Hello. Chrissy Boy here, back where I belong.
Send me a question and I’ll answer it.
Within reason. Nothing about “when's the next gig” please. That’s in the bit called “gigs” on the main page at the top. If you want to just say hello to any of us, please feel free to post a comment.
Thanks CB x
 
 

Name

Email

Subject

Question

 
GOLD TICKETS

madness releases Golden Tickets, which are hidden among ordinary looking madstock tickets The winner of the ticket is promised entry to madstock which has been closed for many years, as well a special prize at the end of the tour
don

OK DON?
CB
Sing a long

Hello Young Chris
Just to say that out of the blue my 3 year old daugther , Alyssa , stated to sing "On the town" today! What a proud father i am !
All the best

The Flash

Dear Barry
Fantastic! Was this in public? We may be due a fee. Contact the PRS.
CB
General Crap

Not long to go until Drinkstock. I shall be challenging Jon Young, Hazleby etc and the rest of the MIS guys to a mega beer binge challenge, Thommo joined in on our last tournament at Gt Yarmouth downing countless pints of IPA but had to do a shoot early as he had his lad with him. Please feel free to take part, its an open invitation. See you at the bar. Hic..... Mr ScUrF

Dear Garry
No, you're OK.I'll give it a miss.
CB
the liberty of/greatest hits

dear chrissy boy as a regular visitor to your cupboard so to speak i think your new album could well turn into another greatest hits with so many excellent songs on it including current hit dust devil previous hit nw5 forthcoming hit sugar and spice and future hits forever young,that close,bingo,on the town and my personal favourite future hit idiot child. if you could person a certain marathon runner to add your wonderful/sat night,sun morning and when dawn arrives to set list for madstock it would be most appreciated waiting patiently for golden circle tickets and thank you for the music,memories and madness from the past 30years and heres to the next 30yrs keep up the good work and a big thanks from clifford

Dear Clifford
Thanks, I will have a try at it.
CB
Gatcombe park gig june09

Could Suggs wish my 'Old Mate Trace' Happy 40th Birthday on Friday at Gatcombe Park

Too late. I only just read this.If it's any consolation I would have forgotten anyway.

CB
amazing

hi chrissy im not going to pester you any more over backstage tickets ..i just wanted to fill so much as i can in this yr of my 40th..getting tickets for MADSTOCK is the best and im happy with that and also can i say a big thankyou to peterlee parachute centre gave me a great day and the sky dive was amazing...id do it again...see you all on the 17th july.thankyouxx
love helen from newton aycliffe near durham,near newcastlexx

Dear Helen
Congratulations.
CB
Madness Virgins

Hi Chrissy,
Wife and I are both Madness virgins, love your music and attitude but never been to one of your gigs before...we are traveling to gatcombe park on friday night and looking forward to the gig immensley.
What can we expect from the show and what capacity are you anticipating
Many thanks Kev n laura

Dear Kev n Laura
Er right missed this one as I went from Gatcombe Park towards Glastonbury. Hope you liked it anyway.
CB
Lovestruck!

I can't find it on itunes. I expected it to be in The Liberty Of Norten Folgate (great album by the way) but to my dispair it was not. Do you know where I can find this song? If I can at all that is.
Tom

Dear Tom
It's on the Wonderful album.Which is currently deleted.Sorry.
CB
Bed & Breakfast Man

Hi Chris, you responded to my weather question so gonna be cheeky & ask another (prompted by the post below mine). You will be playing "Bed & Breakfast Man" in 10 years time you said....... & quite rightly so..... it's always one of the first tracks I skip to on my Madstock CD. Why was it never released as a single???
Debbie

Dear Debbie
It nearly was. We even did a video for it.We thought Night Boat was enough singles from that album. We actually thought 4 was too many singles. We could have got away with it I think in retrospect, but we really did think it was ripping off the fans. Which was why Night Boat was a 4 track EP.
CB
Hi

Hi cb, Watched Take It Or Leave It for the 1st time last night! Very much enjoyed! I do have to say the ending gave me the right goose bumps, knowin u started off as a bunch of kids wiv sum terrible members and people who really couldnt sing, to finding the right people, wiv the right attitude, sound and nuttiness to being here 30years on and loved by millions! Its Madness! Hope all of ur actin has improved!?! lol. On another note just read over a new message statin the tickets wouldnt b sent out until 4th July! Is this tru? If so I think alot of us are gettin more and more worried as it seems to b gettin put off just like the LONF album! Jade. xx

Dear Jade
Yes, but you got your Norton Box sets didn't you? Give it another week..
CB
re. take it or leave it

yes. got a sister called sue. uh oh. she was never a ska fan like me. but she liked the band. go on go 4 it. a follow up to the film. the clip on the tube. was it all done by ur selves the lights or were stunt doubles used? also if you could name your fav track of all time by your selves. what would it be and y? loving norman folgate album. cant get enough of it. reminds me alot of the album take it or lave it. thanks once again chris.
mick cannon

OK - I got a message from her too.
CB
Greatest Hits

I heard the other day that there is going to be yet another greatest hits cd out later this year with a working title of Absolute Madness. Well what about Mega Madness as a greatest hits title?
tony

Dear Tony
Correct Except no one liked the title Absolute Madness apart from me..Mega Madness? No not that one.
CB
Meet & Greet Damon

hey CB
You should really try to meet and greet the boys from Blur at Glastonbury this Sunday. Maybe Tom Jones too??

Paul

Dear Paul
Didn't get time for Tom but I got three of Blur..
CB
The Perfect Madstock (in my opinion)

One Step Beyond
Embarrassment
The Prince
NW5
My Girl
The Sun & The Rain
Dust Devil
Los Palmas 7
Iron Shirt
We Are London
Shut Up
Sugar & Spice
Rise And Fall
Forever Young
Lovestruck
Bingo
Bed and Breakfast Man
That Close
Grey Day
The Liberty of Norton Folgate
Clerkenwell Polka
House of Fun
Wings of a Dove
Baggy Trousers
Our House
It Must Be Love

Encore:
Tarzan's Nuts
Madness
Night Boat tio Cairo
Pig Bag

How does that look to you?
Patrick

Dear Patrick
Very good to me.
CB
victoria park

hi,

Is gregory issacs still going to be at victoria park? or was it a rumour?
tara

Dear Tara
As far as I know, yes.
CB
Tickets.....? :-)

Tickets.....? :-)
Question: Chrissy Boy,

Could you tell me when the tickets for 'An Evening with Jimmy Greaves' are going to be released? I've been waiting feckin' ages but naff all.
Thomo

Dear Thomo
You are on the wrong site.
CB
thanx

thanx ,4 the new album ,superb, me and my m8 yogi coming down from bolton 4 vic,park,hotel sorted,bring it on,again thanx, b gud
fudge

Dear Fudge
Yippee!Behave yourselves..
CB
With an orchestra

Dear Chris,
A question which has been crossing my mind for quiet some time now. Will Madness ever play life with a full orchestra. I know some of the songs have violins in etc, but a full orchestra would be even more impressive and most of the songs have the quality (one can only think of 'one better day', 'rise and fall' and most of the new songs 'LONFG') for the arrangement.

Sunny regards,
Andre


Dear Andre
Yes I'd like to do it, maybe we will one day.
CB
Next album

Hi Chris, thanks for taking time to do this.
I love TLONF boxset. I can't wait for the next album. Just a suggestion but you could consider writing some sings about some of the fans home towns. For example Bolton Lancashire, however you may have difficulty finding rhymes for Pound Shop. See you at Madstock (can't wait)
SteveR

Dear Steve
Just enjoy this one first..
CB
got them , tickets

hi chrissy boy , you will be pls to know my 2 tickets came this morning , mr postman made me sign 4 them , so look 4ward to seeing you guys on the 17th july...
paul cowen

Dear Paul
Hurrah!Now buzz off.
CB
worst comment?

Hello There! I'm not a fan or yours, but i just wanted to know, what is your worst comment recieved on this site? By the way my middle name is "not" ;)
Harold IsGhey

Dear Harold
I deleted it. It never went on.
CB
video questions I always had as a kid and still do now

#1: Sweetest Girl - Where was the location and who's the bloke with the accordion? I've had a good look at the timeline and conclude it must be Seamus or the other keyboarist - the one with the glasses who did the intro and sleeveshot for Uncle Sam, but I can't hear no accordion on ANY track other than Waltz Into Mischief.

#2: In the waiting for the ghost train video, is it really Lee who does a solo parachute jump with a small plastic sax? It's one of the funniest video moments when he attempts to play it mid fall but loses his balance and goes into a spin. Lee seems to go to great lengths to entertain the fans but this was a great stunt, beyond the call of duty and I take my hat off to him - please pass it on. Maybe he had jumped before and had experience but nowadays I think you have to do your first jump tandem.

#3: Why do two of the court judges in the Yesterdays Men video have condoms on their heads?

Okay good luck with Madstock, wish I could be there. Hope you YouTube the highlights and look forward to some meet n greets & guitar cam.

Cameron

Dear Cameron
1 The location was a disused pumping station in West London I think..yes it was Seamus he has a band called the Duplicates now, they are great.

2 It wasn't Thommo they wouldn't let him do it on the day he went it was too rough to jump. He would have doneit though.
3 F*ck nose ha ha geddit?

CB
Golden circle

What is the golden circle? some sort of dodgy video?
Crabtree pencilcase

Dear Crabtree
I only wish it was...
CB
MMB

Please.

Please..

Please play an Irish show and CONVINCE the Mighty Mighty Bosstones to support! I would love you forever and ever and ever, amen!


Keep up the great work!

D
take it or leave it. the movie.

still laff at it to this day. kids love it. the band and the old days doin this n knickin that pmsl. hows about a follow up chris? and is there any chance of seeing the out takes of this classic nutty boy film ever being released? ps. can we see madnesss up here in west yorkshire? odsal stadium. great vennue 4 it. cheers cb. big high to all the lads.

mick cannon
There wasn't really any out takes it was all done in one shot a lot of the time. A folow up? Ha ha no chance. Have you got a sister called Sue [or wife?]
CB
Weather

Hi, love Madness & always have. Went to see you at Newbury races on 30th May. Weather was fabulous. Went to Westonbirt a few years ago & the weather was again fabulous. Going to Gatcombe Park on Friday & weather forecast is looking good again. Does it ever rain when you are performing outdoors?
Debbie

Dear Debbie
Oh yes it does my dear. It did in Germany recently.
CB
Bed & Breakfast Man

Hello Chris,
I've been a fan since I was 10, way back in '79 but have never seen you live! Shocking, I know. What are the chances of you playing Bed & Breakfast Man when I do eventually get to see you? Heard you were brilliant at Donny Racecourse - might you play there again? Love to you all.
Lesley x

Dear Lesley
We will still be playing it in ten years time.
CB
tickets

Hi Chris,
Just to let you know i got my gold circle tickets 3 weeks ago.is 1 going to send me a signed picture of the band?
All the best Anthony.


Dear Anthony
Send a photo of them to this site and I'll believe you...
CB
hi

hi ya first saw you at lewisham odeon with the go go's 'think you'll all great but had a favourite chas , love to chas x Sue Cannon

Thanks Sue
CB
Chipmunks are go !

Chrisy boy. My son is 3 years old. He knows all the words to Chipmunks are go - to hear him boom 1,2,3,4 and slip into a fuzzy version of ' dya have a good time tonight boys yep we sure did, dya think the time is right boys yep we sure do" is something that will live with me and ring in my ears forever - I cannot think of a song that doesnt have any instruments, ever ! what made you do this ? desolate tube stations late at night I suppose ....turning inside out with excitement for Madstock - i missed 98, so I cannot wait. I live for the day to take my son to the gig - providing you lot live long enough ! keep well....Gerrard, a deluded fan since, 3 years old....

Thanks Gerrard
It was Chas and his brother that came up with it.
CB
set list ay madstock

hi chris
i agree more new songs from the new album should be played at madstock ,after all it will be mostly madness fans and plenty of the die hards like myself.would love to hear idiot child live again,and you have to play tlonf bingo ,and without a doubt that close too.talk to the guys see what they say.how about the whole of the new album.and ten or eleven chestnuts that will do for me.
see you at madstock
michael

Dear Michael
I will try to.
CB
pop stars

hi chris
hope you are well my question is who is the best other pop stars you have met who you get on with the best or you have alot of respect for.
many regards mark.

Dear Mark
I don't know many these days socially that is.Noddy Holder, he is class I must say a great bloke to meet, a really funny man
CB
Hi Lads

Good to hear the new Album.

Look forward to seeing you at Madstock!

