Pleasure and Pain

Trade Paperback

Paperback

My life

An electrifying updated edition of the bestselling memoir from the frontwoman of the Divinyls and one of Australia's greatest rock singers

Brave, funny, ferocious, there's never been anyone like Chrissy Amphlett. A true legend of Australian rock'n'roll, we are so lucky that she shared her raw, gripping and searingly honest story. In these pages, Chrissy spared no one - least of all herself. Taking us from her childhood, where it became apparent music was as vital to her as oxygen, to forming the Divinyls, she shows how her unique voice, steely ambition, mesmerising charisma and an outrageous stage act powered the band to Australian and international stardom. She went on to an acclaimed stage career but never lost her rock'n'roll roots.

From her early days of breaking into the music world to the years of success and excess; her life on and off the road; what it was like to be at the top and to survive as a woman in a male-dominated, money-fuelled industry: it's all here. Having battled alcohol, drugs and a million dollars' worth of debt, Chrissy then had to face a cruel fight with MS. There was the light of finally finding peace with the love of her life at home in Australia and later in New York, before the curtain fell on this feisty, talented woman far too soon. Now, twelve years after her death, Chrissy's husband, Charley Drayton, affords us a glimpse into her final days and pays tribute to the legacy Chrissy left behind for women in rock.

Pleasure and Pain is a frank, fierce insight into the trailblazing powerhouse behind iconic hits like 'I Touch Myself' and 'Boys in Town'. Chrissy Amphlett always lived life on her terms, no matter what those around her wanted. And this is her story, told her way.

'Such a strong, fierce female, who paved the way for badass rock and roll everywhere, forever' Jessica Origliasso, The Veronicas

'There never was and never will be anyone like Christina Amphlett' Lindy Morrison, The Go-Betweens