You Are Beautiful and You Are Alone: The Biography of Nico

Jennifer Otter Bickerdike

Hardcover | 15.3 x 4.3 x 23.4 cm | 512 pp

Faber & Faber | 2021 | 9780571350018

You Are Beautiful and You Are Alone is an empowering reappraisal of an under-appreciated icon. Drawing upon new interviews and rare archival material Bickerdike defies the sexist casting of Nico's life as the tragedy of a beautiful woman losing her youth and fame, and instead cements her legacy as one of the most vital artists of her generation.

A redemptive, myth-shattering biography of one of the twentieth century's most underestimated creative and artistic forces, story of Nico is one of determination, self-destruction and belief in one's artistic vision, at any cost.

'Here is the Odyssey of Nico . . . a scholarly and detailed chronicle of this brilliant artist, who was spurned and tortured for her trouble.' Iggy Pop

'At last, a comprehensive and compelling book about Nico.' Viv Albertine

'Gripping.' The Times

'[This] book gets closer to understanding Nico than most.' Guardian

'Deserves to sit with the great biographies.' Record Collector

'A compassionate portrait of a musician whose artistry has often been overlooked.' Mojo

'Entertainingly written and insightful.' Independent

'The best music book you will read this year.' Louder Than War