Jamie, Ballers and Russ

Me too.
CB
vid

Hi Mate
Do you know if i can still get a copy of the movie about you guys. Had it years ago but somehow over time it lost its way..cheers
chris

Dear Chris
Sorry it's been deleted but it should get re released soon.
CB
Madstock Question:

To all the band
The Liberty of Norton Folgate has to be the best Madness album yet I thought you would never top One Step Beyond.Congratulations on your 30 year anniversary. We will be travelling 250 miles to attend Madstock and for my daughters aged 10 and 7 it will be their first trip to London and their first gig, we can't wait. Can you try and arrange for more Sun than Rain.
Mark

Dear Mark
Thanks and I will give it a go.
CB
V.I.P

Heya chrissy Boy ,
I am 14 and i recently came to see you @ the norfolk showground on the 13th june - might i say brilliant show =) - and i saw lots of V.I.P's who were around my age and at the end a girl came on and said thank you for coming - are they children of either , madness , asward or the deulers ?? Hope you write back - Thank's
Ella Gatier

Dear Ella
I don't know, it all gets a bit confusing. Were they my kids?
CB
Fathers Day

Fathers Day
Question: I got a ukelele for fathers day. Have you ever tried one?
Plus, i got my tix for the dirty brown circle about 2 weex ago.
So there!!
ex Mr Flo

Dear ex Mr Flo
I have, but Bedders is the master..
CB
9 jun portugal

hey CHRIS i saw you guys in pav atlantico. loved it!! remenber me? the boy near you and the sax. i was with my blonde girl.did you like playing it portugal? come again it was delicious!!!ok?
rui domingos

Thanks Rui we will.
CB
Madstock!

Dear Chris
Imagine this: Woody rings you up and says "Hi Chris, I'm just doing the Madstock set list. So far I've got One Step Beyond, Embarrassment and The Prince, but after that I'm stuck. I'm asking everyone what are their top 5 songs that they would like to play. What are yours?" How would you answer?
Dominic

Dear Dominic
I'd rather not.
CB
Lost in the museum???

Hi Chris

Years ago I bought the Yesterday's Men 7" and it rings a bell that on the inner groove for the b-side it said: "Taken from the forthcoming album Lost in the Museum" or something like that. Was that a working title for Mad Not Mad?

2) Was All I Ever Knew at any point scheduled for Mad Not Mad?#

All the best

- Mike

Dear Mike
We went to see Dave Robinson shortly before we parted comapany and he said "I'm not running a museum!". So we always referred to the next album as that for an in joke. When we record songs they are all inteneded as singles or album tracks then some fall by the wayside and become b sides.
CB
Carlisle United / Lunatic Festivel

Hi Chris,

The re-recorded intro to "One Step Beyond" for Carlisle United was apparently done by Chas. (been doing a little research, and found this link, maybe you would like to check it out).
Madness go one step beyond for carlisle united

If they play football, as well as they do the Madness walk, then we are going down.....

Then to my question....
Here in Luneburg, the Students hold a Festivel every year around June/July, and I was wondering what the chances would be of getting Madness to do a gig here next year, as it would pass together nicely.

Lunatic Festivel.
Madness.
Nutty Boys.
See what I mean? It passes.

Then how long will Madness be playing at the Roskilde Festivel ?

Take Care, keep up the Great work.

Colin

Dear Colin
We will be on for about an hour I think at least.
CB
I hear thunder........er.... the weather condition, not the band!!

SO, what would ever be the chance of Madness playing something from the "The Madness" album...am thinking that Thunder and Lightning is particularly Madnessy (rather than "The Madnessy") sounding.....Looking forward to the Golden Circle...I'll wait until the end of june before i ask the usual...! CF
Carlos Fandango

Dear Carlos
Not likely really. Thanks for waiting. It could be July 4th I think..
CB
Folgate

Hi Chris
Just received my copy of Folgate from Amazon, brilliant.Just like good wine, Madness just gets better with age.Thnank you for the best memories of my 47 years.My wife met Suggs at a 300 year old hat shop in London where he was doing a TV shoot.I'm still green with envy & the pic is permnently on my fridge.
Mark

Thanks Mark. I've met him too but I don't have a photo of it..
CB
PLAY LIST

Hi Chris

I just wondered if you are sticking to the play list at every gig this year or are you going to vary it

Cant wait for Madtock.. roll on 17th July

Helen

Dear Helen
I would like to change it but we never get time. Most of our gigs lately we don't get sound check which is the only chance we get to practise stuff.
CB
what shall i wear

Dear Chris
I am going to your amazing gig this friday and was not sure on waht i shall wear. Becuase you are the expert what do you think i should wear.
write back
Carol

Dear Carol
Er Dr Martens and a Donkey Jacket plus a builders helmet [yellow]
CB
Let's be having ya

I know this may sound like a naive question but what time is Madstock likely to finish, so I can arrange getting home? Probably a how long is a piece of string question I know!
Bob

Dear Bob
About 11pm I think.
CB
golden circle

still not recived confirmation of madstock golden circle ticket please help me misses and kids getting worried HELP
mark elstow

Dear Mark
Do not worry. They will come on the 4th of July or therabouts.The first person to recieve them [that can send me proof] will get a signed picture of the band.
CB
the new album

hi chrissy boy just bought the new album and its amazing cant stop listening to it. been a while since i have bought and album and loved all the tracks on it well done to you all and thank you so much biglol

Thanks Lol
CB
Norton Folgate

Hi Chris
Just listened to my fathers day prezzy,The Liberty Of Norton Folgate,in fact i listened to it twice.I never thought Madness would better the music made particulaly in the 80's(when i was a lad)but to me this has.Got to be Madness at your best,Well done and lets have some more. Mick

Thanks Mick
CB
Mexico Madness

Hi Chris,
Just back form 2 weeks in sunny Mexico. Sitting in the resteraunt on our first night, listening to the background music, when "hey You" rings out and One Step Beyond livens up the resteraunt. If there is a Mexican PRS they owe you a few bob, I would contact the Embassy straight away!
Matt A

How fantastic.I think we are quite popular there, for some reason.
CB
Kebabs

Hiya Chris,

Just a quick question....When are the tix bein....just joking!

On 'The Business'box set, during an interview with Chalky & Toks (I think) they are asjed whet the band would do if Madness ever split up (perish the thought). You was put down as having a Kebab shop. Would this be a viable option?

Just wondered for years..

take it easy

Fred

Dear Fred
Not these days.
CB


chaz
Question: hello, anyone know when chaz is gunna run for prime minister?
Db

Dear Danny Boy
Soon.
CB
sugar and spice

When is Sugar&spice going to be released?Reply a.s.a.p.Thanks
BRIS

Dear BRIS
ASAP.
CB
help...

Hello Chrissy Boy,

Hope you are well and enjoying the festival season.

I would like to ask you for some help if possible. I know it is cheeky, however gotta start somewhere!

There is a great band called Will and the People, they have been together for about 18 months and are fantastic they actually remind me of you guys in some ways, they have support Girls Aloud, The Script, Paulo Nutini, just to mention a few! They have been gigging in London at many venues including The Waterats, Borderline and 93 Feet East, they are playing at Glastonbury(check them out as you are there) the sound they play is really fresh, like fresh Ska, reggae, pop, they were signed with RCA however they have been released due to unforseen circumstances,

All the band members are so down to earth, it would be big big shame if these guys don't get the big break they deserve, honestly if you know of anyone that could help them on their way, please plesse check them out they have a myspace page which is myspace.com/willandthepeople please please please help them if you can on to the first step of the ladder... enjoy glastonbury... nimla xxx

Dear Nimla
I am not that influential. We could't even get our last single played! they sound pretty catchy and they have done some good supports so who knows?
CB
Set list

Hi again CB,

Just another quick question:
You played much less of the new material in Norwich last week than at the O2 at Xmas - do you choose your set list according to the type of audience you expect? Would you play more of a greatest hits style set for a picnic and deckchair type crowd there for a nice evening out, with more of the newer or more obscure material for an audience of more hardcore, regular Madness fans? Am hoping you might do so at Madstock, especially more TLONF stuff. (Not that it really matters I guess, as you guys really seem to nail it every time whatever you play)
Cheers,
Shaun.

Dear Shaun
Thanks again and you are right about the set list. I would rather do more new stuff. What does everyone think?
CB
Norwich gig

Hi CB,

Thanks for a tremendous night in Norwich last weekend, a really enjoyable gig made even more special by seeing how much the wife and kids ejoyed it and danced their socks off, and also not having to worry about rushing to catch the last train home! Hopefully it was financially viable and enjoyable enough for you guys to consider playing in these here parts again soon? I have to say The Dualers were superb - probably the most I have ever enjoyed any support act, any chance we might see them again at Madstock? Together with Aswad they set the tone brilliantly and generated a great atmosphere by the time you guys hit the stage.
Was it you or Bedders who got a cab home with Woody after the gig? It was with the firm I drive for, but obviously I had the night off for the gig and so missed out on the fare of a lifetime, maybe next time!! Can you believe the driver had never heard of Madness, he just knows he took the drummer and a guitarist - though he said you/they were top guys, and was chuffed with his tip!!!
Thanks again, and come back soon!
Shaun.

Dear Shaun
Thanks, the cab was not me, I never tip. ha ha
CB
Fathers Day Heaven!

Just wanted to say thanks to you both,my kids for buying me the new album and to you for making it!The album has been on non stop today,and That Close is the stand out track for me and the kids!Roll on Madstock,not long now time to polish my boots me thinks!!!!!!!
Murray

Dear Murray
Thanks and what good kids you've got.
CB
gatcombe park

just to say hello to you all,coming to gatcombe park ,cant wait,givbe us a good show.
thanks for entertaining me since the 80's
thanks again

adrian geal

Dear Adrian
Thanks - it's a pleasure.
CB
bass

what was the bass player of Madness called? I can't for the life of me remember
christie

Dear Christie
Er...he was called Stig. No, young Billy..erm Google it
CB
Let's Go!

You played 'Let's Go' at Sherwood Forest a couple of years ago and we were really looking forward to hearing the studio version. But it's not on the new album! It's BRILLIANT, a real stomper! Any chance of a release?
Gareth

Dear Gareth
It's in the box set's extra tracks.
CB
songs for madstock

any chance you can play some forgotten gems at madstock,victoria gardens,razorblade alley,close escape ,to name a few.see you there,sure it will be good no matter what you play.
jim

Dear Jim
I can tell you that the chances of that are very slim.Indeed.
CB
lovin ya work

Not a question just some comments
just to say thanx or yet another brilliant album , i have 2 boys and they love all the madness tracks a, ive been a fan since 1979 when i was only 8 and if only thing i pass on to my kids is loving you boys then i am happy .thanx once again xxxxxxxxxxx
shelley ferreira

Thanks Shelley.
CB
beer tins Question:

hi cris your new albums the dogs ba`s,at madstock are we allowed to bring our own tins of the amber nectar with us? thanks vic

Dear Vic
Probably not. Try a rucksack..
CB
BINGO!

Dear CB
On the song Bingo, I assume that the reference to Old Mother Redcap is about the Worlds End Pub that used to be the Old Mother Redcap or Old Mother Damndable, but what does the Kantiston Cobbler refer to?
All I can come up with is reference to Thrush Cream!!! Itchy Bits, no fanks guy!
One Love Mr Boombastic

Dear Mr Boombastic
It was a shoe shop in Highgate Road, Kentish Town.It's spelt Kentistown
CB
stand ins

what are the name of the stand ins when one of the 7 maddies cant make it and are they in other bands
martin

Dear Martin
Well for me it's Eric Clapton or if he's busy Kevin Burdett. Thommo has Steve Turner Los Pamas 6 and Bedders Graham Bush er various
Norton & George Michael

Dear Mr Chris,
Thought I'd just let you know that I spotted 6 copies of Folgate in a record shop "Saturn" in Berlin this afternoon, so it's finally released in Germany...
Also! don't forget the George Michael/Wellington Boot Joke at Glastonbury!
You're knock Em Bandy With It.
fishface

Dear fishface
6 copies! Wow!..I can't tell that joke it's a family show.
CB
to say hi

have wanted to do this since i was a young girl,im 39 yrs now and maddness have always been my fav band. I did want to see you when i was younger but i wasnt allowed so i just danced to you in my bedroom and at the discos,anyway i have always fancied you when all the other girls swooned over suggs.And yes im sitting with my husband and friends remenissing with our vodka and rum love you loads always will and one day when you come back to newcastle i can come and see you play keep going xxxxxxx 6 kisses for you one to share to the rest love christine from hebburn tyne and wear

Oh happy days thanks Christine
Please Rellease Me

Hi C.B.

I was searching the web when I found a list of supposed madness songs that I had never heard of before such as The Ghost Of Rv Greene, Remembering All So Clear, Cracks In The Pavement, Culture Vulture,Suicide Bridge and Perfect Place (in the case of Rv Greene,Remembering I even found lyrics)

I was wondering if these actually are madness songs and when they were from and if they were recorded, if so would we hear them at some point and are there any other 'lost' songs.

Thanks for the info on the madstock tick's look forwards to seeing you guys there.

many thanks and all the best

Will

Dear Will
The Ghost of Reverend Greene was just lyrics only by Thommo.They were published in a Nutty Boys comic, typical Thommo teaser stuff. Remembering All So Clear, I dont know this one, I think it's an unfinished Chas song ,Cracks In The Pavement,this also maybe a Chas or Suggs song, Culture Vulture,a Thommo and Barso song that never got finished Suicide Bridge unfinished again I think by Chas and Perfect Place was recorded and a demo of it was on the site once.
CB
dangerman

when is the dangerman sessions 2 goin to be released?
liz

Dear Liz
Next week.It's called 'The Liberty Of Norton Folgate Madness'.
CB
GOLD TICKETS

I HEARD A RUMOUR THAT THE GOLD TICKETS ARE COMMING OUT AT THE END OF JUNE you no ??

