What Happened to Your Hair?

How We Played Loud... Loved Proud... and Never Backed Down... Together

De: Matthew Nelson, Gunnar Nelson

Narrado por: Matthew Nelson, Gunnar Nelson

Gunnar and Matthew Nelson reveal the untold stories of their upbringing from their iconic grandparents Ozzie and Harriet to their legendary father Ricky Nelson. What Happened To Your Hair? details their journey to not only hit #1 on the charts but also navigate one of the wildest careers in popular music, all while crafting their unique paths on their own terms.

Told with unflinching candor, the Nelson brothers take readers on an intimate and untamed journey through their extraordinary lives, shaped by the legacy of their iconic family. Growing up in the glare of the spotlight—both a gift and a challenge—was filled with unforgettable highs, profound lows and surreal experiences.

With heartfelt honesty and a take-no-prisoners approach, the brothers share rollicking untold stories of unscrupulous managers, soul-scarring record executives, and Polaroid-sending groupies whose photos of their body parts would make a biker blush. Filled with humor, laughter, tears, and unforgettable moments, the Nelsons also recount the tragic and untimely death of their father, the legendary Ricky Nelson. His sudden death forced them to confront their grief while navigating the hell of the music industry—a turbulent landscape that challenged their dreams and tested their spirits.

The twins rose through the ranks of LA’s Sunset Strip in the late 1970s and later achieved fame in the ’90s, hitting #1 with their own chart-topping compositions, Gunnar and Matthew reveal how they not only survived the relentless pressures and pitfalls of the music business but also found strength in their faith and the unbreakable bond of brotherhood. With the courage to always stick to their guns, they aimed to uplift and provide a redemptive force in their music, even as grunge, rap, and other angst-ridden genres took center stage in the pop culture zeitgeist at that time. Written in their own words (no ghostwriter needed, thank you very much), Matthew and Gunnar Nelson candidly discuss the struggles they faced, from industry setbacks to personal trials, and how these challenges ultimately made them stronger and more determined.

What Happened To Your Hair? is not just a gripping story of double-edged fame but a testament to resilience and authenticity. Packed with motivational insights, twisted humor, laughter, tears, and crazy stories, this soulful and deeply moving memoir celebrates the enduring power of love and brotherhood. It’s a powerful reminder that facing challenges with courage and compassion is what truly defines success.

©2025 Matthew Nelson and Gunnar Nelson (P)2026 Recorded Books

Straight from a GenXer-this is a must read!!!!

I thought I was a Nelson fan but there was so much history I had NO idea about. So fun listening to it! I have a new respect fo Matthew and Gunner. I did feel a bit sad for them at times in the book. They are definitely the light in dark times.

I loved it! Its raw, emotional, honest, and inspiring.

I love the positive attitude they bring to the hardest of situations. I loved hearing this in their own voice to add the honest inflection that this bio tells. I only wish it was longer to include more. I have so much respect for these two for the work they put in to their music, the fact that they didn't get into the drug scene, and the character self instilled despite the chaos they were raised in. Thank you for inspiring us with your music and your bio. You make this world a better a place❤️

Wonderful bio!

Well done,very well done. Great content and very entertaining.
Ranks among the top 10 music bios I’ve read.

Stellar work

The honesty with which they told the story of their lives was truly amazing. They are amazing people and phenomenal artists and performers.

LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK!

I was a huge Nelson fan when they first came out. But I never really knew anything about them other than their Dad and the Ozzy and Harriet show, which I never saw since I wasn’t even born when it was on.
It’s definitely a great listen/read if you are Gen X. So much music history. I love these guys even more since learning how difficult their childhood was and how hard they had to work to get their music out to the world.
They are an inspiration and they have a great sense of humor.
I laughed and cried! It’s very emotional at times.
I’m glad they are doing so well now.
Matthew and Gunnar are phenomenal storytellers and perfect narrators! I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more.

I really really hope they write more books. Maybe a part 2 with more stories that didn’t end up in this book.
And perhaps a movie deal about their life? I would definitely see that.

Now off to listen to After The Rain (on iTunes), which I have been playing over and over (and over), just like when I first heard them all those years ago.