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
Remember remember the 14th of November.
Ahem... Saturday 14th November... I turn 25, a whole quarter century. There are no London/Brighton/Southern England or in fact any gigs mentioned on the list, I can think of at least one major thing wrong with that. x Madame Barso
Dear Emma 25! Already? There might be something in the M section about then. CB
Hello Mr C. J. Foreman Its good to see that BBC Four are dedicating a night of your majestical work on friday 2nd October starting off with your glastobury performance, documentary, LONF Film and finshing off with Take it or leave it.Have you guys had any input into this evening of musical delight? Is the special edition of OSB going to be released as mini album replicas (like the new beatles remasters) as these would look wicked and i believe the hardcore fans would love them? Keep up the good work All the best Dave
Dear Dave BBC Four suggested the programming, which we approved - of course. OSB as far as I know will be a CD. I would like to release a vinyl version as well. CB
Hello Chris Can you tell us more about the CD/DVD package of TLONF which can be pre-order for november? What is this DVD about?? Thanks. All the best Steve
Dear Steve It's the film of the Hackney empire show from last year.With the Liberty Album thrown in. Or the other way round. CB
Chris I'm not just flattering you okay, but you are a very witty man. Your replies to many of these emails crack me up. I think you should get yourself on Twitter, I know there's a Madness twitter thingy, but I meant in your own right. I'm sure we'd all love your tweets...you'd be even funnier than Stephen Fry I'm sure... How about it? Lou
Dear Lou OK CBoyForeman it is.Done. I have'nt written anything yet though. thanks CB
Have you guys confirmed the support for the xmas tour yet?.
If not these guys are worht a look, they are called STOREY
here is a link to the website http://storeymusic.com/ They recenly played 2 nights at wembley stadium at coldplays post gig party. They are due to play the world famous dublin castle on 29/10/2009
if any of you guys free go take a look.
if you guys would like any more info on these guys don't hesitate to ask. please let me know what you think of them if you can.
Thanks for the great prize of a pair of regents street tickets.
I look forward to seeing you guys again my 69th time o2 at xmas will be my 70th time any chance of meeting you guys.
Good luck with the gig sunday
Thanks
Alan
dear Alan 69 Times! Are you serious! OK make it to a 100, you will be on the list. The Storey bad um.. don't call us we'll call you. thanks for all those gigs that's nearly my age CB
What a good & sad news..... Good one cos' you're coming back playing in France but a sad cos' I'll be on stage myself at the same time.... Why don't you come a monday???? yes I know... you don't chose the date.... Maybe if you arrive on 13th May you could come to see me acting at the Folies Bergere? I'll play Garcia in Zorro the musical... Anyway, I'm very sad to not to see you at that gig. Other thing, thanks for the compliment you made on the 30th anniversary Madness Tribute. Here, at the French-MIS, we are very proud of it. Thx for all.
Mister B
Dear Mister B Best of luck with the Zorro show. We play en Paris on the 14th May? Well I'll be... merci CB
My hopes for 2010 Chrissy Boy firstly Maadness to get the long dued Brit Lifetime Achievment Award next Madness to record the official 2010 England World Cup footy song.i know ur no footy fan but im sure the guys would talk you into being up for it.They would wouldnt they CB martin
Dear Martin I suppose they would.Chas did a good football theme a few years ago. 'We're coming over'. CB
Hello CB, hows things on the Foreman front ? Hope you are well and Im looking forward to a great December !!! If you can manage a crafty beer at any of the nights, let me know which one suits you best, or alternatively, a free beer in Matlock bath is yours, if you are passing !!!!!
All the best mate,
Tone
Dear Tone Matlock bath..Very scenic I hear. thanks CB
HUGE THANK YOU to your good self and the guys for including Belfast on the tour. So looking forward to December 29th. You wre so kind as to grant myself and my stepdaughter Emma (she was the young lady who is registered blind and was dumbstruck as to your compassion and generosity) backstage passes the last time you were in Belfast, December '07.
I'm going to grovel now, NOT for free tickets, because I'll be up bright and early next Friday morning to purchase my two precious tickets. IF you are doing a backstage meet this time round in Belfast is there ANY possibility that Emma and myself could once again be on your guest list?
Yours in excitement looking forward to another MAD Belfast night with the Nutty Boys!!!
All yours, Robert (and Emma).
Dear Robert and Emma Stay in touch and I'll let you know. CB
Heya Chris, I Didn't Really Know Who To Turn To Looking For Advise On The Subject Untill I Was On The Site. But Any Who I think My Dad Is Getting ReMarried...He's Been Engaged To Another Woman Before That And I Completely Broke Down When I Found Out . I'm Not That Sure If He Is But He Was Talking About Marrage The Other Day And I Herd A conversation Between Him And His Missus And He Said "You Find A Place And I Book It" Am I Been Paronoid Or Is It Him Getting married ,When I Askd Him He Said He Wasnt But There Is Still Something There..I'm In Dyer Need Of Help Cb That Why i turned To You I Seem To Turn To You For Everything Please Don't Ask Why coz I Don't Know Me-Self Hahaha ! Shannan
Dear Shannan I suggest you ask him. Maybe he is booking a place for a party or something?You don't 'find a place and book it' for a wedding do you? Although you can get married anywhere these days. CB
Chris oh Chris oh Chris The picture is that believable! It is currently the 18th Photo, the picture is made up of 5 band members and one fan (not sure who the fan is, but i am sure they will) Kind Regards MadSuggsy
Dear dear dear MadSuggsy This subject is now closed.I cannot be a**ed to find the picture, I have sat looking at them for ages. I like the kid asleep in the pram with the fez on.. CB
Got the new package for completist purposes - 'One Step Beyond' was actually playing in HMV at the Trafford Centre, Manc when I bought it. Always lovely to see you in the public eye - but I guess the album should be called 'Incomplete Madness'! (See what I did there?' 'Yesterday's Men' was always a lovely tune, you know! Big E
Dear Big E The greatest hits have always had a track or two missing, as you can't get them all on one CD. Thanks CB
Is your back catalogue going to be available on US I-Tunes? Janet
dear Janet the US situation is even more difficult than the UK. Our albums are owned by Geffen, Warners and some of them by us actually. I must make another list. CB
Hi Chris, emailed you a couple of times even met the band a couple of times over yhe past years. got everybodies autograph except one Mr Barson any chance? was working in Ipswich when tour was announced i seen it in the news of the world, Glasgow was sold out by the time i got home, would have been good to see you guys in a small venue again pity members of the M section didnt get a heads up on the tour. Tam Higgins
Dear Tam You will have to find Mr B yourself I'm afraid. Yes the M section should maybe get prior notice of some events but really everyone should have the equal chance to get tickets. CB
Hi CB, sorry to see you are not playing Liverpool in the tour. At the moment money is short so I can't get to Manchester. I'm amazed that it has been 30 years since you boys started. Good luck with the album and tour. Lynn
Dear Lynn Thanks and sorry, but we did do Aintree twice...next time. CB
Chrissy, why is your Madshop so slooooowwww at sending out our stuff ?? I ordered a 30yr T.shirt for Romsey, it arrived a month after the event. I've ordered a mug and an apron (so I don't get mess on my dress decorating those cakes) at the beginning of August - still waiting for them to be sent. Pre-ordered 2 Total Madness (which I thought would be sent out for the release date), but according to my account they havn't been sent either !!! - would have been quicker ordering them from Amazon. Please give them a poke, I'm thirsty (no mug), a right mess (no apron) and so bored (no DVD) I've had to resort to reading your old posts !! Ha Ha ! love you really, Sharonxx
Dear Sharon It may have skipped you attention but there is a postal strike on at the moment. Which doesn't excuse your previous disgraceful treatment.I shall have words. my apologies CB
I got Total Madness in my local superstore (can't believe there is so much in the package for less than a tenner) and it turns out Madonna is their album of the week!!!