DEAR DON
YES I STARTED THAT.IT IS MORE OR LESS TRUE.
cb
Norwich concert

Fantastic concert. We were also at the front and got crushed but you waving back when i called made it worth it!! Just to ask who chooses your support acts as we thought The Dualers were absolutely fantastic.
sara

Dear Sara
Thanks , Er I picked them [thinks:the Who?]Kidding! yes they are good.
CB
Tv

Hi Chris looking forward to seeing Madness on "Something for the weekend" tomorrow morning but are you all on it buy any chance. Cheers Chris have a great day :)
Mad 2

Dear Mad 2
No - I don't do cookery shows but I'm sure it will be fantastic.
CB
Oh no not another Madstock golden circle question!!!

Sorry Chris, but your the only one taking time to help us with our questions. Like Rich and all the others I have some queries of my own about my tickets. It would be helpfull if AEG had a phone number or e-mail we could use with our questions. Then we wouldn´t feel bad bothering you, believe you me I do.
I´m not even going to tell you what my grief is about the tickets. ;)

Hope too see you all at Madstock.
Andre

Dear Andre
Look, I don't take that much time and I pass it all on, I am sorry you all had problems. I'm sure you will get them.End of June beginning of July. This was always the case but as Trinty went t*ts up of course that has made everyone panic, Everyone evetually got the box sets as far as I know.
CB
Chas 'N Moz

How come there's a still of Chas from the Cardiac Arrest video on the wall behind Morrissey in his video for 'We hate it when our friends become sucessful' - what's that all about?

Suggs did a spoken vocal in another Morrissey track and of course he appeared at the first Madstock and caused a big hoo haa.

What is the relationship between Mad N' Moz?

Thanks

Cameron
I can't really say. I think Moz was pals with Chas wanted Chas to manage him I think. Chas bought him round my house once. 1991 or thereabouts.Moz also liked the Nutty Boys and used to come to our gigs. Sadly, I have lost all contact with the great man as we used to correspond until that fateful day.That's Moz, not Chas.
CB
CB
Questions, questions

Hello Chris

Yesterday, my kids (4 & 7 - that's their names, not their ages) wanted Baggy Trousers on in the car, rather than High School Musical. I checked it wasn't a fashion statement they were making and, no, seriously they wanted some proper music.
I felt quite chuffed to hear them singing along to the chorus, so I wondered how do you feel when you hear someone humming one of your tunes?
With your lonjev .... longerv .... many years in music, what has given you the mostpleasure? Chart hits or pieces of work where you think 'I enjoyed that'?

Thanks for Folgate. Much enjoying. Especially That Close. What? That's yours? What a coincidence.

Regards

Mark

Thanks Mark.
Pieces or work I think. Not that I listen to our albums much.4 and 7 eh? So where were 1,2,3,5 and 6?
CB


Madness + Specials Tour
Question: Hi Chrissy Boy
Just wondering if anyone has mentioned about bringing back the Two Tone Tour again? Madness Specials Selector.......What a quality night that would be!! throw in Bad Manners as well and it could well be the best gig ever!!......Whats your thoughts? Cheers Have a good one Robert Dicker

Dear Robert
Thanks. No, you are the first one....Today.
CB
French Showcase

Hi Chris,

Thanks again for the wonderful gig you gave to us in Paris. That was strange to see you all in a so small venue but also very great to have the sensation you play in my room! LOL
I'll try to come see you at Rock en Seine at the end of august if I still have some money after the holidays!
Thanks for all and for the picture!
Cheers.

Mister B (French MIS)

Merci, I'm glad you got in.
CB
the liberty of norton folgate

Hi Chris, i have been a fan off madness since The prince, over the years i have bought every single and album, now at the age of 45 i thought my madness day were long behind me,(although i still play the tunes and do the dance around the house which my son finds quite amusing)Then today My wife and son bought me the liberty of norton falgate album for fathers day, i placed it in the cd player and all of a sudden the hairs on the back of my head were sticking up....bloody hell i was 16 again, only it gets better...This is by far the BEST album you guys have made..its old its new and some tunes very different... must say i think NW5 should have been the 1st single realeased its classic madness but so much better.anyway chris after litening to the tunes for 3 hours i felt compelled to right this e-mail. So guys from a now 45 year old madness fan the fire is now back in me belly the two tone suite may even come out of the wardrobe and my nutty boy dance seems as good as it was when i was 16. Keep it up and i look forward to feeling this way in another 25/ 30years
craig kirk

Dear Craig
I'm very touched, a nice message thanks.
CB
whistling

Hi Chris,
just wondering who did the whistling on The Liberty of Norton Folgate?

Jen

Jack Smith



CB
PS not rollo...it was Suggs I think..
Rhoda

I bet you can't wait for the Madstock tickets to start arriving can you?

Anyway, nothing to do with that you'll be glad to hear.

I'm the guy with the Scooter that is having the photo's of you lot (being done as we speak), there is also a couple of shots that have Rhoda Dakar in them, I was wondering if she was going to be making an appearance at Madstock as I would like to ask her if she would be so kind as to add her name as well?

I have had the designs back for the Scooter and I think it will look excellent once complete, I hope that it meets with the bands approval.

If you haven't seen the photo's going on it follow this link and you will see them plus a whole load more. http://tonitye.com/TwoTone/Photos/thumbnailindex.html

Cheers Chris, can't wait for Madstock by the way.

Paul Bridges

Dear Paul
I think hope Rhoda is coming. I can wait for them tickets dammit!See you there [in the golden flippin circle.]
CB
questions questions

Dear CBF,

I've a few for you here...

What's the one song you really wanted to cover but never got round to (and why do you want to cover it)...

Who was the best band who ever supported you and made you not want to go on after...


One that's probably been asked before...what does the kix in lee kix thompson actually mean

Cheers dr lord

Dear dr lord
1.I don't really like covers but Both Ends Burning by Roxy Music would be good.
2. Fishbone in LA - but we had 'em.
CB
album

Hi Chris would just like to say the new album is superb great songs really enjoying listening to it
vince

thanks Vince
Questions galore (and not about Golden tickets haha!)

I have been asked by my brother a couple of questions to ask you as he's too lazy to ask himself haha!
1. Where the hell is John Hasler these days?, do you still keep in touch?
2. Who the hell is the fat guy in bed in the One Step Beyond Video?
and my question...
3. What the hell does it say after the song 'Jennie' on The Business c.d, i've been listening to it for years but can't figure out what the person says? Me and my mate Alan think it's something to do with Carl being godfather to a dog hahah am I right?

Good to see you at Newbury, thansk for siging the t-shirt I made, glad you liked it!
See you at Madstock where i'll be on the hunt for sexy Carl again! heheh Someone control me, that guy is sooo gorgeous!
Jen xxx

Dear Jen
1.John Hasler lives in Scotland, in Edinburgh was the last thing I heard. I haven't seen him for ages.
2.Faran, a top guy. He was fan who hung around with us back in the days.
3.I don't know.
CB
Golden Circle problem solved

Hi Chris,

relating to my message yesterday, just wanted to tell you that I got a confirmation from AEG now that I can collect my tickets at the gate on the day (maybe due to your intervention?) Thanks anyway, looking even much forward to Madstock, now with safe sleep at night again.
Cheers
Peter

Dear Peter
I am so glad you have sorted that out. Stay in touch. The tickets go out at the end of June, so you may get them anyway.
CB
Under 12.

Dear Chris,Me and a mate are going to madstock in july and it says under 12's go free which means i can bring my 11 yr old lad ,do i nedd any i.d for him?Cheers me ol fruit
Deano

Dear Deano
You should be OK, unless he's got a beard, if you've got anything handy bring it.And less of the 'ol'.
CB
tickets

Dear Chris
I know that this was asked before but when will the tickets for madstock be released I am one of the unlucky one's that got there's from trinity 5 in total. please any information would be greatful
regards
lawrence

Dear Lawrence
They should be going out end of June.
CB
New Strides

Hello

I'm 6 songs in with your new album, I've got myself so excited I've had an accident, any chance of you lot paying for new pair of slacks - viscose/polyester?

It is a most brilliant albu....sorry must dash I've had a second wind.......

Christopher

Dear Christopher
Sure, how much are they? 50p?
CB
Groundhog Day

Hi Chrissy Boy

Your comment about Groundhog Day made me laugh.

If you had to repeat one day from your life over and over again - which day would it be?

Sarah
xo

P.S. My hubby & I got married on Groundhog Day! (Feb 2nd)

Dear Sarah
Thanks. I don't know really, this is a family site. My last wedding day.
CB
overdone

I can't find the full lyrics to 'overdone' from 'absolutley' They always finish before the end, please help, thanks Chris.
denyerhouseden

Dear denyerhouseden
Er what?.....hold on Denyer House? Spin, pal..
CB
Both Sugar AND Spice???

Dear Chris,

I'm not such a singles guy any more, thinking that's a young man's game, buying up dozens of formats of the same song. Give me the album and I'm good to go.

Then I started thinking, "What would entice me to buy the next Madness single?" This is a real head-scratcher. What are my tastes nowadays? The most pleasant of flavours has an easy answer: It had to be sweet.

However, that's more a young man's palate, and as established, I no longer wear the short pants. Sweetness at our age is never enough. Perhaps what is needed is some zest, a little dash of caliente to yin the yang.

Imagine my delight in hearing that the new Madness single will bring together both Sugar AND Spice! I'm like a puppy with two peters I'm so thrilled.

Pay no attention to the detractors. Sugar & Spice is a fine choice for a single.

Kindest regards
Steve

Dear Steve
Detractors? What detractors?
CB
On the Town

Who is the girl singing on "On the Town\"? Just heard new album and think it is fab. 30 years on and still doing it. I'm away to buy a copy. Nice one,
Cassie

Dear Cassie
Thanks.It's Rhoda Dakar.
CB
3rd stage

Hi Chris Boy
Any more news on the 3rd stage for Madstock , I see the Blockheads according to their website will be appearing.Any other bands confirmed.
Must say great that the Pogues are on with you.
Hope you play "That Close" at Madstock , top song.

Johnny

Dear Johnny
There will hopefully be an announcement on other acts soon, I hope we play it too.
CB
Missing "M" Pin

Hey Chris, Been a while now, and nothing about my missing box set item. Is there anyone I can contact about this? I just want what I paid for. Any help you can give will be appreciated.

Dear Joe
Send me your address and I'll get my people to mail your people - cappish?
CB
new album

Never really been a Madness fan but always liked your singles. However, got the LONF album after reading so many good reviews. It's brilliant!. Well done to you and the rest of the guys. This is a classic that everyone must hear!
phil

Dear Phil
Thanks. You should hear the rest of our stuff. It's currently deleted but is being re released gradually. Try One Step Beyond in October. You might be surprised..
CB
norfolk

Hi finaly at 50 i got to see you live at norfolk well worth the drive from skeg took 3 days to recover amazing atmosphere ta andy and cindi

Dear Andy and Cindi.
Thanks.Next time lay off the hard stuff..
CB
Honeymoon

Hi Chris,

Me and the missus are cutting our honeymoon short so we can participate in your joyous and no doubt glorious MADSTOCK FESTIVAL shenanigans -"It Must Be Love".We'll be screaming and singing along wiv yer from the Golden Circle.

F@*k Art Let's Dance !!!!!!!!!!!!

Carl Cheshire & Debbie Dixon

Dear Carl and Debbie
Congratulations!
CB
Crunch question!

Hello Chris,
Would Madness ever think of doing some Crunch songs live or would that be letting down the other members in Crunch? Would love to hear the band do "Pipedreams or "Fight amongst yourselves" not that Crunch do not do a fine job themselves, it would be interesting to hear.
Kevin

Dear Kevin
Ah, it's a sad old world. I am so protective of those songs.
CB
Woody

What is Woody's real name ?
Jacqueline Jones

Dear Jacqueline
Daniel William Woodgate.
CB
re missing madstocktickets

hi chris thanks for you reply regarding our tickets for madstock but i have a problem with the address they ar going to be sent to we have moved.is there any way i can get my new address to aeg live to sort this out? sorry to be a pain in the ass.
cheers marc

Dear Marc
Oh my Gawd!If I had any hair it would be pulled out by now. Get the Post office to forward all your mail? Costs about 30 quid for a year and is well worth it as you may find other letters will go to your old address you know. They will do it ASAP.
CB
Stealing Riffs

Dear Commander
Just listening to CD2 this morning, and I can't help noticing that the guitar riff for Hunchback Of Torriano sounds rather like the harmonica riff for Bad Manners' Lip Up Fatty. Was this intentional? :)
All the best
Owen

Dear Owen
No way, no way dude. The first three notes sound similar but no, I would never do that. Much.
CB
singles

Could Forever Young be the greatest Madness single never to be released as one? I hope not! That and On The Town, plus Hunchback.... and er, most other tracks on the album! There's an idea - release about 8 songs from the album as singles over the next few months. They are worthy as singles.
Michael G

Dear Michael
Ah if only. It costs money to release a single, you know.
CB
brighton festival funeral marching band

Hi Chris

thanks for the message about our painted up marching band combo in the streets of brighton last month. I was chuffed you'd actualy seen us and that you liked the painted outfits. Our drummer is an artist and paints them for us and he was very pleased. He said he'd be happy to make one for your good self anytime if you fancy. The jackets can get a little warm in the sun and are best worn with a whimsical air!

