Francesco Mellina is a renowned photographer, best known for capturing the vibrant music and cultural scene in Liverpool during the late 1970s and early 1980s. ⁠

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To watch this

www.popthehistorymakers.com

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In this podcast we concentrate on his work in the book - Total Stranger, Unseen photographs of Pete Burns and Dead or Alive between 1978 and 1983. Mellina was not only Burns’ photographer, he was also the band’s early manager. Known for his androgynous appearance and bold fashion choices, Pete Burns, became a prominent figure in the music scene with their worldwide hit ‘You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)’ blending elements of new wave, dance-pop, and goth culture.⁠

Originally from southern Italy, Mellina moved to the UK and quickly immersed himself in the burgeoning punk and post-punk music movements. His work, particularly from this era, provides an intimate and authentic portrayal of iconic musicians, including The Clash, The Ramones, and Siouxsie and the Banshees, as well as everyday youth culture. Mellina’s photography stands out for its raw, candid style, often blurring the lines between subject and spectator, offering a unique glimpse into the underground scene that shaped a generation. His images have since become important historical records of a transformative period in British music and culture.⁠

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The book si available from Francesco Mellina’s website.⁠

www.redbookart.com⁠

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The exhibition Total Stranger is on between 21 September 2024 – 19 January 2025, Wednesday–Sunday, 10am–4pm at Bridge Cottage, in Port Sunlight, Wirral.

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