One of the coolest, and least promoted (and previously difficult to find) books I've come across is Too Hot to Handle: An Illustrated Encyclopedia of American Recording Studios of the 20th Century. Author Randy McNutt is a huge fan of classic American music and the regional studios that used to record the hits (and misses) of yesteryear. I recently stumbled across his Home of the Hits blog, and wanted to let others know that it's well worth visiting. Randy is dedicated to preserving the memories and history of the music biz, and importantly understands that it was the people and their vision that makes all of this so fascinating.
Blog
Boo Hoo, People Are Recording at Home!
by Larry Crane
A pal who deals in pro audio recording gear (some good shit) sent an email our way complaining about people recording with cheap gear at home and the inevitable loss that this presents to the pro audio industry. My response: XXX, Look on the Tape...