I took a few copies of Total Madness and put in front of Lady Madonna as this was a much more prominent position and she had about six cd display holes. My question is...does this make me a bad person?
Mad Mick
Dear Mick You are the man. Thanks, we need all the help we can get. CB
My friend's only gone and won a pair of those not-so-silly-now tickets (for Sunday). So... Mum and Dad's ruby wedding anniversary meal... or Madness?
I had been veering towards being a good daughter but now I'm not so sure. What to do?! Do you have a TARDIS I could borrow please?
Amanda xx
Dear Amanda This will end in tears.It all depends on where the meal is being held. Is it near Regent Street? You could nip out discreetly in between courses. CB
Hello Chris, once One Step Beyond comes out, will the reissues of your other albums be released simultaneously or at regular intervals? cheers from Andy
Dear Andy They will become more frequent, like buses. Wait all day, then three come at once, as I always say on this very site. CB
Hiya, I have been trying to psychoanalyze the band members by finding out which of you wrote particular songs. When one of the band bring a song in, is it usually fully formed or are the arrangements etc. worked out by all. Anthony
Dear Anthony It all depends. Sometimes they get changed a lot, sometimes they stay more or less the same. If you get the box set [plug] you can hear a drastically different version of Dust Devil, for example. CB
Hiya Chris, How you doin? I wonder if you could pass on a message to Suggs for me? I was the "blithering Idiot" who approached him in a pub at the Hope Street Festival, Liverpol on Sunday. I was so nervous and rambled on like a fool, I would like to thank him for being such a gent and so charming and also overlooking the fact that I called him Graham!!????? I am cringing!!!! I first saw you boys in the 80s I was about 12 and me & my brother (RIP) begged our Mum to take us, she then became a fan too! Im coming to see you in December at Manchester, with my Mum and also my 2 daughters who are 12 & 9, they are big fans too and it will be their first ever gig! So thats 3 generations of the same family! We cant wait....love to you all x x x Michelle
Dear Michelle I'm sure he didn't mind.The only person I hear calling him Graham is his Mum. thanks CB
Hey Chris, I hear the band are playing a little gig in Regent Street on Sunday...We are also doing a set at a little pub in Camden called the Dublin Castle (not sure if you have heard of it !!!!!!!!) at about 2.30 so if you guys need somewhere to hang out before your gig it would be great to see you... we even have our own sax player back now so we dont have to borrow one from your brass section again!! See you Sunday!!! Sul (TooT'n'SkameN)
Dar Sul That's a great name for a band. I don't think I'll be able to make it. sorry CB
You blokes own dogs? I've got an old Staffy called Taffy, and an old Shih-Tzu called Hunnie, and just bought THE most beautiful German Shepherd called Rocky. First male dog I've had.
What's your favourite breed?
SFP xx
Dear Sfp Woody has got two West highland Terriers and that's about it, I think. My favourite breed is Sleeping Dogs, you just let them lie. My wife wants to get a West Highland terrier. Everyone in Brighton has got one, it seems...ho hum. suppose I'll be getting one, then. I want one of those dogs Bill Sykes had. Bullseye...English Bull terrier with a black eye. CB
hi, still waiting on my answer to the picture disc question.mate!!!!!!! paul
Dear Paul I have answered that one. I do not run this service 24/7, sadly. I would love to do nothing else but spend all day long telling people where Suggs gets his sunglasses from but I've got kids to take to school, builders to moan at, plus some sort of gigs with some 80's revival band to do every now and then. CB
I've just been reading your old posts (there's not a lot on the telly !), back in March/April you have mentioned that Chas has moved his basement into the M section. Is it still there 'cos I can't see it (yes I am a member !), or has the lovely Chas gone back to Ibiza ?
Tickets appear to be sold out already and I have missed out... flippin heck. Do you keep back any tickets for the relatives. If any are going spare I am willing to hand over 50 for one, even if it just gets me into the toilets.... If it is not possible, never mind, I wish you a great tour and I will catch up in 2010..... Mr ScUrF....
Dear Mr Scurf The relatives want 40!....Hang in there... CB
Chrissy Boy I notice that the Mad Couple picture has now been put in the photo booth, copy it across onto your reply. Q: Who’s missing? Answers on a post card, beers are on me if you get it right, see you at Leeds all the very best MadSuggsy
Dear MadSuggsy I still couldn't find it. To tell the truth, I don't know what I'm looking for. Send it to madnessphotoalbum@fastmail.fm CB
I have just started my own You Tube thing and was wondering if i can have your permission to put on a couple of your vids please? Am i gonna get into trouble if i put them on?
Ta,
Rich. :o)
Dear Rich Only if Lilly Allen sees them. Go on my son, everyone is doing it.Just go on you tube and type in Madness. CB
My first Madness gig was back in 1985 on the Mad Not Mad tour. The University of East Anglia 5th of November to be precise. I’d used the profits of my first job since leaving school to buy the ticket, the album and the double gatefold single of Yesterday’s Men. All this was hidden in the closet from my foster parents apart from the ticket that was never to leave my person at any time other than washing. You see the thing was I’d been banned from going for some minor indiscretion or other. These guys were tougher than the now estranged parents. Madness being my favourite band in the world this seemed wholly unreasonable to me. With encouragement from my temporary employers I was egged into going, I’d half made up my mind anyway but I was never one to rock the boat.
A fortnight is a long time when you are waiting for something but it soon passed and coincided with the last day of the job. My employers after a month of good service from me of cycling 12 miles in freezing weather and fitting windows in the Arctic winds gave me a large bonus and dropped me off at the gates of the university. The foster parents would have been expecting me home any moment now but I didn’t care. Here I was with a change of clothes and ticket to the gig and around £100 in my pocket. One quick change and a Cornish pasty with strawberry milkshake later I was set for the gig….pity it was about three hours away.
Wandering around the concrete edifice that is the UEA I stood overlooking the stage area and to my surprise there was Bedders, Woody and Lee doing a sound check. Wow! They looked normal size to me. The thing is we always think of the people we admire on TV as being ‘larger than life’. I watched them play for ages, (it seemed), running through a few numbers before they buggered off to find the rider.
As I sauntered round to the front I found my friends whom I’d rung up excitedly a few months before NME clasped firmly in hand telling them of the tour. “We’re going” was the unanimous decision after a nanosecond. After the usual greetings we stood in the queue and waited in the icy wind. Any minute now…hmmm hmmm tum te tum ...any minute now, dee deed ah dah …yes, any minute now. To while away the time we made fun of the bootlegger selling rubbish quality t-shirts and scarves by throwing our voices saying “Don’t touch them they’re rubbish”. People laughed the, bootlegger selling very few items buggered off. Then the doors opened and we were in, wow here we were at last all those Top of the Pops shows and stuff we’d seen on TV and now it was here in front of us.
