Punk Rock Ruined My Life: And Other Stories - John Robb

PRE-ORDER: PUBLICATION DATE 12th MAY 2026

John will be popping into the shop on Saturday 30th May to sign copies - if you would like a signed copy it will be available to collect from the shop / posted out on 30th May. Non-signed copies will be available from publication date on 12th May. Please specify in the notes which you would prefer.

The irresistible story of a one-man cultural phenomenon. Minister for the Counterculture, Mancunian mainstay and alternative national treasure John Robb has lived a life in music. In this book he charts his adventures on the cultural frontline, chronicling the making of a DIY icon.

Robb’s quest began in his hometown of Blackpool – where punk was a battle against the odds – and went international when he toured the world with his band. The first person to interview Nirvana, he also discovered The Stone Roses for weekly newspaper Sounds and did early interviews with The Jesus and Mary Chain and The Manics, before moving on to legends such as Mark E. Smith, Nick Cave and Patti Smith.

Along the way, he became an on-screen commentator and author of bestselling books. Robb’s memoir tells of deep friendships with figures from Poly Styrene to Chris Packham. Packed with riotous stories, it provides an alternative account of British musical and cultural history and a triumphant blueprint for a punk rock life.

Hardback