Madness

Chris
Was just wondering why the 30 years of madness t shirts now available to buy from the Shop have 1978 under the 30? Shouldn't it be 1979?!

Dear Graeme
Oh dear back to the drawing board.
Graeme

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Hiya Chris,
Got my stunningly, lovely, gorgeous Box sets today. Bought 2 (1 for the littl'un for when he's older) and got to say what a bloody fantastic box set it truly is. My 15 quid will be winging its way to you for the tenner you promise!
Can't wait for Madstock so see ya soon(ish)

Dear Steve
Thanks, that really is fantastic. But I should point out you need to send £30 if you bought 2 box sets.
CB

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Hi CB
Just received my long awaited box set, was it worth the wait, you bet it was, packed with goodies and gems, and the albums not bad either, i think this is the best one yet, not forgetting the M section, quality, good luck down under all the best to you and the boys, see you at vicky park. its all eggs,bacon,beans and a fried slice. Rob.

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Got my box-set today.Just want to say thanks for all the work you all put into us receiving these box-sets.
It's a fantastic piece of work.
Are you still planning a Madstock in Scotland. I live in the Shetland Islands and it would be easier to get to Scotland Than London.
Many Thanx
Phil

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The Boxset has landed! And what a lovely set it is! I will send you the �15 so I can get the tenner you forget to put in it ;-)

Michael Gleeson

Dear Michael
OK.
CB

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what can say apart from a big thank you very much for sorting the problem with the box sets

without you help this wouldnt of happened

see you all in july madstock cant wait

Adam

Dear Adam
It wasn't really much to do with me more our mangement team. Katy Jam Garry and Hugh. glad you got it though.
CB

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Chris
I'm Paul Willo's mate - and am going to the Gold Coast V Fest gig. Hope to catch you at the gig - would love a pic or a scrawl on my vinyl. Looking forward to hearing the tunes off the new album.
Kind regards
Leonie

Dear Leonie
Whhops? I just read this. Hard to get time on the old internet here.If it's any consolation, they are very strict and it's really hard to get anyone backstage. Did you see those two girls who got up with us?One of them was in the process of being thrown out! Hope you enjoyed it anyway.
CB

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Thank you, thank you, thank you for coming back to Australia.
After trying to organise to see you on my first ever trip to Europe/UK I
almost fell into my cornflakes when i discovered you were coming to
Australia (as I was in Finland at the time). But I made it back in time
and am extremely excited to finally see my favourite band play 27 years
after I bought my first Madness record. Thank you again.
Tracy Hefferman

Dear Tracy
No worries.
CB

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Thank you for the boxset and directions how to get the missing 10 note. Unfortunately it is very difficult to get moneys out of my country. If you supply your bank details I could wire across extra moneys and then you wire the change into another accounts.
Mike

Dear Mike
Ha!you won't get me like that again...
CB

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hi chris ,i know you have lost so much sleep over people not receiving the pre order of your latest greatest album! but got home from work wednesday and it was here waiting for me.
so you can catch up on all that lost sleep now
lynn xx

Dear lynn
thnks.
CB

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Hi guys, been a big fan of yours since the 80s. Great to see you in concert. Didn't get the chance to see you live when I was a kid but I've made up for it now. Still as brilliant now as you were then.
Jayne xxx

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Congatulations on the new album, it is excellent, really impressed with the presentation of the boxset too, but one question where do I find my M membership code, I've looked everywhere, wondered if it should have been in the 'M' book as there is an empty plastic slot.
Many thanks! Craig

Dear Graig
I'm sorry I think there should have been a membership card in there. Er can you contact someone ASAP as I am in Aussie.
CB

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Dear CB,

I got my box-set today and I am so happy with it. It's been many, many years since I sat down with a new album and read the lyrics as I listened to it and got so involved. Felt it. It is brilliant, and I absolutely love it. And I'm not even from London!

Thanks to all of the band for a thing of such beauty and quality. Real musical depth and strength, light and shadow. Funny, sad, very clever. Wonderful.

And especially thanks to you Chris, for all your efforts and encouraging us to sit tight and wait after THAT shop went under. Worth every shredded nerve.

Oh, and mine DID have a 10.00 note in it!

See you at Madstock - with a 5-year-old mini-me Maddie called Livvy, we're in the GC, or towards the back of it anyway! She'll be the one in the white silkette Madness "head" scarf...we can't wait.

Peace and Love,

Mat

Dear Mat
Thanks.However, you need to return your box set and all it's contents. It may be faulty. This affects your statutory rights.
CB

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Hi Christofos Formantos,
If anybody's after T's - send them my way....or if you want a couple of dozen for the Victoria gig then let me know..!
All the best big fella,
Jason.

Dear Jason
Er....what?
CB

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I've got my box set. Thankyou very much. Worth the (very slight) wait. It's dare i say WONDERFUL
Jon

dear Jon
No, that was the last album..thanks.
CB

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Hi Chris
got my boxset today. Just wanted to say thanks to yourselves and the management team for getting this sorted out for us. Must say its been worth the wait. Now just waiting for for our Madstock tickets and everything will be complete.
Paul

Dear paul
Thanks
CB

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Hi Mr Foreman,

Hope you are well. What can I say but thanks for such a great box set, it was worth waiting on, just got mine this morning and was so thrilled that I haven't stopped listening to it since. Brilliant stuff, worth the ten year wait.

Believe it or not also I knew before looking at the name on the letter who had 'wrote it'. Knew the personality behind it.
Thanks again
Your loyal Nutty Girl
emma

Dear Emma
Yes it seemed funny at the time. However in light of what happened er I did get bit worried...
CB x

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I have just spent my last 5.00 on Fish and Chips.... Box-set arrived and I am off work tomorrow... Must get some Carling on the plastic!!! Well done lads, its been well worth the wait....
Garry

Dear Garry
Oh yes indeed...
CB

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chris just received the box set.The tracks are outstanding as you would expect from madness.The new site is superb the stories and photos brought back a lot of memories and its great that madness are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year.
mike .

Dear Mike
Thanks.
CB

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Hi Chrissy Boy

Just got in from a totally crap day at work to find......yes, it has arrived 'The Box Set'. I'm like a Kid in a sweet shop, it's brilliant - well worth the wait! Just wanted to let you know as you had been getting so much hastle over the whole 'Box' situation.

Thanks for all your hard work, have a Pint on me with the free 10 note missing from the box!

Carl
Dear Carl Thanks I will send you the tenner. Can you send me some stamps plus packaging costs...
CB

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hi chrissy boy,
what has kept you together for all these years ?
sara dean

Dear Sara
Well we all still enjoy most of the process of being in a band. Most of it except the hanging around is good fyun really.
CB

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Hi Chris , daft question but one i always wanted to know the answer..... Do you or any of the guys own the complete set of Madness picture discs...meaning do the band members automatically get a copy of every limited edition item ( flag bag , g/f, pic disc etc etc) ????
Love the new album!!!
all the best mate , Steve

Dear Steve
Thanks. Between us we may have all the stuff but not really everything. I have been very kindly sent someone's old Madness collection but it is in a box and I have put away till I move.

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Hi Chrissy^^!

I am huge fan of you guys and I was wondering if you would come and play in Barcelona some time as I would love to see you live!

Oh and tell Carl I said hi^^!

Alba

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Hi Chris

Whole bunch of questions really!

1) Why does the vinyl version of Folgate have a different running order and extra track? Any love for vinyl in the band?

Yes I love it, it sounds far better than digital CD's.

2)Was the original long version of Shut Up ever recorded? If so will we hear it on one of the forthcoming reissues?

No it was never recorded. It had an eatra verse which was removed before we recorded it.

3) Are the reissues likely to sound lovely or has someone squashed all the dynamics out of them as per current trends?

No actually they should be really good. Union Square have a brilliant mastering enigineer.

4) What happenned with the singles box set? All those wrong mixes? (Nice to hear It Must Be Love with cold end though.)

Can someone tell me what is the "right" mix? What is a cold end for Gawd's sake? How do you all seem to know? Maybe the orginal singles were not the "right" mix. Barso often says Las Palmas is the wrong mix.
CB

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Hurrah my boxset arrived this morning and it's fab, just a quick question though on the invoice it say's tickets to follow. Is that right Madstock tickets are being sent by the same company doing the boxsets.
Gaz

Dear Gaz
Yes.
CB

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Hi Chris,
I think that l will be oldest person at your gig in Melbourne next week. Can't wait to see the concert. Do you still a lot of your earlier material.
Rob.

Dear Rob,
Yes we do and you can't be older than me...
CB

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Hello again,
If you could choose one Madness song to be made into a video, what would
it be?
Cheers,
Cameron (Madness ambassador to Thailand)

Dear Cameron
The Liberty of Norton Folgate.
CB

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Hey Chrissy Boy,
last time i saw you was in Australia at MonashUni in 1986 and on that tour you guys never finished thye re-start bit from Night Boat To Cairo - i was very confused. Extremely looking forward to your melbourne shows, i have TLONF album and LOVE it...especially On The Town and the title track....so my question is: i bough 6 Gold Tix to Madstock in the UK but now cannot afford to fly over there...i know they
are non-refundable but was wondering how i would let others know in the UK that they could buy them off me for face value now i cant go...lucky for me your coming to Australia huh! Lemme know if you can help and i am soooooo glad you are back in the band!!!
Steve

Dear Steve
I'm sorry to hear about that. I could help if you don't mind me putting your e mail address on this site.Did you even get the tickets yet?
CB

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You're playing all the way down in Australia and you can't
get your backsides to New York for a show? It's a lousy six hours.
Shame, shame, shame.
Jack Newcastle

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hello chris how you doing? Went to the O2 last saturday to see Paul Weller play a blinding show.He had The Coral supporting him and they are a really great band with good tunes.Would you consider having them support you at Madstock? They do list Madness as one of their influences on their Myspace.
All the best
Matt

Dear Matt
Yes I like them too. I haven't any of their records though.Could be an idea..
CB

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Dear Sir Chris of Boymanshire
Just a film question for you, just wondered what are you and the bands\' favorite films?...and sub question (this is getting like High Fidelity), if they were to make a Madness biopic, which they bloomin well should sir, who would you like to play you and the rest of the lads?

all the best Matt

Me? Some Like it Hot, Marx Brthers oh anything really. I could still play myself with some CGI involved...
CB

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Priorities fixed Mr Boy.
Moved ales to next night. Looking forward to seeing you lot.
Been a long time.
PS - I ordered me tix (2) and am worried I won't geddem in time. The website said could be 48 hours b4 the show. Well I\'ll be in Blighty then so that's no bloody good. Surely they'll arrive sometiime b4 that. Can't you go and give em a friendly slap or summink ;)

Dear Beex
Look it will be alright I promise you. If you don't get them I will sort you out.
CB

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Hey CB,
Am going to the V Festival Sideshow in Adelaide and was wondering who the supports were going to be?

If not then were could I find out or will we be enlightened with a whole night full of Madness? Haha.

Alex

Dear alex
Sorry-not yet.
CB

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ordered the box set before x mas,should i receive an e-mail before its dispatched.by the way i agree with you madness are too good to be a covers band,as the new lp proves.
Jim

Dear Jim
Thanks.
CB

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Hello !
"Lucky 7" name: another subtle hommage to the old Prince Buster song or not at all?
Thanks for your reply
All the best
Fredd

Dear Fredd
I don't know. Both?
CB

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Blimey, you're getting quick at these replies, Chris...either
that or theres really not a lot to do in Hove...
but anyway, listening to MADDIE, what previous madness album do you think
Norton Folgate is most like?
I'd say it reminds me of Keep Moving - a good mix of melanchoy and
nutty, or Wonderful. what do you think?
ta Owen

Dear Owen
Yes anything you say.I'm in Australia you nut.OK.......Rise and Fall.
CB

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Hello Chris

How strange is this?!!!

I was on the 341 bus approx a year ago heading south towards Newington Green; One stop (Beyond Ha, Ha...okay) before N. Green Mark Bedford jumped on and went upstairs.

Last Thursday I was on a 341 bus heading North from Newington Green and who should I see(?!) but Mark Bedford walking towards Green Lanes from a side street?!!!

Isn't That weird? considering I normally take a 141 to get to and from Old Street, I can't imagine what I was doing on a 341 - It's true what they say; It's a crazy world!!!!

Thank you Jonesy

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i was wondering if at madstock you would play all the old songs from the one step album at madstock. belive me, in the middle of the night, tarzans nuts, swan lake ect. it seems you only play the baggy trouser, our house, house of fun, which isnt bad but some people want some older ones.
Jack

Dear Jack
I would like to do the whole One Step album one day but not then as it's only 37 minute long or something.
CB

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I had a email from management saying i should be recieving the box set tomorrow or Wednesday,is this true?Reply a.s.a.p.Thanks Bris

Dear Bris
Yes it is true.You should get it soon.
CB

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ordered the box set before x mas,should i receive an e-mail before its dispatched.by the way i agree with you madness are too good to be a covers band,as the new lp proves.
jIM

Dear Jim
thanks for the support. The box sets are going out now so let me know if it doesn't come soon.
CB

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A while back you released the "Singles 2" boxset as a download, being a bit of a tecnofobe and prefering to listen to CD's at full pelt, is there any date to release this collection in the old school format of CD as yet, I know from previous info that the back catalogue is due for re-release and thought this might be in there too. Also any thoughts on playing in Liverpool at some point, possibley at the new arena, it could do with a decent act like yourselves on there.
Besty

Dear Besty
I hope we can do this some time this year or next.
CB

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Alright mate you and the boys are top dressers im an old mod still love that style Very English top boys with Style bring back 1979 when life was slower and the rude boys where SHARP CHEERS ESSEX soulboy
Neil

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Dear Commander
Will you be signing any other bands that you quite like to your Lucky 7 label, like you did with Zarjazz?
finest regards to yourself and all the hard-working gremlins behind the scenes
Owen

Dear Owen
I hope not, although Micheal Jackson is in town soon. He's be good for the label.
CB

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Chris,
Sorry to bother you but any update on when the boxset's will arrive.
I pre-ordered and paid for this in January and receieved a e-mail a fortnight stating it would arrive last week, so far I have had nothing but the link to download the .mp3.
Thanks Jason

Dear Jason
Sorry - no concrete dates for you at the moment. I was told last Saturday was B-Day [boxset day] Can the first person who gets one let me know?

