Join the British Music Experience for a very special evening in conversation with poet, musician, singer-songwriter, artist and label boss, Peter Doherty on the launch date of his candid memoir, A Likely Lad.
“There’s an earthy, brute honesty to parts of the book, a naivety, sometimes a delight taken in certain nihilistic incidents in these pages, that seem now to belong to my past, to youth and, dare I say, to drugs – and increasingly I feel adult and sober.” – Peter Doherty, A Likely Lad
Peter Doherty is the last of the great rock n roll stories. To his devoted fans, he is a cult hero, a modern-day Rimbaud. Musically, he has defined the past twenty years of indie rock with his sound, lyrics, lifestyle and aesthetic. And yet, he has had times of being seen as the nation’s bad boy and a public enemy. But which Peter is he?
Since the Libertines rose to international fame, Doherty has proved endlessly fascinating. A whirlwind of controversy and scandal has tailed him ever since the early 2000s, so much so that all too often his talents as a songwriter and performer have been overlooked; for every award and accolade, there is a scathing review. Hard drugs, tiny gigs on the hoof, huge stadium shows, collaborations, obliterations, gangster and groupies – Doherty has led a life of huge highs and incredible lows.
Today, with his wildest days behind him, Doherty candidly explores some of his greatest and darkest moments, taking us inside the creative process, decadent parties, substance-fuelled nights, his time in prison and tendency for self-destruction. With his trademark wit and humour – and with sober and sometimes painful insight – Doherty also details his childhood years, key influences, pre-fame London shenanigans, and reflects on his era-defining relationships.
Peter Doherty is one of the frontmen of the rock band, the Libertines, who this year celebrate the 20th Anniversary of their debut album ‘Up The Bracket’ with shows across Europe and the UK, including Wembley Arena (23rd July). After departing The Libertines he formed Babyshambles with great success and most recently the Puta Madres. In
March of this year Peter collaborated with French composer/producer Frédéric Lo and released the acclaimed album ’The Poetry Life of Crime’ which they have been touring in May. Peter’s music is as eclectic as it is introspective, and is consistently thought of one of the leading lights on the British rock scene. Born into a military family, Doherty spent much of his youth moving from place to place across Europe. He immersed himself in books and poetry – something that is evident in his lyric-writing to his day.
Peter will be in-conversation with DJ, journalist and author Dave Haslam. Peter’s book will be available to buy on the evening, price £20. The event will be followed by a book-signing.
