It's me again ... this time I bring news from Mick Karn! Yes, we have finally received word from the man himself! Great isn't it?
QUESTIONS FOR MICK KARN (April 2008):
1. Which contemporary musicians do you rate and why?
As you probably know, I don't really keep track of what's happening musically, unless by accident, through the TV for example. I like what I've heard from Justin Timberlake simply because it reminds me of Michael Jackson at his best, which was always well produced and full of interesting rhythms. I also think Alicia Keys is a very good song writer, and it's always nice to see someone able to play a real instrument well.
2. Have recent developments in music (e.g. internet distribution, things like myspace etc) made things easier or harder for musicians like yourself?
Much harder. It's more difficult to be noticed through the internet than through CDs in a shop.
3. How do you feel about Britain politically now and do you think there are more or less opportunities for working-class youth now than then?
Politically, I think Britain is in a terrible state with many freedoms that were taken for granted now gone.
I think opportunities are there, but more than just talent is needed for success. We live in an age obsessed with stardom and celebrities, so good marketing is integral.
4. Do you still think that music is the only viable cultural opportunity open to working class youth?
No, there are plenty of other avenues in the arts that are culturally viable.
5. What would you have been doing now if you hadn't become a musician?
Probably sleeping.
6. What's your favourite collaboration so far? Who would you like to collaborate with in the future whom you haven't before?
I haven't had so many collaborations, but if you mean session work, then Kate Bush was my favourite.
I'd like to work with David Bowie, I think that would be an interesting combination.
7. You spend at lot of your time in Cyprus these days. Does the island inspire you creatively? How does living in Cyprus affect the recording and distribution of new material?
The recording and distribution remains the same. I work on computer, so could be anywhere, the distribution companies are dealt with by Debi, my manager, in London .
I wouldn't say Cyprus inspires, in fact, quite the reverse. By not living in a big city, artistic stimulation of any kind, is very limited.
8. Do you have any plans to resume touring this year? If so, where and when?
No plans as yet. I wish it were that easy.
9. Is it true you’re in the process of writing a book about your time with Japan? Can you tell us anything about it? When is it likely to be published?
I finished the book in 2006, and have since been looking for a publisher. The book spans from childhood to date. I think it will surprise a lot of people.
10. You’re known not only for your talents as a bass player, but also for your work as a sculptor. Do you have any projects in progress at the moment and if so, do you have any plans to exhibit them?
I seem to be sculpting a lot recently, most of them for outdoor display. No plans for exhibitions have come up.
I hope you approve of questions 9 & 10 as I added them later.
Many, many thanks to Mick for answering these questions and a big thank you to his manager Debi for contacting Mick on our behalf.
Love
Astronaut
x.
And the answer to the question about the Internet surprised me - that's not what I would have expected.
What makes Andy's book more attractive..
Excellent replies from sir Mick. I too was kindo of surprised at his internet answer, but in a way it does make a good deal of sense. It can seem a bit saturated out there so more marketing is needed to put yourself above the rest.
xx