5 Comments

ello' Chrissy Boy.
I'm heading over to Blighty from Oz for me Mum's 70th burfdee which just happens to be the day before Madstock. Well! I had to buy tix, and I have. Was just wondering when the event ends? I know it starts at 2pm but gotta get back to Boredomestoke after for more ales with pals. Tis my first trip 'ome after 17 years! Bet Mum was wondering where I went? Only popped down the shops....;)
Anyway, do you have any idea, young bean?
beex

Dear Beex
Er not really. It should be over at a fairly early hour, due to noise restrictions. Anyway, get your priorities right.
CB

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Hi Chris,
Here's a tricky one for you.
Way back when you last toured Australia your support was The Allniters. They were mates of mine back then because I was in a sh*tty little SKA band called "Off The Shelf". Long story short I gave Suggs a copy of our EP back then. Question is, does this stuff make it back home or his it laugehd at and chucked? I'd be curious to hear what Suggs may, or may not, have done with it.
David "Norbert" Moore - Off The Shelf and later "Dr Raju" (Sydney SKA 80s and 90)

Dear David
I remember them. I was their King for about a week. We hung around with them the first time out in '81 or something. Never got to see them, then they were on at a college or something and they did a version of Get Away [Georgie Fame] which we all sort of liked in a funny way. That CD is probably still under Sugg's bed .
CB

1 Comments

Going to your gig 31.03.09 at that Palace Melbourne and trying to buy "the Liberty....." beforehand as I figure you'll be playing a fair share of it and can't find where to buy it here in Melbourne for love nor money. HELP.. None of the shops indicate that it's even been released here. Can you advise please. Met you guys many years ago when a couple of the guys jumped off stage in Sydney to join a fight. I met some the next day in Melbourne with full sunnies on of course. (those were the days). REALLY LOOKING FORWARD to the gig. Now all we need is a few other ska bands to follow suit and come to Melbourne eg: Bad Manners, Selector, specials etc.
Karen

Dear Karen
Sorry the only way to get the tracks at the moment is if you order the box set and then you get a download of 12 tracks and eventually you will get a box set. Eventually. We hope to release the album in Australia when we get a deal. Sunnies ? Sunglasses?
CB

1 Comments

Long-time fan, first time question:
I've just ordered the fabulous new album (after nearly wearing out the USB Hackney live version), and I was wondering when & how I might digitally download the new album now since it will take a while to get it across the pond to me here in the colonies? Is this still available? The last time I had a chance to see the 'Magnificent 7' nearly a decade ago in Washington, DC was a surprise final show before you left the 'states. It was a smashing good time @ the '9:30 Club' hearing the few new cuts from 'Wonderful' (still one of my favorites!)

I'm heartened that you blokes can still come together and work your magic, after all of the years and tears on the long road you've wandered. All of your talents have grown over time, and I get the feeling that the best is always yet to come!

Cheers! Drew

Dear Drew
You've ordered the box set? Thanks. That will have all the songs on it, plus other stuff. It won't be on iTunes or anything for a while.
CB

1 Comments

Hi Chris

Just wondering what is the latest on a 1st single ?? That Close or On the Town are definately most radio friendly for the summer BUT why not really go for it and release TLONF itself (with a radio edit from about 7min on) - a 10 min Madness opus would be a great way to grab some attention in a world of X Factor (and great publicity for the album of course).

(BTW you should release Sarah's Song one day - one of the finest things you have ever done IMHO)

Safe trip over to Oz Andy

Dear Andy
Thanks. However the first single is "Dust Devil". How about that then?
CB

1 Comments

Hi,
Just wondered if you could tell me if Bedders used flatwound or roundwound bass strings on the 'vintage' madness recordings and gigs?
Madness bass lines always seem a bit more 'growly' than 'thumpy'!
Stephen

Dear Stephen,
I just asked him and it was roundwound. To be precise, Rotosound Swing bass standard gauge. Now you know I did know itwas roundwound actually.
CB

0 Comments

I watched you guys at Sandown when Mr Barson turned up rather late! did he still get his share of the gig fee or did you all share it for your wicked improvisation?
Stevo

Dear Stevo
Of course not.
CB

0 Comments

Hi Chrissy boy,
the whole group are legends to me,been a fan sinse you began and still am,how could i ever get to meet any of you?do any of you still hang around Camden,cos i come from the north west,ive been thinking of staying in the Camden area for a weekend,can you recomend any good nite life,best places to go,hope you reply to this it would make following you all seem so worth it.oh forgot to ask will you ever apear at Brixton academy again?,my alltime ambition is to see you play there,hope you reply back,forever a fan.Mikey boy.................all the best for the future,long may it continue.

