The infamous Chesney Hawkes is set to perform in Putney. Alexandra Rucki caught up with him before the gig.

Alexandra Rucki: What can we expect to see during your show?

Chesney Hawkes: Cross dressing, juggling, fire eating, yodelling & river dancing, amongst other things.

AR: What musicians/bands inspire your music?

CH: John Lennon, Prince, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie, Nik Kershaw, Johnny Cash....

AR: What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

CH: Actually, the last time I played the Half Moon was a big highlight for me as it was the first time I had ever played an acoustic show on my own and the crowd was so supportive. It felt like a home gig.

AR: Do you prefer performing live or songwriting? What inspires your songwriting?

CH: I love both sides of what I do equally, the studio is my natural habitat and the stage is too much fun, especially when I get to connect with an intimate crowd.

AR: What is the worst gig you have ever played? And the best?

CH: As a young 19-year-old unknown skinny kid from England, I once played a small set with a piano on a beach in Rhode Island.

They put me on just before the climax of a wet t-shirt competition. You can imagine the reaction from the muscle bound jocks all around me. Not the funnest gig I've ever played. Character building though.

Best, probably when I headlined the Hammersmith Odeon in 91'. I had seen some of my idols at that venue and to sell out a legendary venue like that was a dream come true for me.

AR: Have you ever had any strange fans?

CH: Some would say, you'd have to be strange to be a fan of mine.

AR: What was it like starring in Buddy’s Song with Roger Daltry?

CH: Roger is a legend. He taught me alot in those early days and is still a friend now. I have wonderful memories of working with him. Good guy.

AR: Have you starred in anything else recently?

CH: I played a very clumsy version of myself in John Bishop's, 'Panto' On ITV over Christmas. That was alot of fun.

AR: Why do you think the One and Only has stood the test of time?

CH: If I knew the answer to that, I'd do it again. Seriously though, I think some songs just have wings and the O&O is one of them. Nik (Kershaw) added a little extra fairy dust on that one.

AR: How do you respond to people who say you are just a one hit wonder?

CH: I say, come and see me at the Half moon in Putney on the 15th of August!

AR: And are you still the One and Only?

CH Well, there's nobody I'd rather be, if that's what you mean.

Chesney Hawkes plays The Halfmoon, Putney, on August 15.

 


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