Music Book Of The Month – Nick Drake: The Life by Richard Morton Jack

Written with the blessing of Nick Drake’s Estate and sister Gabrielle, this detailed biography features unseen photos and deeply personal archive material, including his father Rodney’s diaries and his mother Molly’s journal of his infancy.

Coming from a privileged background, Drake was raised by a creative and encouraging family. Given that his lack of commercial success may have sparked the decline in his mental health, it’s bittersweet to consider how Drake went on to become one of the most influential and well-known singer-songwriters of his generation. Having died from an overdose of antidepressants in 1974 aged 26, this book offers a rare glimpse into the life of an enigmatic artist by those who knew him best.

Presenting detailed accounts from close friends, this comprehensive biography features their musings on his sexuality, mental health and ultimately, what made him tick. Journalist Richard Morton Jack has tenderly curated a definitive portrait of a remarkable artist and a much loved son, Nicky. A must-read for any Drake enthusiast.