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We Think Some Eras Deserve An Encore...

Dirty Stop Out's Guide to 1980s Birmingham - collector's edition - last few copies

Regular price £ 30.95 GBP
Regular price Sale price £ 30.95 GBP
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Low stock alert! This item has proven incredibly popular, and we're down to the very last few!

The ’80s were a different world — no smartphones, no social media drama, just classic music, unforgettable nightclubs, and head-turning fashion statements. That’s why we created the Dirty Stop Out’s Guide to 1980s Birmingham — to help you relive those amazing years!

Do you remember a world before algorithms dictated our playlists? A time when we embraced the moment rather than chasing the next trending social media post? This stunning collector's edition A4 coffee table book is your personal time machine back to the 1980s, exploring Birmingham's music and after-dark history.

Just 500 copies of this retro book are available  —  each with an exclusive cover and enhanced matt finish. We're now down to less than 250!

This beautifully crafted piece of memorabilia captures the spirit of a time when old-school fashion reigned supreme, and nights out were unforgettable.

The Dirty Stop Out's Guide to 1980s Birmingham is packed with:

  • Hundreds of rare, never-before-seen photos
  • Eye-catching memorabilia
  • Scores of interviews
  • Stories about iconic venues like the Rum Runner, the Powerhouse, Edwards No. 8, Burberries, and more

From the rise of Duran Duran to the city’s thriving underground punk movement — this book has it all.

This is more than a book — it’s a time capsule guaranteed to make you feel 18 again.

It’s a true must-have for anyone with a love of nostalgia gifts.

What makes this edition special?

This is a highly sought-after collector’s edition, featuring an exclusive, limited-edition cover. With only 500 copies ever to be printed, it’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a piece of Birmingham’s vibrant 1980s history.

Each book comes with an enhanced matt finish, making it not only visually stunning but a true keepsake for lovers of nostalgia. Packed with rare, never-before-seen photos and memorabilia, this collector’s item is as much a treasure for enthusiasts as it is a time machine to a legendary era.

Our collector’s editions are known to increase in value over time, making this a worthy addition to any collection.

Is this book suitable as a gift?

Absolutely! This book is the perfect nostalgic gift for anyone who lived through the 1980s, especially those who were part of Birmingham’s music and club scene

How long does delivery take?

We pride ourselves on fast and efficient delivery. Orders placed before 2pm are normally posted the same business day. We post Royal Mail Tracked 48 which means your book should arrive within 2 business days of postage. Please allow extra time for international deliveries.

Is this book only for people who lived in Birmingham?

While it’s focused on Birmingham’s nightlife, anyone with a love for the 1980s music scene, club culture, and fashion will enjoy it. Whether you lived in the city or wish you had, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the era.

Who are the authors?

Jim Simpson has been prominent on the Birmingham music scene from his beginnings in the 1960s playing trumpet with Locomotive to the present day when he has
racked up 40 years as Director of the Birmingham Jazz and Blues Festival and nearly as many guiding the fortunes of King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, plus reviving Henry’s Blueshouse initially at the Bull’s Head, now in Snobs.
His company, Big Bear Music, is probably the longest lived independent record label in the UK. Having managed Black Sabbath in their early years, in the seventies he toured and recorded many American bluesmen as well as managing and recording such fondly remembered Birmingham groups as Muscles, the Quads and Tea and Symphony. In 2019
Brewin Books published his memoir of 60 years in the
music business, Don’t Worry ‘bout the Bear. In 2024 he was awarded an Honourary Degree in Music by the University of Birmingham.
Ron Simpson was absent from Birmingham for all of the 1980s, having moved to Yorkshire in 1971. After retiring from teaching in 1995, he has written prolifically. In addition to numerous study guides for English Literature and grammar books aimed at teenagers, he wrote Teach Yourself English Grammar which went into its fourth edition in 2019. He also co-wrote Don’t Worry ‘bout the Bear. He reviews theatre and music for several websites and is news and features editor for Jazz Rag, a national bi-monthly magazine edited by his brother Jim.

Will there be more editions or volumes?

This book is part of the Dirty Stop Out’s Guide series and we already do the Dirty Stop Out's Guide to 1970s Birmingham which has been very popular. We also do editions in nearby Coventry, Liverpool, Manchester and many other places.

How much is postage?

You pay a flat fee to cover postage and packing. But if your order is more than £75 it's free UK postage. Have you seen our amazing hand-printed Birmingham T-shirts?

What if I don't like my book?

Love your Dirty Stop Outs purchase, or receive a full refund if you return the goods within 30 days. We sell to rock stars and believe in rock star customer service... For everyone!

Did you know your purchase will support Dementia UK?

Our memory-packed books have been helping dementia sufferers since 2011. We now make a donation from every sale to Dementia UK

A Word From The Owner...

Here at Dirty Stop Outs we think you're never too old too disgrace a dancefloor and certainly never old enough to know any better. Our mission is simple – we want you to re-discover your rock’n’roll mojo. So why grow up when you can still be a 'Dirty Stop Out'?

  • Money Back Guarantee

    Love your Dirty Stop Outs purchase, or receive a full refund if you return the goods within 30 days. We sell to rock stars and believe in rock star customer service... For everyone!

  • Free UK Delivery

    Delivery is on us for all orders over £75 - how retro rock'n'roll is that?

  • Charity donation logo

    Every Sale Helps A Dementia Sufferer

    Our memory-packed books have been helping dementia sufferers since 2011. We now make a donation from every sale to Dementia UK.

You're Amongst Friends With The Dirty Stop Outs...

Product FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions...

Oi Dirty Stop Outs - where's my parcel?

All books will leave Dirty Stop Outs HQ within two business
days or your order. We deliver using Royal Mail Tracked 48 so expect your postman to be looking very jealously at your package within another two business days. If your package doesn’t arrive as scheduled don’t hesitate to drop us a line and we’ll get
everything sorted in true retro rock’n’roll fashion. Just drop us a line at: info@dirtystopouts.com

I'm sorry I've changed my mind - I'm just not ready to re-discover my mojo...

Refunds really are no problem. In fact we’ll provide one with no questions asked as long as you return your undamaged goods within 30 days of purchase. Just drop us a line at: returns@dirtystopouts.com Refunds are usually made within one business day of undamaged goods being returned to us.

Customer Reviews

Based on 17 reviews
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L
Louis Evans

Good quality and full of great info of that era

S
Simon Ford
Good overview of the times

A welcome reminder of Birmingham in the early to mid 80’s. I would like a follow book with more paragraphs/chapters dedicated to the Nightclubs and Pubs of the era. More random photos to go along with them. I played in a band, so the Barrel Organ,The Railway were gigs to aspire too, in Birmingham. The historic Barton Arms,Fighting Cox,Red Lion Kings Heath,49 era and the Junction in Harborne, need to be remembered and recognised more fully. The Tower Ballroom and The Irish Centre for meeting people and more..

M
Meryl Smith
Holy City Zoo

Sad not to find a mention

T
Trevor Lynock
Birmingham

Great book. Everything I was hoping it would be. Great customer service too. Perfect thank you.

S
Spencer Hickman
super quick shipping great book

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