Squeeze’s Glenn Tilbrook Opens Up About Childhood Abuse: Reflecting on a Troubled Past

Glenn Tilbrook shares his story of childhood abuse and personal growth, shedding light on difficult experiences behind the music.

A Revealing Look Into Glenn Tilbrook’s Early Years

There’s something deeply human about hearing the stories behind the songs and the smiles of our favorite musicians. Glenn Tilbrook, the iconic frontman of the legendary band Squeeze, has bravely opened up about a painful chapter of his youth that many fans never knew about: abuse at the tender age of 13.

It was his very first gig, an event that should have been purely exhilarating, that turned into a moment marking the beginning of complicated memories. Glenn recalled that an older man abused him when he was just a young teenager, turning what was supposed to be a joyful introduction to music into a darker experience.

From Innocent Beginnings to Harsh Realities

Glenn’s words paint a vivid picture of that day: “It was in a scout hut in Eltham, and it was the Irish band Tír na nÓg, who I really liked. I went by myself. I would have been just early 13, and that’s where I met, not this guy, Ron, but another guy… And so… this guy just says, ‘Come over to our squat.’ And that’s where I met Ron actually, at that squat.”

The story takes an even more complex turn as Glenn mentions how Ron, the man involved in the abuse, also introduced him to a wider world: “He took me to the Glastonbury Festival in 1971.” It’s a bittersweet reminder of how people and experiences can shape us in multiple, sometimes contradictory ways.

Processing Pain Without Anger

One of the most striking things about Glenn's revelation is his emotional response. He shares, “I don’t feel angry. [But] as I’ve got older, I’ve realised things that haven’t been OK, in certain ways that I behave.” This reflects a nuanced understanding of trauma that many survivors grapple with—acknowledging harm without harboring resentment, and recognizing its long-term impact on behavior and self-awareness.

A Childhood Marked by Turmoil

The frontman describes his upbringing as “quite dysfunctional,” with little parental control influencing his path. “I was taking drugs and having sex at 13, which perhaps wasn’t so great,” he admits candidly. Such revelations aren’t easy to share, but they offer fans a raw, honest look at the environment that shaped one of Britain’s great songwriters.

Remembering Lost Bandmates and Looking Forward

On a somber note, the music world recently mourned the loss of former Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis, who died earlier this month at the age of 74. Gilson was a giant in one of the greatest British bands ever, and his passing marks the end of an era.

However, Squeeze is far from done. The band has announced their biggest headline shows yet, embarking on a UK arena tour in 2026 titled ‘Tried, Tested And Trixies.’ Billy Bragg will join them as a special guest opener, promising fans an unforgettable live experience.

Touring with Purpose: Supporting Grassroots Music

The upcoming tour isn’t just about music; it’s also about giving back. Squeeze has committed to donating £1 from every ticket sale to support grassroots music venues, artists, and promoters. Glenn Tilbrook himself has become a patron of the Music Venue Trust, showing his dedication to nurturing the music community that gave him so much.

Before the big tour, Squeeze will support Madness on their 2025 ‘Hit Parade’ UK arena tour, which kicks off next month. It’s a perfect chance for fans to catch them in a more intimate setting before the arenas call.

Where to Find Support

For anyone affected by sexual harassment, assault, or abuse, there are resources available. In the UK, the Rape Crisis charity offers help, advice, and information, while in the US, RAINN provides similar support. Remember, you’re never alone.

“I don’t feel angry. [But] as I’ve got older, I’ve realised things that haven’t been OK.”
— Glenn Tilbrook

FAQ

• What did Glenn Tilbrook reveal about his childhood?
  Glenn shared that he experienced abuse from an older man when he was 13 years old, at his first ever gig.
• How does Tilbrook feel about his past abuse now?
  He says he doesn’t feel angry but recognizes as he has grown older that some aspects were not OK.
• What was Glenn Tilbrook’s childhood like?
  He describes it as quite dysfunctional with little parental control, which led to early drug use and sexual experiences at age 13.
• What upcoming tours is Squeeze planning?
  Squeeze will headline a major UK arena tour in 2026 called ‘Tried, Tested And Trixies’ and support Madness on their 2025 ‘Hit Parade’ tour.
• How is Squeeze supporting the music community?
  They’re donating £1 from every ticket sale to grassroots music venues, artists, and promoters, with Glenn becoming a patron of the Music Venue Trust.

If you’re moved by Glenn Tilbrook’s story and the band’s enduring legacy, why not bring that inspiration home? Shop your favorite album cover posters and band art at our store here — a great way to celebrate the music that has shaped so many lives.