A charmed life - David Essex

Born fifty-four years ago in the East End, this is the funny, heart-warming autobiography of one of this country's most-loved pop performers. Born in West Ham in 1947, David recalls his childhood living in a hostel for the homeless and his passion for football that led him to play for West Ham United. He recounts hilarious tales of his introduction to music in 50s Soho, hop-picking with his Gypsy relatives in Kent, buying his first drum kit and playing in blues and jazz bands before he left school. At the age of 23 David was simultaneously the star of a West End hit musical GODSPELL, had a number one hit record with ROCK ON and was starring in the massive hit film THAT'LL BE THE DAY. David recounts the 'Essex Mania' of the time: the money - 12 houses at one time with 100 motorcycles (another passion) - the drugs, and the marriage break-up. He talks candidly about creating the role of Che in EVITA and missing out on Broadway and the film. Then there are the stories of times with Keith Moon, John Lennon, and Richard Burton - the pop stars and the film stars. This is an honest, funny and insightful account of his amazing life written by David Essex himself.