Over the last three decades, legendary music producer and record man LA Reid—the man behind artists such as Toni Braxton, Kanye West, Rihanna, TLC, Outkast, Mariah Carey, Pink, Usher, Justin Bieber, and Meghan Trainor—has changed the music business forever. In addition to discovering some of the biggest pop stars on the planet, he has shaped some of the most memorable and unforgettable hits of the last two generations, creating an impressive legacy of talent discovery and hit records.

Now, for the first time, he takes fans on an intimate tour of his life, as he chronicles the fascinating journey from his small-town R&B roots in Cincinnati, Ohio, and his work as a drummer, to his fame as a Grammy Award—winning music producer and his gig as a judge on the hit reality show The X Factor. With captivating insight, his story offers a detailed look at what life was like for stars at the start of their meteoric rise and how he always seemed to know who would be the next big thing.

Part music memoir, part business story of climbing to the top, this beautifully designed book, jam-packed with photos, showcases Reid’s trademark passion and ingenuity, and introduces a multifaceted genius who continues to shape pop culture today.