In her new memoir, Cher: The Memoir, Part One, Cher makes startling claims about the late music producer Phil Spector. According to excerpts published in The New York Post, she alleges that Spector propositioned her for sex when she was just 15 years old. She met him through her former boyfriend, musician Antonino LoTempio.
Cher recounts that Spector made the advance in French, asking, “Voulez-vous coucher avec moi?” She replied, “Oui, pour l’argent,” which translates to “Yes, for the money,” surprising him with her understanding and response. Cher also describes how uncomfortable Spector’s behavior made her, particularly how he would stare at her in an unsettling manner.
Later in her memoir, Cher recounts a second encounter with Spector, many years after the first. She confronted him over the unauthorized release of a song he had made using her and Harry Nilsson’s vocals. The track was meant as a guide vocal for John Lennon, but Spector released it in Europe, violating their contracts.
During the confrontation, Spector allegedly attempted to intimidate Cher by pulling out a revolver and twirling it around while they talked. Despite the threat, Cher stood firm, telling him not to “f— with me” and asserting her independence. Spector eventually apologized, and the matter was resolved.
In addition to her stories about Spector, Cher’s memoir delves into her personal relationships, including her brief and troubled marriage to Gregg Allman. Cher openly admits there was “nothing romantic” about their wedding day. Just nine days after tying the knot, she filed for divorce, although the two later reconciled. They had a son, Elijah Blue Allman, in 1976 but eventually separated for good in 1979. Her candid reflections provide insight into the complexities of her relationships.
Cher’s memoir also touches on the darker side of Phil Spector’s legacy. He was convicted in 2009 of the murder of actress Lana Clarkson and sentenced to 19 years to life in prison. Spector passed away in 2021 while serving his sentence. Despite his success as a music producer, his later years were marred by violence and legal troubles. Cher’s recounting of her experiences with him adds to the unsettling portrait of a man who was once a revered figure in the music industry.
Cher: The Memoir, Part One offers readers a raw and revealing account of the singer’s life, covering her personal triumphs and struggles. Through her stories, Cher showcases her resilience and determination, confronting difficult moments with honesty and strength. Her memoir sheds light on her remarkable journey, offering a detailed perspective on the challenges she faced both in her career and personal life.