Dear Mikey
I live in Brighton. I am out of touch with swinging London town. Not that I have got a clue about going out down here either.
The Dublin Castle is still a laugh though. Tell Henry Conlon I sent you down.
CB

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Oi Oi CB! Tis I again.
heres one for you- have a mate who lives in Oz who is attebnding the Madness V Festival gig.she does lots of work to promote ska there and is interviewing Special Beat out there .She wants her vinyl Madness stuff signing.Any chance of sorting something out? Spoke to your management and they said she'd have to just hang around to see if she caught you .
Paul Willo

Dear Paul
I think they have got it right there.
CB

0 Comments

Clive Langer said in Uncut this month that when he first started producing Madness he took the distortion off your guitar. You seem to have been turning up that distortion knob more and more in recent years. Does this mean we will be hearing the full-on Foreman metal-head soon?
Dominic

Dear Dominic
It's funny the the said that as he told me to get a more distorted sound on "Take It Or Leave It", which I did. I always thought the offbeat had to be all clean and neat till then.
CB

0 Comments

Hello Chris

Can you tell me how can I do to receive an autographed picture of the whole band?
Maybe it's nothing for you, but believe me, it would be awesome for me!

See you in the M section (next week, who knows...???)

All the best
Steve

Dear Steve
It's hard really. you have to know someone who knows someone and so on.
CB

2 Comments

Im off to V Festival Sydney.
Im sure you have your set list ready, but any chance of "When Dawn Arrives" the alleged unreleased single!
And will we hear some of the new album. I have been a fan since I was 14 now 42 and this will be my first opportunity to see the band.Is it possible to get the new collecters album here in Oz.
Cheers Chris
Regards Andrew

Dear Andrew
Alleged single? News to me. I really, really, like that song but I don't think we'll be doing it. The album hopefully we will get a deal with an Australian record company so ahng on there.
CB

1 Comments

Ello chris

Im 13,and my mum and dad brought me up on madness and other ska bands.Me and my mates have started our own band and based ourselves on you lot:)Have you got any tips?

Quinn

Dear Quinn
Start off doing covers of stuff you really like, then try to write your own songs in a similar vein.Worked for us.
CB

0 Comments

Hi Chrissy Boy,
do you still enjoy writing and playing with the boys after all these years? if you could change anything over the years in regards to the bands history what would it be
Steve

Dear Steve
Regrets I have a few but then again too few to mention. I don't think I'd change anything really. Well maybe we should have taken some time time off after mad Not Mad and then reconvened a few years later - which we did I suppose, in a way. Also a few deals were a bit dodgy but otherwise it's been really good.
yours CB

0 Comments

Hello Chris,

Montreux was my first Madness gig, even if I'm a long time french fan.
I've seen some extrats from this show on japan tv (thanks to Madness fans community, and JP).
DO you think this show could be avalaible on dvd one day (err..same question for the 1st Madstock, and the Hackney gig)?
By the way, the new album is a masterpiece (can't wait to have the boxset in my own hands!)

Thanks for all, you're the best band ever!!

Steve

Dear Steve
I don't know about that we don't have the rights.

0 Comments

Hello Chris/Madness,
I've been loyal to you since I got bored of Adam Ant back in the fledgeling 80's and you've not let me down, 'Liberty' is excellent. I live on the outskirts of Bangkok, about 5 minutes walk from the Impact Arena.

I don't suppose you'll ever do a tour of Asia will you?

Cheers,

Cameron -( Madness ambassador to Thailand)

Dear Cameron
Thanks for the support.Keep up the good work and who knows?
CB

0 Comments

do you think there is a chance of a two tone tour ?
Hope so
PS Can you tell Suggs that our Shar Pei puppy is named after him !!Cheers xx
joanne donnelly

Dear Joanne
Who knows? I never thought we'd reform but here we are 18 years later..
CB

0 Comments

Are you actually going to promote the new album properly this time so it does well? The latest singles releases have been very McCartney-esque - ie. they have not charted above the 20s, despite being good songs. Well, get to it!
Kildare

0 Comments

Hey again Chris
Im sorry about the last line in my message it was a typo I really meant YOU!!!!
Just wanted to let you know that someone is selling a Madness nutty boys 1999 Tour shirt on Ebay in OZ right now and the bid is at AU$195.00...What sort of gear will you be selling at your gigs in OZ?
Thanks
Trisha

Dear Trisha
They would be a bit less than that. To tell the truth, to my shame, I don't even know if we are doing any merch.
CB

0 Comments

Hi Chris
Im 40 and have lived in oz since 20
You guys were my absolute idols growing up in Ireland during the 80s.
How suprissed was I when I heard you were coming to Australia.
Then to here you are coming to a winery in Tasmania near where I live.
I cant wait its going to rock.
Tas is a small Island off the south coast of aus population about 500,000
See you soon.

