Behind the Beehive

An incredible whirlwind of talent, transformation, and turmoil, the British pop icon’s life is detailed in this sensitive and heart-rending portrait.

For most of the early 1960s, Dusty Springfield was the most popular and best-selling female recording artist in Britain, becoming the first bonafide British star to follow the Beatles. In 1966, she was named as the top female singer in the world after a string of chart-topping hits including “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me.” Even Elton John – who had her posters covering his wall as a teen – idolised her. With her signature peroxided platinum beehive hairdo and heavy black eyeliner, she became the poster girl of the swinging 60s.

But behind all of this, Dusty was struggling with severe mental illness, erratic public behaviour, violent mood swings, multiple personalities, drug addiction, and the terror of being exposed as a lesbian. However, even in her darkest moments, Dusty’s star shined bright, remaining a force of charisma and humour.

Follow the soaring highs and devastating lows of Dusty’s career in this sympathetic, narrative-style biography based on meticulous research, peer accounts, and contemporary perspectives.

Included is a foreword by Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits.