In this âexhilarating yet poignant account of one boy taking flightâ (Shelf Awareness, starred review), one of rock music's most entrancing figures transforms the vividness of his musical world into an unforgettable literary account of overcoming the odds and finding his true voice.
Long before hitting the stage as the lead singer of the iconic glam rock band Scissor Sisters, Jake Shears was Jason Sellards, a teenage boy living a fraught life, resulting in a difficult time in high school as his classmates bullied him and few teachers showed sympathy.
It wasnât until years later, while living and studying in New York City, that Jason would find his voice as an artist and, with a group of friends and musicians who were also thirsting for stardom and freedom, form the band Scissor Sisters. First performing in the smoky gay nightclubs of New York, then finding massive success in the United Kingdom, Scissor Sisters would become revered by the LGBTQ community, sell out venues worldwide, and win multiple accolades with hits like âTake Your Mamaâ and âI Donât Feel Like Dancinâ,â as well as their cult-favorite cover of Pink Floydâs âComfortably Numb.â
âBrutally honestâ (Elton John), candid, and courageous, Shearsâs writing sings with the same powerful, spirited presence that he brings to his live performances. Boys Keep Swinging is âa wild, sexy, emotional ride through underground New York at the millennium. From the fringes to the top, it's a tale that speaks to the outsider in all of usâ (Andy Cohen).