Excited wasn’t the word for it. I spent almost my entire wages on merchandise, a tradition which I still carry out today. Armed with a large carrier bag with one of everything and ten of the Mad Not Mad stencils and flexi discs I made my way to the front. Fortified with the strength given to me by the pint of lager I was shocked to be able to buy at aged 16, we awaited Madness. Unfortunately the support band came on, The Friday Club, who were less than impressive. There was more badgering from us, until we found out they were on Two Tone. That changed everything. They went off and to this day I can’t remember the songs. The sound system played some early Motown hits … and then played them again…and again. Madness were late, how could they do this to us?
Eventually, well after the allotted time in the tour programme the theme from the film ‘The Third Man’ played and the lights dimmed and at last here they were. Madness! Madness! We cried an out pouring of joy that they were here. “Sorry we are late” Suggs apologised. We found out later that they had been doing Fashion Aid for Africa. So maybe they were forgiven.
The set started with Keep Moving and we sang along in our happy but out of tune way. I’d yet to hear Mad Not Mad having only bought it a few days before and having no record player, so I didn’t know those songs as well as I should have. The crowd were pushing towards the front but they weren’t going to push me out of the way. To my right there was Simon a life long friend and some other bloke whom I met at the gig. I don’t remember his name but I kept taking photos for him as he couldn’t get Woody from where he was, bloody Suggs was in the way. To my left there was a girl who didn’t know who the band were and kept asking me “Which one is that?” I told her … I couldn’t resist she was cute.
Chris it has to be said looked less than happy with his lot standing there in his all white outfit and Mullet haircut (I bet he misses them locks now). Maybe with hindsight it was due to the band not enjoying themselves anymore? Anyway we were oblivious to any split or trouble within the band at this point in time. Carl/Cathal/Chas was his usual manic self at the gig and did his best to perplex his dry cleaners. His frantic dancing during ‘I’ll Compete’ was a sight to behold. The gig was fantastic I had to keep pushing the crowd back so they didn’t crush my mate Simon against the stage (He’d not long had a rib removed due to a tumour), I kept taking photographs for this other fella and regretted my honesty by giving his camera back when the gig ended. To this day I’ve never found any photos of the gig.
The only thing we never really enjoyed were the backing singers, even at the time with all the euphoria of the gig. I can’t remember if they played ‘Listen to your father’ but I suspect not. They did however play ‘4BF’ which was new to us. We could see the set list from where we were and we knew the ones that came next. Simon had the advantage having listened to the album. I must buy the cassette. I sang along with the ones I knew ‘Keep Moving’ ‘Samantha’ and all the usual hits. I remember the gig ending way too soon for my liking and after an encore or two they were gone. We were late and I was in trouble… the foster parents would be home from their evening jobs by now.
Simon’s dad was here to give us lifts home. In fact due to the lateness he’d been waiting for ages and had actually talked to Suggs as he entered the gig. It’s not often I’ve been jealous of Stan but that night…. We all grabbed our tickets for mementoes from behind the counter and made our way to the car park. After a short drive home during which I spotted my foster parents driving the other way, looking angry, oops. I bade my farewell to the car full at the edge of the RAF camp where I lived so as to avoid trouble. Made my way home through the houses and snuck in…almost. As I had my hand in the cat flap trying to undo the lock ominous shadows fell over me. Eek, busted! After a short, but brutal, argument and a phone call to the police to call off the search and rescue dogs. I was banned from seeing my mate Simon as he’d lead me astray. As if. Was the gig worth the trouble? Yes without a shadow of a doubt. As it turned out to be (we thought at the time) the last tour. Shortly after this they split, “Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!” At least we still had the UEA gig. If there was a way I could place the memory onto DVD I would have so I could remember it more clearly. I’d love to find a bootleg of the gig or even just one photo. I’ll keep searching; just a glimpse of that special night all those years ago is all I ask. Until then I’ll have the warm fuzzy feeling that your first time for everything brings.
You will always be the top band in the country for me, keep on doing what you do fellas.
Dear Mike That's a great story, very touching. I WAS a bit pi**ed off that night. I had a large air pump that blew my hair like a giant hairdryer and it wasn't working. OK, to tell the truth, I didn't enjoy that period much. The backing vocals were OK, but they started singing on every song, instead of just the Mad Not Mad ones. I remember House of Fun sounding very cabaret, a bit naff. To be typically contrary, it's funny that at the moment, I am always trying to get new songs in the set and yet on this tour in 1985, we were playing songs we hadn't even recorded yet!I found this snippet on youtube.
Hi Chris Is there plans for another Dangermen album in the near future. Because I thought the 1st one was a very enjoyable album. Theres people who I know who wouldn't normally lisen to a madness album apart from divine madness and they to thought it was a good album. All the best Steve R P.S Looking forward to the gig in December
Dear Steve Have you tried playing them the NEW album? thanks CB
I grew up with madness, love the new album. Im bored on maternity leave, have a 3 week old baby boy, now its his turn to grow up with madness!!! (think ill go prod the little bugger for something to do!!) jules
Sorry, this is a gig-ish question. Sunday brings with it a dilemma. It's my mum and dad's 40th wedding anniversary. They've just told me they'll be having a few celebratory drinks in the pub in the afternoon, then everyone will be moving to a restaurant for a Ruby (forgot to ask if that's intentional). My dilemma is, do I move with them or jump on the train for Regent Street?
If I stay in Reading, what might I miss? I think you've already said you'll be doing about a one-hour set. But do you know what time you'll be on? I haven't won a silly ticket so I might not see much anyway. What to do?!
Amanda xx
PS Regent Street has banners up. They were taunting me when I left work this evening.
Dear Amanda Ho hum, this one will run and run. Take them along? We are on about 6.45pm. CB
hi Chrissy Boy, would just like to say i got TOTAL MADNESS cd today to match COMPLETE,UTTER,DIVINE & THE HEAVY HEAVY HITS.I love the cover of the new compilation did any of you guys help with the design of the cover.Also is there anywhere i can get a promo poster for the album. Im so pleased you guys are still making music you make me 44 year old man happy.Love all your stuff. cheers Andy
Thanks Andy For buying all our greatest hits over the years, very kind of you. We didn't have much to do with the cover, we just tweaked it a bit. Sorry but I don't have any posters. CB
can thommo send summit nice,as i have spent lots of my money trying to play the sax like him? maybe a reed he's played please. also cant wait to see you at regents st,i won some tickets!!
hi there chrissy boy have you and the rest of the band recived and madness cartoons and dvd/cds from anybody at your management yet and is there any news on the backstage pass for the brum gig in december ??
something we never found out,did the ghost train you were waitng for ever turn up,i waited one at a funfair the other week and i must say it came pretty damn quick simon
Dear Simon That's what happens. You wait around all day, then three come at once. CB
hi chrissy boy.coming back toon see the nutty boys at the appollo in manchester in dec,the last time i saw you boys at the men you did t shirts with the slogan "return of the los palmas 7 "i havent seen em since n want a new one please can you get some printed for sale on your site see you at the apollo,sy
Dear Sy OK, I'll just go out the back and knock a few up... CB
Arriving from Italy on Sat .. so should be fit for the city on Sun & then back out later.. Family are happy as have been back more than usual this yr ! H'fully can say Hi then ..
I hope that you are keeping well . I bought total madness this weekend- purely for collective purposes, and I guess there's one or two good tunes on there too. On looking at the inlay card, I see the future re- releases. I was both surprised and delighted to see that the madness and wonderful are being included. I wonder if we'll finally get to hear round and round demo? I digress.....
