Shirley Collins Books

A legendary singer, folklorist, and music historian, Shirley Collins has been an integral part of the folk-music revival for more than sixty years. In her new memoir,All in the Downs, Collins tells the story of that lifelong relationship with English folksong - a dedication to artistic integrity that has guided her through the triumphs and tragedies of her life. All in the Downs combines elements of memoir - from her working-class origins in wartime Hastings to the bright lights of the 1950s folk revival in London - alongside reflections on the role traditional music and the English landscape have played in shaping her vision. From formative field recordings made with Alan Lomax in the United States to the crowning glories recorded with her sister Dolly on the Sussex Downs, she writes of the obstacles that led to her withdrawal from the spotlight and the redemption of a new artistic flourishing that continues today with her unexpected return to recording in 2016. Through it all, Shirley Collins has been guided and supported by three vital and inseparable loves: traditional English song, the people and landscape of her native Sussex, and an unwavering sense of artistic integrity.

A memoir by the English folk singer: 'one of the greatest artists who ever lived' (Stewart Lee) about her journey through America's southern states with Alan Lomax

The narrative presents an engaging and unconventional approach to storytelling, blending humor and insight to capture the reader's attention. It features a diverse cast of characters who navigate unique situations, offering fresh perspectives on familiar themes. Through witty anecdotes and thought-provoking observations, the book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to think differently about everyday experiences. This lively exploration promises to entertain while also sparking curiosity and reflection.