An Interview with Andrew Roachford

Xantoné Blacq Presents: An Evening With Andrew Roachford

We’re very excited to welcome Andrew Roachford to Karamel tomorrow evening – a musical giant who was the leader and front man of incredibly successful band, Roachford. A platinum selling artist in his own right, Andrew has been a top level musician for a long time and has rubbed shoulders with luminaries including Michael Jackson and Chaka Khan as well as being Lead Singer with Mike & The Mechanics since 2011. With a brand new solo album about to come out, expect Andrew and his band to play his classics and perhaps to play a few previews of the music from his fresh batch of Soul-filled songs. A truly great opportunity for you to see, hear and put your questions to a long standing world class musician.

We got the ball rolling and asked Andrew a few questions…

What can we expect from your new solo album?

My new solo album (Encore) is my interpretation of well known songs from artists that have inspired me and my writing style along the way, people like Bill Withers, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, to name a few… There’s an original track on the album too

What has been the main influence for your new work?
Occasionally at my shows I’ll throw in a cover song and try to get people to hear the song in a whole new light just by the way I interpret it. I think that’s what made doing this album so exciting.

How different is preparing for a smaller, intimate gig compared to a larger show?
Generally for me the only main difference with a big show might be the song choice – some songs translate better in a big venue. I think the bigger shows can become a bit more showbiz but I try to create an intimate vibe even at the big shows. It’s a great feeling when you can get a big audience to feel like one big happy family 🙂

Which do you prefer?
Ideally if I could do two shows a night like Prince – a big venue and then a little venue, I think that would work for me!

Where has been your favourite place to play so far?
I do love playing at the Jazz Cafe in London, the connection with the crowd is always special. I also love playing in Hamburg, Germany.

Do you have a pre-gig routine?
My pre-gig routine is very simple: play James Brown at full volume and open a bottle of champagne! It’s like a pre–party show instead of an after party!

Lastly, favourite food to eat before a gig?
I rarely eat before I go onstage, but if I do it would probably be Sushi.

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You can catch Andrew Roachford at Karamel tomorrow (10th February).

Music starts at 8pm, doors at 7pm.  £10 on the door or £8 here.