Can not wait to see Madness at Glastonbury. Our band are going to be parading there a bit and playing on the little tadpole stage somewhere. Now, I know you are a very professional bunch but, nonetheless, seriously if you need a dubious marching band at all fanfaring about the place at Glastonbury or Madstock we\\\'re your guys!

all the best,
Richard

P.S.
By the way our guitarist had a bit of trouble walking around playing with his pignose amp tied to his waist as his trousers kept falling down. Any tips?

Dear Richard
I shall think about that. Maybe you could come along to Madstock. Your guitarist should use braces which he could also hold the guitar up with.
CB
new single

hi chris
i hope that you dont mind me saying this ,but i think forever young would be a much better single than sugar and spice.s&s is a good song but in wy opinion it the weakest song on what is possibly madness greatest album.clerkenwell goes down great and gets a great reception livepossible single.most people i have spoke to dont think sugar and spice is a single.was it gary or hugh's idea.sugar and spice does get mentioned in a lot of reviews true.but so does forever young.
all the best
michael farmer

Dear Micheal
So does The Liberty of Norton Folgate, but [ha ha] he [Garry] doesn't want us to play it at Glastonbury, in case the crowd pelt us with eggs or something! As if.
CB
Random Tomfoolery

I, I Chris.
Couple of observations:
I would love a Barracuda Jacket, but cant seem to justify the price, i can't see them flying out the door at that price m8? Any chance you could have a word, im sure a sale price of around 79.99 would get a minor stampede going!

Sooner or later you will have to change the way people can gain membership to the M club, surely their has to be an option for a subscription or the the like. There may be a 1000 reasons why people won't purchase the box set just to join the M club think about it. Plus you a surely missing a trick with new fans and people who land on the site. The fans who have bought cd like me granted! may not be able again to jusify 40 (im sure it's a steal at that) please have a ponder on it and throw the idea about, im sure theres a better way.

The lonf is in my opinion a piece of British Music history, i think it will earn the band the awards they have deserved and earned over the years, and is a kick in the nads to all the righteous scribes who have largely been nothing but critical of any of the work that has been done by the band for 30 years. It must be very satisfying to read the reviews now eh! lonf is an 'audio theatre production' totally unique, and sparks the individuals mind to wander down streets they have never walked down. There are so many songs on it that are worthy of being released in their own right its difficult to choose a favourite, saying that, my 5 year old son virtually knows all the words to the 10 min finale lonf! That tune is legendary!
I could write reams on this but i will spare you the labour!
One last thing though 'Simple Equasion' would have fitted perfectly into this album yeh? That song was a clue on just which direction the music was going in for me, perfectly arranged, musicaly and lyricaly masterful. Shame it's locked away and never spoke about, let alone ever perfomed live..
Anyway as ABBA said 'thank you for the music' and congratulations to you all, take a bow.

Uncle

Dear Uncle Mart
Those jackets are expensive anyway without having the cost of having the Madness logo put on.
http://www.stuartslondon.com/viewproducts/BARACUTA/?gclid=COu1kPSJmZsCFaAU4wodp1iJpg

The boxset I get your point but there are another 8 studio tracks on there that are the equal if the 14 on the album. Straight up, no filler tracks they are all really good. At some point we may do a double album but at the moment that is the only place you can get them, plus a live Hackney album and demos of the songs.
CB
let's go

Hi Chris,

I love the track Let's go,

May i ask what the reason was that the studio version is slow compared to the original versions you did on the 2007 xmas tour which was also very good tempo.

Thanks

Alan

Dear Alan
I don't know. I wasn't there when they 'laid it down'.
CB
she wont marry me

I've got a bit of a dilema. My missus wont marry me unless you lot play at the wedding. I aint no millionare but can you help please?
Stu

Dear Stu
Get some ringers in.Los Palmas 6 are really good.
CB
Madstock Tickets

Hi Chris

Can't wait for Madstock and to see you play live again for about the 50th time (just keeps getting better and better).

But have people started receiving their Golden Circle tickets yet, cos I'm still waiting for mine and starting to panic a bit.

Thanks for being the best band ever.

Katy xxx
dear Katy
Thanks. The tickets are going out at the end of June.
CB
THE BLOCKHEADS

Hi Chris

Are The Blockheads playing Madstock? Hope so as I think their new album is great (not nearly as good as T.L.O.N.F though).

More importantly (well to me anyway) will I be going to Madstock? Still waiting for 3 Golden Circle tickets to arrive. My mates are threatening physical violence if the tickets don't show! I have been emailing AEG but no response. Do you have any updates as I (and many others) would love to know what is going on. If the tickets don't show will there be a box office at Madstock we can collect from if we present original Trinity order numbers etc.

I'm sure you are getting bored of being asked about tickets but as the big day approaches we are getting more anxious. Any update will help to put a lot of fans minds at rest.

Thanks for 30 great years of nutty sounds - hope to see you at V. Park !

Wayne

Dear Wayne
Yes the Blocks are on. Golden effin circle tickets should be going out end of June.
CB
tickets 4 madstock

is there a phone number 4 aeg , so i can give them a ring , cos time is run down 4 this tickets...Paul Cowen

Dear Old Paul
This is the tenth letter I have had from you. I can understand your frustration. However, we have sold about a thousand Golden effin circle tickets and really there are just a handful of the same people asking about this. They will be sent out end of June is what I have been told. This was always to be the case to prevent fraud. Maybe env in July. So hang on pal.
CB
Madness Seven

Dear Chris,
I dearly love Seven, the vinyl album. How come you replaced the unusual track Aeroplane with the comparatively ordinary Day on the Town for the CD?
Patrick Goldstein

Dear Patrick
Oh my goodness. Do you think I remember? Hold on! I wrote Day on the Town! Didn't I? It was because it was a better song of course. What do you mean 'replaced' anyway? It was never on the vinyl..was it?
CB
Nutty boys comic

Hello! Just been re-listening to Crunch, and wondered what happend to the rest of the band. Bloody loved you guys! P.S Back in the early 90's I paid you a quid for a Nutty Boys comic - turns out you'd run out of them, & you kindly sent me the quid back (stuck to the back of a 'I'm a policeman' sticker) Honest or what! :)
wendy

Dear Wendy
Thanks.They are all still around doing this and that. Did I really send you a quid? Must have been a mistake, maybe it stuck to the letter...
CB
Madstock

Hi Chris do you know when the Madstock tickets will be sent out as i ordered mine in january and still waiting. Hope to see you and the lads at Madstock All the very best from Paul.

Dear Paul
They should be going out now. The Golden ones will go out end of June.
CB
Suggsy

Hey Chris How you doing?

I'm 16 and Live in Whitechapal
I Love Madness and Just Wondered Could you say "Hello" to Suggs for me?

That would be much appreciated as i Love Him to bits :)

Thanks x Rosie

Yeah OK Rosie.
CB
history of the guitar?

Yo chris...
I was wonderin if you could help me a bit. I need to research into the history of the guitar. and.. seeing as you play the guitar, I thought you could help a out a little bit...

Would really appreciate the help. Seeing as your a really nice, kind and loving man...

Thanx, Kezzers

Dear Kezzers
What - Me? I am not that old that I remember when it was invented.
CB
info

alright mate, been a fan of madness all my life. how do i become a member of the sight. i have sent my e mail to receive the newsletter, will i get a membership number with that
nick oneill

Dear Nick
Sorry you have to buy the box set, then you get a card with a membership number on it for the M section.. Life's a bitch ain't it? It's worth it,though.[The box set. the M section is good as well.
CB
Norfolk showground

Hiya Chris,
just to say you lot were brill on Saturday,apart from getting crushed!We were right at the front (mainly cos I could'nt find my glasses lol)

Quick question: what Madness video did you enjoy making most??
My 8 year old son is heavily into the divine madness DVD at the moment! mad as fish the lot of ya's!!
Andrea

Dear Andrea
Thanks.I think we had a lot of fun making Uncle Sam.A lorra lorra laffs.
CB
CB
Madstock again... sorry!

Hi Chrissy Boy,

I still haven't received any e-mails or anything about my golden circle tickets i ordered.
Is there someone i should be calling or shouting at?
You told me to let you know around this time if i still hadn't got them.

Sorry m8, i am trying not to be one of those annoying fans... :o(
If it helps i can give you my order details because I have kept all my old confirmation e-mails etc?

Thanks

Rich.
Dear Rich
Sorry once again. They are going out on the 29th of June. This is is the latest I have been told.
CB
Rise & Fall Night

Have the band ever considered playing the whole album live with brass section,strings and the whole 9 yards, as a special one off gig at say the Albert Hall, For true Madness fans padded out with some rarely played singles and the like? It would make a change from hearing OSB and the like and the same old set list in the same old order troted out. It really is a shame that you don't make better use of your old album matearal. Banging out old Ska covers is a bit of a dead horse in my book.Set list below

Part 1
Madness performs \'The Rise & Fall,

Part 2
Day on Town (7)
Cardiac rest
In The Rain
Keep Moving
Brand new beat
Michael Caine
Burning The Boats

Surly this would make a change you chaps as well.

Dear Al
Yes it would be a welcome change. It's getting a bit Groundhog day in here.
CB
video

Hey CB-- I`m a 46 year old fan from the USA.Bought the records as they came out from the begining.I`ve been searching for a copy of Take it or leave it on dvd or even vhs for years.Will I ever find it?I thing there is a different speed of brit video or something. right? Anyway thanx for all the great music throughout the years.the new lp is classic MAD thanx fred

Dear Fred
Thanks. With VHS yes it PAL over here and NTSC in the US. With DVD there are differant regions. We are 2 the US is 1. I think you can get multi region DVD players these days which renders it all obsolete. That is to say any region will paly on any DVD player.So good luck.
CB
New single

Glad to hear that Sugar and Spice is gonna be the new single. Its more catchy song than Forever Young in my opinion.
Someone mentioned the video could be a sequel to Dust Devil, which makes me think that On The Town would make a great follow up single/video as it could be the couple on their last legs and a great trilogy.

What say you young man?
Ian

Dear Ian
Maybe not.
CB
Sack the manager

Cant you sack your manager and revert to your original choice of next single. "Forever Young" is a much stronger track than "Sugar and Spice". Love the album, but I wouldnt buy S & S and i love the band, so cannot see it doing well chart wise i'm afraid. Perhaps you are more of an album band now and have lost the art of selecting top 40 hits !
trind

Dear Trind
No way. His process at coming to that decision is genius.
CB
Badness

Thought of something else to mention.....
The other 'alf an I are going to see Badness as a warm up to Madstock on the 03July at Botley Farm, have you heard of them? We think they are good but we can't wait for the real thing on the 17th with our golden tickets (if they turn up??!!)
Cheers Tim and Lynsey

Tim and Lynsey
They go out on the 29th of June.In fact first person that gets the flippin things,send me a picture and you will get a special prize.
CB
Smaller venues

hi Chrissy boy,

Having seen yourself and Lee play as Crunch/nutty boys, do you reckon there will be a time when Madness do the smaller venues like you did in Windsor?
Love the new LP not sure about Kid British???!!!
tim higgs

Dear Tim
Never. Well maybe.
CB
Madstock July 17th Tickets (again)

Hello Chris,

I'm afraid I'm asking the same question as others already have. When do you think the Madstock gold circle tickets will be sent out??? I bought mine off the Trinity website and getting quite up tight now as i haven't heard a thing with regards to if or when they will be in hand. I have to take a day off work for the concert, book train tickets from Birmingham, book hotel for the night...etc. and I'm not sure whether to book these things too if I'm not guaranteed my Madstock tickets. I really am looking forward to it as I have never seen Madness in London only in Birmingham, numerous times. So please can someone find out some upto date info, I'm sure many others are in the same position as myself. Is there a contact number I could phone for more details? Sorry for the moan.

Listened to the new album LoNF,sounding good, fave tracks up to yet are That Close & On the town.
Mel

Dear Mel
They should be going out on the 29th of June, this late date is to stop ebay forgeries etc.
CB
Madstock On TV

Chrissy Boy Ya Legond Sorry For Wrenkin' Your Head so Much
But for All Us People Who Can't Go To Madstock (Sorry) (Dad Won't Let Me) I Was wundering If This Year Will MTV Be Shhoting It Like It Did Back in 92 Etc
Shann
Xxxxxxxxxx

Dear Shann
Who knows?Your Dad is bad.
CB
covers

hi chris just heard kid britishs take on our house ok i think what other artists have covered madness songs
martin

Dear artin
Erm Tracy Ullman did My Girl. I can't think of any others.
CB
tickets

Hi - we booked through Trinity and haven't received any tickets yet - Will we definitely get them? Have booked hotels, travel, etc and am starting to worry.
Jo Fursman

Dear Jo
The ordinary tickets are being sent out now the Golden ones will be sent out on the 29th of June.Stay in touch.
CB
I'm honestly not stalking but..

