Our Secrets Are The Same: Friendship & Fame at the Heart of Simple Minds

by Jim Kerr, Charlie Burchill, Graeme Thomson

Genres: Music

352 pages, Hardcover

Published April 7, 2026

Reviews

[Andy Regan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As entertaining a narrative as the band at its height. Simple Minds don't follow standard formulas and this book is no exception as Jim Kerr and guitarist Charlie Burchill jointly chart their lives from childhood friendship through the heights of a vehicle that became one of the biggest around - with the swagger to match - in the 1980s.

Each chapter is shared and are not always chronological - interesting diversions include their close relationship with U2 who hit the heights around the same time. Still a brilliant live act, their story is also one of the changing shape of the music industry and how their focus is less on new material than entertaining millions on tour these days.

That both consider Sicily their home and largely shun rock star celebrity when not on stage underlines their kindred spirits as not only the core of the band but also best friends.

The band's highlights focused on are always going to be subjective - the immense Sparkle in the Rain - apart from Waterfront - and the quite brilliant Live in the City of Light - are afforded very minor references. However the story of descent and renewal around the middle of their near 50 year band lifespan is - as Jim is reminded - an arc that many musical legends have had to navigate. Their personalities and shared love of the band project shine through, not least Jim's virtual introversion when off stage.

Definitely one of the better muso autobiographies around.

[Ralph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent enough memoir written in a chatty style

[David]

7.5/10

[Graham Bean · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting format …and a pleasant departure from the usual rock memoir. Certainly a better read than the recent book by Paul Hewson.

[Aaron Badgley · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting memoir. A conversation between friends. They both reveal a great deal about their lives and the band. I loved reading this book.

[Lee Stuart Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

* This book was published in the UK 2nd October 2025, not the 2026 date as incorrectly listed here.

Also, its correct published title is: Our Secrets Are The Same: The Enduring Friendship at the Heart of Simple Minds.