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Rock & Pop: Richard Hawley
 Richard Hawley is a
British guitarist (Pulp, Longpigs, All Saints) turned singer-songwriter.
His debut mini- album, Prize Bingo, is out now on Setanta.
When did
you discover you could sing and what promoted you to do something
about it?
I could always hum along cleaning the pots. But after the Longpigs
split I thought it was about time I stopped washing the pots
and crack on with writing and recording.
You grew
up in industrial northern city of Sheffield - do you still have
strong ties there? How has growing up there affected your personality
and your music?
I've lived there all my life. My mum, dad, sister, wife and kids
all live there. I was born opposite a graveyard, next to a butchers
and a taxidermist!
Much of
the music industry is rooted in London. Would you ever re-locate
here? Do you think there's a certain pressure to live here because
of the hub of the music industry is here?
NO. Not if you want to hold on to your soul? Don't be ashamed
of where you're from no matter how small and provincial. Perspective
is bonus!
How do you
find audiences here compared to up north? Do you find the so-called
north-south divide applies to gig-goers?
Not at all. Music should and does (hopefully) transcend all that
bollocks!
Many new
bands have difficulties finding gigs in London because of the
costs involved but you've secured a record deal and good support
slots - do you put this down to experience and contacts in the
industry?
I think it's easier for me cos I've got a story, having played
with famous bands. However I won't be along for much longer if
I'm shit! I don't count the 'industry' as a friend. My friends
have faces and lives!
You've recently
supported Frank Black at the Astoria. Was it daunting playing
to a large venue for your first UK tour?
Actually I was pretty relaxed. I find it hard to talk between
songs, but despite that I think it went down pretty well.
You've played
in front of 100 people at the Monarch. Do you find smaller venues
more accommodating for your music? Favourite London venues?
I like playing anywhere that will have me. Small gigs tend to
be more vibey but have crap PA's. As for venues, I'd say the
Forum, Dingwalls and the Astoria are pretty good.
Pub
Rock Feature -
Can pub rock survive in London?
Bella Union -
We talk to former Cocteau
twin Simon Raymonde about his London-based record label... click
here
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