SPILL BOOK REVIEW: RUSTY EGAN – RUSTY EGAN: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY

RUSTY EGAN – RUSTY EGAN: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY

McNIDDER & GRACE

BOOK REVIEW BY AARON BADGLEY

Rusty Egan made a name for himself in the U.K. music scene beginning in the late 1970s, when he was the drummer for Rich Kids, the band Glen Matlock formed after being asked to leave Sex Pistols. That band that brought Midge Ure from the world of boy bands to New Wave and a friendship and partnership with Egan which lasts to this day. Rusty Egan: The Autobiography is a book that has been eagerly anticipated because of his involvement with those bands but also his role in The Blitz, the famous British nightclub.

Egan was born in London, England. Peter Anselm Egan became better known as Rusty (he got his nickname from Paul Simonon when he auditioned for The Clash in 1976 due to his red hair). When his musical family moved (parents first, children later) to England, the trouble began for Egan. Raised in poverty and an abusive home, he had a very tough upbringing, which involved Children Services. Music (specifically John Lennon) saved him and he learned guitar and would eventually be part of his family’s band, while working at the famous WEA Records. All of these experiences would help him later in life.

And what a life he led. After failing the audition with The Clash he helped form Rich Kids with Glen Matlock. Through this band, he met Steve Strange, who would be the lead singer for his next project, Visage (which also featured Midge Ure). Visage had the hit “Fade To Grey” and made a name for themselves, all the while Egan became interested in performing as a DJ. This led to The Blitz, a club that existed for just 18 months, but had a huge impact on fashion and music (Culture Club, Spandau Ballet both performed early shows there).

Egan is not afraid to go into his personal life and struggles. He had a turbulent beginning and when he was having success, things started falling apart due to excess. But Egan is not bitter nor does he point a finger at anyone. He tells his story.

Egan takes his time with Rusty Egan: The Autobiography, and with loads of very cool and never before seen photos, he writes about his experiences, both good and bad. Rusty Egan: The Autobiography is so fascinating, because Egan was part of the original punk explosion but also New Wave and the entire 1980s scene. It makes for fascinating reading, and it is an excellent book for anyone who lived through those times or is interested in them.

ISBN-13:‎ 978-0857162939

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