We often hear tales of individuals living the rockstar lifestyle, with fans clamoring at their feet 24/7, seemingly unable to get enough of the fame and partying.
This perception isn’t limited to modern-day rock stars; it was prevalent in the 60s as well. One example is Peter Noone, a member of the 60s band Herman’s Hermits.
This wasn’t your typical rock band you see today; their music was a bit more subdued. However, behind the scenes, it seemed the teen heartthrob was engaging in many of the same antics as today’s big rock stars.
The band toured both the United States and Britain, and in 1964, they even scored a number-one hit in England with “I’m Into Something Good.” Their popularity soared as millions of records were sold.
Noone confessed that he didn’t really know what he was doing and adopted a shy, boyish stage persona, which aligned well with his true personality.
By 1965, they had outsold the Beatles and churned out 20 hit records, including “There Is a Kind of Hush” and “No Milk Today.” By the age of 17, they had signed a $1 million record deal, and even Elvis Presley joined him on stage in 1965.
He acknowledged living the rocker lifestyle but stated he never indulged in drugs. However, other rock ‘n’ roll habits were part of his life.
He reminisced about staying up all night at 16 and 17, only to be up and about the next morning. Now in his mid-60s, he reflects on the joys of his youth.
While he never grew tired of touring, he considers himself fortunate to have survived the debauchery of the 60s, a time when many of his peers did not.
During his heyday, he frequented the Moody Blues house and enjoyed drinking. He socialized with the likes of the Stones and the Beatles, despite being seven years their junior.
They would hit the clubs, and even at 16, John Lennon would buy him drinks. Mostly, he drank to fit in with his peers.
Although he didn’t view himself as an alcoholic, he began attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings with his father at 19, realizing he needed to cut down. While his wife still drinks occasionally, he remains sober.
He met his wife at 20, and they’ve been married for 43 years. At 24, he left the band as they all pursued different paths.
Today, he still performs occasionally, exuding the same charisma as ever. You can witness it firsthand in the following video: