• The First 21

  • A Memoir
  • By: Nikki Sixx
  • Narrated by: Nikki Sixx
  • Length: 5 hrs and 29 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (697 ratings)

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The First 21  By  cover art

The First 21

By: Nikki Sixx
Narrated by: Nikki Sixx
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Publisher's summary

Rock-and-roll icon and three-time best-selling author Nikki Sixx tells his origin story: how Frank Feranna became Nikki Sixx, chronicling his fascinating journey from irrepressible Idaho farmboy to the man who formed the revolutionary rock group Mötley Crüe.

Nikki Sixx is one of the most respected, recognizable, and entrepreneurial icons in the music industry. As the founder of Mötley Crüe, who is now in his 21st year of sobriety, Sixx is incredibly passionate about his craft and wonderfully open about his life in rock and roll, and as a person of the world. Born Franklin Carlton Feranna on December 11, 1958, young Frankie was abandoned by his father and partly raised by his mother, a woman who was ahead of her time but deeply troubled. Frankie ended up living with his grandparents, bouncing from farm to farm and state to state. He was an all-American kid - hunting, fishing, chasing girls, and playing football - but underneath it all, there was a burning desire for more, and that more was music. He eventually took a Greyhound bound for Hollywood.

In Los Angeles, Frank lived with his aunt and his uncle - the president of Capitol Records - for a short time. But there was no easy path to the top. He was soon on his own. There were dead-end jobs: dipping circuit boards, clerking at liquor and record stores, selling used light bulbs, and hustling to survive. But at night, Frank honed his craft, joining Sister, a band formed by fellow hard-rock veteran Blackie Lawless, and formed a group of his own: London, the precursor of Mötley Crüe. Turning down an offer to join Randy Rhoads’ band, Frank changed his name to Nikki London, Nikki Nine, and, finally, Nikki Sixx. Like Huck Finn with a stolen guitar, he had a vision: a group that combined punk, glam, and hard rock into the biggest, most theatrical and irresistible package the world had ever seen. With hard work, passion, and some luck, the vision manifested in reality - and this is a profound true story finding identity, of how Frank Feranna became Nikki Sixx. It's also a road map to the ways you can overcome anything, and achieve all of your goals, if only you put your mind to it.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2021 Nikki Sixx (P)2021 Hachette Books

What listeners say about The First 21

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killer storyline because it's the real deal

I've always been a fan so to get a glimpse behind the curtain was incredibly enjoying! It's a great story and a great book.

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Another incredible book

Nikki has such a talent for writing that goes beyond music. His books are incredible and this was no different than the others. Was his life growing up to Motley Crue days. Thoroughly enjoyed the book

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Another great book

This was another great book for me. Can't wait for your next book. I love all the stories.

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Exactly what I expected!!!

I have loved reading all things Motley Crúe but, Nikki's books have been the most enjoyable books to read!!!! I can not wait to see what he comes up with next.

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For all the Crue Heads

Recommended for any Crue Head/Sixx fan! Very good read and great that Sixx himself was the narrator!

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Great story and experiences

Thank you Nikki SixX. GREAT JOB!!! Very entertaining and enlightening. Just when you think you've done it all, read this book.

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Nikki rules

Everything Nikki writes sucks me in like a magnet! Motley is amazing, but Nikki Sixx is untouchable.

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Very interesting and motivating story

This was a interesting insight into the life story of Nikki Sixx. I never knew he is story, except for Motley Crue, and I totally enjoyed it and have even more respect for Nikki now.

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Inspiring

I’ve read the heroin diaries and it was a window into the madness of a junky that was supposed to be living the dream that was raw this is much better because I got a glimpse of what made Nikki sixx where he came from what his child hood was like I had no idea he was such a free spirit he is just so understandable I wish mi sister was still alive so I could’ve shown her this book waiting for the next one

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Great prequel to..

The prequel of Nikki’s life and how he became the man the myth and the legend. His deep voice takes you on the journey as if you’re seeing through his eyes. Great book for any Nikki fan!!

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