The audiobook version is easily the best title I have enjoyed this year, truly a captivating life story, with the author providing superlative narration. Mr. Orzabal ties his life experience with his belief in Astrology, and even though it is considered pseudoscientific today, he provides a thought-provoking perspective on the subject. The audiobook engages listeners on other topics, such as spirituality, divinity, near death experiences and the human soul.
The pop star opens up about his sessions with primal therapy and discusses his complicated parental relationships. The author shares his early love of music and wanting to become a performer on stage. The author describes the circumstances behind his breakup with Curt Smith, and how the partnership was rejuvenated nine years later. In the book, Mr. Orzabal outlines why he continued using the Tears for Fears name after the 1990 breakup and sowing the seeds of reconciliation with Smith.
I absolutely loved the stories behind the naming of the band, writing and recording the band’s top charting songs, leading to Tears for Fears selling over 30 million records. If you grew up on MTV, you would enjoy his anecdotes about the band’s memorable music videos. What was the original title of “Everybody Wants To Rule The World?” You will find the answers, and riveting episodes from the creation of the mega successful “Songs From The Big Chair” album.
Additionally, Mr. Orzabal open up on his first wife’s alcoholism and death, and his recent bout with an addition to Ambien, a battle that would need a resolution through rehabilitation. He shares the story behind his second marriage and becoming a father again. Did he know it was written in the stars?
I cannot recommend this book strongly enough. I thoroughly enjoyed his perspectives on recording new music, working as a record producer and songwriter, his songs being covered by other artists, touring, and adapting and surviving in the ever-changing cultural trends.
Welcome to your life, there’s no turning back.
By: Roland Orzabal
Narrated by: Roland Orzabal
Length: 10 hrs and 18 mins
Release date: 08-04-26
Publisher: Dey Street Books