Hope I Get Old Before I Die: Why rock stars never retire

From the bestselling author of Abbey Road comes David Hepworth's latest insightful exploration of the enduring power of rock icons. Never a Dull Moment delves into the remarkable story of how artists like Pink Floyd, Bruce Springsteen, and countless others have not only survived but thrived in the ever-shifting landscape of the music industry. The Daily Mail declares it "May be his best yet... recommended to anyone for whom pop music means anything at all," while the Guardian hails Hepworth as "a genuinely great writer, with a winning turn of phrase."

Hepworth posits a compelling idea: when Paul McCartney closed Live Aid in 1985, perceived as rock's elder statesman at a mere forty-three, he – and many of his contemporaries – were, in fact, just getting started. The subsequent four decades have witnessed an unprecedented phenomenon: the giants of the 60s and 70s, capitalising on the age of spectacle ushered in by Live Aid, have embarked on the longest victory lap in history, continuing to perform and resonate long after conventional retirement age.

This is a story without precedent, a narrative where Elton John graces a royal funeral, Mick Jagger receives a knighthood, Bob Dylan accepts the Nobel Prize, and The Beatles, remarkably, become even bigger than The Beatles. Hepworth even playfully suggests that, thanks to technological advancements, these enduring figures may well be playing Las Vegas for eternity.

The Sunday Times praises the book for offering "solid insights into the compulsions and drives that keep bands reforming," while the Literary Review suggests it "is destined to become the go-to text on a subject we never thought we'd have to survey." The Oldie finds it reads "like a series of rich, fast-paced and immensely funny short stories."

Never a Dull Moment is more than just a nostalgic look back; it's a sharp and witty analysis of longevity, legacy, and the enduring appeal of these musical titans. Hepworth's insightful prose and deep understanding of rock history make this a compelling and thoroughly enjoyable read for anyone who has ever been captivated by the magic of rock and roll and wondered at the enduring power of its greatest artists.