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Salad Daze
Best known as the divisive but iconic frontman of The Mission and a poster boy for the then fledgling gothic scene of the 1980s, Wayne Hussey has been making music since he was inspired to pick up a guitar by his childhood hero, Marc Bolan. As he began making his name in music with The Invisible Girls, Dead Or Alive, and The Sisters Of Mercy, Wayne was at first seduced and then ultimately corrupted, swapping the repression of his religious upbringing for its polar a lifestyle of total hedonism. From his early days raised as a Mormon to being schooled in gender bending by Pete Burns, from his move to Liverpool in the late 1970s to his remaining fanaticism with Liverpool FC, Salad Daze is an all-encompassing account of Wayne's personal and musical journey up until the formation of The Mission.
304 pages, Paperback
Published September 19, 2019
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88 people want to read
About the author
Wayne Hussey
2 books4 followersJerry Wayne Hussey is an English musician who was born in Bristol, England. He is best known as the lead singer of The Mission, and the guitarist with The Sisters of Mercy.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 13, 2021
Wayne Hussey fangirl for life here! Finally read this book, and I absolutely loved it. I was extremely delighted to find out when I started it that Hussey had made playlists for every chapter! Listening to music is essential when reading a book about music. I was about to put on some The Mission of course, but didn't mind at all that my background music already had been picked out for me. The playlists consist of popular or relevant songs at the time the chapter takes place, or just music he mentions. It really adds to the reading and transforms it into a whole experience. For a fast reader like me the playlists ended up being too long, so I usually took breaks from reading to finish the playlist before moving on.
The book follows Wayne Hussey even before he was born as Jerry Wayne Lovelock in Bristol in 1958. His childhood and early years are described very in detail, which I didn't mind at all, but I imagine some would want to cut to the chase and get to the exciting stuff. Eventually we get to when Wayne is a young adult, a music lover, fledgling guitarist and wants to be a rockstar. He joins a number of bands and tells us about the scene back in the day. It isn't until closer to the end he joins The Sisters Of Mercy and we get to read how that was - many of us fans have heard a lot about how Eldritch behaves, but I have been waiting for a first-hand review like this (I really want Patricia Morrison to write a book!). The book ends just as Hussey and Craig Adams leave the band and want to start their own band. I can't wait for the next book about The Mission!
There are many great parts in this book. Random short sidenotes about crazy stuff that happened which I found hilarious. To me those are the best things about musician's biographies. Like apparently he has had sex on a trampoline in Gary Numan's garden?! Oh yes, he has written a foreword, as has Iggy Pop. There are also the typical glossy inserts of photographs, which I loved (several photos of Hussey without shades!) - especially that they didn't cut off the last page mid-sentence.
This is definitely a must-read if you're a fan. If you're only looking to read about Sisters, it's up to you if it's worth it, that part is somewhere between 1/3 and 1/2 of the book. While the book ends just as The Mission is about to begin, if you're a fan of them, it's still worth the read. He does mention things here and there that would happen later. Besides, then you have something to do while waiting for the next book!
The book follows Wayne Hussey even before he was born as Jerry Wayne Lovelock in Bristol in 1958. His childhood and early years are described very in detail, which I didn't mind at all, but I imagine some would want to cut to the chase and get to the exciting stuff. Eventually we get to when Wayne is a young adult, a music lover, fledgling guitarist and wants to be a rockstar. He joins a number of bands and tells us about the scene back in the day. It isn't until closer to the end he joins The Sisters Of Mercy and we get to read how that was - many of us fans have heard a lot about how Eldritch behaves, but I have been waiting for a first-hand review like this (I really want Patricia Morrison to write a book!). The book ends just as Hussey and Craig Adams leave the band and want to start their own band. I can't wait for the next book about The Mission!
There are many great parts in this book. Random short sidenotes about crazy stuff that happened which I found hilarious. To me those are the best things about musician's biographies. Like apparently he has had sex on a trampoline in Gary Numan's garden?! Oh yes, he has written a foreword, as has Iggy Pop. There are also the typical glossy inserts of photographs, which I loved (several photos of Hussey without shades!) - especially that they didn't cut off the last page mid-sentence.
