Sean Mayes

This is not so much a book about Bowie, as a book about what it's like to be on a big tour with a star; in this case, the 1978 world tour by Bowie. The star does of course make regular appearances but it's very much written from Sean's POV about what he sees and experiences on a round the world tour, and in rehearsals for that tour beforehand. There are some nice little vignettes showing Bowie when no cameras or reporters were about and he actually comes across as a decent enough chap, albeit one who is treated by most people with kid gloves, so perhaps he's also a bit spoilt as a result, although there are no tantrums or negative opinions expressed.

I ejoyed this very much. It's written in a very chatty, engaging style which manages to be descriptive without being wordy or complicated. The gigs sound fun, the touring not so much, although there are many parties and nights out in clubs to pass the time (presumably with any slightly naughty activities like drug use being left out).

While the writer and Bowie kept in touch after the tour for a while, they eventually drifted away from contact and by 1983 when Bowie was doing his NEXT tour, its telling that the book closes with Bowie being in London and his PA telling Sean to come to a club as Bowie wants to see him again. Sean goes but finds it too busy and full of people wanting Bowie's attention so he leaves - after all, he reasons, what would we talk about, now?

To the writer's credit, he'd moved on and didn't have a hang up about his time with Bowie or wanting to revisit his past - Bowie was just a guy he'd worked for ultimately and no longer had anything in common with. A slightly downbeat end perhaps but fairly normal when it comes to human relationships.

Definitely a solid 9/10; very enjoyable.… (plus d'informations)