Dear Andrew
Well how about that? I bet you didn't think we'd ever come over.Neither did I!
CB

0 Comments

I'm getting nervous Chris, I bought the box set and 6 golden tickets for Madstock, but only read about the trouble a month ago on the internet. I didn't recieve any e-mails about it. Is this because I'm living in Holland?
Any hope one of you seven is going to write a book about the beginning of Madness up until know? If there is one book about a band I've been waiting to read, that would be it.

Take care
Andre

Dear Andre
Thanks for your patience. I promise you will get the box set if I have to get it for you myself. A Madness book would be a bit difficult really.I f I wrote it that is.
CB

0 Comments

I checke the gig list at the top of the page and counted no less than 19 gigs you guys have planned.

My question is this: How the heck do you guys do it!? I'd be totally wiped after the first one or two.

Good luck to you and the band and may you have a VERY successful tour.
The Azmaddie

Dear Azmaddie
We go to bed early after every show. We don't drink too much either.I don't know - we just keep going.
all the best CB

0 Comments

Hi Chris, so nice to say hello to you!
My question: Did you hear some funny story about the 2006's Argentina gig from the other members?
Thanks! Seva x

Dear Seva
They said they were mobbed like the Beatles. Baros got soem brilliant shoes Next time I'll be with them.
CB

1 Comments

Hi Chris,
this is not so much a question as a back up of your suggestion that Folgate is possibly the best album you've ever done. There's no possibly about it, as a whole this album stands up and beats anything in the Madness back catalogue by a country mile.

I'll end with a proper question: are there likely to be any more Hackney style Folgate and then the hits gigs or do I have to wait and see? That first night at Hackney blew me away. I've never enjoyed hearing new songs for the first time so much in my life and I'll be amazed if I will again (and that is despite seeing Brian Wilson première SMiLE and Lucky Old Sun in London).

Can't wait for my box set. Hope you guys don't get too screwed by the administration. I can't think of any other band who would make the amazing gesture you have to your fans. Thank you most sincerely. Take care.

Paul Rodgers me dodgers.

Dear Paul
You asked about gigs. I delete all gig questions now. Saves time. You know that, but because it's you I'll let you off.
thanks and all the best CB

0 Comments

Hi Chris

Are Madness any closer to securing the support bands for Madstock?
How would you feel about Lily Allen playing?

Aidan

Dear Aiden
No closer as far as I know. Lily yes - she would be great.
CB

1 Comments

Hi Chris,

Long standing Scottish fan here !!

First, well done with the site - its magic !! Also thanks for yer efforts in ensuring we receive our box set / madstock ticket orders.... good of you to keep in touch with the fans, just as you have always done.... still have the signed letter you sent me when the original MIS stopped renewing memberships just after the split in 86.

Any way on the madness central side, you said to let you know if anyone hadn't received the message about the box set being delayed etc - well I didn't, but I did order the box set ??? my e-mail was down for a couple of days last week, so I might have missed it ??? Any way I can check all is ok with my order.??

Finally, Have Madness ever been asked to play , or would you ever consider playing T in the Park ??

I think you would be a massive hit there, and it's just up the road from me ;o)))....

... see you at Madstock ... canny wait !!!

Cheers the noo....... Rob W

Dear Rob
The box set - lets' wait and see who gets them and who does not. Sad to say, but it will be a while yet. I have heard some will go out tomorrow allegedly. No we've never been asked to do T but I would do it like a shot
all the best CB

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well i was right when i said "see you soon"! ps you know the victorian madness lyrics thing we've been doing? well there's a publisher who's interested! would it get your blessing?
Dandy Dan

Dear DD
Oh yes most certainley

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Question about the first Madstock gig (I was there on the Saturday, what a day!).How did Morrissey get on the bill with you. Is it true that you were friends at the time, and he got the sulks when he didnt play on the Sunday and Suggs said that he had tripped over a daisy..If so have you made up since?
Cheers
Jimmy

dear Jimmy
Sad really. I like him always have done. But he shouldn't have been on the bill, really. He got a lot of stick stuff thrown at him and so on, so he didn't turn up next day. That was it really. I said "I told you so" to the Madness boys and all that, but it was a bit sad. I think some people asked for their money back, but not a lot. He stopped writing to me. We had a bit of a correspondence going on. I still mope around the letter box but I have moved about 4 times since then. We'll meet again.
CB