I was aghast to learn that mad not mad is not included. Why is this? Obviously the first few being on stiff origionaly,but if the madness and wonderful were recorded under virgin, then how come mad not mad slipped through the copyright/liscensing net?
I am a completist and always have to get all parts of any set, be it box sets, DVD collections and of course my beloved madness. Please make the call, sort it out, get mad not mad back and alleviate my obsessive complusive disordered mind.
Best of luck at Xmas and I shall fly in to Newcastle to see you perform once again.
Dear Vince Make the call? Who do you think I am? - Don Corleone? OK I'll do it.I don't like that album much anyway. CB
Hi Chris, Apparently the band has had copies of the Tribute album. I wanted to know what you thought about it,Do you have a favourite track?? My band ,The Inflatables, did our version of One Better Day and would love to hear your comments on that.
Thanks for a really Mad filled year, All the best Tony
ps.Any truths in a rumour that you are playin at Oxford next year?? Cheers
Dear Tony The tribute album is overall quite brilliant and very touching to me. Your One Better Day is a very good version, a bit different to the original, which is always a good idea. thanks CB
Altho we cannot dispute that liberty of N F is a respectable album with some excellent stuff , as an always at the front row girlie we are concerned that you and the boys will omit to play the good old stuff ...
reply essential ..we need to sleep easy in our beds !! Katie
Dear Katie The band will only be playing new stuff - if I ruled the world...Cosy oldies and oldie oldies CB
Top 3 From each Album to be played Question: In answer to a previous question about asking fans what songs they would like to hear live from each album, I thought i would get the ball rolling. The only rules are that the only singles you can choose are the ones that are very raely if not ever played. So here goes.
OSB Period 1) Middle of the night 2) Mistakes 3) ? Most things from this period are played.
Absolutley Period
1)In The Rain 2)Overdone 3)Take it or leave it
7 Period
1) Day on the town 2) Cardiac 3) Mrs Hutchinson (With Drum solo in middle 1983 tour)
Rise & Fall
1) Blue skinned beast 2) Walking with Mr Wheeze 3) Primrose hill
Keep Moving
1) Keep moving 2) Brand new beat 3) Give me a reason
Mad Not Mad
1) Burning the boats 2) Ill compete 3) Uncle Sam (its been a long time)
jane
Dear Jane Good list but we have been playing Take it or Leave it you know.
Dear Chris, It's a good thing I can't sms to Chris's cupboard. The amount of times I feel like sharing a good happy feeling when I hear one of the Madness songs is on a daily basis..Luv you guys for giving us this wonderfull music. I feel sad that I can not make it to the x-mas shows, but on the other side I am fortunate enough to have seen Madness twice this year. Who knows what 2010 will bring. Can't wait for the re-release of OSB and Total Madness. Stay happy and healthy. Andre
Dear Andre SMS! give me a break... thanks and all the best CB
Chris Madness have played a significant part in my musical education and to thank you guys I've just handed in my project entitled 'Nutty Boys/Nuty Sounds'. If I've passed I can go on next year to complete my dissertation, which I also hope to write about Madness. Because of this. may I use your time every now and again to ask you some quetions on studio technology/the difficulties of performing some tracks live/ and the songwritting process? I will be forever in your debt. Regards Greg
Dear Greg I wish you all the best if you want to ask me anything er...sort of save them up instead of loads of questions. good luck CB
Chris, Just wondering how long before the gig do you think it would be advisable to get there to get an alright view?? Can't wait to see it! Thanks Rosanna
Dear Rosanna This all depends on how tall you are, really. Take a tent and camp overnight? As you may have guessed, I don't have a clue. CB
Hi my Dad,twin sister Natasha and me were talking about who some of his friends were when he was younger and he said in 73 he was in a class with you and you gave him the nickname Eddie Mong I am hoping you remember if you do and you can say this is true I would love to know so please email me I think it is so cool my dad know you!!!!!! P.S he doesn't know I am doing this Grace
Dear Grace Oh my Gawd he was a right one, used to pretend to be a bit...er...mental. I think he was pretending, anyway. Say hello from me. CB
deaf school Question: just seen the 3 gigs in liverpool and what a great time was had by all mrs suggs showing hubby how its done ha ha suggs(the scouse imposter
My new wife and i just watched our horrible vhs rip of "dance craze" and she was (not a premire heure fan as i am) very pleased to see you the way you looked back in those days... she seems now (on her 50's) to be a HUGE fan of yours, and i brought her to the 2006 december tour in Brighton and to the "rock in sane" double gig and she's still in - even tryin' to get her "hippie" friends in
(i have here to admit that my new wife is a huge... err... pink floyd and...err...supertramp fan, but, HEY, it wasn't easy, but she saw you THREE times live!) the question is : is there a decent quality dvd version of dance craze, coz if not, it really should be ! fred
ps you don't look too fatty at all
Dear Fred Sorry Dance Craze has been deleted and has not much chance of getting re released I think. merci CB CB
ebay Question: Hi Chrissy,i saw this lovely picture of you and suggs,it was been sold on ebay:170378700297. suggs has his arm resting on your shoulder and the friendship bond looks good after all these yrs.I just thought id tell you how nice it looked.
I hate him really, you know.He leaning on me right heavy like and that guitar weighs a ton already..
Hello to you all and a thank you for the chance of a fab Christmas pressie 'Total Madness'. Am hoping to get tickets to see you too if I'm very good ;-)
I would just like to say that I have been following you guys since I first saw you at Lewisham odeon March 1980. You have been going 30 yrs and still churn out top music. The Liberty of Norton Folgate is possibly the best album of the lot. Could not get tickets for Southend but will be at the o2 yet again and then Newbury racecourse again next year if you guys are there. All the best from Keith Lesley and our 14 yr old Daniel
Dear Keith Thanks for all the support over the years. CB
Hi Chris When and where is the 2cd re issue of this classic album going to be available? Looking forward to O2 gig in Glasgow,be a fantastic atmosphere in there. Whats the chances of playing One Step beyond album to celebrate your 30th anniversary? Sure he O2 will be full of the hardcore fans too so some classic album tracks would go down a storm. Yours Hopefully Mike P.S Who would have thought it. The Specials and Madness within a month of each other.FANFOOKINTASTIC Mike
Chris just a big thank you for all the work you do apart from playing the guitar. for us the fans letting us know what's going on ie tickets that were brought then the company folds we all panic.You really are a unsung hero and that's why i will see you on the 18th. lawrence
Dear Lawrence Thanks but it's not just me, there is Jam and Jim. JimJam They do all the real work. CB
Hiya CB did the great Ray Davies ever find out about using a couple of liines from Lola on the somg Whistle.How does it work also did you have to pay a fee or something like that for the use. Martin Cochrane
Dear Martin No we just never sold many copies of the album, so no one noticed. I don't think Ray would mind though. CB
Hey Chris, Still hoarse from Electric Picnic!! Who are your guitar heroes? Anthony
Dear Anthony I did this a while age er.. Gibson Les Paul, Gibson SG, Fender Stratocatster,Fender Telecaster.. CB PS plus Wilko Johnson [Dr Feelgood], Chuck Berry, Duane Eddy, Ernest Ranglin [Old Reggae guy], Phil Manzenara [Roxy Music],Steve Cropper [Booker T and the Mg's amongst others] Nile Rodgers [Chic] Angus Young, Mick Jones [Clash] Steve Jones [Pistols] er.. I could go on all day really. Sometimes I am doing something and I think what would the Edge do?
