Graham Bonnet
Authorised Book
Photo copyright Steve Wright
INTRODUCTION
My name is Steve Wright and I’m the author of the first, and only official, book on the life of Graham Bonnet. This part of the official website has been created to document the book in progress and to allow Graham’s fans to read some background stories before it reaches publication.
I met Graham Bonnet over 20 years ago, and first had an idea about writing a book on him in the late 80s. Graham has been asking me when I am going to do it ever since! He doesn’t just trust me, he knows I have the depth of knowledge required about his life and musical career. Another reason that Graham believes I am the right choice is that I am a sucker for dates, background information and the exact details of things. I’ve also had 25 years’ experience of playing in bands. Very few, if any, could take on such a mammoth project - from his schooldays and his early bands in his hometown of Skegness, England, to the projects he is involved in today. I told Graham that if I was going to take this project on I would tell the truth, and he is happy with that.
I initially came across Graham’s amazing and brilliant voice when I heard ‘Since You Been Gone’ in 1979 - like many of you I expect? Within a few months I had bought his 1977 self-titled debut album, which I’d come across on a record buying trip. Over more recent years I have often spoken to Masaya Uchimura, who ran Graham’s official website for many years, about doing a book; he is the only other person I know who has equal knowledge to me and who seems on my wavelength! Masaya is a huge help, especially from the Japanese side of things as Graham has always had a big fan base in Japan. I have also brought on board my good friend Andy Skiller, who is the editor of the book. Andy first came across Graham in 1968 when he saw him on Top Of The Pops in the Marbles! Andy is also an English teacher, so his knowledge of phrasing and punctuation is very useful.
People say we all have at least one book in us. This is my offering. The book is an exhaustive account on the life and times of Graham Bonnet. He is one of the great music icons of our generation and, though you may already be familiar with him through interviews, etc., this book, whilst detailing his life story, will show you a part of the man you do not know,
I invite you to follow me on the journey as my book on Graham’s life progresses. Here you will read who has been interviewed and what bands are included on a chapter by chapter basis, along with other fun moments as they occur.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at smw@ntlworld.com
Steve.
