Backstage Pass: A Business Book That's Far From Conventional

More reason to read this book. I've known Harvey for a few years via PMA (Product Marketing Alliance). At least I thought I did. His written words are a subtle reminder of how much our personal story shapes who we become. I'm proud to even know Harvey more, because of this book. I broke into product marketing from sales back in 2020. Never would I imagine making that same pivot, rucking in a band van with Herman's Hermit. You feel the highs and lows in every word you read. Harvey was very intentional in what he put down on paper, and it showed. From his struggles in primary school to being laid off without the next job in hand, a lot of what he said was very healing for my own personal experiences. I was born mute as a kid, so to be in this profession and see someone like Harvey, who's leagues ahead of me is more fuel for me to keep going. If you're looking for a "how to", this book is not for you because Harvey is a rockstar storyteller who brings you in and then later breaks it down, as to how this might relate to both on a personal and professional level. I can't wait for your next book to come out, Shek. It was a pleasure to read your story, and one I couldn't honestly put down, once I first picked it up. Smashing job!

Non sapevo cosa aspettarmi: business o rock. Ho trovato il meglio delle due cose. La carriera dell'autore, dalle rock band degli anni 80 alle tournee al seguito dei grandi nomi, dall'avventura nel mondo della discrografia ai videogiochi, alle console. Tutto in una carriera. Diversi spunti di riflessione e una scrittura sempre piacevole e coinvolgente. Poi, per un fan del rock anche tanti ricordi!

This book is brilliant, funny and insightfully motivating! Harvey takes you through his life's personal and professional journey and the experiences he encounters along the way starting from leaving school early with no qualifications, to music industry jobs, him being a manger, playing on tour with some famous bands and the ending up at Microsoft as head of Marketing for XBox! It's really interesting reading about what goes on behind the scenes of the industries he takes us through! Seeing Harvey's personality come through the words is really compelling - I can imagine how he conducted himself through the scenarios as he describes them like a movie. I had a laugh too, makes for some captivating reading. One of the things I like most about this book is how he summarises key learning points after each chapter with key takeaways anyone can implement into their loves. I also think it's great how each chapter is named after a song title - and there's a Spotify playlist to go with the book! I really recommend this book...I'm going to order more as presents. As Harvey says 'Rock on!'.

Oh how I wish this existed when I was still a student! This book serves not only as a guide but as a companion for those venturing into or already embroiled in the chaos of their careers. Harvey relates his story with a level of sincerity and openness that resonates deeply. It's rare to encounter a book that makes you feel as understood and seen as this one does, particularly for those of us who are new to the business world or stuck in a "I don't know what the hell I'm doing with my life" kind of panic. Harvey's candor shows that the path to success is not linear. It's loaded with challenges, but each one is an opportunity to learn, grow, and eventually succeed.

Got more than I bargained for with this book. Not only do you get plenty of practical advice for Product Marketing (+ business in general), you get an all access pass to Harvey's story, a bunch of good life lessons, and lots of laughs along the way. Recommended for all PMMs, marketers in general, entrepreneurs - and anyone with an interest in rock music!