THE need to set the record straight on his famous brother drove Mick Bonham to write a unique biography which, three years after his own death, has finally been published.
He had just completed the second draft of the book on John Bonham - widely renowned as one of the greatest drummers ever - when he sadly died aged 49 in January 2000.
Now his wife Linda Bonham, sister Debbie Bonham and two friends have edited Bonham by Bonham - My Brother John and published a limited edition run.
Much of the written material on Led Zeppelin and John Bonham concentrates on legend and rumour rather than fact, said Mick's wife, and it was his dream to show him in a real light.
"Mick started writing seven years ago after reading a lot of rubbish about John," said Mrs Bonham, of Oakenshaw South.
"John's daughter was only one when her father died and Mick thought it wasn't fair on her to have to read all this.
"What Mick shows is the lighter side of John. All the publicity you ever hear about is the sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll.
"The first third of the book is about two brothers growing up in Redditch and what they got up to.
"Mick did a lot of research and interviews as well and kept a diary, which was invaluable."
The book also concentrates on John Bonham's career with Led Zeppelin up until his death in 1980 and is packed with pictures, most of which Mick took.
Mick himself was a well-known character in Redditch and used to run Pitcheroak Golf Club.
Mrs Bonham added: "Mick had a great sense of humour and we didn't want that to be lost in the editing process.
"But if the book doesn't sell, it won't matter. The main thing is that Mick worked so hard on it and that it's out there.
"There were times when it really kicked up a lot of emotion for him because John was his best mate as well as his older brother and hero. He never really got over John's death."
The book is available to order by going to new releases on
www.undergroundweb.org.uk or by calling Dennis Williams on 07909 528563.
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