I Thought I Heard You Speak

The book I’ve been waiting for my entire adult life. A wonderful and fresh retelling of a time and a place that has never been significantly seen or heard from the perspective of women. Unfolding like a detective story bringing forth all the complex evidence, these fascinating, insightful, fun testimonies of what it was like to be connected to Factory are beautifully woven together. The range and power of the unleashed individual voices takes on a collective strength, becoming a fantastic roar: we were there all along and we will not be forgotten – Carol Morley I Thought I Heard You Speak is not simply an essential addition to Factory Records’ archive of books, films, and exhibitions, it is recommended reading. Period – DJ Paulette I was really pleased to talk to Audrey about my memories of working with New Order and Factory Records. I think it’s really important that the story of Factory Records includes and recognises the contribution of several women right from the start to the legacy that continues today’ – Rebecca Boulton, Manager of New Order An important book on the women pivoting around the Factory/Manchester scene – Sinéad Gleeson In an industry that primarily dismisses or conveniently forgets the vast contributions of women, I am delighted that this book exists. Bravo Audrey Golden. Thank you for bearing witness – Shirley Manson In the past, the mantra has often been to mythologise, printing the legend rather than the truth. This is why Audrey Golden’s I Thought I Heard You Speak: Women At Factory Records had to be written to readdresses the imbalance. In years to come, it will be looked upon as one of the most important books written about the Factory organisation, maybe even the final word – Iain Key * Louder Than War *

Audrey Golden is a writer with a focus on music, culture, cinema and politics. She loves punk and post-punk and holds a Ph.D. in literary studies from the University of Virginia.