I'm honestly not stalking but....
Question: Got myself a ticket for Belfast on Saturday in the hope you might be accompanying Suggs? Any chance of it?
x Louise

No.Sorry.
CB
Madstock 31 days!

Hiya CB,
Been so busy recently! Countin down the days until Madstock and was wonderin if you will be playin the likes of The Kiss, Africa, Fish and Chip parade ect at Madstock? As u maybe aware perople who brought tickets from Trinity street havent recieved there tickets yet, i'm sure u have been bombarded wiv messages like this.
Much luv and cant wait.
Jade.
xx

Dear Jade
What? do you mean to tell me some people have'nt got their tickets yet? 29th June then panic stations.I was totally unaware. Don't hold your breath waiting to hear those songs either.
CB
tickets

Hi there

I ordered golden circle tickets months ago with Trinity as directed on the site and still haven't received anything, any idea when to expect them please????
Thanks
Max

Dear Max
29th of June.
CB
birthday party

hi chris its my daughters 4th birthday this year would madness come round and play a gig in my back garden for her birthday? she loves baggy trousers always singing it, and il make you all a cucumber sandwich free of charge of course thanks chris

Dear Chris
Sorry a bit busy at the moment say happy birthday from me.
CB
Jackets

Chrissy boy,
Why aren't there any Madness Barracuda jackets that fit the \'Fuller figure!!!!! nutty boys??
Paul

Dear Paul
The largest jacket Baracuta make is 46. We can't get any bigger. Sorry.
CB
Member

Hi Chris,

just been reading the mail from Toni about Members login. Is the Jolly old Box set available in Germany ?( if not, I will have to get myself over to England ), as I've got every Album you Guys have brought out, but that is missing in my collection.

Being a born and breed Carlisle United fan, I think it was great to hear Carlisle coming out to "One Step Beyond". Who's idea was it to re-record the Intro for Carlisle ?

Will see you at the Roskilde Fes, in Denmark, and hopefully in the near future in Germany.

Take Care

Nuttyboy Colin

Dear Colin
Thanks and yes it should be available in Germany. Have look on the internet and in shops.The Carlisle thing I have not got a clue.
CB
CB
Madstock Golden Circle Tickets

Hi Chris

I know you are probably inundated constantly re the tickets for Madstock but I ordered my golden circle tickets originally through Trinity Street, and got confirmation from them.
However I havent heard anything from the new promoters AEG and I am now concerned that my order may have gone astray. I emailed AEG to try to find out about my order for two tickets, and to be added to the mailing list but have recieved no reply to date. (one ticket was for my uncle as a surprise as he has been a life long fan and the other for myself who has been a fan since he introduced me to your music when I was in a pram in 1991!)

Not wishing to disappoint him I do not know what to do next.

all the best and many thanks

Will

PS: Love the choice of Sugar & Spice as the new single. As a film student at Solent University Southampton I was wondering if I could observe/shadow the new video being made from pre-production to completion as I would love love to see how the professionals do it and it would benefit my course.

Dear Will
the latest I have on the Magic Circle tickets is that they will be sent out by the 29th of June.Video us? professionals?
CB
Norwich Question:

Wotcha chrissy boy, just wanted to say what a great time we had on saturday in Norwich. My 2 lads treated me to an early fathers day treat, im 50 this year and still dont feel any different to 21. Loved seeing the tonic suits and, Ben sherman shirts all round. Everyone seemed to have something on to attach themselves to the past, loved the sea of Fez's. Did the original Madstock and returned again in 98 straight from Wembley after beating Spain in the Euros, will certainly be at Vicky park. Good luck.ADZ

thanks ADZ
CB


Time Out - Time Lords?
Question: Mr Foreman, Sir...

Being a veteran of the previous 4 Madstocks (and indeed featuring fleetingly on the video for M4), I am of course looking forward to July 17th with relish (tomato, to be exact) - however due to slight cashflow constraints (AKA \"The Ex\"), I have been unable to procure tickets for myself and the lovely new wife.

Not a problem, I thought - there are bound to be loads of competitions to win the paper passes of dreams, so without further ado I searched the interweb and located such a competition at Time Out online - http://www.timeout.com/competition/madstock2009

My excitement was slightly tempered when I noticed that the closing date for said giveaway is ... July 20th, three days after the gig. (See, I can do maths, me).

Anyway, unless Time Out have perfected Time Travel, these tickets will of course be fairly useless for the purposes of admission, so I was wondering if you would like to avoid the hassle and expense of sending out expired tickets to said publication and instead wanted to send them directly to me; I promise that myself and the missus would enjoy them immensely, and in return will bring to you a tin of fruit OF YOUR CHOICE on the day. I recommend peach.

Yes, I did just try and blag a freebie, but I have as much shame as I have savings.

Kind Regards,
Duncan

Dear Duncan
That is very funny.I sent you a ticket next year.
CB
buying you a beer !!!!!

Gr8 gig at norwich, the only thing was i stood right in front of suggs against the barrier and kept throwing drinks to you as a thanks for the autographs, but you dropped them all !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Not really...that was a joke lol
It must just have been on your side of the stage as in the middle we were all really well behaved, just standing around and singing quietly to ourself's !!was a great night and will see you at Madstock......
Crazy Tattoo Man

Ha ha yes it was quiet in that part of the crowd
Thanks CB
Chas' Basement

Hi Chris

Was wondering what has happened to Chas' Basement ?

Cheers

Graeme

Dear Graeme
Oh, has he gone again? I will ask where he is now.Penthouse flat maybe...
CB
showground

hi again
forgot to say wot a great nite that was, and once all the pissheads were out the way i got myself rite at the front!!
ta
x debs

Dear Debs
Did you throw birds at my beer?
CB
west runton

hi!
do any of you remember doing a gig at west runton pavillion in 1981?
debs

Dear Debs
Yes - there was a fire alarm and everyone got evacuated, it reminded me of the war.. Actually someone mentioned that a while ago on this very site but I do remember that rough old gaff.
CB
Members login

15.6.09 - Good evening CB! Just wanted to ask how I can register to become a member? Came across this site by accident, and have spent a pleasant hour reading entries while listening to the West Indies blast England out in tonight's Super Eights (boo sucks).

Hope you are all well? I'm gutted that I can't come to Victoria Park as I'm on my holibobs that week (I was at both the Sat & Sun gigs at the original Madstock at Finsbury Park in '92 - me & my sister both wriggled through the mass to the front on both days/nights & got permacrushed against the barriers, I was 31 and she was 29 at the time, but we loved every second!!! Monday morning was a bit of a bugger though - felt like we'd had a lorry run over us pmsl, but still have & treasure the T-shirts!).

I also want to thank every one of you for all the joy and laughs you have given us through the years, and hope you will continue to do so for as long as you are willing and able!

Have a great gig, will be thinking of you all!
Toni

Dear Toni
Thanks and..Your wha..holibobs? Yah boo sucks? What? Cricket? you ain't a ....poshie are yer? If so and you've got loads of lolly, then buy the jolly old box set and that will get you a little card and you can get into the M section old bean.
all the best CB [Harrow]
the rifles

just been watching the isle of wight festival on tv there was a band on it called the rifles who were brilliant a bit like the jam and ive just got tickets for your gig in nottingham and they are playing there as well what a line up there is cant wait
david

Eh calm down our kid. Yeah they are dead good ain't they, la?
CB
memories!

Just wanted to say, great new album and tv ad! looking forward to seeing you all at Broadlands, im so excited its like being a teenager all over again...but without all of your pictures on my bedroom wall. Chas your still a hunk muffin!!!x jo

Thanks for sharing that with us,Jo
CB
Madness M and album titles

Hi there again Chris
You've probably been asked this many times before but could you tell me who designed the Madness M .?
Also who thinks up the album titles ?
Mick Allen


Dear Mick
Me.I did it and I did all the album covers. I wrote all the songs, directed all the videos and er..on the next day I rested.OK it was some bod at Stiff records based it on a picture of Chas kneeling down. And I didn't really do all that. Titles..erm..One Step Beyond is a bit obvious, Absolutely was me, 7 was Chas, Keep Moving, Rise and Fall, from the songs, erm what else was there? Wonderful, Chas. It's about time someone else had a go...
CB
norfolk showground 13th june 2009

not a question, just wanted to say thanks to the nutty boys for a great night in norwich 13th june 09.hope to see you all at madstock july 17th thanks again for a top performance and nite
gary

Dear Gary
Thanks very much, ta.Woz you hoying beer all over the place though?
Live '92 and new vinyl.

Hi Chris

1) I saw you guys live in Brighton way back in 1992. My question: how did 808 State end up as support?

2) If you do reissue to albums on vinyl could you get either Ian Cooper (who cut the fine ZTT 12"s in the 80s) or Frank Arkwright (some fantastic recent cutting) to do them? They're both at Metropolis who I don't work for.

All the best

- Mike

Dear Mike
I don't know - they paid the most? Tour support you see, an old trick. They were good though. Cutting is another matter. Depends on our engineer really.
CB
Next single ? Confused

I am a bit confused, thought you said last week that \"Forever Young\" would be the next single, which i would concur with. Why the change of heart ?

trind

Dear Trind
You're confused? Do you want to know the truth? One of our managers read all the reviews we have had and Sugar and Spice got mentioned most. Honest.
CB
Sugar and Spice

Dear Chris
Following your announcement that Sugar and Spice will be the next single, how about getting Jaime Winston and Alfie Allen in again as the couple in the song? It could be a sort of sequel to Dust Devil where the wayward girl gets married, when initially it is all "sugar and spice" but then goes sour. What do you think?
Dominic

Dear Dominic
Funny you should say that. I was just working on the idea. It's the only thing we could do really as the lyrics are such a good story. Should annoy even more of the old die hards. We will be in it though, much more..
CB
friends?

Hi Chris I went to the Norwich gig and thought the band were great.The new songs sounded good especially Forever Young.I wanted to know who is your best fiend in the band?
stephen symons

Ah, that'd be telling.Depends on whose round it is.
Cb
madstock

my brother is getting married on july 17th, i'll be on madstock though... any idea how to make it up to him?
antti

Dear Antti
He'll get over it. Glad to see you've got your priorities sorted.
CB
Gig set lists

Hi Chris

Sorry if this sounds like a whinge but any chance of the setlist being shaken up with a few old (different) album tracks. Looking forward to hearing loads of the new album and hits but would be good to maybe hear another cover instead of Iron Shirt which has been on the old set list for a good few years now.


Also, love your idea for the reissued albums to be done on vinyl as well as CD, hopefully heavyweight vinyl too.

Take Care
Dave

Dear Dave
What can I say? I agree but I am only one of seven.
CB
woodys first name

hey there, what is woodys first name please as my mum needs it for a crossword comp! seriously!!!!
stapesy

Dear Stapesy
It's Daniel. Am I too late?
CB
MK2 Song

Hello Chris Quick Question. What or who is the song MK2 based on? Nutty Boy For life! Callum

Dear Callum
Suggs wrote the lyrics, it's sort of a London bank robber in the 60's Micheal Caine in the Italian job.
CB
"axehand" Morgan Cotral

"axehand" Morgan Cotral
Email Address: I don't understand email, yet as I am a silver surfer
Subject: You make my hair stand on end
Question: Hello Christopher, I am very impressed with this internet page you boys have created. I have been a long time Harold Llyod fan, but a first time madness fan and I heard from my nephew (He was the one who showed me this page) that you used to have a lovely head of hair and I just wanted to know what you looked with it. Unfortuantely I had never heard of Madness back in the 60's and I don't understand this modern thing called "Youtube", so please can u show me a picture of yourself with a lovely hair style? Thank you in advance, Morgan Cotral age 79. P.S If you are wondering about my obscure nick name, Don't worry! I don't really have an axehand. Back in the day can-openers we're infrequent and my neighbours always needed me to open their canned goods and as I did it more often I became known as "Axehand" Morgan. Funny story though, I actually was in a band under the name of the "Axehands" So this nickname is relevant. Also I hear that you have a nickname.
"axecam" Chris was it? I don't know what an axecam is but I would be grateful if you could tell me in your reply. I am truly looking forward to reading it. Have a great time and I hope your wildest dreams come true. Thank you again, and have a great day. Morgan Cotral.
--

Dear Morgan
A silver surfer well I'm a baldy one. The axecam is a term coined by S Bringe of Alberquirky. It is a general name for a device which I strap to my trusty guitar and film the shows in a wonky way from the viewpoint of myself. I started with a Samsung D600 mobile phone, graduated to a Flip video ultra camera and I now use a Flip video minoHD. If any of that makes sense, then you are a better man than most.
all the best CB
madstock

dear chrissy boy just a quick question as im still waiting to receive my golden circle madstock tickets how much longer do i have to wait before panicking a lifelong madness fan thank you clifford

My Dear Clifford
Well right up until the last flippin minute, by the look of it. Hang on mate, the cavalry is on the way. I will have one massive guest list won't I? Still it will be less than "part timer' Thommo's though.
CB
m section - dads desk

hi CB I love the new addition of dads desk the bombay rocks gig. What happened to the previous one? I thought they was going to remain on there like the general audio files. I wanted to save it to my pc. I never had the luxury of joining the madness fan club years ago. I just wanted to build my own collection. Any chance it can be archived?
Tony

Dear Tony
I was thinking that myself. The Dad's desk stuff will be archived from now on.
CB
next one

a big slap on the back to you and the rest of the boys on the album i know its a bit early but when can we expect the next one
glen

Dear Glen
In 3 years time,
CB
Suggs

Is Suggsy Boy going on Hells kitchen?