aw chrissy i tryed to bid on ebay to meet you but got outbidded...sorry im just a working girl and cant afford the money other people are bidding...guess i see you all in newcastle then.. helen moore
Dear Helen Sorry - better luck next time, at least you got a ticket.. CB
Hi Chris, Just being trying to track down your old albums on vinyl, and Wiki says you have only released 7 studio albums. Sounds not very many to me, are they right? Thanks, Karen x
Dear Karen I'll have a look...No, they say there is 9, if you look at the list properly. 1979: One Step Beyond... (UK #2) 1980: Absolutely (UK #2) 1981: 7 (UK #5) 1982: The Rise & Fall (UK #10) 1984: Keep Moving (UK #6) 1985: Mad Not Mad (UK #16) 1999: Wonderful (UK #17) 2005: The Dangermen Sessions Vol. 1 (UK #11) The Liberty of Norton Folgate (UK #5) I don't count the Dangermen as a Madness album though, so 8. CB
Is it really Lee next door or are you just using it to claim expenses? What do you use these days as the fire extinguisher bit on Baggy trousers Live? StveR
dear chris, my mate james gave me the norton special edition box as a birthday present. now please tell me: what does the band consider the actual album: the 11-track vinyl, the 15 track cd i already had or all the 22 tracks on the first two box tracks. Thanks!Patrick
Dear Patrick Personally speaking, I think the box set is the definitive album. CB
Are there any plans to get Crunch! back together sometime soon?? Hope so!!!
Tony
Dear Tony We were 25 years ahead of our time so we will be bcak in avbout 4 years when the Madness gravy boat spills over. This is a little reminder of what to expect.
hi,could you tell me how of your singles went to picture disc.i think i have them all but im just not sure.thanks paul
Dear Paul Ah....this is one for my faithful legions of trainspotters, who will also furnish you with the catalogue numbers and what we were wearing when we recorded the songs in question. Possibly what we had for breakfast that day as well. Off the top of my head er we did about..House of fun, then..er..I don't know it was a crappy gimmick,really I never noticed. How many have you got? CB
PS I couldn't resist it, so I looked it up. I think I remember a Los Palmas one, so on that assumption I would say all these for a start:
1981 January The Return of the Los Palmas 7 1981 April Grey Day 1981 September Shut Up 1981 December It Must Be Love 1982 February Cardiac Arrest 1982 May House of Fun 1982 July Driving In My Car 1982 November Our House 1983 February Tomorrow's (Just Another Day) 1983 August Wings of a Dove 1983 November The Sun And The Rain 1984 February Michael Caine 1984 June One Better Day
Dearest CB, just thought i'd stop by to exchange 'hellos'. It's been a while, didn't want you to think i'd fallen out with you! Tell me mate, how can i contact you lot privately to extend an invitation? Is there perhaps an email address which would do the job? In the meantime i hope all is well, keep up the good work! Colin (Belfast)
Dear Colin OO--err! the Nutty Skins! - you are scary.Don't ponce about, you can send it here. I won't print it if you don't want me to or send it to any of our contacts on the contacts bit above my baldy head to the right of the page. CB
Hi Chrissy boy, Here's a TOP 10 of my FAVOURITE b-sides of the last 30 years.What are your favourites (just curious) 1.CRYING SHAME 2.SHADOW ON THE HOUSE 3.IF YOU THINK THERE'S SOMETHING 4.MAYBE IN ANOTHER LIFE 5.MISTAKES 6.FIREBALL XL5 7.STEPPING INTO LINE 8.I WAS THE ONE 9.ONE'S SECOND THOUGHTLESSNESS 10.DECEIVES THE EYE That's my top 10 number 1 must be CRYING SHAME i love SUGGS'S vocals in that song my all time favourite B-side.You cannot disagree with me on the number 1 choice surely!!!. all the best Andy.
Dear Andy Yes indeed, great guitar solo if I remember correctly. CB
Hey Chrissy - I need a coffee, and I really need to know what you reckon;Bourbon or Custard Creams to dunk in it? I have a shop full of drummers awaiting the Guru's wisdom. Catch you guys at Brighton. Steve
Dear Steve Sorry, it must have got cold by now. Bourbon, for future reference. CB
Hey Chris,Shannan Again! I Need Help...Well My mates Do Actually...I'm Thinking Of Starting Another Madness tribute Band By Myself This Time Abit Like Yourself And Lee Did But None Of My Mates That I hang Around With Never Herd Of "Ska" And they Won't Give It A Chance. I'm A Bit Stuck As They Are Into All The Compuetrised Hit A Few Buttons And Twist A Cuple Of Knobs And They You Have A Song Music,They Don't Really Understand The Phrase "real Music" Ok Yeah There My mates So Thats Where I'm Stuck...What Do I Do In Your Opinion ?? Thanks Shannan Xxxx
Dear Chris this has got to have been one of the golden years of being a fan.Excited about the deluxe re-issues,particularly if your adding BBC sessions to the extra discs.Please tell me Tiptoes(bbc session) will finally be unleashed.Any plans for the magnum opus that is Liberty being re-issued with all the vids & the lost sugar & spice extra tracks?I'm a frustrated traditionalistic luddite who wants to complete his immaculate madness collection.Madness til i die.ps.nice playing on the new one.Your best work yet rudy coudy
Dear Rudy Probably as One Step Beyond has got some BBC sessions on it.I would like at some point to do a double CD of Liberty with all the songs on it. thanks CB
Hello, Chris, I was listening to the Keep moving album and remembered a question I always wanted to know: Why does Suggs sing the line "can you smell the brand new beat" in spanish "puede oler el nuevo ritmo"?.( Well, I'm spanish and I'd bet he says that) Thank you Eduardo
Dear Eduardo Well he must have, then. As for why I don't know to tell the truth. I just rang him but got no answer. I left him a message... CB
hi chris, i was reading the insert of the norton folgate album,as you do. it said something about a ska cover album that was recorded in ireland. can you tell me how i can buy a copy? . cheers,ross
Dear Ross No, No, No, It was ISLAND records studios, not Ireland. We recorded some of the tracks in the Bunker studio there. The album was called the Dangermen. To buy a copy try
Hola me encanta tu compañero mark bedford soy su admiradora; me encanta su cancion de our house; pronto espero ir a inglaterra y conocerlos. Espero que sean igual de divertidos que en sus videos locos.
er Babel say:Hello greetings from Mexico Question: Hello mark Bedford enchants your companion to me I am his admirer; house enchants its song to me of our; soon I hope to go to England and to know them. I hope that they are equal of funny that in its crazy videos. Erika
Dear Erika Well most of the time we are.or should I say La mayor parte del tiempo estamos CB
Dear Chris It's my Mum's 65th birthday on 27th Sept but I'm abandoning her for the Regent Street gig. She says it's fine, I'll see her the night before anyway. So, question is. Can you tell me what pub we're meeting in please? Thanks Lou x
Dear Lou the Truss and Trumpet? I don't know pub what WE [?] are meeting in....Where are you leaving your Mum? CV
came to see u at the o2 last year- what a night. anyways, how quickly do you think the tickets will sell for the next o2 gig, becasue i need to know how long i have to save up. thank you, jack ps- still hopin' tarzans nut's will b released as a single.
