Book Review – Beautiful Mess by Tom Roland

Beautiful Mess by Tom Roland and the members of Diamond Rio is the story of how Diamond Rio, one of country music’s most successful groups ever, came into being. I loved this book and found it encouraging and inspirational, especially for a budding novelist.

I’m not one to read biographies and have never had an inclination to read about any music group. But when I saw that Diamond Rio had a biography out, my curiosity got the best of me. I’m a huge Diamond Rio fan, so I thought I might enjoy learning a bit more about them. Man, I had no idea what was involved in “making it” in the music industry. I knew it was tough, but within a few chapters I couldn’t help but wonder why anyone would put themselves through this.

There’s a lot of poverty on that road to success, and it’s never a sure thing, right up until the moment they signed their first recording contract. Even then, the income was slight and future success was still no guarantee. The book tells the story of each band member, all interesting roads, up to the point where they intertwine into the group known then as the Tennessee River Boys (I’m glad they changed that!). The author, Tom Roland, does a fantastic job of painting the individual pictures that eventually form into one “Beautiful Mess.”

While the book is not heavy in spirituality, the undercurrent is always there. You can tell by the way the group members handle themselves when faced with the many temptations that confront a musician, especially after they’d achieved success. The “no women on the bus” rule reminded me of the guidelines set forth by Billy Graham and his colleagues. I was shocked to learn how much trouble Marty Roe had been having with his singing. I couldn’t imagine someone so talented could ever lose his gift so late in an outstanding career. I highly recommend this book to anyone, music fan or not. It gives some fascination insight into Nashville and the music industry. More importantly, it’s a story of faith, determination, and hard work. It’s a book my kids need to read!

Posted in faith