Ta, James x

Dear James
I don'think so, but if he does, what a laugh.
CB
my last madstock query...

I've emailed AEG with my query direct Chris, and I know it's out of your control, so don't feel you have to come up with an answer to that one. Think I'm panicking a little.
Still like my M.A.D.D.I.E. player to work mind! ;-]

Regards,

Mat

OK Mat I just got round to answering the earlier message. I am a bit snowed under here, I hope they turn up and change your browser or something. Don't panic...
CB
Wearing sunglasses

Hi Chris, I am 6 years old. Daddy bought me the new album and I like it very much. We haven't seen the DVDs but we did see you at Newbury - it was fantastic. (But Daddy got tired as I was on his shoulders the whole time). My question is as there are no dvds of the new songs (I've seen all the DVDS of your greatest hits) I don't know when to wear my sunglasses. Especially can you tell me if I should wear my sunglasses for The Liberty of Norton Falgate? I don't have an email but mummy helped me write this. Love Kyle. P.s. Look forward to seeing you at Glastonbury and Madstock (Daddy has had to forfeit tickets for Paul Weller as he has no more money)
kyle mannock

Dear Kyle
Thanks for writing to me. Have a nice time and put on some sun tan lotion as well as the sunglasses. Next time put your Dad on your shoulders for a bit.
CB
norfolk showground

hello again
we've just got back from your concert at the norfolk showground and it was excellant to say the least. The way you mixed the new with the old was great, keep the new stuff coming. Top marks to you all we had a fantastic day and hope to see you all again real soon.

heidi and paul x

Dear Heid and Paul
Thanks.Were you throwing beer around?
CB
Tee-Shirts

Hey Mr.Foreman
Was Reading A Recently And Noticed You Mentioned That Your Fred Perry Tee-Shirts Collors Keep On Curling In There Is A Way I Know Of Helping You: When You Or You Good Lady Wife Are Ironing You fred Perry's Iron The Collor Down/Up What Ever Way ou Wear It
Hope It Helps Mate
Shannan
Xxxxxxx

Dear Shannan
Thanks for the advice.
CB
Broadlands Romsey

Chrissie Boy!!! Me i go back to Hope & Anchor, Fieldsie is Bro in Law,taught the Nutty Way by me. Can we get a wave at Broadlands ???? Will be wearing the "Night Boat"! gear and will be somewhere up the front !!!!!
Please say a BIG YES !!! to Monsiuer Barson from both.
"WAITER !!!!!"Goldie & Fieldsie

Dear Goldie
Oh yes indeed, thanks for the support.
CB
Madstock (and M.A.D.D.I.E.) Question:

Sorry C.B. - I bet you're fed up of this one, only the great day approaches and still no Madstock tix.
I bought 3 Golden Circle ones (complete with TLONF box-set discount)from the ill-fated trinity and have kept all the receipts.
Should I be doing anything except sitting tight, as yet?
Also I can't get MADDIE to play properly (god! right whinger tonight, me!) - It starts after a long pause and then stops suddenly and then that's it. Nowt. Any ideas as to what's wrong?

Thanks CB, see you in July!

Mat

Dear Mat
did you get the box set? - you must have done, to access MADDIE. It does work you know, try another browser, Firefox is good. You are on the data base, you should get the tickets. sit tight.
CB
trouble

im discusted in the behavior of the some of the people at the gigg at the the show ground on satuday ,there was people fighting causing trouble and throwning botteles and just acting like idiots ,iv been all over the country going to madness giggs but norwich will one place i wont be going again. Me and my mrs travalled from north london to be at the gigg and im pissed off,but all that aside it was a good show and my mrs enjoyed herself ,cheers mate regards spence

Dear Spence
It was just a minority that cannot hold their booze.So they chuck it all over the place. Great gig otherwise.
Cb
missing madstock tickets

hi chris
sorry to bother you with the same subject as other people but looking back over yor replies you have said that if we havent heard anything by mid june to contact you.
we purchased 4 gold circle tickets via the company that went bust. i did recieve my box set but no further info on our tickets, they were purchased under my wifes name kerryann stanley. i still have the receipt and confirmation emails from trinity but nothing from aeg. i hope you can help cos we dont want to miss madstock
cheers marc

Dear Marc
What can I say, except I wish this was all over. You should get them it looks like you are on the database. Hang in there and stay in touch.
CB
Norfolk Gig

Can i just say how good your gig was at the Norfolk show ground yesterday ( 13/06/09 ) took the wife and she really enjoyed it, she is now a beliver. LOL
Thnx again.mike

Dear Mike
Thanks. Good man...another convert ha ha...
CB
facebook

Hi Chris hows it going mate!
Just a quick question are you or any of the gang on facebook cause ive got mike as a friend on facebook is it the real Mike Barson????
Best Wishes Bazza

Dear Bazza
As if. I knew. Ask him for some money. O don't think he's got time for all that has he?
CB
michael caine

chrissy boy will you ever play michael caine at one of your gigs.
cheers colm

Dear Colm
Maybe one day.
CB
thanks Question:

dear chriss,
thanks for still existing and doin' such a great music. sorry you never had such a success here in germany. we have still to learn a lot. keep on rockin'.
Greetings to all of you...
didi

Danke Didi
CB
Royal Norfolk Showground

Hi Chris
just wanted to say thanks for a fantastic gig at the showground last night and also the pose you did for me when i was taking a photo.thanks again.Traceyx


Dear Tracey
Me - posing?
CB
norfolk showground 13th june

saw you guys for the first time last night... what a night, you Rock! (or ska, haha)
Nick

Dear Nick
Thanks - and it's punk actually.



CB
Norwich gig.

Thank you for a fantastic night.It was the first time I've seen you all live and you were awesome. the new album is brilliant,best wishes Caroline.

Dear Caroline
Thanks thanks thanks.
CB
La Riviera

Oh what fun We had in Madrid.
Great Show and great 2 Tone shoes!!
Thanks a lot.
Eduardo

Dear Eduardo
Muchos gracias
CB
norwich gig

Chrissy boy
The band were as awesome as ever last night big shout out to all norfolk nutty boys. thanks to you and the rest of the band for a great evening. Come back soon, ta paul

Thanks paul
CB
Please, come back to Spain!

Hi, Chris!

Thank you for giving me and my girlfriend one of the happiest days of our lives! Last thursday in Madrid you did an incredible show, and I lost more than 1 pound by jumping all night; please, come back to Spain, I need to loose more weight! (I was the sweating man with the Beatles t-shirt in the corner of the stage). I missed “Michael Caine” and more songs from 'Norton Folgate', but I can’t complain about anything, it was great!

Seriously, I’m a pro guitarist (currently working on Saturday Night Fever, Mamma Mía, and other musicals in Spain), and I have always loved your guitar work in Madness. Your playing is about feeling, playing for the song, writing good melodies and have fun with the guitar! I’m tired of all those mega-ultra-shredders who sound all exactly the same and more like a drill than like if they were making music.

Thanks and I hope to see you again!
Juan Garrandés

Dear Juan
Thanks, it was a great concert, one of the best I have done in the last few years, most emotional. I must say you were a fantastic crowd and I hope to return as well.
CB
music

My son is a sax player and is looking for sheet music for the song "one step beyond". Is has such a wicked sax line.

Thank you.Todd E

Dear Tod
Sorry there is none, He would have to transpose the normal music.He should be able to do it by ear.
CB
B-Sides

Hello Chris hows things? Wondered if there was any news on the B-sides for Forever Young yet? Hoping It Mek,Pigbag or Wonderful World Beautiful People will make an apperance.All the best Matt.

Dear Matt
Good question, except the single has changed to Sugar and Spice..
CB
Not since 81

I have asked before and I will ask again, do you not think it is time you wheeled out 'Cardic' and played it live? As far as I can remember the last time I heard it live was at the Hammersmith Palis in 81? The bass line on it is pure magic. I want too here it at Glastonbury or I will not be happy!
Alex

Dear Alex it's not too likely I'm sad to say.
CB
Madstock golden circle tickets

Hi Chrissy boy
Just wondering if you know when the tickets will be sent out as i bought my ticket through trinity but the email address i booked them through (Lycos) also went bankrupt and that was the contact email address they had.

Many thanks Steve

Dear Steve
Oh dear. I have sent this on to our team.
CB
New suggestions for songs...

New suggestions for songs...
Question: In 1981 The Specials released a song called "Friday night, saturday morning"

In 1999, Madness released a song called "Saturday night, sunday morning".

Now that the Specials have reformed I think the ball is firmly in their court, and they are duty bound to write and release a song called "Sunday night, monday morning" which could be about going back to work after the weekend

At that point, Madness would have to then release a song called "Monday night, Tuesday morning", which would be about relief of having got the first working day out of the way and looking forward to the weekend or something like that.

And then the Specials etc
Malc

Dear Malc
What a week question. Very good though.
CB
Golden Circle

Hiya Chris,

Having booked my Golden circle tix many moons ago for Madstock, just wondering.....What's the capacity?
Is it 1000 loons jumping around (in safety of course. Can't have Suggs asking everyone to move back again!)in amongst the 30,000 at Viccy Park or is it more exclusive?
Whatever it may be, I can't wait!

Take it easy

Fred

Dear Fred
Have you got the flippin things yet?
Cb
dream set list

Hi, Cameron here back in Bangkok - got a tricky one for you.

With so many hits it's obviously difficult to decide which ones make a setlist, but for me when I first saw you at Madstock '92 one of the highlights was Close Escape which had not been one of my favorites, I didn't mind it but after hearing it live - has loved it ever since.

Quality B sides such as Never Ask Twice/Airplane obviously don't stand a chance but I'm sure I'm not alone in longing to hear live songs other than greatest hits - Jo public will be happy with them, but the gigs are for the fans, and your enjoyment - so has there been any discussion within the band on this subject?

Here's my dream setlist, and I know I'm dreaming, but what do you think?

ONE STEP BEYOND

CLARKENWELL POLKA

IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT

SHUT UP

DUST DEVIL

MR SPEAKER

OUR HOUSE

SUGAR AND SPICE

NIGHT BOAT TO CAIRO

CARDIAC ARREST

NEW DELHI

MY GIRL

PROMISES PROMISES

WHITE HEAT

LOVESTRUCK

WALTZ INTO MISCHIEF

TIME

CLOSE ESCAPE

BAGGY TROUSERS

*encore*

LIBERTY/FOLGATE



P.S. Where are the pointy black hats from the Uncle Sam video today?

Dear Cameron
that is a good list. I'd love to o some of them. The hats are in a box in my cellar I think.
CB
Footie and Folgate

Hi Chris
Back again - TLONF is just so fab and being played non stop

Did I read once that you follow Tottenham ?

COYS
Hedley

Dear Hedley
Thanks and no, my family did years ago but I can't be assed.
CB
Thanks

Just wanted to say thanks back in 1990 in Dublin I was pissed as arse and wanted to see crunch. Only for you the bouncers would have not let me in.
kevin furness

Dear Kevin
You took your time. Top man. The same thing happened to me as well.
CB
Glastonbury

Dear Chris,
Can you tell me if your set at this years Glastonbury will be broadcast by the BBC?

all the best Mick

Dear Mick
I hope so, they said they will.
CB
LONF Question:

Greetings Chrissy Boy

Who is the rather fab female singer on the track On The Town on LONF?? One of the best albums I have owned in years by the way!!

Regards

Ratchet x

Dear Ratchet
Thanks, it's Rhoda Dakar.
CB
Hi

Hi Chris,
Just wanted to say hello to you and the boys. I've seen you a few times in Brighton and have to say you're the best live act in the game. Please, please, please come back to Brighton again soon. There's something so right about the Nutty Boys and the sea air, it just fits!
Thanks mate, all the best to you all,
Dave


Dear Dave
Love to. I live there you know.
CB
Confessional Box

When i was 15,me and several mates shoplifted about 10 copies of Driving In My Car from our local WH Smiths.Now i know its not big or clever and im not condoning such a crime but can i be forgiven ? In my defence we may have helped you reach No.4 in the charts and ive turned out to be a law abiding citizen!! Micky

Dear Mick
Sadly not. They would not have been scanned so would not register on the charts. I seem to recall if we had sold another 9 copies it would have made number one. Shame on you my son.
CB
long time fan

hi. Cant wait for the box set to be delivered.
Iv'e been a fan of 'Madness' since your first single.
Iv'e got every one you released on 7", 12"ep and 12"lp & all the tapes and CD;s.
This new box set will be a great addition to a wonderful collection.
All the best Neil

Dear Neil
I hope it arrives soon. If not let me know. Thanks for all the support.
CB
vasectomy a close escape

hi chris , today made my way to a clinic near tottenham court rd ,to book myself in 4 the snip ,after 4 kids i think i should call it a day .. anyway after seeing the doc , she gave me a date did not think nothing of it , phoned the wife told her the date , wife said dont think u should have this date , it was only the 17 th july , lol , so i run back to this clinic said pls change the date as i will be going to see you boys , lucky she did it 4 me ...
paul cowen

Dear Paul
No way!
CB
signing

Hi Chris

Hope the tour's going well.

