A major new biography of Joe Meek, the legendary maverick engineer, songwriter, artist manager and record producer. Meek pioneered independent production, established one of the earliest independent labels - the first to aim its output entirely at teenagers - and created the blueprint for what would become the independent music industry. He was the first producer to see the recording studio as an instrument in its own right, and modern recording artists are still in awe of the way he was able to conjure otherworldly sounds from his homemade equipment. Acclaimed music writer Darryl W. Bullock examines the two very different sides of Joe Meek: the genius who was often referred to as the British Phil Spector, the pioneer who wrote and recorded some of the most important and influential pop music of all time, and at the man who was finally brought down by mental health issues and constant financial battles.