Marty Friedman has announced that he will release his autobiography, Dreaming Japanese, on December 3rd.
The book will explore Friedman’s personal life and career, including his years as a guitarist in Megadeth. The title alludes to Friedman’s relocation to Japan in 2003, where he has since become a television personality, J-Pop composer, and an official ambassador.
Friedman shared news of the book’s completion and release date on Facebook:
“After an exhaustive and seemingly endless process, I’m beyond excited to let you know that I’ve just turned in the final manuscript for my autobiography, ‘Dreaming Japanese’.
I’ve always kept my private life completely out of the media, so with nervous excitement, I am thrilled to share the story about my upbringing, home life and career for the first time. You will enjoy the deepest dive into never before revealed details about my life in Megadeth and the personal relationships within the band written with alarming clarity. Same goes for all of my other bands, from the very beginning.
I outline the entire story why — and exactly how — I dropped living the high life in a multi-platinum band to start from scratch in Japan dreaming to play J-Pop, and how that spiraled into eventually exceeding even my loftiest goals, even becoming a government appointed Ambassador. It`s a complete immersion into my daily Japanese life as I guide you through the inner workings of the Japanese television industry and music scene, from my my unique and unprecedented perspective.
The book releases December 3 and I can’t wait for you to read it. We’re working on the cover now and I’ll share that soon.”
Regarding the Megadeth portions specifically, the official description of the book reads: “As the only clean and sober member, Friedman vividly recalls the triumphs and trials of each album cycle and more, bringing to light previously undisclosed personal feelings surrounding the circumstances that forced the band into hiding in the midst of the ‘Countdown To Extinction’ tour and the brutal effort it took to get the band back up and running. His profound and complicated relationship with frontman Dave Mustaine was symbolic of the band’s insane dynamic, and Marty poignantly and generously shares his experiences within the band’s inner sanctum during the highs, lows, and daily routines.”
Friedman wrote the book with Jon Wiederhorn, the co-author of Louder Than Hell: The Definitive Oral History of Metal, as well as autobiographies of Al Jourgensen and Scott Ian.
It’s a busy week in Friedman’s world, as the guitarist is also releasing his new solo album Drama on Friday (May 17th).
Pre-order Dreaming Japanese here, and check out Marty Friedman’s social media post below.