Laura Jackson Interview
Laura Jackson is the author of 16 books on film and music. Her books include biographies of Brian Jones, Mick Jagger, Brian May, Bono, Paul Simon and the actor Kiefer Sutherland. Her latest book is on Steve Tyler of Aerosmith.
Can you tell me about your writing career up to now?
I was a legal secretary for 12 years before I left to concentrate on trying to become a writer. My first book was published in 1992 and my work ahs been translated into eight languages.
How many books have you written?
Steve Tyler: The Biography is my 16th book.
Which book was the most difficult to write/research?
I wouldn’t say that any one particular biography was difficult to write but the pressures involved in each book are different.
How do you research a book?
Delving into the life stories of rock and film stars involves carrying out a great deal of research. I began researching books back in the mid 1980s, which meant a lot of pounding the pavements type of investigative work and using my initiative. Not a lot has changed.
Do you use the Internet as a research tool?
Of course, the Internet is a valuable source of information. However, when it comes to writing non-fiction, you have to know that your information is accurate and a lot of information available on the Net cannot be reliably sourced.
Do you use first hand interviews?
All writers, from journalists to biographers, use secondary sources. Original material? Over the last 20 years or so I have interviewed hundreds of people from all walks of life and that’s always rewarding.
Do you have a literary agent?
It’s virtually impossible to secure a publisher these days without an agent.
What advice would you give to aspiring non-fiction writers?
The most annoying myth around is that anyone can be a writer. That said, if someone has caught the bug to try to become a writer, it is vital to have stamina because it is an extremely difficult profession to break into. Having the talent to be a writer is not a given, but even those with talent unless they have the staying power to take the knockbacks, they will never break in. So talent and tenacity is, I think, the key.
Are you a full-time writer?
I have been a full-time writer since 1992. When writing the biographies you have to put in the hours, and then some. The airy-fairy idea floated by some authors that they write only when the mood takes them is bollocks! In the midst of a biography, when the pressure is on to meet a deadline, I work seven days a week, 14 hours a day. I end the day with my head swirling. It’s not uncommon for me to be scribbling on a pad in the dark of the night to catch the thought before it desserts me.
What are your favourite music books?
I have adored reading from childhood but I’m so busy now that I don’t actually have time to read for pleasure. I very much like the film Summer Dreams about the Beach Boys’ rise to fame and Dennis Wilson’s death. It was based on the book Heroes And Villains. In terms of rock movies, I like Backbeat. I also think the most abysmal movie of all time was Stoned the film purporting to depict the life and death of Brian Jones.
What have been your best interviews?
Being a Wishbone Fan from way back, it was a privilege for me to interview Andy Powell. Again, as an F1 fan it was special to talk with Jackie Stewart. Bruce Dickinson was extremely interesting. Def Leppard’s Joe Elliot was wonderfully down to earth and helpful and I liked very much the cosy chats I had with the late Noel Redding. Among those who were particular lovely to interview were Bon Jovi’s Richie Sambora, Cliff Richard and Pierce Brosnan.
And your worst interviews?
Over the years, I have had some vastly worded knockbacks – including once when I had “Fuck Off” written on a torn-off scrap of a Kellogg’s Cornflakes packet, received from a subject’s relative. During research for [my] Mick Jagger biography, one lady wanted a few thousand pounds before she’d talk and one Hollywood actress rang me, apparently outraged that I had the temerity to have even approach her. She talked to me as if I was a scullery maid from below stairs who needed reminding of her place. When, being scrupulously polite in response, I apparently failed to notice her appallingly high-handed attitude, it infuriated and frustrated her no end.
What book are your currently reading?
I am making my way through Bill Clinton’s autobiography right now when time permits.
Which music magazines do you read?
As a teenage back in the seventies, I was never without NME and Melody Maker. These days, there’s a good choice out there on the shelves – not that I claim to be a favourite with some of the rock critics, c’est le vie! [That’s life]
What is your next project?
I am hard at work on my next book – an extremely exciting project, set for publication next year.
Anything to add?
Yes, thank for taking an interest in my work – I much appreciate it – and all the best to you and your website readers for 2009.
Interview by Neil Daniels 2008
