Since the late 1970s, Scottish singer-songwriter Annie Lennox has been delivering us hits—and iconic outfits!—whether that’s been with The Tourists or Eurythmics, or through her own successful solo career. It’s surprising, then, that such an influential pop culture figure (and OBE) has yet to receive the retrospective treatment. But today, that finally changes: Lennox’s impressive life, from music to activism and philanthropy, is the subject of a Rizzoli New York book out today, aptly titled Annie Lennox: Retrospective.
Spanning seven decades, the visually-led book—perfect for displaying on your coffee table—offers an inside glimpse into some of Lennox’s most memorable performances, stage looks, and music videos over the years. Fans can delve into some of her best portrait or fashion shoots, with influential photographers such as Richard Avedon and Ellen von Unwerth, or catch unseen polaroids with fellow icons like David Bowie and Cyndi Lauper.
Photo: Courtesy of Rizzoli New York
Better than the book being an idyllic sartorial moodboard, however, is the storytelling from Lennox that comes along with it. Filled with memories and untold scenes, the book acts as Lennox’s diary of her trailblazing life in the spotlight. In honor of its release, Vogue sat down with Lennox (over Zoom) to discuss the project, and her inimitable career. Below, read on as Lennox discusses her favorite milestones, cultivating her iconic wardrobe over the years (those suits, though!), and what’s in store for her next.
Vogue: You’ve had quite the impressive career, and easily could have done a visual retrospective at any time. Why did now feel right?
Annie Lennox: I was asked several times if I’d like to write an autobiography, and I always felt like it wasn’t the right time for me. But after COVID, I started thinking about things—and my age—and I was like, “It’s now or never.” I might as well do it now! I had something like 6,000 images up in a cloud somewhere—all these amazing photo sessions and behind-the-scenes images—so it was a very satisfying feeling to look back over the decades. I was always going forward and thinking about the next thing, so having that little bit of time to reflect was fantastic.