Revolucion to Roxy

Phil Manzanera's memoir offers a deeply personal journey through his life, penned for his English and Colombian family, close friends, and the music enthusiasts who have followed his diverse musical path for over half a century. Acknowledging that memories of shared events can differ, these stories are presented as his own recollections. The narrative spans his vibrant 1950s childhood spent in Cuba, Hawaii, and Venezuela, a period seemingly bathed in the brightest technicolor, through to the grey yet undeniably cool 1960s London, marking the commencement of a music career that continues to enrich his life some five decades later.

Roxy Music forms a significant part of this story, and Manzanera expresses his enduring gratitude for the opportunities it afforded him, opening doors to a global world of music and collaborative ventures. However, he also expresses hope that readers will find his family history equally captivating, revealing his pride in being related to a Colombian pirate, a spy, and an Italian opera musician.

Phil Manzanera, a celebrated figure in UK music and record production, rose to prominence in the early 1970s as the lead guitarist for the seminal band Roxy Music. In 2022, the band marked its 50th anniversary with a highly acclaimed tour across the US and UK. Alongside his ongoing live performances, Manzanera continues to write and produce new music, as well as contribute his talents to the albums of other artists.

Born to a British father and a Colombian mother, Manzanera has consistently embraced a global perspective in his music-making, collaborating with musicians from South and Latin America, South Africa, Cuba, and continental Europe. His impressive list of collaborators includes many of popular music's greatest names, such as Bob Dylan, David Gilmour, Robert Wyatt, Tim Finn, and Brian Eno. This memoir promises an intimate and engaging account of a life lived fully within the world of music and beyond.