Remembering the golden age of pop
He spoke to KATE CLARKE ahead of the show.
A new album and a demanding tour after half a century in the business, do you ever think about kicking back and playing golf?
"I never liked golf, I play a little tennis. But no, I have been singing for 50 years and writing for 57.
"It has taken me around the world, and in many cases I was the first rock'n'roller to go to some of those countries I visited. I'm very happy to be doing this."
You started out writing songs during one of pop's golden periods and you were one of the princes of the Brill Building. Were you aware at the time that this was a special era?
"My father, God rest his soul, said the songs would last. I wasn't sure. But I still hear my songs from 50 years ago being played on the radio. We had to write songs with lots of hooks that would get radio play and it worked."
"I was there as part of Aldon Music, with people like Neil Diamond, Carole King and Bobby Darin.
"Neil and I went to the same school. We are good friends and we still see each other now."
Great "vintage" singers like him, you, Tony Christie, Paul Anka and Tom Jones are putting out some of the best albums of their careers now, and hip producers are keen to be on board. Are we becoming less conscious of cool and more aware of talent?
"I think the creative process is a very interesting thing. It is very important to try something new and to do things that challenge you as a writer. You cannot rest on your laurels. I think that is why I'm still working.
"This new collection of mine, is, I think, my crowning glory."
One of the hallmarks of your songs is an utter lack of cynicism — you sing and write like a man satisfied with life. Has that, during certain periods of popular music, worked against you?
"I was born with optimism. I laugh in the rain. I write intellectually and emotionally, and I think music should touch people emotionally."
What are you listening to?
"Maroon 5, Coldplay, Adele, John Mayer and Snow Patrol. I have a satellite radio that I listen to all the time."
What is next for you?
"We have a show, based upon my life, coming out next year in London, called Laughter in the Rain."
Tickets: (Returns only, so phone ahead): 029 20878444.
Comment on this story