Dear Jack The tickets will sell er..I don't have any idea. I thought we wouldn't sell many, as we have already done a Madstock this year.Start saving now! CB
Dear Chris, a few weeks ago I asked if the band might tour some smaller venues and my wish came true! Got my tickets for Glasgow before they sold out. Me, the missus, my 19yr old son and a mate (who didnt have a Madness album in his collection until he heard The Liberty).Have you managed to listen to the old vinyl records yet? Maybe you have been too busy will all the shows. Anyway, look forward to the show in December. I will wave to you from the balcony.... Will the film of the Liberty be released as a dvd eventually or shown on tv? Michael
Dear Michael The Hackney film will be out soon, in one way or another. The vinyl is still in its box as I am moving in a few months. thanks CB
Thank you and free cake Question: Blimey you must have been up late last night ! - thanks for the very quick reply to my email that I only sent last night, sorry you don't want a cake ...this time, however I shall send you one of our mini ones anyway (yes it's like wedding cake, they are very small so it's just for you !) Shall send it to the address in your "contact" bit, so make sure you wrestle it away from the lads and lassies in the post room !
Anyway, my question for tonight is -I've got my tickets for the O2 (am bringing my 9 and 11 year old niece and nephew this time), do you know where the stage will be ? if it's in the middle I've got good seats, if it's at the end then they are crap seats ! Don't think the kids will mind too much as it's their first ever concert (only the best to start them off), and I intend to be squashed at the front at Brighton, but it will be great if the stage is in the centre. P.s when is Lee getting into his treehouse, his mail must be piling up !! P.P.s By the way, I do enjoy your cupboard, some of your replies make me laugh out loud so much I frighten the cat ! Thanks again - Sharon xx
Dear Sharon Sorry about that, I was being practical, it will probably get squashed and I don't want you spending all that time on it. Thommo's treehouse - Ha! CB
Just a thought about your Christmas tour (which you have probably already considered and dismissed)....at the height of their fame, I took my daughter to the Spice Girls xmas gig and their encore was a cover of Wizard's Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day. Fake snow came down and everything......would be interesting!
See you at the 02
Mad Mick
OK Mick we have enough of our own songs, though. thanks CB
I’ve just finished reading Terry Edward’s One Step Beyond. I have not played the vinyl version for ages (been playing the remastered ones from the lot) and this has inspired me to do so. I am not very musical so I didn’t appreciate the effort that goes in to making such a classic recording. I think I will also give the Liberty vinyl a spin from the box set also (I haven’t stopped playing the CDs, it’s a fantastic album). Is there anything to listen out for on the vinyl that is any different than the CD? Just need to find a record player now. I know you like your vinyl records. What would you recommend in the way of a good deck to play them on? SteveR
Dear Steve You can't get better than a Technics 1210. Vinyl just sounds better than digital. CB
Haha we will be after that "saxy" steve again in Dec.. Poor sod don't stand a chance hehe. We are going to watch the Dualers on the 17th and you boys on the 18th so ya better warn him lol. Give him a big kiss too!!! xx Lisa Ellis
I know you get a lot of these kind of questions, so I apologise in advance!
Fistly, can you advise whether there are intentions on re-releasing "The Rise and Fall"? I really love Primrose Hill and want to get hold of a copy. Amazon has them for ridiculus money, ITunes doesn't have it at all and neither do some of the other music sharing sites.
And secondly, could the older albums be issued as downloads from your wonderful website for a small fee?
Thanks again for the fantastic show in Romsey, and am only sorry that the bottle throwers were there too. Hopefully that won't stop you from coming back in the future.
Thanx Mandy
Dear Mandy Yes Rise and Fall will be re released. I don't think we'll do downloads from our site CB
the riffs Question: hello was wondering you used to do gigs with the riffs will you ever be playing with them again? you guys were fantastic on the island the other week we all had a wicked evening thankyou for visiting us!!! carly x
Dear Carly I think the Nutty Boys only did one gig with the Riffs and we had nicked their bass player [Tad] as it happens.. thanks CB
Dear Young Chris , There's been lots of moaning on the forum about the special tickets you can win from Absolute Radio . I must be one of the lucky one's because I've won a pair ! The only problem I have is what to do with the KIDS ! They would love to come too ! Oh dear whats a Dad to do ? All the best The Flash .
Dear Barry Bring them, it should be OK - don't get too near the front. all the best CB
Thanks Guys , you lot are frellin legends to me Question: ok i dont have a question as much as just a note of aprecciation, the first album i was given was absolutley madness and the last album i have bought ( of whish i have many hundreds) is the liberty of norton folgate, and i hope to keep it that way unless you guys make another 2 or 3 albums which im sure us fans would be happy to see happen , in this time i have bought all of your cds , and still listen to them at least two songs a day , exspecially the uplifting songs like shut up and waiting for the ghost train , and the sun and the rain and the liberty of norton folgate of course , so i just want to thank all u lot suggsy , chrissy boy and so on for bringing me happiness and a some tunes which always turned my crappy days into much calmer more bearable days and the good days into absolutlety great days . and i wish i had more notice when youi were down under as i missed you the last two times , do you think you may tour down under again ?
Dear Brendan I'm glad we have been making you happy - that makes us happy. Gigs? I never know till the last minute. This is why I don't answer those when are you touring questions. When we toured Aussie this year it was literally not confirmed right up to the last minute. This resulted in us not getting much publicity from the V festival on posters etc.. yours CB
Hi Ghrissy. I wanted to buy Divine Madness for Chrimbo but can\'t find it anywhere....its not on amazon or hmv....can you help please?? does the band sell them direcdt?? Respekt LL
However it has been deleted so copies are are quite exspensive to buy. Union Square are releasing Total Madness, which will be the standard Madness greatest hits collection from now on and also includes the videos [with the the exception of Yesterdays Men and Uncle Sam] CB
When you all performed at Glastonbury this year all your families rushed the stage at the end, with so many kids does it get a bit expensive when you all get together for summer BBQ's.
All the best.
Pants
P.S. Yes I did get myself a CD player in the end.
Dear Pants They were mostly NOT our kids. This getting a bit of a joke. I am thinking of installing one of those height restrictions things you get at funfairs. If you are above this height you can't go on stage. Also a customs and excise booth, where they can be asked - are you related in any way to the band? CB
Hello Chris hows things? Was just reading that you guys don\'t own the rights to the Mad Not Mad stuff.Does this mean no special edition for this album like the rest are getting? Matt
Dear Matt I still have a few friends at EMI and I'm sure they will re release it. CB
Our last emails regarding FREE CAKE.... Chrissy, if you want the cake to be like a wedding cake (fruit cake) then that is what you can have !! In fact you can have it however you like, just let me deliver it (and stay for the Regents St gig)! Do you want one ? time is running out to get it made in time for the gig, email me to let me know..... or I could give you one (a cake!) at Brighton or the O2 (buying tickets in the morning, 3rd time seeing you this year) Back to you, but you need to reply in time so we can get the cake to you Sharon
Dear Sharon Thanks for the kind offer but don't worry about the cake......this time. CB
Hi Chrissy Boy, Would just like to say i got the Ashley Beedle remix of Africa would just like to say it is a lovely tune SUGGS'S vocal are very mellow & laid back it's a lovely song.Is Ashley Beedle remixing anymore of your songs loved the DUST DEVIL remix aswell.Anyway all the best with the tour The Liberty Of Norton Folgate is excellent.c u at Glasgow got my tickets cant wait to see the best band in the world again. all the best Andy
thanks Andy I don't know if Ashley will, probably so. CB
Hello Chris hows things? Was just reading that you guys don't own the rights to the Mad Not Mad stuff.Does this mean no special edition for this album like the rest are getting? Matt
Just to say thanks to the whole band for a great year for Madness fans.
