Velvet Mafia: The Gay Men Who Ran the Swinging Sixties

In the fifties and sixties, a group of gay men known as the "Velvet Mafia" changed pop, politics, and society for good. They included impresario Larry Parnes, Beatles manager Brian Epstein, songwriter Lionel Bart, record producer Joe Meek, and Bee Gees and Cream manager Robert Stigwood. Darryl W. Bullock's book explores how they worked together and supported each other despite the risks of being homosexual in the music industry.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 304 pages
\n Publication date: 04 February 2021
\n Publisher: Omnibus Press
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In the vibrant decade of the 1950s and 1960s, a remarkable group of gay men emerged as influential figures behind the scenes of rock 'n' roll, revolutionizing pop culture, politics, and society. This era marked a significant turning point, preceding the partial decriminalization of homosexuality and the birth of the Gay Liberation movement. These individuals, known as the "Velvet Mafia," played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of music and beyond. Through a combination of fresh interviews and contemporary reports, author Darryl W. Bullock sheds light on the lives of these remarkable individuals, including impresario Larry Parnes, Beatles manager Brian Epstein, songwriter Lionel Bart, record producer Joe Meek, and Bee Gees and Cream manager Robert Stigwood.

The Velvet Mafia delves into the compelling and enlightening narrative of how these LGBT professionals, at the forefront of the music industry, came together and supported one another during a time when being homosexual could jeopardize one's career or even lead to severe consequences. It explores the challenges they faced, the discrimination they endured, and the unwavering determination they displayed in pursuing their passions and advocating for equality.

The book offers a glimpse into the complex relationships and collaborations between these individuals, showcasing their shared experiences and the impact they had on the world of music. It sheds light on the creative processes, business strategies, and personal struggles that shaped their careers and contributed to the cultural revolution of the time.

Through its engaging storytelling and comprehensive analysis, The Velvet Mafia provides a valuable perspective on the untold history of LGBT professionals in the music industry. It serves as a testament to their resilience, talent, and the profound influence they had on shaping the cultural landscape of the 20th century. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in music, history, and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

\n Weight: 750g\n
Dimension: 166 x 240 x 32 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781787602311\n \n