Nick Drake

Book excerpt: 'An exquisite portrait' MOJO 'A riveting account of the golden-boy genius' EVENING STANDARD Nick Drake was barely twenty-six years old when he died in 1974, but in his short lifetime he recorded three albums that are now recognised as classics: Five Leaves Left, Bryter Later and Pink Moon. Several decades after his death, he has amassed a huge following; his haunting songs cast a pervasive influence over the contemporary music scene, and many of today's most successful songwriters cite him as a major inspiration. In this unrivalled biography, Patrick Humphries offers real insight into the man behind the legend, through extensive interviews with family, friends and the musicians who knew and worked alongside him. This portrait of Nick Drake is an essential and uniquely personal account of his life and career. 'A rich, moving account of a troubled spirit, a mature biography of a briefly flickering talent unable to come to terms with the adult world ... The writing is zestful and intelligent and the text illuminating ... A literary memorial fit to stand alongside the songs' UNCUT