musicOMH: You started your career very early, playing in your uncle's band at 14. What was it like, touring at such a young age?
Richard: It was better than school and quite an adventure, however, I wouldn't advocate kids skipping school - not everyone is lucky.
musicOMH: What were your early musical influences - bands, people?
Richard: Stanford Clark, Fats Domino, The Everlies, Ferlin Husky, Santo & Johnny, Bob Lind, you know - the usual.
musicOMH: You've waited a long time to come into the spotlight. Were you writing songs all the time you were playing in bands such as The Longpigs and Pulp?
Richard: It was an accident that I started singing and yes, always. But quietly in a corner.
musicOMH: You're known as a brilliant guitarist, but you also have that amazing voice - how come you've never used it with bands in the past?
Richard: They already had a singer and I didn't think anyone would like me warbling on.
musicOMH: How do you go about writing your songs? What gets you writing?
Richard: I hope I never know the answer to that one.
musicOMH: Does songwriting come easily to you?
Richard: Yes.
musicOMH: You once remarked that you write 'dodgy cowboy songs'. Has the warm welcome you've received since going solo surprised you?
Richard: It's bowled me over totally. I thought you'd all hate it.
musicOMH: You seem to have a great supporter in Jarvis Cocker. Did he encourage you to strike out as a solo artist?
Richard: Yes, he's a pal. He just thought it should be released & he's a good support man to have in my life.
musicOMH: Late Night Final was very well received, the new single is being widely played and you're about to embark on your first headline tour - are you very pleased with the way your career is going or would you have had it a different way given the choice?
Richard: Again, I'm surpirised that people like it, I just don't want it to run out of control and get into corporate hands. Over my dead body.
musicOMH: What music do you listen to when you're at home and relaxing with the family?
Richard: It tends to be "Old McDonald had a farm" on the kid's tapes. My wife likes Spiritualized and Lemon Jelly amongst others and I love old country and blues stuff. Jim Reeves and a can of Guinness relaxes me most evenings! Easily pleased, I am!
musicOMH: What's been the best moment of your career so far?
Richard: Well, headlining Glastonbury with Pulp springs to mind but there are others.
musicOMH: What's your biggest unrealised ambition?
Richard: I'll keep you posted. I'd love to jam with Johnny Cash, though.
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Mercury Prize 2009 nominees
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BUY Richard Hawley - Lowedges
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