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Audrey Golden

I Thought I Heard You Speak: Women at Factory Records

I Thought I Heard You Speak: Women at Factory Records

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Factory Records has a rich history, but one that has been largely overlooked is the contribution of women to the label's cultural significance. This oral history, I THOUGHT I HEARD YOU SPEAK, features contributions from over fifty interviewees and reveals the true cultural reach and staying power of the label in the twenty-first century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2023
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co


Factory Records has etched its name into the annals of legend, with its rich tapestry of stories recounted from diverse perspectives. Visual catalogues, memoirs, and exhibitions have shed light on the label's journey, yet a comprehensive account that delves into the perspectives of the women who played pivotal roles in Factory's cultural significance remains largely untold. This narrative unfolds as an oral history, featuring the voices of Gillian Gilbert, Gina Birch, Cath Carroll, Penny Henry, and over fifty other interviewees. Through their narratives, I THOUGHT I HEARD YOU SPEAK unveils the profound impact of Factory Records and its enduring legacy in the twenty-first century.

The women of Factory Records were instrumental in shaping the label's cultural significance from various angles. They contributed to the recording of music, performed live gigs, managed the label's operations behind the scenes, oversaw band management and promotion, designed record sleeves, crafted films and music videos, pioneered sound technology, DJed, and ran one of the most renowned clubs on the planet, The Haçienda.

This oral history, entirely narrated by the women themselves, offers a unique perspective on Factory Records' cultural reach. It sheds light on the profound influence the label had on the music industry and its enduring resonance in the contemporary era. The interviewees' accounts provide a rich tapestry of experiences, anecdotes, and insights, showcasing the indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication of these women who played a pivotal role in the label's success.

Factory Records' legacy continues to resonate deeply, not only in the realm of music but also in broader cultural contexts. Its innovative approach to music production, its commitment to pushing boundaries, and its support for emerging artists have left an indelible mark on the music industry. The women who contributed to Factory Records' story remind us of the power of collaboration, determination, and the pursuit of artistic excellence, and their voices serve as a testament to the label's lasting impact.

In conclusion, I THOUGHT I HEARD YOU SPEAK is a groundbreaking oral history that offers a fresh perspective on the untold history of Factory Records. Through the voices of the women who were integral to the label's cultural significance, this book reveals the profound impact of their work and the enduring legacy of Factory Records in the twenty-first century. It is a must-read for music enthusiasts, cultural historians, and anyone interested in the stories of women who have shaped the world of music and beyond.

Weight: 768g
Dimension: 165 x 240 x 48 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399606189

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