I think it was brilliant that you did a signing for the fans in HMV.....sadly i couldnt make it that day. Was wondering..I live in Farnborough(Hampshire) and we have a W H Smiths with a small cd section in one corner..maybe you and the boys could do a signing there, it's on the Waterloo mainline so easy to get down. At a push I could probably pick 2 or 3 of you up from the station in my car but the others might need to get a taxi. Tuesdays are good as it's market day.
Mick

Dear Mick
Sorry - it was a one off for HMV.
CB
new album and berlin gig

dear chrissy boy,

after the special edition of "the liberty of norton folgate"received i was totally impressed about the great artwork.the album is great,all the bonus stuff is extraordinary.congratulation!!!!
now the berlin gig.a night to remember.good weather,great atmosphere and a extraordinary set list.but i have missed lee on sax.whats happened with him?
hope hes comming back at victoria park.

all my best to you and the rest of the band


respectful.... lars vegas germany

Dear Lars
Danke.He will be there. He was on holiday when we did the Berlin gig.
CB
Madstock

I have just been having a whale of a time watching your axecam... I am actually (for my sins) a mate of Graham Bush's so it's great to see him with you in the OZ axecam's...

Here's my 'piano cam' from a soundcheck



.. I may do my own axecam at our set at Madstock...
Lee Harris

Dear Lee
Hey - how did you do that?
CB
Show in Madrid

How is possible that Madness driving us to madness last show in Madrid? Thank you for a great nightshow! Congratulations about your new album.

P.S. Would be possible, one year, you make a show with The Leningrand�s Cowboys?
Julio Rodriguez

Dear Julio
Thanks and no, not likely but we are going to Russia so probably maybe Leningrad..
CB
Madness at the BBC

It would be nice to see a DVD or CD of Madness at the BBC from TV or radio sessions released sometime in the future.Any chance of this in the future.
Thanks Derek

Dear Derek
There is always the possibilty, but not at the moment.
CB
T-shirts

Chris, is there any chance the guys who make the t-shirts could do a few in XXL, I bet there's a few fans out there like myself who have put on a few lbs over the last 20 years or so and wouldn't look good in the smaller sizes.
Besty

Dear Besty
Yes I'm sure there is but maybe not enough to make it economically viable in today's current climate.
CB
help

i would so love to meet you all,i have been a superfan since you all started out. i last saw madness at madstock,but was so far at the back,i could'nt see.i so want to get all your autographs,it would make my collection complete.i only have 6 months to live.you guys have been MY WHOLE LIFE.r.s.v.p take care x
darren stoddart

Dear Darren
One day you will.Six months to live?...is that true? I hope not.
CB
lisbon Question:

hi chrissy boy
great gig in lisbon on tuesday.you sounded great.pity a lot of people left after foreigner.roll on madstock.i got a hello from chas and he dedicated house of fun to me nice
take care
michael farmer

Dear Michael
Well it was about 1am. Maybe the buses stop then.
CB
Set lists

Hi Chris

Loving the new album!
Just wondered - how do you decide who does your set list for each show? Or do you all do them?

Emma x

Dear Emma
Woody does it, then we all argue about it.
CB
Norfolk

Hello bud,

Just to say congratulations on a superb album, glad you are finally getting the music recognition you deserve. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow in my home town playing for the Costessey Posse!!

Cheers
Jimmy

Dear Jimmy
Thanks.
CB
Kids - Madstock

Sent msg before but with wrong email address! Query was if you thing it would be mad to bring kids 7 & 5 to Madstock, or if free admission for under 12 means that you expect quite a few kids and a bit more of a family atmosphere. Cheers.

Saw you in Glasgow, Barrowland and Apollo nearly 30 yrs ago. Time to see you again methinks, especially with such a great new album on the go.
Jo

Dear Jo
As far as I know, any kids under 12 get in free if accompanied by an adult.
CB
humble request

Hi Chrissy, thanks for answering my post, yesterday I was at the concert but do not let me go to the dressing rooms, the gorilla should be at the zoo and not in front of the booths, in order haberte'm sorry for not personally known and not being able to do the interview but the concert was wicked and danced until the end, thanks for everything and I hope we can meet on another occasion, kisses, Adela.
Here's a video of my girl group "the vIvoras" I hope you like I'm the bass player thanks again to another.Adela

Dear Adela
Sorry about that, it was a great show anyway.Do you like the Cramps? Your band reminds me of them.
CB
Hunchback.

Hi Chris,

It appears that many fans, including myself, hope that The Hunchback of Toriano, will be the next Madness single. This could be a wise move, as most of the owners of TLONF will not have heard it on the album's official release.

The song also has that typical Madness singalong chorus, and would be radio friendly.

Is there any chance, that I could be pretending to be a hunchback on a dancefloor of one of my local watering holes, after I have requested the DJ to play the new Madness single ?

Dear Dell
Please do.
CB
Heidi and Paul's Madness wedding

Hi Chrissy Boy, I would just like to ask if you can give a mention to my brother who will be in the audience at your Norfolk gig on Saturday 13th June.

He is having a Madness themed wedding! His name is Paul Harrison (41) and his bride is Heidi Reeves (39) the wedding outfits are Doc Martins, rolled up jeans with braces and T shirts they are both Madness crazy.

Try and get them up on stage and watch Paul dance with you to your music, he is great. They are both great fun.

Good luck with your current tour and thanks for reading this.

Tracey Sculthorpe

Dear Tracey
Whoops sorry. I only just read this but I always forget anyway.Wish them all the best of luck from me.
CB
French Private Gig....

Dear Chris,

I still haven't found a way to put my hand on a ticket for the private gig you'll play in France on 17th june....
So, could you please play LOUD? I will stand up outside and try to heard some notes... LOL
Cheers

Mister B

Dear M B
Bon chance
CB
Liberty

As a long time madness fan, (I remember when one step was a new record), I've just got to say how much I'm enjoying The Liberty of Norton Folgate, it's the only album I've played since I got it, I can't remember the last time I did that.
Unfortunately I had tickets to your Tassie concert which was canceled due to the weather, hopefully you'll come back another time.
Thanks for a great album.
Thanks guys.James

Dear James
Thanks and sorry we didn't make it over to see you.
CB
Track by Track

Dear Chris,
I see on the iTunes version of the new album, there is a track called "Suggs & Bedders Track by Track"
I'd like to hear this, but it won't let you buy it by itself - you have to order the whole album. But I already have the box set. Can you please put it in the M section for us?
Regards,
Graham

Dear Graham
I'll try but I think it is excusive to iTunes. It's Mark and Suggs going through the album.Track by track.
CB
Live Aid

Hi CB,

Were Madness asked to play at the original Live Aid in 1985?

Just Wonderin'!

Cheers
Herb

PS About 20 years too late but I think Magic Carpet on the 'Crunch' album is a damn fine song!

Dear Herb
No we weren't. We didn't make a Band Aid photo session and sort of got blanked out for that I think.Thanks another Nutty Boys fan! That's 2 today..
CB
congratulation!!!!

hello boys!

My name is Anngie I am from mexican. I am writting because you are the best band on UK. congratulation!!!

We would like to visit our country
you are genial, genial, genial!!!
thanks

Thanks Anngie
CB
Singles that could have been

Hi Chris

Were there any album tracks you really wished you'd issued as singles?

I've always thought "Keep Moving" should have been put out as a single - it's so infectiously catchy - and I kind of thought "The Wizard" would have been a great follow up to "Lovestruck".

Any news on the next Folgate single?

Ian

Dear Ian
Latest news is that the next single will be Sugar and Spice.Album tracks...er Benny Bullfrog was very popular in France and they wanted to release it as a single.
CB
Thanks

Hi Chrissy,

Appreciate the time you took to pop in and sign my guest book on the tribute page.

I know i am one sad man making a bebo one but i keeps the daughters face happy for another short while :)

Going to make a facebook and myspace one now,got the bug man :)

Anyway,thanks again Chrissy and all the best,

Big Gaz.

Dear Big Gaz
I'm not looking at that as well!
CB
THANKS !!!!!

Dear Chris,
I just want to say you all, THANKS for the great gig in Berlin (5th. Juni). I'm really still so happy... I'll send photos soon, my husband took a lot, and want to THANKS specially to Chas for leting us to have so many greats pictures of him.
Madness was, is and will be THE BEST ever!!!!
Cheers Lilian

Danke schone Lilian
CB
Bullies

Chris,
On MADDIE there's an audio clip of someone saying Cathal is a bully, Barson is a bully and so are they. Who is it speaking, when was this and do you think they are all bullies??
Patrick

Dear Patrick
Dave Robinson 1981.It depends on whether you give in to bullies.
CB
Bingo

Hi Chris,

That bit at the end of Bingo with the shouting youths - I am sure I have heard it on a Crunch song.

I bought Crunch's album (or should I say Nutty Boys) in 1990 just before my A Levels - got 2 As - I am sure Magic Carpet inspired me.

Thanks and well I'll be blowed - someone actually bought it. Well spotted, I used the fight scene from Take it Leave it on Fight Amongst Yourselves [Nutty Boys/Crunch!] and we used it again on Bingo.
CB
CHASE THE DEVIL

Thanks for the info on this track,sorry for the Prodigy gaff but education never stops. Have now ordered Dangermen and have been goin through Max Romeo\'s back catalogue,thanks for turning me on to his music its great although obviously not as good as the nutty boys. See you at Vicky Park!!!!

Dear Dan
No problems I didn't know the song that well myself... It's a good album. [The Max Romeo one]
CB
Uke

Hi Chrissy Boy

Today is my birthday and my hubby bought me a Ukulele!
Have you ever played Uke?

Once I learn some more chords I think I'll find the music for some Madness songs and give them a try.
If I get any good at it I'll put it on You Tube and send you the link.

Keep up the great work in the cupboard. I love reading all the posts and replies here. Better than Facebook and Twitter!

Sarah
xo

Dear Sarah
Thanks, happy [belated] birthday and good luck.
CB
CB
Car stickers

Morning young Chris ,
Sorry about the silly question about car stickers but i have no problem letting people know that after all these years I'm still a huge Madness fan and i don't care who knows !
So a big crowned M onthe back of my car would look the bee's knee's
Many thanks
Barry

Yeah Yeah
CB
WOW!!!!

Dear Mr C. J. Foreman

Just have to say the LONF is a madness masterpiece & deserves all the critical acclaim & commercial success it has received, it has so many good tunes you boys must be proud as punch.

All the best

Dave

P.S

When you guys re-release your back catalogue would it be possible to do cardboard sleeves instead of plastic cases as it would be more authentic e.g "rise & fall" in gatefold sleeve like the original.


Dear Dave
Thanks. I would like to do vinyl re releases with cardboard covers as well. We shall see.
CB
our house eh

hi chris....was wondering who the band are that have redone our house (how dare they)..just caught the end of it on some music channel and actually it wasnt too bad....cheers from ste......new album is quality by the way


Dear Ste
Thanks, they are called Kid British.
CB
saturday

hi there

we're going to norfolk show ground on sat and can't wait. we're getting married 80's style in aug and madness is a big part of our wedding " bring on the 1st dance ( with a twist )" !!

any way the new album is great, looking forward to the concert, see you all there

heidi and paul x

Dear Heid and Paul
Congratulations.send some pictures to
madnessphotoalbum@fastmail.fm
CB
Hello from the States!

Haven't stopped in for a bit; love the new look of the site!

30-year bass player here who's been a fan since 'Our House' hit MTV; practice to Absolutely through Keep Moving as well as Divine Madness for the special extra tracks. Mark's been one of my fave bass players for as long as I've been a fan of the band! 8)

If Madness ever hits the San Francisco area, I'll be there with a big 'M' on my shirt, and a big smile on my face!

Cheers!
James

Thanks James I will tell him.
CB
new album

hi cb

this is not a question just a note to say congrats on the new album it is "absolutely" "wonderful" its definately in my top "7" albums it,s "complete madness" how you manage to "keep moving" forward with your music from the "rise and fall" of the 80,s to the "utter madness" of this years "madstock" where im sure you,ll perform all your "heavy heavy hits" from "one step beyond" to "our house-the original songs" we all know and love it will be "devine" in short when it comes to good music "the madness" of today are certainly the "dangermen" as they once again prove they are "mad not mad"

yours gaz smash (aka buster)

Thanks Buster that is most clever.
CB
Thanks

Chris,
Thanks for all the great music and for answering my questions from before (New Single Download).

Anyway, what live albums have the band released, is it just Madstock and Universal Madness or are there other non-bootleg live releases?

Thanks again.

All hail Madness and Ian Dury!!

Sam.

