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“When I heard "’Coz I Luv You" I realized the violin could work in a rock band. Jim Lea inspired me to pursue my dream.”—Helen O'Hara, Dexys Midnight Runners
In this deeply personal memoir, Jim Lea of Slade reflects on his life and music through heartfelt vignettes, rare memorabilia and previously untold stories.
However, this is a different kind of autobiography. Instead of a linear narrative, Jim Lea — Slade's beloved bassist, pianist, violinist and songwriting powerhouse — opens his heart in short, thematic chapters that craft an intimate portrait across every stage of his life.
He talks frankly about his time in the group, his Staffordshire childhood, songwriting, family life, musicianship, his retreat into the world of therapy and beyond.
Written with Whatever Happened To Slade? author Daryl Easlea, the book is full of hitherto unseen material from Lea's personal collection. They include letters to his childhood sweetheart (and wife of 53 years), archive family photographs, school exercise books and behind-the-scenes snaps of Slade, alongside a timeline and discography.
Lea is the final member of the fabled four-piece to tell his story. It is the book that every Slade fan has been waiting for.
So, how does it feel?
“Thank you for the music, Jim.”—Paul Weller
“Jim was a huge part of Slade's story ... he was a massive part of their success. He was always very much the musician.”—Francis Rossi
“When I heard '’Coz I Luv You’ I realized the violin could work in a rock band. Jim Lea inspired me to pursue my dream.”—Helen O'Hara, Dexys Midnight Runners
"How does it feel to read Jim Lea’s autobiography? Rather lovely, actually.—Shindig!, 4/5
"[How Does it Feel’s] inviting British wit is irresistible, as is Lea’s way of summing up the bygone eras of the fifties and sixties, and it is incredibly inspiring to see and hear just how proud of his abilities and achievements he is” Eternal Terror