What's She Like

Helen O'Hara picked up a violin at the age of nine. Raised on classical training but driven by pop, she veered from youth orchestras to a teenage rock band, then back to college – where Dexys Midnight Runners came calling. She turned down a symphony orchestra to join them, and weeks later ‘Come On Eileen’ hit number one.

What's She Like charts the exhilaration of Dexys' Too‑Rye‑Ay era, the stormy creation of Don't Stand Me Down, and the decades that followed – from collaborations with Tanita Tikaram to a 23‑year break from music. When her sons were grown, she picked up her violin again and fought her way back to the life she'd promised herself as a child.

Longlisted for the Penderyn Music Book Prize

'A must read for anyone who loves music.' Tim Burgess

'If you ever put your faith in Dexys, this book will confirm you were right to.' – Bob Stanley

'An extraordinary story needs an extraordinary storyteller. What's She Like delivers on both fronts. I found it utterly inspiring.' – Pete Paphides

'To say that Helen O'Hara is a gifted musician is an understatement. She is an absolute genius.' Kevin Rowland

'Helen has beautifully captured the journey of determination, discipline, self-belief and talent that create great musicianship. Her choice to be a pop musician over a promising career in classical music leads her on all kinds of adventures including the highs and lows of being in a number one band.' Tanita Tikaram

'A brilliantly honest, clear-eyed chronicle of her time in Dexys and of her much wider musical life. Very much recommended.' Nige Tassell

'Can't overstate how influential Helen was to us young girls watching Top of the Pops. She made playing the violin look like the best job in the world.' Sue Charles

Kind, generous and honest.' – Record Collector