Shed Seven are about to embark on The Greatest Hits Live tour later this month, which celebrates the 20th anniversary of their seminal singles collection! But first, we spoke to them about the albums and shows that helped them become one of the leading lights of Britpop…
What was the first record you bought?
If memory serves it was Shawaddywaddy’s Under The Moon of Love when I was about 9.
Where in the world would you like to play that you have not already?
I always wanted to play Australia which we ended up doing for the first time in 2018 which was great, so I guess I’d say New Zealand which is frustrating when we were so close by.
Who was the first band/artist you ever saw perform live?
The first proper named band I went to see was The Stone Roses at Alexandra Palace in 1990.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
The answer to that is ever changing I guess, depending on my mood. I dread to think how I would have answered that in my early 20’s, but as I get older i would be perfectly happy knowing my family were all ok.
If you could collaborate with any other artists, living or dead, who would you choose?
I would have loved to perform with Elvis in his late 50’s pomp.
What are you listening to at the moment?
There is a lot of great music out there. It’s just these days you have to do a lot of searching for the cool indie bands. I’m listening to a band called Peace, and another called King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard.
What is your favourite song to perform live?
That’s always a tough one as I genuinely love singing all of them but I guess there is nothing like looking out at a huge crowd singing every word back at you, and for that reason ‘Chasing Rainbows’ will always be a joy.
Best advice you can give to emerging talent?
I’d say if you have the belief, then just stick at it through thick and thin. Never give up as if it’s in you, it will eventually come out of you.
Message for the fans?
Just a massive thank you for so many years of unswerving support. It’s a pleasure to write and perform so knowing there are cool people willingly wanted to listen and watch is great.