On the evening of Nov. 19, living legend Don Randi hosted a free concert and book signing in the Local 47 Serena Kay & Earl Williams Auditorium.
His new book “You’re Heard These Hands,” co-authored by Karen “Nish” Nishimura, tells of his journey through the musical landscape of Southern California, from the “Wall of Sound” to the Wrecking Crew of studio musicians during the explosive pop music era of the 1960s and early 1970s, and other incredible stories.
As a keyboard musician, composer, arranger, music director, and record producer, Don has thrilled music lovers for years, even if they weren’t aware of it… until now. He played keyboards on over 1,000 popular recordings by artists such as Nancy Sinatra, the Beach Boys, the Jackson 5, Elvis Presley, Sammy Davis Jr., Neil Diamond, and Linda Ronstadt.
For many years, only music industry insiders, close friends, and jazz fans who visit Don’s Studio city nightclub, the Baked Potato, have heard him tell some of the amazing, heartfelt, and hilarious personal stories in this collection. Now everyone can discover the in-studio, behind-the-scenes, and on-tour tales from the man whose hands we’ve heard playing on our favorite hit tunes. You’ve Heard These Hands will capture the attention and emotion of its readers, who won’t be able to resist sharing Randi’s stories with their friends.
At the book signing event, guests enjoyed live music performed with a full band, interspersed with Don’s anecdotes and stories about his long and illustrious career. After the performance and talk, Don and Nish spoke with and signed books that were on hand for sale by local bookstore Chevalier’s Books.
“You’ve Heard These Hands” is available at Chevalier’s Books, 126 N. Larchmont Blvd. in Los Angeles, and online at Amazon.com.