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Just wanting to say hi and hope that you and the others have a great and safe trip over. Looking forward to the shows and may I say its about time!!!!! :) Hope we'll be able to catch up again. I'm flying up to Queensland for the first V show and then back to my home city of Melbourne for both the V and The Palace shows... Have to make the most of your visit..
See you soon
The mad Aussie, Michelle

Er do I know you?
CB

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Hey Chris
Just wanted to tell you guys Im 40yrs old and Im going to my first ever Madness gig when you play at the Palace in Melb and Im sooooooooooooooooooooooooo excited.
I was born in Glasgow and heard my first Madness song when I was I was just a bonnie wee lassie....My kids are 5 and 7 and theyre fav song on Singstar is OUR HOUSE (and they know all the lyrics). You quys are fantastic and I just wanted to say thanks for giving me good memories whilst growing up and listening to your music....Sorry for rambling on..IM SOOOOOO EXCITED..THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.....CANT WAIT TIL 31.03.09.
KEEP SMILING
TRISHA
PS I STILL HAVE A CRUSH ON SUGGS....

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great to hear that you guys r coming out to oz finally.Q. is there any chance that madness might get together with the specials, the beat,bad manners or selecter this year as it is the 30th anniversary of 2 tone ?.maybe a 2 tone tour reunion just like the old days ?.all the best to you and the lads. may MADNESS never die.see ya soon.
the Croydon Kid

Dear CK
Well you never know..Probably not.
CB.

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HI CHRIS
just read an article on the internet about pet shop boys being influenced by MADNESS,what did you and the lads think when you'se heard pet shop boys got that brit award when it was really meant for you'se guys
GAFFO

I tell you what - I'll do 'em. Not rollo - I like them, they are class. I could not give a flying...
CB

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I preorder the box set from trinty street in early Feb,just wondering when it will be dispatched.As i haven't heard anything.reply a.s.a.p.Thanks.Bris

Dear Bris
Count yourself lucky. Some people ordered it in December. Thanks though for the support.You should get it soon.
CB

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Hi lads, where have you been these past few years? Where have I been? Looking forward to catching up again at Luna Park Sydney next week.
Jim

Oh Jim it's long story...See you next week.
CB

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We came to the brixton gig,had a great night,bought the usb wristband and loved it so much that we want to get hold of a longer version of the "orchestal bit" before we are london and as part of the liberty of norton so we can play it at our wedding! any ideas... I did e mail the website a while ago but no reply.
By the way...hello, been a fan since the beginning and saw you first in '81, keep going...!!

Dear Peter
The quality of the Overture was a bit ...suspect. We have edited it and a short version will appear on the album.I suggest a quick pace up the aisle If you wish to use it, you have my blessing.
good luck yours CB

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hi cb,will the hackney gig be sold in shops,and also will the madstock at victoria park be filmed. cheers cb.
stuart

Dear Stuart
Yes it all seems likely. Just don't know when.
CB

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Dear Chris, through various reasons which will remain secret, I only saw you guys life back in the 80's. The last time was in Paradiso Amsterdam (Holland). I tried to get a ticket for the gig in de Paard in 1992, but failed. Now I got my Madstock ticket (hopefuly it's coming) and my girlfriend and I are also going to see you guys in Germany. You don't know how thrilled I am. The new CD is magic, I like the road you guys are going in, and still have the madness touch. I am really, really looking forward to the upcoming concerts, did I say that. Also can't wait for the box set. Any chance "take it or leave it" will be sold again on DVD? I only got a VHS version.
All the best. Andre

Dear Andre
How can you say that? Where were you? In prison? The mind boggles...Take it or Leave It, yes it should be out soon. We are doing Pink Pop is that not near you? Oh - are you in Holland still?
CB

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came to the recent manchester gig,been a fan since 79 and you guys get better,loved the string section that night too ! i know mr. macpherson and woodgate are massive chelsea fans like myself and i wondered who you followed in the football world,cheers.
Steve Harrison

Dear Steve
I do not bother really.Usually the underdog in any big match gets my vote.
CB

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Dear Chrissy Boy
Cast your mind back to Manchester at Christmas, great Gig had however for some drunken reason my camera ended up on stage? I managed to get on stage while they where putting the set away, however no sign of the camera? I wonder if any of the band kept it? It would be nice to recieve the pictures if nothing else as it had photos from before and during the concert until the bloody battery's dropped out, then my new freind thought it would be a good idia to throw on stage! Ask Suggs if he wants a stage double for the upcoming Madstock!! cheers fella, look forward to hearing from you, ps please can you advise a good place to stop when we come down to see you guys?
MadSuggsy

Take your time won't you? That camera nearly had my head off! it was knacked last time I saw it got kicked all round the stage I gave it to a roadie to hand back but where were you? Ah well. Suggs has a stand in already sorry. Who was you new friend? A bird I bet [said in H Steptoe voice]
CB

