Gray is a singer-songwriter born in Sale, Greater Manchester. A compilation of his greatest hits is released on 12 November. www.davidgray.com
1 Does art make a difference?
Yes.
2 Should politics and art mix?
There is a political context to every artistic statement; art isn’t made in a bubble. Really, the question should be: “How can art and politics ever be separated?”
3 Is your work for the many or for the few?
This question is an interesting one for me, as my music obviously has a broad appeal. Music which has mainstream success is often derided as insipid fodder for the masses, and for a while I was very sensitive to any criticism along these lines. I have now learnt not to take it so seriously. When I’m writing, the work is neither for the many nor for the few – it is for me. Having said that, I’d love nothing more than a Christmas No 1!
4 If you were world leader, what would be your first law?
It’s a Royal Knockout to be an annual televised event (attendance compulsory). Draconian measures to curb energy consumption and preserve nature.
5 Who would be your top advisers?
John Gray (the political writer), Chris Morris, Helena Kennedy, Seamus Heaney, Nick Davies, Jo Brand, Alex Ferguson, Olivia (my wife), Judge John Deed.
6 What, if anything, would you censor?
I would choose not to censor anything. The act of censoring something only makes it seem more interesting and mysterious than it actually is. Making something taboo grants it a power it wouldn’t otherwise have.
7 If you had to banish one public figure, who would it be?
Let’s begin with the entire monarchy (no beheading necessary, see above).
8 What are the rules that you live by?
Never attempt to eat a satsuma or an orange immediately after sucking an extra strong mint. And never let my music be used in an advert.
9 Do you love your country?
There is nowhere I’d rather be. Having said that, upwellings of pompous, imperialistic, jingoistic bullshit really don’t do it for me at all.
10 Are we all doomed?
Individually, yes. In terms of the entire human race, yes. As a living planet and ecosystem, yes. Happy days. l
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