Whatever Happened to Slade?

by Daryl Easlea

More than simply the iconic group of the 1970s glam rock era, Slade's huge popularity and the enduring levels of affection still exist. Although the original quartet ceased working as a unit in 1992, Noddy Holder, Dave Hill, Jim Lea, and Don Powell remain household names. The first serious biography of Slade since 1984, Whatever Happened to Slade details the complete story of this unique band, as well as the personal histories of the four unique individuals who combined to turn Slade into a genuine phenomenon. Beginning by exploring the background and influences that shaped the foursome, the book charts their emergence from the 1960s beat boom, their initial successes, the epoch-making glam heyday, Slade's attempts to crack America, and subsequent re-emergence as hard rocking heavyweights, through to their final dissolution and post-Slade careers. Featuring new interviews, Nobody's Fools represents the final word on a band that won hearts and perforated eardrums across four incident-filled, often ironically bittersweet decades.

352 pages, Hardcover

Published October 3, 2023

Reviews

[Dorian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slade were my first band, and a local band as well. So it's good to have this book that presents a sympathetic portrayal of the band and the Black Country, both either underrepresented or misrepresented by the world at large. This book does a good job of telling the story and establishing the characters of the various band members and their inner-circle. although a few more biographical details and anecdotes from the glory years of the band might have leavened things a little. I think the author might be less objective and critical of the band than necessary, and he admits himself that the task of making Slade "cool" and establishing their rightful place in the rock pantheon may be beyond anyone. Still, the attempt to do so is worthwhile and appreciated.

[Michael Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slade were well before my time and whilst the book hasn't changed my opinion on them (5 decent tunes) it really brought you along with the journey too the point I was happy when they smashed it at Reading '80 and annoyed that they boiled that pan dry like they did in their original peak but massively overstaying their welcome.

Really detailed - perhaps overly so but empathised with band members & close characters throughout.

Also their best song is the re-recording of Cum on feel the noise on their 85 Xmas album.

[Eddie Hillion · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very thorough record of the band as individuals and their life 'on the road'. I did feel the pages spent describing and commenting on the film they made a bit too long. However, it did make me take the time to watch the film on YouTube!
Overall it brought back happy memories of the 70's, a period that totally influenced my musical tastes.

[David Ogden · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very well researched book, and a comprehensive history of the band. It's let down a bit by the fact that most of the band weren't directly involved, and so there's an over-reliance on peripheral characters in the band's story. Admittedly in some cases this adds interesting side notes, but in other cases it feels very much like filler. Overall, definitely worth reading if you're a Slade fan.

[Andrew Field · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although true fans will love the detail and the passion, the fundamental problem with music biog books is that the songs, albums and live performances are the stars of the show. Same with movies and books. I have great affection for Slade (first live band, first 45, first 33, first and only time backstage in Sheffield). The very few exceptions are when the publishers get truly creative (for example, Christy Moore's One Voice). Sadly, despite the best of intentions and lots of admirable hard graft from Daryl, this massive chronological tribute to Slade is not one of them.

[Peter Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was prime age for Glam Rock in the early 70's and found this a fascinating read, it some ways Slade's story is quite sad but they had success where a lot of their contemporaries did not. A very good read.

[William Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting book and a very good read.

[Richard Archer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, everything you need to know about Slade and what made them so awesome is right here. Plus, through this book I discovered Slady - the worlds greatest tribute act!

[Ruby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit to not being a Slade fan. In fact, prior to reading Daryl Easlea's latest literary offering, 'Whatever Happened to Slade? When The Whole World Went Crazee', I must admit to only knowing one song - and yes, it is that one. But this book inspired me to listen to some of their other work, and I have now been converted.

'Whatever Happened to Slade? When The Whole World Went Crazee' is nothing short of a rock 'n' roll revelation. With an encyclopedic knowledge of music history and a passionate love for the glam rock icons, Easlea delves deep into the untold story of one of Britain's most electrifying bands, Slade. This is the first definitive biography of the band in three decades, and it is the only title which would deserve this accolade.

The foreword is provided by Sir Bob Geldof, one of my own heroes. It was this which, amongst other things, first drew me in. I'm a Boomtown Rats fan, and a fan of Geldof's charitable work with Band Aid. Geldof says "Slade have slipped between the cracks of pop history. They shouldn't have been allowed to." After reading this book, I cannot agree with him more.

In this compelling and incredibly well researched book, Easlea peels back the layers of time to reveal the rise, fall, and triumphant resurgence of Slade during the tumultuous music scene of the 1970s. His writing is as vibrant and dynamic as the band itself, capturing the essence of an era where music was a lifeline and glitter was the order of the day.

Easlea's storytelling takes us on a wild ride through Slade's journey to stardom, from their humble beginnings in the Midlands to conquering the charts with anthems like "Mama Weer All Crazee Now" and "Cum On Feel the Noize." He paints vivid portraits of each band member, providing valuable insights into their personalities, struggles, and the unbreakable bond that held them together through it all.

One of the standout qualities of 'Whatever Happened to Slade?' is Easlea's ability to capture the essence of the band's music. He analyzes their hits with finesse, dissecting what made Slade a powerhouse on stage and in the studio. Reading this book is like listening to a greatest hits album, with each chapter unveiling a new facet of the band's brilliance.

Easlea doesn't shy away from the darker moments in Slade's career, such as financial woes and lineup changes. Still, he infuses these chapters with a sense of resilience that echoes the band's own spirit.

'Whatever Happened to Slade?' also offers a glimpse into the cultural and social landscape of the 1970s. Easlea expertly weaves in historical context, showcasing how Slade's music and image both reflected and influenced the era's evolving attitudes and tastes. It's a captivating journey through a pivotal period in music history.

Easlea's writing is engaging and peppered with anecdotes and interviews with key players in Slade's journey, providing readers with an intimate look at the band's inner workings and the industry's challenges. It's a testament to his dedication to unearthing the truth behind the glam rock legends.

In conclusion, 'Whatever Happened to Slade? When The Whole World Went Crazee' is a must-read for music enthusiasts, rock historians, and anyone who has ever cranked up a Slade song on their hi-fi. Daryl Easlea's deep passion for the subject matter and his captivating storytelling make this book a treasure trove of rock 'n' roll nostalgia. It's a reminder that, in a world that went 'crazee' for a moment, Slade stood tall and proud, and their music continues to delight generations.