This is definitely a must-read if you're a fan. If you're only looking to read about Sisters, it's up to you if it's worth it, that part is somewhere between 1/3 and 1/2 of the book. While the book ends just as The Mission is about to begin, if you're a fan of them, it's still worth the read. He does mention things here and there that would happen later. Besides, then you have something to do while waiting for the next book!
September 25, 2022
First and foremost I want to say how much I loveeeee the playlists accompanying the chapters! It was so nice to listen to all of the songs Wayne chose, and really set the mood/time period for the chapters. It did hinder my reading speed a lil bit, but it was still fun. I’m very glad there are a few bonus playlists as well.
I didn’t have much idea of Wayne’s life or really even any TSoM lore (I don’t tend to go learn everything about bands/members) so this was good way of getting an up close and personal recount of both things. I loved how this book was written, it was like having a one way conversation with Wayne, or like he is telling a really long bedtime story. His personality coming through and his jokes/sarcasm were wonderful.
Now why I didn’t rate this book higher is due to personal preference when it comes to drugs and alcohol. I like neither things, and a lot of this book seemed to be about them, which makes sense for a autobiography of someone in the rock world, but it’s not something I really enjoy reading about. I know that’s typically the fun stuff that people like to read, but hearing drug induced reckless driving and arson, etc just stresses me out. I had hope Wayne wasn’t someone who indulged in that lifestyle as much as others (boy was I wrong) due to what he said in chapter 2: “Now, in hindsight, I believe that the way I was raised and the basic precepts and values I was taught have held me in good stead throughout my life.”
I clearly misinterpreted what that meant lol. I in a way wish there wouldn’t be a separate book for The Mission years and all of it was in one, because I do feel like a lot of these stories were filler and not actually really needed to be told. It also felt a bit repetitive due to the reoccurrence of drug and alcohol use, but I’m not really sure how this should be dealt with when it comes to autobiographies. I mean you’re supposed to be telling the story of your life. I’m definitely very much in the minority when I say I enjoyed reading about his childhood till he moved out of Bristol more than the later bits.
The insights into Andrew Eldritch was really interesting, and even more so with Pete Burns. I’ve always wanted to hear more about him since he’s sort of a controversial figure, so it was nice to see how much he impacted Wayne positively. Also hearing how he would hide from Courtney Love was funny, I can only imagine the verbal wars that would break out between those two.
Would recommend to all Wayne, TSoM and Dead or Alive fans. This book is also great for anyone who wants an insight to the early post-punk/“goth” scene.
I didn’t have much idea of Wayne’s life or really even any TSoM lore (I don’t tend to go learn everything about bands/members) so this was good way of getting an up close and personal recount of both things. I loved how this book was written, it was like having a one way conversation with Wayne, or like he is telling a really long bedtime story. His personality coming through and his jokes/sarcasm were wonderful.
Now why I didn’t rate this book higher is due to personal preference when it comes to drugs and alcohol. I like neither things, and a lot of this book seemed to be about them, which makes sense for a autobiography of someone in the rock world, but it’s not something I really enjoy reading about. I know that’s typically the fun stuff that people like to read, but hearing drug induced reckless driving and arson, etc just stresses me out. I had hope Wayne wasn’t someone who indulged in that lifestyle as much as others (boy was I wrong) due to what he said in chapter 2: “Now, in hindsight, I believe that the way I was raised and the basic precepts and values I was taught have held me in good stead throughout my life.”
I clearly misinterpreted what that meant lol. I in a way wish there wouldn’t be a separate book for The Mission years and all of it was in one, because I do feel like a lot of these stories were filler and not actually really needed to be told. It also felt a bit repetitive due to the reoccurrence of drug and alcohol use, but I’m not really sure how this should be dealt with when it comes to autobiographies. I mean you’re supposed to be telling the story of your life. I’m definitely very much in the minority when I say I enjoyed reading about his childhood till he moved out of Bristol more than the later bits.
The insights into Andrew Eldritch was really interesting, and even more so with Pete Burns. I’ve always wanted to hear more about him since he’s sort of a controversial figure, so it was nice to see how much he impacted Wayne positively. Also hearing how he would hide from Courtney Love was funny, I can only imagine the verbal wars that would break out between those two.
Would recommend to all Wayne, TSoM and Dead or Alive fans. This book is also great for anyone who wants an insight to the early post-punk/“goth” scene.
