Ben Gillies
"The audience is usually the main thing that makes the difference between a good gig and a ***** one. If there's a hell mosh then you can't help but get into what you're playing.."
Ben Gillies was the drummer for the Australian rock band Silverchair for almost 20 years, from 1992 when the band formed until 2011, when they went on permanent hiatus. After Silverchair, Gillies formed a new band, Bento, and took on the role of lead vocalist.
Over 20 years after Silverchair went on hiatus, Gillies collaborated with bandmate Chris Joannou to write Love & Pain, an in-depth look behind the scenes of one of Australia’s greatest rock bands. This raw and honest autobiography details how Ben and Chris met and grew up together, capturing the love and challenges of life in a rock band.
Meet Ben Gillies
Ben Gillies was born in Newcastle, New South Wales in 1979. He first picked up drumsticks at the age of eight, and by 12 he and several friends formed the band Innocent Criminals. A couple of years later, they renamed themselves Silverchair, and their EP Tomorrow reached number one on the ARIA Singles Chart.
Over the years, Silverchair released five number-one albums: Frogstomp, Freak Show, Neon Ballroom, Diorama, and Young Modern.
While bandmate Daniel Johns was unwell and Silverchair went on hiatus in the early 2000s, Gillies formed the band Tambalane and released an album. He later returned to Silverchair before the band announced an indefinite hiatus, after which he went on to produce a solo album.
Ben married Jackie Gillies in 2010, who later starred in The Real Housewives of Melbourne. The couple welcomed twins in 2021 and competed together on The Amazing Race Australia in 2023.
What books has Ben Gillies published?
According to Booktopia, Ben Gillies has published the autobiography Love & Pain (co-written with Chris Joannou). It is his only listed book.
What genre does Ben Gillies write in?
His book is a memoir/autobiography, specifically a music biography that provides a behind-the-scenes look at life in a rock band (Silverchair).
Where should I start if I want to read Ben Gillies?
Start with Love & Pain, his in-depth, standalone autobiography about growing up in and performing with Silverchair.
Is there a recommended reading order or a series to follow?
No. Love & Pain is a standalone memoir; there is no series or required reading order.
What themes does Ben Gillies cover in his writing?
The book explores themes such as forming a band, band dynamics, growing up in the music industry, touring and performing, and the personal highs and lows—the “love and pain” of life in a rock band.
