Behind the Beehive
The Triumphs and Trials of Dusty Springfield
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Behind the Beehive
Narrated by:
Manila Coles
Buy Now for €17.99
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Narrated by:
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Manila Coles
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 – idolized 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 behavior, 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 humor. 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.©2026 Bloomsbury Publishing PLC (P)2026 Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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Reviews
Jamison takes a subjective, narrative-nonfiction approach, merging characters, creating dialogue, capturing Springfield's essence, and recounting her life, which was cut tragically short at 59 in 1999.
Dusty Springfield's life was so rich and florid, and her talent so great – at last, here's a sensitive book that understands her magic as well as her tragedy. (Bob Stanley)
Perfectly captures one of the most spectacular performers of our time. (Peter Noone)
Dusty’s early and passionate advocacy of a new generation of American music makers – those of Motown, in particular – helped to pave a path for their acceptance and influence in Britain. She was her own woman, bravely carrying a torch for others while dealing with her own demons. This book deftly defines her personality and artistic brilliance. (Adam White)
For longtime admirers, the book offers an opportunity to revisit a beloved singer through a more personal lens. For younger listeners discovering her recordings, it provides a doorway into an era when British pop music was changing rapidly and Springfield was one of its most distinctive voices.
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