Australian singer-songwriter, actor & author Lo Carmen, has today released her first book, Lovers Dreamers Fighters. In essence it’s a memoir but weaving in between her own story, are the fascinating tales of other women, those who have inspired her along her creative journey. In many cases it’s a fly on the wall view of Australian music history via her friendships and close family connections with people such as Renee Geyer, Chrissy Amphlett, Robyn Archer, and Sallie-Anne Huckstepp, who Lo played in the TV drama Blue Murder.
Lovingly researched, Lovers Dreamers Fighters goes deep into the lives of iconic female artists such as Piaf, Marilyn Monroe and southern belles such as Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. The book also outlines Lo’s experiences as a singer, songwriter and performer, paying her dues in Sydney, her friendships with the great alternative rock bands from the 80s and then traveling to America and immersing herself in the heart of country music.
Australian Musician editor Greg Phillips spoke to Lo Carmen via zoom about the writing of her book, Lovers Dreamers Fighters. From the shadows of her home, Lo discusses some of the book highlights, chats about her music career and looks at what’s ahead.
Lo Carmen is a cult singer-songwriter, and an AFI nominated sometime actor in the much-loved films ‘The Year My Voice Broke’, ‘Red Dog’ and the notorious TV docu-drama ‘Blue Murder’. Carmen has earnt critical acclaim as a solo artist across seven albums, touring Europe and the US. She has also published essays and articles in The Guardian, SMH, Vogue, Meanjin, Neighborhood Paper and the ‘Women of Letters’ collections. She has recently returned to Australia after living in the US for the past seven years with her husband, actor Aden Young and their children. Lo has curated a Wendy Saddington Appreciation Society happening for Mardi Gras 2022, from March 6.
Lovers Dreamers Fighters by Lo Carmen out now. Paperback | RRP $32.99 | HarperCollins | 9781460759981
Lo Carmen book launches
MELBOURNE
8 APRIL – Lo Carmen In Conversation with Jenny Valentish: Readings Emporium
SYDNEY
21 APRIL – Lo Carmen In Conversation with Mark Mordue: Berkelouw Books Paddington
BRISBANE
23 APRIL – In Conversation with Andrew Stafford + solo performance: Brisbane Powerhouse
CANBERRA
29 April – In Conversation + solo performance: National Library Canberra
Tickets: https://www.locarmenmusic.com/