June 8, 2020
A classic tale of a young, innocent man falling for the wild life of a rock star, Salad Daze is highly recommended for everyone interested in the 1980s post-punk and emerging goth scene in the UK and, of course, essential for every fan of The Sisters of Mercy and The Mission. However, it might not be quite as interesting for the rest of the world (even avid readers of biographies by any rock musician). Getting used to Hussey's writing style takes several chapters and by the end you might feel that this should be far more entertaining as an audiobook read by Hussey himself. It doesn't help that his childhood and early teenage years were rather pleasant (which is good for him, but not for drama or narrative) and it's not only once his parents become Mormons that things start to get complicated. Of course, his journey as a musician and a member of various musical scenes (mainly in Bristol and Liverpool, but also in Leeds and London) is quite entertaining. The most intersting bits of the book are actually the times he spent growing as a composer and the recording of various projects (his early groups and Dead or Alive and The Sisters of Mercy). His experiences with alcohol and drugs are entertaining, but neither utterly scandalous or cautionary enough to be truly memorable. Each chapter is accompanied by playlist (available in Spotify) that cover both the music that influenced Hussey's music and his own musical adventures. Although it's not indicated in the cover or the back of the book, this is only the first volume, although there are enough previews and spoilers throughout the book to stir interest in the following book (as Hussey tends to deviate from his current narrative to look into a future that is and sometimes is not relevant to what he is currently remembering).
October 29, 2019
This is a book about the lead singer/founder of The Mission, British goth rock legends.
But it's also not a book about The Mission, which I imagine is probably a little frustrating for the fans of The Mission, because the book suffers from the same "two book deal" fate as recent books by Moby and Brett Anderson of Suede. In that, they not only tell half of the story, but stop abruptly when you are just settling in and starting to be interested. In my case, interested in a music figure I'm unfamiliar with and was curious to know.
But then, I got it from the library, so I can't fucking complain too much.
The book does have some great tales of his early life and being fleeting (but important) members of the bands Dead or Alive and The Sisters of Mercy. Both bands of which, I am more than aware of. And all of that is covered in here, so am not sure what would prompt me to seek out the next instalment really. We shall see.
Not sure how much it really offers to the "rock n'roll lifestyle/tales of excess" genre though. There are better and crazier tales out there. I suppose it's a must for all fans though. Which I'm really not. But I still found it interesting and always love reading tomes of this ilk.
But it's also not a book about The Mission, which I imagine is probably a little frustrating for the fans of The Mission, because the book suffers from the same "two book deal" fate as recent books by Moby and Brett Anderson of Suede. In that, they not only tell half of the story, but stop abruptly when you are just settling in and starting to be interested. In my case, interested in a music figure I'm unfamiliar with and was curious to know.
But then, I got it from the library, so I can't fucking complain too much.
The book does have some great tales of his early life and being fleeting (but important) members of the bands Dead or Alive and The Sisters of Mercy. Both bands of which, I am more than aware of. And all of that is covered in here, so am not sure what would prompt me to seek out the next instalment really. We shall see.
Not sure how much it really offers to the "rock n'roll lifestyle/tales of excess" genre though. There are better and crazier tales out there. I suppose it's a must for all fans though. Which I'm really not. But I still found it interesting and always love reading tomes of this ilk.
August 17, 2024
Aw.... Wayne... Bless him. The legend in his own lunchtime leader of The Mission has had such a life that it's necessary to release his autobiography in multiple volumes. This first volume covers his childhood and early forays into music as part of the Liverpool scene in the early 80s and his stint as guitarist with the Sisters of Mercy and ends with his leaving the Sisters and preparing to form The MIssion.
In case you didn't know, Wayne has an ego, and it's quite a big one. What makes this first volume so enjoyable is that he's clearly aware that he has an ego and writes with surprising self-deprecating awareness that's very endearing. It also gives great insight into the early days of the Sisters and the enigma that is Andrew Eldritch. It's a great read and you can't help but like the guy by the end.
In case you didn't know, Wayne has an ego, and it's quite a big one. What makes this first volume so enjoyable is that he's clearly aware that he has an ego and writes with surprising self-deprecating awareness that's very endearing. It also gives great insight into the early days of the Sisters and the enigma that is Andrew Eldritch. It's a great read and you can't help but like the guy by the end.
September 25, 2022
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this book. I have never been the biggest fan of Mr Hussey and had few expectations, but I like him a lot more having read his account of his younger years.