Dear Sam
Er.. I'm not sure. That sounds about right.
CB
Intro Pinkpop

Hello Chris, it was very nice to see you all again at the pinkpop festival, it was a great gig and also the new album is very nice to listen to, You all didn`t change after the last gig 247 year ago,it was also nice to see that so much young people enjoyed your music , only have one question could you please tell me the name of the music (band) that was used as intro when you came on stage, it sounds like balkan music but i can no find it on the internet, thank you all for the nice gig and new cd and hope you keep on playing for the next 247 years greetings Rene

Dear Rene
It was a CD Bedders had. The song is called Sandala from an album called Kings and Queens
C.D.2

Hi Chris, just an idea, but seeing as you were toying with the idea of putting out the new album free with a sunday paper not so long ago, why not put a few selected tracks off cd2 (and maybe a couple off cd1) out this way? At least it will reach the ears of some of those musically inept people that either dont know you that well or think every song sounds like driving in my car?
nuttytoffee

Dear nuttytoffee
Er.. not at the moment.
CB
Thanks for drying my clothes!

Yes, it's right. You dried my clothes at the Nurburgring 2009 festival.

After this madness of rain and frost you guys brought the crowd to swing and dry. Just fabulous.

In the meantime I bought the set at concertonline.de and love to listen.

Cheers,
Dirk

thanks Dirk glad to be of some assistance.
Live archives

Hi Chris,
I say: the greatest christmas present for me and many others would be huge, live boxsets from Madness, both audio and video, a bit like the two Jam boxsets. Or like Manzarek did with the Doors material. He really just put out everything he could find, and it's great.
For instance, you played "the Tube" twice and it was fantastic, but that can only be found in incomplete, degraded versions.
I ask myself the same question about you and other artists: why don't you just release giant live archives with about everything you can put your hands on? If you don't think it will be profitable, just put that on the Internet to download, it musn't cost that much (I suppose).
The true fans don't really care for live compilations (like the "live Jam" album). We usually prefer 20 hour collections of complete gigs with every note, good or false, on it.
At least, this is how I feel about it ...
Jean

Dear Jean
It's a bit unlikey as you have to source the stuff pay, for it, then there is really not much market for it commercially. You can't just put it on the internet you know you have to get clearance. I would like to find all the TV shows we have done over the years myself, there were some reallly funny ones.
CB
MADDIE

I've only just spotted MADDIE for the first time after many visits and I just wanted to say that it is the best jukebox in the world. Is evrything you recorded on MADDIE? Thanks Simon

Dear Simon
Thanks, it should all be there be more or less.
CB
humble request

Hello my name is Chrissy Adela Iriarte 'm Spanish and I have the prized tickets to your concert, I would like to know if I can get a mini interview, nothing complicated type text for my independent documentary about 80 in Spain called "I never saw in Alaska Rock -Ola "also know I can burn a couple of songs from the concert, of course I'll send you a dvd of the film and leave your name in the credits, but I imagine that you already know that the credits are the parents, kisses and thanks.


Dear Chrissy
Just got this and we are already in Madrid. Come after the show I will see what we can do.
CB
Hunchback

Hi Chrissy Boy
Next single as got to be Hunchback, its a gem,(although everything you do is),I think from mates feedback it would be a popular choice. Whatever is released, I'm gunna buy it.
JOHN

Dear John
Thanks, I agree.
CB
iTunes availability

You should see my boys (ages 5 & 3) do their version of the nutty dance! Priceless!

Are you guys going to make your new album available on the US iTunes site?

Also, any plans to do more Christmas songs?


Mark
Ah kids.. put them on you tube and I'll do a link. The album is on yeproc in the US. It should be on iTunes soon. Christmas songs? We only did one for the fan club and that was it.
CB
Hair - or the lack of it...

I just got my TLONF box with the members login number (great box - I loved the extra cd with the live material and your letter. Funny!) But looking at the videos in the members area - you and Bedders seem to have the same hairstylist now adays. But I´m missing the Fred Perry shirt and the boots... :-)

I like Fred Perrys but the collars always go sort of curly. Doc Martens I sort of got tired of them leaking in the great British summer.
CB
Order Up!

Dear Chris,

I have a serious inquiry for once. Honest. No wind up, no taking the mick, no micking the take.

How is the track order for Madness albums chosen?

I ask this because we've had three different track listings and orders for Norton Folgate, taking into account the December download, the general release, and the box set.

Is the process same with Norton Folgate as it was on prior Madness albums?

All the best
Steve

Dear Steve
Seems serious enough. Well I did a lot of it. I thought the essential thing was that it should start with We Are London and end with Norton then just tweaked the middle bits. previuosly it just sort of got decided.Clive maybe suggested a few things. There were some people that thought Norton should go in the middle of the album which I thought was not a good idea..
CB
Gig in Berlin

Hi Chris,
what about the gig in Berlin. You played only 90 minutes. But, it was great.
Mike

Dear Mike
Danke schone. OK next time we macht show - what do you want 3 hours?
CB
1st time

woo it's my first time at aconcert on saturday its sad im 13! and wat betta to go and see than u guys in norwich thanks for being the best!
Jeff

Dear Jeff
I hope you enjoy it. Don't stand too near the front and don't get squashed.
CB
wheelie bins

hey chris, have you ever worked on the bins?
jeffrey bernard andrews

Dear Jeffrey
No, that was Thommo. Rubbish job, he said.
CB
A tribute page

Hi Chrissy,
Big Gaz from Jockland here again.

Been busy making a Bebo page for my daughter and she brainwashed me into making one of my own :(

Sad or what,but i thought no one will want to look at my old fizzer so i dedicated it to you and the rest of the boys.

I would appreciate it if you and the guys would drop in even just to say hi in my guest book and all are welcome.

www.bebo.com/2toneUK


Cheers Chrissy and all the best to the lads.

Big Gaz

Dear Gaz
Bebo? Are you sure? OK I just did it. Signed the guest book as well. It says MADrid Because that's where I am..
CB
live !

one of my favourite songs you guys have done was i was the one , since woody does your set list any chance you could give him a few slaps and ask him too add it too your set at madstock bet it would sound great live cheers chris dont smack him too hard though
john

Deaer John
I would never do that and we all have to agree on the set list..
CB
berlin gig

hi chris, why wasn't lee playing at the berlin gig i saw youz?
best,
patrick

Dear patrick
Because he is a..er...he was on a holiday.
CB
Rock am Ring 2009

Hello Madness,
I've been a Fan of yours since I was 13 years old, am now 42,so been around just as long as you guys. The first time I saw you was at a concert in Carlisle around 1979. Now living in the north of Germany (Lueneburg). It was great to see you again at Rock am Ring, went all the way down just to see you guys, and you were great as always. Wishing you all the best for the future. Colin

Thanks Colin
CB
About Madness

I am a huge fan of your music, i have been ever since i was born, i am nearly 17 years old, some people say if i wore shades and suits and a trilby, they say i would look like suggs, i also love all your songs, the new album is brilliant and i was just wondering, do you have any more plans on new songs in the near future, such as which song will be released next?
Mike Fahey

Dear Mike
Thanks,Forever Young will be the next single.
CB
Mr Woodgates Suits

Chris could you tell me where Mr DM. Woodgate gets them rather dapper suits that he has adorned down the years? Thanks Alex.
Alex

Dear Alex
Ben Sherman I think.
CB
CD's???

Hi Chris,
As a Madness devotee I have all the albums on Vinyl but can't seem to get 'Absolutely, 7, Rise & Fall or mad not mad' On cd. Any chance you can use your connections 'in the biz' to get someone to re-release them on cd. I'm sure they have been released but the record player was still working then so i never bothered to buy the cd's. What a Fool!!
Regards Simon.
PS What time do you come on stage at Victoria Park i wanted to take My 10 year old?
Simon Luxford

Dear Simon
The back catalogue will be re relesad on CD over the next few months. I think we will be on about 9-9.30
Forever Young

Is Suggs trying to steal all the glory by releasing this as a single? I reckon it should be one of your compositions.....
Timothy Ellis

Don't be silly.
CB
madstock tickets

hi chris , hope u are well , first no sign of tickets yet ,
what should i do if my 2 tickets dont come ? should i go up to victoria
park the day of the gig , with all the e.mails i got back from aeg etc ,
what should i do ?? paul

Dear Paul
If you have been e mailed by AEG then they will send you the tickets.
CB
madstock 2009

Hi Chrissy boy, i am supplying the portable toilets at vici park this year and would love the opportunty yo meet you guys? i have beena fan from 1979 and cant wait for the gig.
mark samuel


Dear Mark
Can you put one right near the stage for me? Better still on stage,then you can meet us all.
CB
E.R.N.I.E.

Well I feel like I just won something out of that E.R.N.I.E. machine referenced in the song and in the video for Return of the Los Palmas 7! Thanks very much for the photograph and the single! Looks like you got the band together yourself and had the photo taken, doesn't look like a stock one. The shipping was fast!
Thank you very much and I will enjoy the single and photo. (Even though I can't read some of the signatures).

Justin

(PS: I recieved this on a day when that girl asked why I was biking through her neighborhood when I didn't know it was hers and freaked me out in the process). Good timing.
Justin

Dear Justin
Congratualtions for being the 1000th message. Glad you got the stuff.Stay away from that girl..
CB
Producers

Hi Chris - how are you?

This week:

1) How did you guys end up with Langer and then the addition of Winstanley?

2) Did you ever consider working with Trevor Horn in the 80s?

All the best

- Mike Fisher

Dear Mike
We knew Clive already. Alan was the suggestion of Dave Robinson according to Dave that is. We met Tevor Horn and he said he really liked the pluckd stringson It Must Be Love. Next ABC single had....plucked strings! He is a genius though I would have liked to work with him.
CB
Wow!!

Hi Chrissy Boy,and All!!
Just got my box set and wow does it make up for a lot, was in london a few weeks ago for the Specials, they cancelled the night i had a ticket for Brixton...Bad, then I found out that I missed the open top bus gig in Camden only a couple of days beforei got there (stayed there for 4 days and didn't want to leave), then when i got back to Dublin i saw the advert in the site for your appearance in HMV Oxford Street, only a couple of days after i got back. Bad things always come in threes!!!!But i arrived home from the worst Monday in work and there was the box set waiting for me!! thet's cheered me up big time!! hopefully i can get to Madstock to round it off!!Dont ever stop!!Rachel xx

Thanks Rachel
I'm glad you got it.
CB
missing dust devil records

hi chris, its your old mate dan. i just wondered if you can get hold of the deust devil record pack you've been selling lately as i sent off my hard earnt money for it ages ago when it 1st went onsale and it never arrived. ive been talking to the shipping company who told me its now out of stock and they cannot send it to me. ARSE!!! can i get a copy of anywhere else? dust devil's a brilliant tune (aren't they all) and ive never owned a madness record on 10" before so i was paricularly upset to find i couldnt have one despite already paying for it. cheers chrissy boy.
rsvp mate

dan

Dear DD
OK I will put the team on it.
CB
Flying Thommo...

Dear Mr Foreskin, Will little thommo be hoisted into the air for the saxamaphone solo in Bagi Trasis at Victoria Park?
Best wishes to you all.
:O)ex Mrflo

You what Mr Wh&%$%$%$!
No we need too many people to lift him.
CB
A couple of things

Hi Chris, I'll get to the question in a sec. First of all though I have been a fan for the last 30odd years and I would like to say thanks for the music and memories. I can't wait to see you at Madstock, some of us may have put on a few pounds since the earthquake at the first one so maybe it will be a tsunami this time?
I was at the Aintree gig last year. I have just had a phone call from them to say that Status Quo are doing the same thing this Friday and was I interested, how very dare she!!!!
I love the boxset, it’s great to have something new to listen to from you guys.

Anyway the questions
Which Madness promo video did you enjoy making the most and why?
Which of the songs you have written are you most proud of and why?

Cheers
Steve

Dear Steve
We had a right laugh doing Uncle Sam. Favourite song what I have written..erm Baggy Tousers the first single that I had written themusic for I suppose.
CB
Track i heard at Newbury

Hi Chris had a brilliant time at the Newbury gig,the boys were awesome!!! I heard a track there which featured a sample from the prodigy outta space,what is the track called and is it available it,s brilliant.Thanks again for a great gig at Newbury,cant wait for vicky park.
Dan Hartup

Dear Dan
Prodigy my A**.The song is called Chase the Devil by Max Romeo.



Madness covered it on the Dangermen album.
CB
Stickers

Hello young Chris ,
Could you have a word with the people at the Madness shop to see if they can get a good quility car sticker sorted out ?
Cheers
The Flash .


Dear Barry
Er..OK.
CB
October 19th Festival Hall Brisbane 1982

Hi Chrissy Boy,
Just realized, that my girlfriends and I meet you in 82' not 83'.
That's all,
Annabelle


OK thanks luvvie
G'Day
CB x
album

Have you released the new album here in Aus?? AND Have you released that box set thingy here???

LOVED you at Luna Park Syd!! worth the 23 years.............
Bron

Dear Bron
Thanks and yes we have.Erm try the internet to buy it.
CB
On The Town

hey CB.
im coming to the Gatcombe Park gig, i was wondering is on the town gonna be played? its amazing just like the new album. mr madness x


Dear Mr M
Probably not, unless Rhoda turns up..
CB