The Legendary Joe Meek: The Telstar Man

This captivating biography delves into the extraordinary life of Joe Meek, a figure widely recognised as Britain's pioneering independent pop music producer and often lauded as the UK's equivalent to Phil Spector. From the unlikely setting of his home recording studio, Meek conjured up chart-topping hits like the iconic instrumental 'Telstar' and laid down some of the very first tracks for future stars such as Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, and David Bowie, leaving an indelible mark on the nascent British pop scene.

However, Meek's professional brilliance was often overshadowed by his intensely private and increasingly erratic personal life. This biography unflinchingly explores the complex and often disturbing reality behind the eccentric genius, revealing a tortured existence entangled with violence, complex sexual relationships, drug use, an intense fascination with the occult, and a tragically violent end.

Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book paints a vivid picture of Meek's innovative recording techniques and his significant contribution to the sound of early British pop. It also offers a stark and unflinching portrayal of his inner turmoil and the darker aspects of his life, providing a nuanced understanding of the man behind the music.

Supplemented with a comprehensive discography, allowing readers to explore the breadth of Meek's sonic creations, and evocative black and white photographs that capture the era and the man himself, this biography serves as an essential and absorbing account of a truly unique and ultimately tragic figure in British pop music history. It's a compelling exploration of a creative visionary whose personal demons ultimately consumed him.