Status Quo founder opens up on Live Aid, fitness and rocking all over the world at 77
A rock music legend who is coming to Harrogate next month has given his own firm views on what the town’s best live venue is.
Francis Rossi, who famously kicked off Live Aid in Status Quo with a barnstorming Rockin' All Over the World, is to bring his Songbook: Quo – Past, Present, Future tour to Harrogate’s Royal Hall on Sunday, October 4.
Speaking to the Harrogate Advertiser, Francis said he remembered that moment well but, adds, covering that particular number by the founder of Creedance Clearwater Revival had been a bit of a gamble.
"John Fogerty, who wrote the song, would be happy for me to say that his original version was a bit scratchy,” said Rossi.
"We gained a lot of fans that day but we lost some of our diehard fans from the 1970s.”
Status Quo, the band he led with the late Rick Parfitt, remain one of Britain's most successful rock bands with hits including Down Down, Whatever You Want and Caroline.
At the age of 77, Rossi is as busy as at any time in a career spanning 60 years of classic rock and, at times, a rock n roll lifestyle.
He now has a strict fitness regime – “I’m in the gym every day. Once I get into a routine, I like to stick to it.”
For this tour, Francis Rossi will be joined by guitarist Andy Brook, who co-produced his recent highly acclaimed solo album The Accidental.
He says he loves to mix music and talk on tour.
"I like the talks format. I want to see and hear the audience.
"You never know what someone is going to say."
Although he’s performed many times in giant arenas and packed stadiums, Francis Rossi prefers old skool venues, much like the places a young Status Quo once played.
"I love the Royal Hall, and Harrogate Theatre’s good, too,” said Franci, who remains a mischievous as ever.
"They’re much better than Harrogate Convention Centre which I’ve played a few times.
"It’s a soulless place that sucks up the sound,” he laughs.