The First Song I Fell In Love With

As a kid, I was really into Gene Vincent. Then my parents got me a record, and I was kind of amazed by how gritty and brilliant the guitar sounded. Ray Davies? Definitely one of the top songwriters in the UK.

The First Single I Bought

It was “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town” by Kenny Rogers. I grabbed it at this tiny shop in Finsbury Park. They sold reggae, Jimi Hendrix, all sorts of stuff. The owner, an older lady, had some wild taste in music.

Songs I Do at Karaoke

Karaoke is just not my thing. It’s usually pretty awkward, and I can’t stand the expectations of my friends who, let’s face it, usually aren’t that great either. I’d much rather enjoy a drink than try to channel my inner Roy Orbison.

A Song I Secretly Like but Pretend I Don’t

“Dying with a Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars is catchy, yes. It might seem made for the masses, but—I mean, I don’t really dislike pop culture. I’ve always had a soft spot for Lady Gaga; her vocal delivery is just so strong.

A Song I Inexplicably Know All the Lyrics To

“The Spy and the Sun” has a way of sticking in my brain. It’s a unique fusion—kind of different from standard rock and roll. Just an incredible band.

Songs I Can’t Listen to Anymore

“My Coo Ca Choo” by Alvin Stardust. Yeah, not a fan anymore.

Perfect Song to Play at a Party

[Sings] “Show me the way home / I’m tired and want to sleep / You only have half the soccer team / Turn the white and red boys.”

A Song That Changed My Life

When I first heard “Moonlight on Vermont” by Captain Beefheart, I thought it was kind of absurd. But then his voice hit me: “Gimme Dat Ole Time Religion.” It was comedy and intelligence wrapped together. It made me rethink how I view music—it doesn’t always have to follow strict patterns.

Song That Makes Me Cry

Anything by Roy Orbison hits deep. My wife, Nora, used to love his music too. It just resonates.

Songs You Want to Play at the Funeral

Mozart’s Requiem definitely holds significance for me.

Public Image Ltd has a tour starting on May 22nd. You might want to check out Pilofficial.com for details.