Interview: Craig David

Craig David first hit out headphones way back in 1999, with Re-Rewind (The Crowd Say Bo’ Selecta). After a busy few years scoring hit after hit (who can forget Fill Me In) in the early 2000s, Craig dropped out of the public consciousness. But, 17 years later, he is back, playing a UK-wide arena tour featuring both old and new music, and will be visiting Bristol’s Harbourside for a special gig on June 23, organised by Bristol Sounds.

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You recently kicked off you tour in Cardiff. How’s it going?

It’s been an incredible experience, being back at that level and arenas that size after so many years. You do all the rehearsals, but there’s nothing like going out in front of the crowd and seeing the response that you get to certain songs – it’s incredible, and quite emotional for me.

The people coming to see me are from two generations, which I never really expected. There’s a whole new generation of teens and kids experiencing me for the first time, and then their older siblings or even their parents, who grew up with my music – it’s nice to see them all getting down to the same songs.

What should audiences expect when you come to Bristol this summer?

It’s going to be something special. By the time I get to Bristol, it’ll be a slick operation. I love performing outdoors sound-wise – in an arena, you’re always trying to fine tune the sound so that everyone gets a good experience, but outside it’s just natural, and the sound carries so much better. And there’s something about sunshine and good weather that gets everyone in the mode to listen to good music. Everyone turns up that extra bit.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNvemZBq6A4

I’ve been to the Bristol area a few times on the festival circuit. When you start to venture out from london you just find that the crowds notch it up to the next level – it’s amazing to see the energy in the building.

I take every show as being the most important – it doesn’t matter how big or small they are. I’m always trying be in the moment and give the best I can, and its amazing to see people have had a good time. I just want to give everything right now, and not hold back, as if every gig is the most important of my life.

What does the future hold for you?

In between the shows I’m writing new music, so I’d like to think there would be a new album this year – and if not, then definitely some new music. I like to mix it up, and, when there’s momentum going, drop new things into my set.

This tour and the life I’ve led is way beyond what I ever dreamed of, as a kid growing up. To me then, to venture from Southampton to London was a big deal – little did I know that I’d travel the world and do wicked shows. I’m so grateful for the love and support people have given me. That’s something to smile about when I wake up in the morning.

Tickets for Craig David at Bristol Sounds go on sale at 8am on Friday, March 31 are available here

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