Norton Folgate is a breath of fresh air, then Total Madness in a week or two followed by One Step Beyond and loadz of extras...then a flippin mega gig at Londons 02 for Christmas.
Hi lads.Just wanted to say a huge thanks to Suggs,Lee,Chas,Woody and Chrissyboy who I met on the Isle of Wight ferry.Im sorry I was babbling but to meet you was a 30 year ambition of mine.You didnt dissappoint,being the lovely bunch of fellahs I thought you'd be. Then,to bump into you again on the way back(thanks for remembering my name Woody) and end up singing with Suggs(Gangsters!)it just doesnt get any better.Real cloud 9 moment.Just a reminder Chas, you wrote bangbanglulu on the rizla pkt and the 2nd Dec would be very nice!!!! Cheers again-Wayne aka Captainskalet
Dear Wayne You blew it big time. thanks - lovely to meet you really CB
hi got on the 4th of september and we went to barbados on our honeymoon.Me and the wife are to southend to see you boys on the 5th of december and in january the band that play are gonna a gigg in worthing
Dear Spence you lucky devil. Doing a gig in Worthing that is, not going to Barbados.. CB
Hello CB, Do you have a sax player who also plays for The Dualers?? I think his name was Steve? He was at Victoria park with you all. If you know him well and see him could you tell him that the 2 girlies in the front row at The Dualers concert at the indigo, (That were making him laugh) say Hello! He is bloody Gorgeous! Can you also ask him if his on facebook he he. Luv you too of course!! xx lisa Eliis
Dear Lisa Yes I do know him and I am sure this is a wind up.Steve? Where are you? CB
Thanks for posting the photo of AccaDacca Lane, which I didn't even know existed! (There should be a Chrissy Boy Court, or a Lee Lane, or a Suggs Street, imo)
If by some miracle I get to meet Angus in March, I will forefit my chance to get an autograph for myself. I will get one for you instead, in appreciation of you pointing out my banner to Lee, providing us with wonderful music, and being an all-round good bloke.
And in anticipated appreciation of your return to Perth soon. (That was not a gig question, it was a hint!)
L SFP
Hey, you don't have to do that. I took a photo of myself there but I can't find it. CB
Hiya Chris, I was wondering over the years have you been able to see any Madness tribute bands and if you have who did you think was good?Just asking as a few of us are going to Skegvegas(skegness)to Butlins for the 80's weekend and Complete Madness are playing.I've seen them before and they are really good.(but not as good as the real thing). Big kiss Jane.x
Dear Jane On my nights off there is nothing I would rather do than go and see a Madness tribute band. As if. I think the best one is Los Palmas 6, because I know one of them Mr Steve Turner, so he is paying me to write this, as it happens. Butlins eh? Hmm... CB
Chris, Apart from the main instruments that everyone plays in the band, what other instruments can each of you play to a reasonable standard? jane
Dear Jane Chas anything that you can get tune out of, he will do it. Suggs Spoons, Saw and piano. Bedders Guitar,Piano and Ukelele. Woody Piano. Thommo sax [allegedly] er the other one a flute he had a pop at a clarinet recently, what a racket. Me Er bass piano and supposedly guitar..Barso has a go at anything too, he is very musical like Chas. Luckily he hasn't mastered the guitar yet. CB
Can you send me either something easy to play solo on guitar for any song or some easy to read piano for swan lake. I remember being around 8 or 9 years old and my dad showing me the cover for one step beyond with that crazy pose you are all in. Better than the moonwalk as far as I'm concerned. My dad has an ability to find bands before they become popular, yourselves included. I'm glad he turned you on to my little head. I Saw you in Portland, and a couple of years before at universal in LA. Thanks for coming round! Robie Garcia
Dear Robie You are having a laugh, my son.I can't send you anything like that. where would I get it? Keep on keepin' on dude thanks CB
Just letting you know I was contacted by tour management they day after I posted my last message, thanks very much for the stuff it was excellent. I managed to get tickets for Newcastle in December,im like a little kid waiting for santa claus to come.
ok then mr chris not a footy fan we now know u must like some other sports i cud imagine u at the cricket at hove or jumpin up n down at brighton racecourse surely u must like some sports martin
Hi Chris, If I have heard the rumour then you and the boys most certainly have too.It is concerning Madness receiving a long overdue Brit award next year.If indeed the rumour is true then I should imagine that the whole thing has to be kept hush hush and therefore me asking you outright if Madness are getting the award next year is a bit pointless because obviously you cannot say yes at the moment. There have been certain noises coming out of the band[I dont mean those kind of noises]that if the boys were to eventually be put forward for a brit then you would decline it due to the obscene amount of time it has taken the powers that be to nominate Madness. So hyperthetically speaking,if you did win the Brit award next Febrary would you all go to collect it or would you tell them to do one? From my personal point of view as a long time fan,nothing would give me greater pleasure than seeing all 7 of you up there while the crowd were on their feet giving you the longest and most heartfelt ovation that the Brits have ever seen. So would you collect it? Derek in Hampstead
Dear Derek I am a bit nonplussed to tell the truth. If we didn't get one it won't ruin my life shall we say.I don't know where you hear all this, though. If we were offered one, of course we would accept it. I would send mine back to he Queen after though, in protest at something. I have not heard anything, where did you hear the "rumour"? CB CB
Little and Large, Hale and Pace or Cannon and Ball - who's dressing room at Butlins smells the eggiest? Can't wait to see Madness in Westcliff! Nick Saunders
hi Chrissy,the fish net stockings apparentley skinhead girls wore them as part of their clothing...and as ive changed my image since hitting 40 i have occastionally wore them nd like them.but they arent very practical...lol...as for the regent street question its ok as im just glad ill be there in regents street as the atmopshere is great as we all love you all and everyone welcomes us all the way from durham.im loving been a skinhead girl and loving madness.sorry but i feel if im 15 again...lol and loving my skinhead girl look again...thankyou to you all xxxxx helen moore
Dear Helen Oh right, I didn't know that...ha ha...of course I did. thanks CB
well it's nice to be able to finaly talk to someone from Madness after many years of being a fan, anyway I've noticed over the years that all the members of Madness don't mind playing or intergrating music from all your solo projects, an example is how "Dust devel" sounds a lot like the stuff you done with Crunch, another example is "4am" that Suggs done on his album and that Madness covered on "wonderful", it's nice too think you all don't mind playing each other creations.
Many many thanks for years of entertainment and enjoyment.
