Sometimes the interest we take in the lives of stars is akin to that we take in a wayward relative. We gossip and revel in tales of their misadventures, but behind it is a genuine warmth and concern for their wellbeing.
Such is the way many view Kylie Minogue. We’ve watched her grow up in the media, cringed at her missteps and mistakes, rejoiced and applauded her triumphs. And in May 2005 we reacted with shock and trepidation as it was announced that ‘our Kylie’ had discovered a lump in her breast, and was to receive treatment for cancer.
Kylie – Story of a Survivor, is Virginia Blackburn’s unauthorisedaccount of Kylie’s lifeup to and including her recovery. As is the danger of any biography of a still living subject, it has already been eclipsed, not only by the sad demise of Kylie’s relationship with long time boyfriend Olivier Martinez and the speculation of his rumoured indiscretions, but also by the revelation that Jason Donovan will soon release his own biography, detailing ‘sordid and shocking’ details of his relationship with Kylie. Unfortunately for Jason this news has impressed few and won him little support.
Blackburn’s book however, is one for the fans, affectionately retelling the facts of Kylie’s life, love affairs and career like a proud old aunt. Compiled mostly from past media releases and quotes, it offers little insight to the true Kylie fan, but does successfully chart Kylie’s substantial career progression from teenage pop princess to the seasoned performer of today. It is the nature of the Pop Music Beast that societytends to view its artists successes as ‘happy accidents’, and incidental. Hopefully this book dispels that myth with its faithful account of Kylie’s hard work and dedication. Much is also made of the men that have featured in Kylie’s life, but always with respect. Even her relationship with the sexually adventurous Michael Hutchence is discussed in general, PG terms, with barely a hint of the naughtiness we all knew lurked just under the covers, so to speak….
Throughout the biography homage is paid to thefierce loyaltyof Kylie’s fans, including a big heads up to the gay community, recognising their support through her more difficult indie phase with dance label deConstruction. It is here where the biography exposes itself as being slightly Anglocentric, as the noted decrease in popularity during this period is very much from an English perspective and does not really take into account that herprofile continued to rise within Australia during this time.
In the closing chapters the message of the title rings true, for a real sense of the strength of character ithas takento overcome the speculation and at times, derision aimed at her career, is achieved. Kylie has not only survived physical, emotional, and career-busting set-backs, but has blossomed, and the book ends on an optimistic note.
Kylie has triumphed, and will continue to do so.
Kylie, Story of a Survivor by Virginia Blackburn
John Blake Publishing, RRP $39.95.
Tracey Roberts
