Strange: Punks and Drunks, Flicks and Kicks- The Memoirs of Richard Strange

by Richard Strange

He was almost a rock star, but not quite. From his early days leading cult heroes the Doctors of Madness, through to an unexpected shift into acting, the world according to Richard "Kid" Strange has been anything but predictable. These memoirs give a fascinating first-hand glimpse into life at the hub of London's music scene during and beyond the Punk era.

Genres: Music

288 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2002

Reviews

[Nigeyb · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable memoir from the fringes of mid 1970s pre-punk rock, the London club scene, screen acting including the odd Hollywood blockbuster, theatre, the British aristocracy and other assorted people and places from around the globe.

Like Woody Allen's Zelig, Richard Strange pops up in all manner of unlikely spots and in this book he gives a very readable account of a life lived on his wits, charm and talent.

Early days flogging clothes in Carnaby Street lead into his period fronting proto-punk band The Doctors Of Madness, to his celebrated Cabaret Futura club nights, and onwards to work as an actor, writer, German chat show co-presenter and much much more.

It's quite a tale and related in an honest, warts and all, style that doesn't always show him in the best light but has the unmistakeable tang of truth and authenticity.

He also settles a few scores along the way whilst relating some interesting encounters with the Sex Pistols, Martin Scorsese, Robert Fraser, Giovanni Dadomo, Malcolm McLaren, Kevin Costner, John Cleese, Twiggy, Jonathan King, Richard Branson, Jack Nicholson, Damien Hirst, Kim Basinger, Princess Diana, Kathy Acker, Keith Haring, Grace Jones, Jools Holland and a host of others.

We also learn about Richard's family, emotional life, and the ups and downs of a life lived with no plan, but a strong sense of adventure and opportunity. He has quite a tale to tell.

4/5

[John Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book.I found it difficult to put down.

It brought to life a period of my life living in London seeing several bands on a regular basis, including the Doctors. The band was pretty unique, visually and musically.Their first album is a gem and the second almost as good, in my opinion.

'Kid'/Richard's stories and commentary on the 1970s onwards is compelling reading, very human and articulate, apart from the misuse of principal/principle which seemed to miss the attention of any proof readers.

I knew little of Strange's life post Doctors and this made equally absorbing reading. An immensely good and enlightening read.

[Daniel C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!