Simon & Schuster scoops Skunk Anansie star Skin's debut memoir

Simon & Schuster has landed the début memoir from Skin, the frontwoman of multi-million selling rock band Skunk Anansie.

World English language, audio and e-book rights for the untitled book were acquired from agent Jane Turnbull by Fritha Saunders, editorial director for non-fiction.

Skunk Anansie shot to fame in 1994, providing an alternative to a UK music industry dominated by Britpop. The band spent 142 weeks on the singles and album charts, headlined Glastonbury and have toured internationally for the past 25 years. 

Due for publication in September 2020 and co-written by journalist Lucy O’Brien, the memoir tells the story of “a Jamaican working-class girl from Brixton who became one of the most iconic female performers of all time”. 

The synopsis explains: “Skin shatters any perceptions of race and gender, a truly inspirational and unique role model for women, young people and aspiring artists. Born Deborah Ann Dyer, she is an activist, a trailblazer for women in the music industry, model and muse for British designers such as Alexander McQueen, solo artist and DJ, and was recently awarded Most Inspirational Artist at the Music Week Women of the Year Awards.”

Skin said: “I’m looking forward to spilling the beans with the team at Simon & Schuster.” 

O’Brien added: “Skin has such a powerful, moving story. It has been so exciting to go on this journey with her.”

Saunders commented: “I’m a huge Skunk Anansie fan and so it’s a great honour to be working with Skin.  She has incredible stories to tell and as a true trailblazer, this book will not only be a must-read for music fans, but a source of inspiration for anyone daring to dream big.”