in music. He offers us a candid, humorous, insider's account of the raucous LA scene and shares engaging tales of his time spent with music legends.

Review Quotes

"An inviting mix of star-studded encounters and an affirmation of a persevering artistic spirit."

- Kirkus Reviews

"Tuned In is a fantastic read! Fascinating insider stories. World traveler, gifted artist, and his knowledge of all things piano is incredible!"

- David Foster, 16-time Grammy-winning producer

"I adore this memoir so. Tuned In is a truly fascinating tale by a fascinating man. I can't wait to re-read it with the television off."

- Martin Short, actor, comedian, singer, writer

"Tuned In is so much more than I expected. Jim shares his adventures and experiences with some of the world's greatest music icons, filling every page with humor and insight. But more than that, his story is both inspiring and relatable, and will resonate with anyone who has ever faced adversity in pursuit of their goals. Highly recommended."

- Ray Romano, Emmy-winning actor

"More than just a great read. At times hilarious, outrageous, and heartbreaking... His hand in the development of the world's first MIDI-adapter for acoustic piano led to him sharing adventures, sessions, meals, and laughs with dozens of his childhood heroes, including Elton John, Carole King, and Phil Collins. His front-row seat provided him with a rare and fascinating view into their creative processes."

- Bud Carter, Music Insider

"... a wonderful story that will encourage the reader to follow their dreams."

- Alan Bergman, lyricist with 3 Oscars

"I don't trust just anyone to care for my pianos. Jim has been the man to do that for me for over 35 years! His story's enlightening and inspiring, especially for anyone trying to make it in music.

- Diane Warren, Grammy, Emmy, & Oscar-winning songwriter

"Not only has Jim Wilson made my life more harmonious for the past 30 years, but he used his amazing gift to enhance the work of many a musical legend. He shares this long and amazing career with us in Tuned In. I could not put it down! Brilliant, funny and touching."

- Ed Begley Jr., author, actor, environmentalist

"Jim is a genius technician, musician, and a dynamite piano tuner! Tuned In is fascinating. Who knew? Congratulations, Jim!"

- Barry Manilow, Grammy, Emmy & Tony-winning Hall of Fame artist with 85 million albums sold

"...Jim's book is filled with wonderful stories and anecdotes of his adventures in our musical world. I recommend it highly."

- Carole Bayer Sager, Grammy & Academy Award-winning songwriter

"Who'd have thought the story of a piano tuner could be so enthralling? Tuned In, Jim Wilson's beautifully-woven tale, gives an emotional, creative, and revealing insight to the world of music from bar bands to superstars. Deeply honest and personal, occasionally heart-rending, often hilarious and enlightening about what makes music and musicians tick. Little wonder so many musical heroes took him to their hearts."

- Neville Farmer, author, music journalist