From WHAM! to WOO: A Life on the Mic

by Janey Lee Grace

Janey shares how she got her break in the music business, the highs and lows of being a backing singer and what it was like touring with bands in the 80’s and 90’s. And from being crammed in a minibus with Mari Wilson's band, to living the dream flying first class around the world, playing stadium gigs with George Michael and WHAM! Later on Janey became known as a co-presenter on Steve Wright in the Afternoon.

Janey Lee Grace cut her teeth on the mic around the night clubs of Manchester and Birmingham and her first big singing break was with Mari Wilson and the Wilsations. After she was fired from the band for refusing to dye her hair canary yellow she was picked up by the band WHAM! Janey sang backing vocals with George Michael and Andrew Ridgely for all their tours including the infamous WHAM! China tour.

Janey went on to tour with Boy George, Sinita, Kim Wilde and Natalie Cole and had her own UK top ten hit with Cola Boy and '7 ways to love' - a dance floor sensation in the summer of love 1991! Janey moved from singing to presenting shows for ITV, VH-1 and Sky news followed by her own show on BBC Radio 2. After bumping into Steve Wright while sitting in as presenter on Sunday Love songs, Janey became a co-presenter on Steve Wright in the Afternoon. She describes hustling her way into the world of radio presenting, both local and national - the pitfalls, the fun stuff, with lots of behind-the-scenes stories.

244 pages, Paperback

Published April 3, 2025

Reviews

[Beth Foley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it such a lovely book I am inspired to read more of her books. She brings her life journey to life I can still picture the garden house that her and Simon shared,and her insight into how hard you have to work and almost for nothing until you get well known on the radio

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

'From Wham to Woo' brought back loads of memories of growing up in the 80s, the music I listened to and of course the big hair.

What a fascinating career Janey Lee Grace has had in music and broadcasting, and now wellbeing and helping others on their alcohol-free journeys. The perfect gift for anyone who loved Wham and other 80s icons, and who also listened to 'Steve Wright in the afternoon' on Radio 2. A great read.

[Miss Samantha Berry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. What a fascinating life Janey has led . As a huge fan of Wham and then listening to her on Steve Wright in the afternoon I knew I would love it . Janey has had an amazing career and it’s fascinating to read about the new work she does on holistic practices . Cannot recommend enough .

[sam cerw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast paced story of a varied career.. I was only aware of her through Steve Wright's R2 programme. A good quick read.