Alice Cooper, the rock icon known for pioneering shock-rock theatrics, has released a new memoir that delves into his tumultuous life and career, revealing previously undisclosed struggles and reflections. Titled “Devil on My Shoulder,” the 496-page book became available earlier this month, coinciding with Cooper’s ongoing international tour with The Hollywood Vampires and an upcoming new leg of his Alice’s Attic Tour set to begin on October 27.
Born Vincent Furnier, Cooper rose to fame in the late 1960s as frontman of the band Alice Cooper, eventually adopting the name legally in the 1970s. The memoir chronicles his evolution from the band’s rebellious anthems such as “School’s Out” and “I’m Eighteen,” to a successful solo career highlighted by hits like “Only Women Bleed” and “Poison.” Throughout the narrative, Cooper candidly addresses his struggles with substance abuse, including an extended battle with cocaine and crack addiction.
Cooper describes how cocaine, widely available in Los Angeles during his heyday, became a destructive force in his life. At one point, he recalls taking on the role of “chef,” processing powdered cocaine into crack for others, unaware of how consuming and damaging the drug would become. Cooper estimates spending a million dollars on drugs during this period, underscoring the extent of his addiction and its impact on his personal and professional life.
The memoir also explores Cooper’s spiritual journey. Raised in a religious household, he details the tension between his shock-rock persona and his faith, including moments when his music was condemned and even burned on Christian television programs like the 700 Club. Despite these conflicts, Cooper ultimately returned to his faith while maintaining his stage identity, a duality he describes as central to his story.
Cooper reflects on the toll his addiction took on his relationships, particularly with his wife Sheryl and their daughter Calico. He recounts a vivid incident where Sheryl, deeply concerned for his mental state during the height of his addictions, confronted him physically out of frustration and fear. The couple recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, emphasizing the durability of their partnership.
Notably, Cooper credits his friendship with lyricist Bernie Taupin, known for his work with Elton John, as instrumental during his rehabilitation, highlighting the importance of support from close friends amid recovery. Post-recovery, Cooper has become actively involved in mentoring young people through his Solid Rock Teen Centers in Arizona, using his experiences as a cautionary tale to help others avoid similar pitfalls.
Throughout the memoir, Cooper discusses his artistic inspirations and innovations, citing early horror show hosts and slapstick comedy influences that shaped the theatrical and sometimes absurd style of the Alice Cooper persona. He takes pride in the band’s groundbreaking contributions to rock music, including elaborate stage productions that incorporated advanced lighting and storytelling elements, which he regards as a form of uncompromising rock theater.
On the topic of controversy, Cooper acknowledges that many of the band’s past actions and imagery would likely face cancellation in today’s cultural climate. However, he criticizes the concept of cancel culture as contrary to the principles of free speech that the band fought for in their early career.
“Devil on My Shoulder” provides an unvarnished look at Cooper’s journey through fame, addiction, faith, and artistic reinvention, painting a portrait of resilience and candid self-examination from one of rock’s most enduring figures.