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I have been collecting cds records etc for years, always looking for something unusual and of value, no luck so far. Imagine my surprise when I seen the rectangle picture disc of waiting for the ghost train on e bay going for 60 quid, i knew i had it. When i retrieved it from storage it was buggered. is this fair?. Ps mad not mad best album, why split then.
Cheers flegger

Dear Flegger
Always the way isn't it? Mad Not Mad best album my a**. Wait till you get load of the new one....
CB

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please enjoy my birthday 26th march while you are in austrailia.sorry i cannot be there with you i do not like flyin see you at mad stock.hope my tickets come
dimadastheycome

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Dear Mr Foreman(leg end)

could you please either advise me personally or advise me where I can get information on the whereabouts of my Madstock golden circle tickets. i ordered them as soon as they were available with my code from pre ordering the box set. while info regarding the box set has been forthcoming, info in tickets has been limited. pleas advise as I am unsure now on whether I will still receive or have to claim on my credit card.thanking you in anticipation.

yours the brummie madness nut. Steven Douglas

Dear Steven
Heres' the deal. You fnd Thommo's passport - I'll get you tickets. Start in every dodgy boozer in Barnet. Sorry. I trust you will get them flippin tickets and I pray everyone of you blessed lovely people that ordered and paid for that box set get it too. Then I can get some sleep.
Cb xx

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trying to find the one step beyond t shirt for my man the one with the m on the back n pork pie hat any ideas????
fiona

Dear Fiona
Hold on. Google...click search Madness + One Step beyond t shirt

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120357486923&cguid=25de25f51200a0e203f56525ffebdbf4

Might not have Chas on the back though...
CB x

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Der Chris will the nutty boys crunch be playing again
Iam your bigest fan our did you get the name of your new alumb and will you be on tv promoting your new alumb we will see you this x mas steven

Dear Steven
I hope so love CB x

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Y'alreet?
Is there any recorded version of Sunshine Voice knocking about? I remember a wee snippet from the Take It Or Leave It film and being a completist it's whazzing me off. Is it a no go or have I overlooked something?
Ta.Rik x

Dear Rik
Sadly not.In the film we just played it live during the scene but never finished the song - if you know what I mean but I'm probably wrong there may be a rehearsal version somewhere....
Cb

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LITTLE BOATS, ICE CREAM AND BEER

Dear Fine Sir,
Once when I was standing waiting for a bus, I overheard a little old man talking to himself. He muttered away to himself regarding the demise of ye olde northern coastal villages. He looked strained and shouted out loud 'buy them an ice cream', 'bottle of beer' and 'nice little boat'. I sat him down and tryed on his hat which fitted perfectly - it was then that it came to me!
We should all support these fine and historical places of interest - do your bit for tourism and let us know next time you're visiting Alnmouth, the Northumberland Nutty Boys will do there bit to help the local economy!!
The little old man grabbed back his hat and advised me one thing - 'it is all well and good, when it's kept under your hat'.

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Wondering if you need drivers this summer to take you to nd from gigs!?! My best mate has worked for Suggs before and is a chauffeuring! Didnt no if I should send you his CV?
Jade

Dear Jade
That's your lot for this week. I have got to pack my bag for Australia.
CB

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Nar then Chris.
Is it true, Suggs will be a suprise guest at the Specials gig in Leeds on May 24th? Or is it complete crap.
John

Dear John
No he will not be there.
CB

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Ta Chris, your a legend!! Will def try my hardest to get it! One things for sure I will be watching Take It Or Leave It for the first time on my bday and cant wait, I hear its supposed to be a good laugh. Bck to the questions, what are the chances of The Dangermen coming back to The Dublin Castle? The last one looked amazin but was to young to attend!! Jade. xx

Dear Jade
Another Dangerman thingy bob? how about the new album Jade my dear?
CB

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I hope that in the future you'll play here in Italy.
I love your music and your camden's style.
Madness are number one!
Greatings from Genoa-Italy
Paolo

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Hey Chris,
There was a Sky TV special on Madness shortly after you split in 1986, which you and Chas presented. During it, Chas played (part of) a track on the piano which I'd never heard before...or since. Just wondering, was that a potential future Madness track? In case you can't remember, here it is...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3ld-aCqoNQ&feature=channel_page

Dear
Well I'll be blowed. The man is so prolific. I thought it would be "Alligator with a Stanley Knife". I have absolutely no recollection of doing this. Look at me - I had hair!
CB

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hey chrissy boy,absolutely love the dangermen sessions cd. please tell me there's going to be another album on the way?! also how about touring as the dangermen? cheers, nuttybrian!

Dear NB
Get with the program. We have got [possibly] the best album we have ever done out any minute and you want us to do another covers album...? er..OK Then.
CB

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