The Manual: How to Have a Number One the Easy Way

The Manual: How to Have a Number One the Easy Way cover
Good Books rating 3.65
Buy online
Technical
  • ID: 9607
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • Reviews: 2
Reviews
The A.V. Club · 2026-01-01
subversive 3.80

The book is a subversive prank that expresses contempt for the music industry. It's a rare and early example of its kind, offering a unique perspective on the music scene.

The Manual is a subversive prank that captures the essence of the 80s music scene. The authors, Bill Drummond and Jimmy Cauty, known for their work with The KLF, bring a unique and irreverent tone to the guide. Their approach is both entertaining and insightful, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the mechanics of creating a hit single. The book's charm lies in its ability to capture the essence of the 80s music scene while offering timeless advice. It's a rare and early example of its kind, adding to its allure. The book's subversive nature makes it a standout read, offering a unique perspective on the music industry.


Quick quotes

    Rarely has such a subversive prank of a band gone so far while expressing such blatant contempt for the music industry and its audience.

    One of the earliest examples of its kind.

    A rare and early example of its kind, offering a unique perspective on the music scene.

Moving the River · 2017-08-13
entertaining 3.50

The book is a quirky guide to creating a hit single, blending humor and practical advice. It's a fun read that captures the essence of the 80s music scene.

This book is a delightful mix of humor and practical advice, offering a unique perspective on the music industry. Written in 1988, it's a product of its time, reflecting the eccentricities and challenges of the 80s music scene. The authors, Bill Drummond and Jimmy Cauty, known for their work with The KLF, bring a subversive and playful tone to the guide. Their approach is both irreverent and insightful, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the mechanics of creating a hit single. The book's charm lies in its ability to entertain while providing genuine tips and tricks.


Quick quotes

    Cheap at the price: written in 1988, the book purports to be a foolproof guide to creating a hit single.

    It might just work, but then you never can tell.

    A small book that makes big promises.