Aerosmith's Kramer releases memoir

BOSTON, June 30 (UPI) -- Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer says he hopes to help those afflicted by depression and drug addiction with his new memoir.

Called "Hit Hard: A Story of Hitting Rock Bottom at the Top," the book, set to come out Tuesday, chronicles Kramer's highs and lows in his 40-year rock 'n' roll career, but concentrates on his battles against his personal demons, The Boston Globe reported.

"Basically, I want to be of service and help folks out," Kramer told the newspaper. "Anybody that relates to stuff that's happened to me along the way -- my anxiety, my depression, the drugs. If I can help someone, I'll have accomplished my goal."

Kramer said his father was abusive and unresolved feelings over his death helped fuel his lowest personal moments in his Aerosmith career.

"I didn't comprehend it when I was a kid, but the way he disciplined me, which was abusive, was my fuel," Kramer told the Globe. "I wasn't (drumming) to please him, but the big thing he related to was the almighty dollar, so when I started making some of those, he paid attention."