Eddie Reader in conversation with
TONY CLAYTON-LEA
What's on your rider?Chocolate, water, beer, sandwich stuff and wine.
What would be on your fantasy rider?George Cloo . . . Oh, I thought ye said "who . . ." Er, champagne and sushi.
What's your pre-gig ritual/routine?Sleeping late and sorting the clothes out of the bag of junk I carry around.
What's the best gig you've been to?Ella Fitzgerald and Nelson Riddle Orchestra at the Grosvenor Hotel, London, early 1980s. It was a charity event and the tickets were £200 each! I did some busking to make the money and got the ticket! The thrill of my life was seeing her and him before they died. The security nearly didn't let me in, considering my shabby appearance, as everyone else was in diamond ballgowns and penguin suits. I don't think any of them loved that gig as much as me, though.
And the worst?Stiff tour, Glasgow 1978. Everyonewas spitting. I couldn't get my head round that particular punk rock predilection.
What are your favourite and least favourite venues?I don't like venues that disrespect an audience who pay good money to stand freezin' on beer- and piss-covered floors. I love venues that contribute to the ambience of hearing and enjoying music. I don't mind if they are a little worn out, as long as the feeling in the room is respectful to performer and audience and not threatening with bouncers and barriers and crap sound systems. A lot of venues have gotten away with that bullshit for years!
Who is the most famous person to have shown up at one of your gigs?John Hurt! Also, Tilda Swinton, George Michael, Morrissey. Oh, and in spirit I reckon my Da, with his arms over Elvis's shoulder, stands in the wings.
What's your crowd-pleasing number? Willie Stewart.
Groupies. Would you?Women, notoriously, never get approached by guys, whereas women are always all over guitar men. I haven't and wouldn't, is the answer to that.
How many roadies does it take to change your lightbulbs?Just the players, tour manager and sound person. We've learned to tie our own shoelaces and plug ourselves in.
Any useful stage tips?Don't get pissed allthe time. Have a little water.
Eddi Reader performs Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. See listings.
