Andy Kershaw's 'Off-Switch' Autobiography: A Life of Music and Journalism
Andy Kershaw, the renowned broadcaster and journalist, has captivated audiences with his autobiography titled 'Off-Switch', a fitting tribute to an extraordinary life lived with relentless energy. For those who knew him, the title resonates deeply, as Kershaw has always been a force of nature in the worlds of music and media.
A Career Without an Off-Switch
From his teenage years promoting major rock concerts to driving and roadie-ing for Billy Bragg, Kershaw's journey is nothing short of sensational. He seamlessly transitioned to presenting iconic shows like Whistle Test and Live Aid, showcasing his passion for music and an obsessive curiosity about global cultures. Over a twenty-five-year career, he has collaborated with legends such as the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen, shared an office with the late John Peel, and amassed a record collection weighing seven tonnes.
Kershaw's accolades include more Sony Radio awards than any other broadcaster, and he has visited 97 countries, filing numerous reports as a foreign correspondent for Radio 4. He was one of the few journalists present during the Rwanda genocide, highlighting his commitment to truth-telling in challenging environments. Despite personal turbulence in recent years, he has bounced back, writing his story and returning to the airwaves with the BBC's Music Planet series.
Praise from Peers and a Compelling Narrative
The autobiography has received glowing reviews from notable figures. Stephen Fry describes it as 'Sensational. Wildly hilarious. An amazing read', while Fergal Keane notes, 'Andy Kershaw is a compulsive truth-teller and he does it with verve, wit and passion. He is one of the few truly original voices in broadcasting and his book is already a classic'. Kershaw shares his life story with candour, insight, immediacy, and incredible humour, making it a must-read for fans and newcomers alike.
Insights from an Interview: The Man Behind the Microphone
In a recent interview, Kershaw reflected on his media journey, expressing a love for all mediums. He cherishes the intimacy of radio, describing it as confidential, and enjoys the variety of television reporting, such as his regular role on The One Show. His passion for journalism began at age 15 with a piece for the Rochdale Observer about local motorcycle racer Noel Clegg, and he has always maintained his unique voice in every project.
Kershaw's musical evangelism started at age 12, leading to a national radio show where he introduced international music, inspired by John Peel's model. He recalls, 'I would hear a great piece of music from Africa and on the strength of that get on a plane and go there'. His office with Peel and John Walters was a hub of creativity, and he humorously notes that Bob Dylan has found his true calling as a radio presenter.
The Writing Process and Personal Reflections
Describing himself as a compulsive truth-teller, Kershaw attributes this to his Rochdale upbringing, which instilled a strong sense of justice and disdain for pretentiousness. He delayed writing his book for 20 years, but an interview with an old pal helped structure the narrative. By cutting up pages of bullet points and arranging them on the floor, he created a coherent order, resulting in a compelling autobiography that captures his life's essence.
Kershaw's role on The One Show emerged from his book, and he has since become their most regular roving reporter, even plotting a pitch about Rochdale's river reopening. His one-man show, a glorified illustrated talk with photos and music clips, has enthralled audiences, including at the Rochdale Literature and Ideas Festival, where he spoke for over three hours.
A Heartwarming Tribute to Family and Roots
At the festival, Kershaw credited his parents, both head teachers, for fostering his energy and curiosity. Although his dad was hostile to pop music, his mum gifted him a red leatherette-clad radio from Lovicks, costing 2s 6d per week, which opened his world to American Forces Network Europe and Radio Luxemburg. In an emotional moment, his mum reunited him with that very radio, bringing tears to his eyes.
From his formative years at Leeds University to broadening listening habits with John Walters' philosophy—'We are not here to give the public what it wants, we are here to give the public what it didn't know it wanted'—Kershaw's journey is a testament to passion and perseverance. He takes pride in his documentary on Bob Dylan's 1966 Free Trade Hall concert, calling it an important piece of social history.
Andy Kershaw's story is a wild ride through music, journalism, and life, proving that some people truly have no off-switch. His autobiography is not just a book but a celebration of a maverick spirit that continues to inspire.
