Last year, Mark Morton, guitarist and lyricist for Lamb Of God, released In Desolation: A Heavy Metal Memoir through Hachette Books. Morton dives into the details of his memoir in a recent episode of The Bob Letsetz Podcast.
When asked how he got into playing guitar, Morton explained, “I ended up playing guitar because my dad wouldn’t let me get a drum set. I talk about it in the book. This was in the early ’80s, when MTV had just started gaining popularity, though it didn’t reach us right away. When it did, I was just like every other kid in America, glued to the TV. I was a latchkey kid, coming home from school with no parents around for three hours, so I would sit there and watch MTV, which was amazing. I saw music in a way I had never seen it before. I really wanted to play drums, but my parents, as I describe in the book, were always supportive of my interests. They were wonderful, but my dad knew enough about music to understand that once you get a drum set, there’s no turning back. So my second choice was guitar.”
In In Desolation: A Heavy Metal Memoir (Hachette Books), Morton reflects on the ups and downs of his career and personal life, sharing how the pressures of fame and personal struggles eventually conflicted with his commitment to his music. The memoir covers the devastating loss of his newborn daughter, which plunged him into a deep state of despair. Surrounded by bandmates living out their dreams, Morton wanted to disappear, turning to dangerous mixes of drugs and alcohol in an attempt to cope.
Amid the self-destructive spirals and heartbreaking grief, Morton also experienced moments of joy, self-acceptance, and deep connections. His relationships with his bandmates and crew members led to strange and hilarious memories. He also found a sense of purpose through his interactions with fans, who reminded him of the profound impact his work had on their lives.
Morton explained, “Initially, I started writing this book just to see if I could do it. But as the writing process went on, it became much more meaningful. Looking back on my life, I was able to approach my past with a level of objectivity I hadn’t been able to while living it. Through recovery and hindsight, I made peace with my past and found value in my toughest moments. I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can create a connection and sense of commonality. There are plenty of fun stories, and a few really sad ones, but I’m grateful for the chance to share them.”
Desolation primarily focuses on Morton’s journey as a musician dealing with self-doubt, anxiety, and the toll of addiction, and how he eventually found peace and gratitude.
Ben Schafer, Executive Editor at Hachette Books, praised the memoir: “Mark Morton’s Desolation is one of the most remarkable rock memoirs I’ve ever read, and we’re thrilled to be his publisher. With its humility, honesty, and unpretentious style, it presents a life story that is both relatable and extraordinary. The rise of Lamb of God, Mark’s diverse influences, and his personal highs and lows are all chronicled with such brutal honesty that readers of all types will feel moved and inspired to create, recover, and live in a state of gratitude.”
Additionally, Lamb Of God has teamed up with Sixthman, a leader in festivals and music cruises, to announce the Lamb Of God Presents Headbangers Boat 2025. The event will take place from October 31 to November 4, 2025, sailing from Miami, FL to Cozumel, Mexico aboard the Norwegian Jewel.
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