Celebrity

Blue eyed boy

Touring his 12th album and visiting Colwyn Bay en route, Mick Hucknall talks to Shire about enjoying more than three decades of musical success with Simply Red

Legendary: Mick and the band

Fresh from the success of their latest top 10 album Blue Eyed Soul, pop-soul legends Simply Red have announced an exclusive North Wales show on 14th August. After 40 years in the business there is no doubt that this is one band that genuinely deserves to be referred to as legendary, and having stalled the much-anticipated latest tour due to ongoing restrictions, this is one night out that is guaranteed to be worth the wait.

Discussing the band’s appearance at Stadium Eirias, Colwyn Bay, Mick Hucknall said: “I can’t wait! I’ve spent most of my life singing for people, so it has felt strange not to have that the past couple of years. I’ve missed being able to express myself. ”

Simply Red have sold more than 60 million albums worldwide, with no fewer than five going to No. 1 in the UK – and have more than 1 billion views on YouTube. Their 1991 classic Stars was the best-selling album for two years running in Britain and Europe. Blue Eyed Soul is the 12th and is described as the “rawest, funkiest, dirtiest, brassiest and most purely 100 per cent soulful concoction of their stellar career”.

The styling of the latest offering was an easy decision for Mick. “I didn’t have to dig into record crates for inspiration. I’ve been listening to soul music since I was a kid – it’s been in my head and heart for 50 years. I’m doing what comes naturally.” He also wanted

to create something tailored to the strength of his fantastic band. “I asked myself, what would these guys really like to play, night after night? I want them to enjoy playing – for crowds to get up and move. It’s all about capturing the groove. I wanted to push my voice a little harder too, challenge it a little bit.” At 59, his incredible range and depth is still there. it's all “It’s deepened a bit but I’ve kept the high end, so I can still hit those notes. Singing is pure pleasure about to me. Through good times and bad, it is a deep, capturing fundamental love of music that has kept me going.” the Good times groove “I’m happy with this album, it’s feeling pretty good,” Mick said. “I’m looking forward to playing it live because it is real. I could do one of these dark, reflective albums that people tend to do at a certain age. But I wanted to make something punchy. I want to have a good time. I’m not saying it’s my last album – I’ve got no thoughts of stopping. But when I go out, I want to go out with a bang.”

On 14th August Simply Red will perform an exclusive show at Stadium Eirias, Colwyn Bay. For tickets go to www.venuecymru.co.uk