The Actor's Honest Musical Selections: Starting with Childhood Loves to Peculiar Dislikes
The first tune I fell in love with
My first recollection is entering a space at kindergarten where they were playing Yellow Submarine by the Fab Four. I was enthralled by the sonic landscape, and John Lennon yelling: “Full speed ahead!” When it arrived at the chorus, I distinctly thought: “This must be music!”
The inaugural record I acquired
When I was eight, I won a contest at school to select a brand new record to play at the weekly dance party we had on Friday afternoons. My teacher took me to Woolworths, and I chose Come Back My Love by Darts. The first single I purchased with my own allowance was Mull of Kintyre by Wings from a record shop in Lancashire. It was number one at the time, and I selected it when my father noted that it was by a former member of the Beatles.
The song I sing at karaoke
I honestly actively avoid public singing and avoid it at all costs. But if forced, I’d go with Summer Wind by Frank Sinatra.
The song I strangely know all the words to
I recently became aware that I know pretty much all the lyrics to The Boy in the Bubble, You Can Call Me Al, and every song on Graceland by the legendary songwriter.
The perfect tune to play at a party
It hinges on the point of the event you are at. Early doors it would probably be I Heard It Through the Grapevine by the soul legend. As the evening progresses, I’d move on to Prince, the Rolling Stones and David Bowie, and when it really kicks off, Phat Planet by Leftfield, Born Slippy .NUXX by Underworld, and Ascension by the virtual band, which is an undeniable hit.
The song I can no longer bear
I inexplicably detest Mr Brightside by the Killers.
The best track to have sex to
Come Together by John, Paul, George, and Ringo.
The LP that altered my perspective
When I was twelve and just learning to learn the six-string, I’d only listen to 1950s rock and roll, and was consumed by The King, the rock pioneer, Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, Buddy Holly and the rockabilly star. Then my babysitter introduced me to Let There Be Rock by AC/DC. It was still guitar music, but it was electrifying rock ’n’roll. The moment he placed the vinyl on the record player, I was captivated.
The tune that motivates me in the AM
What’d I Say in its full glory by Ray Charles.
The song that brings me to tears
Virtually any music leaves me touched. Aretha Franklin, The Chairman of the Board, Elvis and the Fab Four all make me cry because of the harmony and sheer perfection of the vocals. But The Ocean by Richard Hawley strikes a chord without fail.
The music I’d like played at my memorial service
The King. If I’m cremated, I’ll have Burning Love. If I’m laid to rest in the ground, I’ll have Way Down.
