Rufus Publications is proud to present Ian Hunter, a new book compiled by Ross Halfin with the full approval and input of Ian Hunter. The book features written contributions from Joe Elliott of Def Leppard and Johnny Depp; the latter has also made a very special contribution to the project in the form of a unique, limited edition, personally signed lithograph art print of his painting of Ian for the Defiance project.
Ian Hunter Patterson, charismatic frontman of Mott the Hoople, was a pivotal figure in shaping British rock music in the early 1970s. Mott the Hoople were on the verge of breaking up, when they were catapulted to prominence in 1972 after David Bowie gifted them their first major hit with All The Young Dudes. The post-Bowie Mott the Hoople had considerable success with number of singles and albums, evolving beyond cult status and establishing Ian Hunter as a leading songwriter and performer. Albums like Mott and The Hoople cemented the band’s place in rock history, with Ian Hunter as the shaggy-haired, charismatic frontman in shades; part street poet, part rock-and-roll survivor. He remained with the band until 1974, departing to pursue a solo career, but not before releasing Diary Of A Rock ’n’ Roll Star; a book that Q magazine would later declare “may well be the best rock book ever”.
Hunter’s solo career has proved impressively durable, marked by sharp songwriting and A-list collaborations. His 1975 eponymous debut, featuring Mick Ronson (Bowie’s former guitarist), set a benchmark for literate, emotionally charged rock. Albums like You’re Never Alone With A Schizophrenic, Welcome To The Club, and Rant blended social commentary with personal insight. More recent albums, including Defiance Part 1 and Part 2: Fiction, feature a star-studded cast of contributors; evidence of a legacy still very much in motion and admired by a Who’s Who in film, rock and pop lore. As Joe Elliott says in his introduction to the book, “To me, Ian is as timeless as his music which is a constant in my life; always has been, always will be.”
Ian Hunter the book traces his career from the early days of Mott, through his extensive solo career and the various celebrations of Mott that have taken place. Compiled over the last two years and filled with rare and unseen visual treats the book is a true celebration of Ian Hunter, singer songwriter and live performer.
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