He comes across as a thoughtful man, aware of his shortcomings and having moved on from many of his less attractive behaviours, but happy to admit that it was fun at the time.
There is no attempt to write prettily or impressively, but the tales are told clearly, with honesty and wry hindsight which makes the procession of famous names and interesting events easier to digest.
I loved the playlists at the start of each chapter and I am looking forward reading the next chapter.
He comes across as a thoughtful man, aware of his shortcomings and having moved on from many of his less attractive behaviours, but happy to admit that it was fun at the time.
There is no attempt to write prettily or impressively, but the tales are told clearly, with honesty and wry hindsight which makes the procession of famous names and interesting events easier to digest.
I loved the playlists at the start of each chapter and I am looking forward reading the next chapter.
February 26, 2024
Written with a very conversational tone, this drew me in quickly. The foreword lets you know that the opinions won’t be held back, but that they are the author’s views, not necessarily without bias.
It’s normal a slight chore to read about the early life in an autobiography, but this is a pleasant exception.
The pace picks up when he starts playing music, and there are all kinds of asides that bring you back to that feeling of it being a conversation on a pub.
Eye opening and frank to the point of brutality in places, this is certainly a rollercoaster of a book. I’ll be getting the follow up imminently.
It’s normal a slight chore to read about the early life in an autobiography, but this is a pleasant exception.
The pace picks up when he starts playing music, and there are all kinds of asides that bring you back to that feeling of it being a conversation on a pub.
Eye opening and frank to the point of brutality in places, this is certainly a rollercoaster of a book. I’ll be getting the follow up imminently.
June 11, 2022
Powders and Guitar
Wayne Hussey is actually a really good writer and this hooks you in and has some great writing and autobiographical stuff.
The furstration is of course we all want to skip to the end and bits of that are even there... Guess where this ends!!!
You may find yourself grabbing the dictionary occasionally and hungover in the morning but it's a great story!!
Includes a play list too.
.... When's the next bit coming out?!?
Wayne Hussey is actually a really good writer and this hooks you in and has some great writing and autobiographical stuff.
The furstration is of course we all want to skip to the end and bits of that are even there... Guess where this ends!!!
You may find yourself grabbing the dictionary occasionally and hungover in the morning but it's a great story!!
Includes a play list too.
.... When's the next bit coming out?!?
June 11, 2019
The best musical biography I’ve ever read (and I’ve read a few). Funny, insightful and a great story to tell. Absolutely captures growing up in the seventies and eighties and the rich vein of music around this time. Highly recommended.
June 22, 2020
Early days, Dead or Alive, Sisters of Mercy and all his other involvements till the Mission. His adventures in the Mission will - hopefully - be in his second book (not yet published).
A good read if u are interested in the punk/post-punk and gothic scene of the 70s - 80s...
A good read if u are interested in the punk/post-punk and gothic scene of the 70s - 80s...
December 27, 2022
Good to see it from the other side
Most of the books out there are from the Eldritch camp. Very good to see things from Wayne's point of view. Can't wait for the 2nd part to come out.
Most of the books out there are from the Eldritch camp. Very good to see things from Wayne's point of view. Can't wait for the 2nd part to come out.
June 22, 2023
Starts off pretty good, but as it moves on it becomes less and less interesting; wanted to read it mostly because of WH’s involvement in TSOM, but way too much is focused on partying, booze and drugs, less on the musicianship.
August 27, 2019
A great laugh. Not exactly literature but Wayne Hussey tells good tales. Frustrating that it cuts off before we get to The Mission
March 16, 2021
What a journey! Detailed, funny, annoying and entertaining. Great storytelling.
January 15, 2024
An excellent autobiography, superbly written, cannot recommend highly enough.
Brought back memories of those long ago gigs.
Brought back memories of those long ago gigs.
May 13, 2024
Very engaging read on Wayne's musical journey. Thoroughly entertaining and informative!
October 21, 2024
There are 350 pages in this book, not 304.
January 15, 2022
Loved this book. It’s reasonably difficult to find out much about the Sisters Of Mercy history so as a big fan this was a real treat to read the inside story from one of the key band members involved. Wayne obviously had a tough time with ‘Von’ but recounts his Sisters career with great humour and humility. Looking forward to his stories of The Mission in the next tome.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews