Alex James's Candid Musical Confessions: A Playlist of Life and Laughter
In a refreshingly honest interview, Alex James, the iconic bassist of Britpop legends Blur, opens up about the songs that have shaped his life, from childhood memories to party anthems and emotional tear-jerkers. His playlist is a journey through musical eras, revealing surprising tastes and heartfelt connections.
Early Musical Memories and Karaoke Favourites
The first song he fell in love with was The Trail of the Lonesome Pine by Laurel and Hardy and the Avalon Boys, a track he performed in year 3 and desperately wanted for Christmas in 1975, when it peaked at number two. His first single purchase came during a Scouts canal boat holiday, where the ubiquitous radio play of Come on Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners compelled him to bike to Wilco in Bournemouth to buy it. More recently, on a government trip to Japan promoting British food and drink, he and his kids indulged in karaoke with Bohemian Like You by the Dandy Warhols, praising its effortless joy.
Party Hits and Secret Loves
James admits that Oasis's Wonderwall is an unexpected crowd-pleaser at parties, noting that while people find it hilarious when he plays it, the song's quality makes it a staple. He claims to have no musical secrets or shame, openly celebrating Hot Dog and Green Door by Shakin' Stevens as brilliant and admiring Cliff Richard's ability to rock a crowd a cappella with Living Doll at Wimbledon.
Emotional Connections and Musical Burnout
Reflecting on songs he can no longer listen to, James references a quote akin to Philip Glass's idea about music becoming boring then good again with repeated listening. He wore out The Beatles' Hey Jude but has since rediscovered its appeal, likening it to pushing through marathon pain. For intimate moments, he humorously suggests Chitty Chitty Bang Bang for a quickie and Elgar's Cello Concerto in E minor for slower evenings.
Life-Changing Tracks and Morning Routines
Joy Division's Love Will Tear Us Apart changed his life by teaching him bass through copying Peter Hook, highlighting the instrument's accessibility for self-learning. Currently, preparing for his Britpop Classical tour, he wakes up thinking about My Generation by the Who, a bassline that has consumed his practice sessions. Meanwhile, Radiohead's Creep brings him to tears, especially with his daughter singing it, adding emotional depth to what he calls a banger.
Final Farewell and Upcoming Projects
For his funeral, James chooses Bach's Air on a G String, recalling its use in Hamlet cigar ads and appreciating its goosebump-inducing quality with a touch of comedy. Fans can catch his musical journey live as Alex James's Britpop Classical tour kicks off from 11 March, blending 90s hits with orchestral grandeur.
