Cocaine and After Midnight: The Story of JJ Cale

Discover the hidden genius behind timeless classics like "Cocaine" and "After Midnight" as we delve into the world of the enigmatic musician JJ Cale. While Eric Clapton may have made these songs famous, they were originally crafted by the elusive singer-guitarist from Tulsa. Despite deliberately staying out of the spotlight throughout his life, every listener who has ever heard Cale's songs becomes captivated by his nonchalant voice, laidback guitars, and hypnotic grooves.

In the first-ever book about JJ Cale, Wouter Bulckaert embarks on a quest to unravel the secrets of his sound. Accompanied by Edward Hall's soulful illustrations, they paint a vivid picture of the artist who became a genre unto himself. For Cale, songwriting was not a mere art form but a craft, and although he rarely granted interviews, he managed to convey profound messages with just a few words. This book is based on his insightful one-liners, showcasing the essence of JJ Cale, the working-class hero who never aspired to be anyone's idol.

Wouter Bulckaert, acclaimed author of "Ry Cooder: Master in the Shadows," skillfully brings JJ Cale's story to life. He resides and works in the heart of Gent, where the music scene thrives. Edward Hall, known for his captivating series, "Portraits of Strangers," depicting sleeping commuters, resides in Northport, New York, bringing his unique artistic perspective to this tribute.

Join us on a journey through the life, music, and legacy of JJ Cale, the unsung hero who shaped an entire genre with his understated brilliance. Dive into this captivating book and uncover the magic behind the masterpieces.