In a rare interview, Christine, the legendary Fleetwood Mac singer songwriter and keyboardist talks to us about her love of London, her inspirations and early years in the music business.
Q: How did you get started?
A: I was originally taught to play the piano at an early age. And became quite good at it, reaching Grade 7, my parents very generously supported me. One day I found some Fats Domino scores in a music stool and started to write a couple of songs, then I went to art college. Eventually, I left college and joined Chicken Shack, playing in blues clubs up and down the M1.
Q: What attracted you to the music business?
A: I really enjoyed blues music. It just felt right for me. I often find myself in that situation – things feel right. I naturally morphed into music.
Q: If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you take with you?
A: Umm, can I have electricity? [Yes]. Then I would take a hair dryer. I would eat fresh fruit and there would be plenty of fish in the ocean to eat. I would also like to take some French bread with me. And music? I would take an anthology of the Beatles – a good collection of their songs. And classical music? Possibly some Elgar. Plus some Jazz: oh yes, Miles Davis.
Q: Who or what inspires you in life?
A: It would have to be Fleetwood – it is a living, breathing eternity in my life.
Q: If you could sing with anyone in the world, who would it be?
A: It would have to be Paul McCartney because we would sing well together.
Q: What were your favourite Fleetwood Mac songs over the years?
A: I still play a lot of great songs: Dreams, Go Your Own Way and Songbird.
Q: How many albums did you sell?
A: Over the years, we sold millions and millions of records.
Q: What do you like about London?
A: I lived in the country for a while, in Kent, but now live in London. I have gone back to my roots. London is electrifying. We used to play and gravitate to the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge, south west London.
Q: Describe your perfect home?
A: I like homes with open spaces, as well as roof terraces, which are quite rare in London. And love the community feel in south west London, where people are friendly and know you in shops.
Q: Have you had any home disasters over the years?
A: No, I leave that to the professionals.
Q: Any favourite architects or designers?
A: I really like Tara Bernerd’s work – she is an interior architect. And has just released a new book: Place [Rizzoli, New York]. Her work is inspirational. I might ask her to design my flat.
Q: And finally, what advice would you give to anyone who wants to break into the music business?
A: It’s tough these days, but go with what you believe in. And believe in yourself.
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