A Thousand Threads by

Neneh Cherry's memoir is a vibrant tapestry of her extraordinary life, filled with collaborations, highs and lows, and the deep bonds of family that have been her constant. From her childhood at the Chelsea Hotel to her groundbreaking performances with the Slits and her pioneering role in 90s pop music, Cherry shares the stories that have defined her. Her narrative is as much about the artistic and musical influences that have shaped her as it is about the personal struggles and triumphs that have made her the icon she is today. /n/n Cherry's memoir is not just a chronicle of her own life but a celebration of the three generations of artists and musicians who have inspired her. It's a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the enduring strength of family ties. Her story is one of addiction, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression, all woven together with the electric energy that has made her a beloved figure in music and beyond.

Reviews

My Mashed Up Life · 2025-02-05

enjoyable 4.75

The memoir is a melting pot of Cherry's essence, offering more than just a music biography; it's a deeply personal journey.

The reviewer thoroughly enjoyed A Thousand Threads, appreciating it as a comprehensive exploration of Neneh Cherry's life beyond her musical career. They highlight how the memoir delves into the various threads that make up her identity, including her upbringing, relationships, and personal struggles. The reviewer finds the book to be a deeply personal and insightful read, offering a nuanced portrait of Cherry's life. It's a memoir that goes beyond the typical music biography, providing a richer understanding of the person behind the music.

Quick quotes

I really enjoyed reading A Thousand Threads: it's a melting pot of all the threads that make up the essence of Neneh Cherry.

It's more than just a music memoir; it's a deeply personal journey.

A thoroughly enjoyable read.

Joyzine · 2025-01-07

captivating 4.50

Cherry's life story is fascinating, filled with creativity and chaos, but it's her familial love and musical references that truly shine.

The reviewer finds Neneh Cherry's memoir to be a captivating exploration of her unique life, marked by constant movement and creativity. They particularly appreciate the underlying themes of familial love and the significant role that music plays in her story. The reviewer acknowledges the chaotic nature of her upbringing but emphasizes how these experiences contributed to her success and the rich tapestry of her life. It's a memoir that resonates with authenticity and depth, offering a glimpse into the life of a remarkable individual.

Quick quotes

This book was always going to be interesting.

It's a chaotic sounding life at times - lots of movement and change and creativity.

But it is filled with familial love and musical references.

The Guardian · 2024-09-26

joyous 4.00

The memoir is a joyous exploration of Cherry's bohemian upbringing, filled with vibrant stories and cultural insights. It captures the essence of her unique life experiences and the impact they had on her identity.

The reviewer highlights how Neneh Cherry's memoir is a vibrant tapestry of her unconventional upbringing, weaving together stories from Sweden, New York, and London. They appreciate the joyous tone and the rich cultural insights that Cherry shares, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also notes how the memoir goes beyond a typical music biography, offering a deeper look into Cherry's personal journey and the influences that shaped her. It's a book that celebrates the complexity of her life and the threads that connect her diverse experiences.

Quick quotes

The Buffalo Stance singer's joyous memoir of growing up in a bohemian family between Sweden, New York and London.

It is a well-written book about an unconventional upbringing.

It likely harmed Neneh as much as it made her the fascinating, successful, person that she is.

Appears in Lists

The Guardian's Best Biographies and Memoirs of 2024