All I Ever Wanted: A Rock 'n' Roll Memoir

At twenty-one,Kathy Valentine met a guitarist from the Go-Go s, and the band needed a bassist. They became the first multi-platinum-selling, all-female band to play instruments themselves, write their own songs, and have a number one album. The record's success brought the pressures of a relentless workload and schedule, culminating in a wild, hazy, substance-fuelled tour. Valentine's story is a reflection on a life spent in music, including parental betrayal, abortion, rape, and drug and alcohol struggles.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 22 March 2022
Publisher: Outline Press Ltd

At the tender age of twenty-one, Kathy Valentine found herself immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the Whisky in Los Angeles. It was there that fate intervened, introducing her to a guitarist from a fledgling band called the Go-Go's. The band, in need of a bassist, recognized Valentine's talent and potential, and she became an integral part of their musical journey.

The Go-Go's embarked on a remarkable path, becoming the first multi-platinum-selling, all-female band to showcase their musical prowess. They not only played instruments themselves but also penned their own songs, achieving chart-topping success with their debut album, "Beauty & The Beat." The album's hit singles, "We Got the Beat" and "Our Lips Are Sealed," resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying the band's place in rock history.

However, the record's success came with its own set of challenges. The relentless workload and demanding schedule took a toll on the band members, leading to a wild, hazy, substance-fueled tour that took them from the club circuit to arenas, where fans, promoters, and crew eagerly embraced the party atmosphere. Valentine, for her part, found herself caught up in the whirlwind of fame and success, but it was not without its share of personal struggles.

All I Ever Wanted, a captivating memoir, delves into the intricate details of Valentine's life, tracing her journey from her childhood in Texas, where she essentially raised herself, to the pinnacle of rock n' roll stardom. The book explores the profound impact of parental betrayal, abortion, rape, and her battles with drugs and alcohol on her mental and emotional well-being. It is a testament to Valentine's resilience and her unwavering pursuit of self-discovery.

Through candid and heartfelt storytelling, Valentine shares her experiences with musicians and actors from The Police and Rod Stewart to John Belushi and Rob Lowe. The book offers a deeply personal reflection on a life spent in music, providing a glimpse into the inner workings of the industry and the relationships that shaped her career.

Valentine's journey is a testament to the power of music to heal, inspire, and transform. It is a story of resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams, even in the face of adversity. All I Ever Wanted is a must-read for music enthusiasts, fans of memoirs, and anyone who has ever been inspired by the transformative power of music.

Dimension: 215 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911036852