Beneath the Underdog

Mingus by Mingus, From shabby roadhouses to fabulous estates, from the psychiatric ward of Bellevue to the worlds of mysticism and solitude, these are the celebrated, demonic, anguished and, above all, profoundly moving memoirs of Charles Mingus—one of the greatest jazz bass-players and most influential composers of all time. Adored by jazz musicians and fans as an innovator and quiet genius, Mingus' life was filled with drama and tragedy.

First published in 1971, Beneath the Underdog tells his fascinating story. A masterpiece of memoir, this is a riveting insight into one of the giants of twentieth century music.

Praise for Beneath the Underdog:

'An outlandish, brilliant autobiography.'

Newsweek

'A fascinating insight into Mingus' mind…unforgettable.'

The Times

'Mingus was something else. A pure genius. I loved him.'

Miles Davis

'One of the great jazz autobiographies of all time'.

Downbeat

'A shocking and brilliant book.'

Q Magazine