John Major signed by HarperPress to write music hall book

Former prime minister Sir John Major has signed a deal with HarperPress that will see him write a book on the history of music hall.

Rights to The Rise and Fall of Music Hall were bought by the publisher's editorial director Martin Redfern on the first day of the London Book Fair, which is currently taking place at Earls Court, London, reports the Bookseller.

Major's book, which was inspired by the ex-head of state's father, a music hall performer, will be published in autumn 2012.

Speaking to the news provider, Redfern said: 'Sir John brilliantly evokes the rumbustious atmosphere of these smoke-filled pleasure palaces, and writes with wit, warmth and empathy about the talented stars of yesteryear who night after night lit up the lives of the masses with popular songs and comic turns.'

Music hall, which had its origins in London, was a popular form of British entertainment until it all but disappeared in the 1960s - following several decades of steady decline.

Hits like 'I Do Like to Be Beside the Seaside' and 'It's a Long Way to Tipperary' exemplified the genre.