Right Chris, I've given you a week or so to catch up with your backlog of emails. SO, can you tell us now the venue and date of a London date for the December tour?? I know you're doing one cos at the book signing yesterday Suggs said "we don't know yet" when we asked him about the venue... Lou x
Dear Lou Ha ha I honestly just got to this one. Which was sent 2 days and 4 hours ago. Right now it's 15th Sept 23.19. I think it's been answered. Otherwise it would have been deleted. CB
Hi Chris, may be a silly one, but on a flight recently I discovered the video of Norton Folgate and played it 4 times before we landed. Then I rushed to a shop and bought the cd. Then I bought a copy for my brother. But IS THE VIDEO availale to buy? And if not, why is there no justice? Anthony Nelson
Dear Anthony You've seen it 4 times and you still want to buy it? My kind of fan. Be careful what you wish for, it might come true. thanks CB
hi i would just like to say hi and im glad madniss bort out a new album im 14 year old and i cant get enguth of them there so fantasic and coll so keep up the good werk Callum Taylor
C B mate ! On Behalf of Sluggs and his entourage , We've just been looking at the gallery, what a day!!!!! Had such a laugh!!!! great gig!!!
We are just a group of lads from oooppp north, crazy days. So some of the crowd thought that we were the band , well maybe we did look like a little like 'ya, but please take this as a complement, and our Suggs is dead ringer !! But it's all tongue in cheek, buddy , and we are just enjoying the hole experience, so why are some fans getting sh*tty ! we are just 4 loyal fans and are truly just avin a laugh and are we are NUTTY BOYS!!!! SEE Ya in LEEDS ( HOME TOWN) This time you are comin to us!!!! If you fancy a pint it is on us ( bet our Sluggs can beat Suggs in an arm wrestle and drink him under the table!!!!) PAT - TASTIC
Dear Pat Oh, pack it up. you will be first hoyed over the barriers as usual and carried off red faced to the side of the stage. CB
Hey, someone should let you know you have a rival next door. And he's taller than you. That's what they're saying, anyway.
But never fear my dear, I shall stay loyal to you because you're so sweet and cuddly and the shortest. And you winked at me at M'stock. And you write good tunes. And I love you.
SFP xxx
OK - you're in. I am not the shortest though... CB
Hi Chris It's fred again, i just wanted to let you know that i posted pics from the first rock in sane gig on facebook, and there's one dedicated to les paul. Have you seen it ? fred
Dear Fred Um..no? I will have a look.Ah yes very good, I don't look too fatty. merci CB
Just to say good choice on 'Sugar & Spice' being the next single. Love that track. Have played 'Liberty of Norton Folgate'over and over since I brought it at the end of May. I just love the whole album. Saw you at Newbury at the end of may and you blew me away. I have so much respect for you guys. Even my 6 year old daughter know who you are. every time she hears a Madness number she says 'we saw these at the horse racing it Madness'. So glad that your coming to Sunny Swindon (haha) for one of your december gigs. I nearly fell off my chair when I saw the article in the local newspaper. Off to buy my ticket. Can't wait. See ya again in Dec. Lisa x
I was wondering if I could use some of your hilarious answers in my blog or something, because I've been looking around here and some of the stuff you've replied with have been very funny to me, especially your response to the Moon Question using the wikipedia overview. Some of your words are just very funny. (And informative). Please let me know if I can copy/paste some notables here: http://justincottawa.blogspot.com/
I'm just amused with some of the stuff you said is all, nothing will be used against anything. No names will be copied of course.
It's perfectly fine if it's not okay with you, but at least I would like to copy my own messages and responses on to the blog because it's me so nothing should be wrong there.
Thanks,
Justin PS: I cutout a review of TLONF in The Sun (Ottawa Sun) scanned it and sent it to Madness Central for their "In Print" section, they were happy for my contribution. Never thought I would come across something about Madness in an Ottawa paper, no way.
Dear Justin Where have you been all my life? Will I get famous? I have been doing some funny ones this very night as it happen was inthe mood. Feel free to go ahead with this.. thanks CB
hello chrissy love the new album its opened madness up to younger music fans,my oldest son said to me- dad my freinds asked if i had ever come across a band called madness.never thought all them years ago my seventeen year old son and his mate would be talking about madness in 2009, john morrison
Dear John It just goes to show. Have they heard of the Beatles I wonder? thanks CB
hi chris i heard you were doing a gig at the blackpool lights switch on i couldnt make the gig but theres coverage on the i player of all the bands that played but no madness were you there ?
cheers john
ps great album love africa
Yes - I am sure it was Blackpool. Or come to think of it, maybe it could have been Paris, I saw a nice big sort of Eiffel tower thing...
We are going for it! We really are doing it - Our House for the next music at the school in which I work. Looking forward to working on it - don't know if it'll be the first school or amateur production? Suppose Manchester will be too far for you to come and see but how about a good luck message to the kids to gee them up and use in the official programme? I know they'd be well chuffed! I would be dead grateful too!
All the best, mate!
Ian Big E Taylor
Dear Ian tell 'em
"Dear Kids It is a far better show you are doing today than those ones what you have done before. Go out there each and every one of you and play the parts to the hilt. We are all very proud of you. Madness expects every actor to do his duty" Wing Commander C Foreman BBC ITV CH4
Any chance you can send some film of it to the management and I'll put it on the site. [not all of it - some extracts]
hi chris i dont know if you can help me mate when it was in the paper last week about the uk tour and i saw madnees were coming to essex i thought great i was at work the day the tickets went on sale when i got home from work i phoned up the cliffs pavllion in southend that afternoon for them to say they had sold out i thought okay and now i have been on ebay today and people are selling tickets for the southend show for twice or three times the armount i have not got that sort of money is there anything you can do to stop this people mark
Dear Mark I am sorry, not a lot I can do in this e bay world. CB
It was pointed out to me that there is a mushroom cloud on the back cover of the Rise and Fall album. I always assumed this was just another tree at the base of Primrose Hill. All these years I missed what was right in front of my face.
So what's the story with the mushroom cloud? Inquiring minds want to know.
Best regards Steve
Dear Steve You know what? I had forgotten about that...My idea of course.I think.No story though.. CB
Dear Commander Hello again. Sian (Nutty Girl) told me to pop in again, as it had been a while. She also said you'll be missing me which I find harder to believe!!! Hope you've had the chance to listen to the Madstock Podcast, but if not, no worries. Its quite a behemoth so should probably be digested in small, biscuit-like chunks...Anyhoo, I'll be playing the Roving Reporter/Inflatable Saxophonist again on 27th September at the Regent Street gig, and I wondered if you'd be up to be interviewed. It's always good to have the band on these things as well. I'll probably manage to track you down as usual, but just in case, a backstage pass wouldn't go amiss... :) All the best my good man Owen The Nutter PS Thanks again for the dedication at Madstock - I've been playing that bit over and over again!
Dear Owen I have missed you. Have you seen some of the cack I have been asked? It was Owen my guitar man..not rollo it was you dear boy CB
Hi again Chris the world tour of camden, regent street, lonf launching gig, all sort of mad events i miss because living on the camembert side of the english channel... well i sometimes cross it but not as often as i whished ! i have to admit that you did play three times this year in france, but that is also not as often as i - we wished ! by the way, you do speak french... er... very well, ha ha ! fred
Ah Fred mon Francais is helped by Babel, a translation site. merci CB
Some body recently was asking on here about getting hold of some Madness 12" remixes......if you print my email address I may be able to help some fans.....especially Elvis Costello's Tomorrows Just Another Day.
discodaze@ntlworld.com
Mad Mick
OK Mick - how much do we get? No doing mp3's of Starvation OK? CB
Do you guys own the recording for Starvation? If you can't track it down and it's OK with the writers/publishers I could do a needle drop of the 7 and 12" versions for you guys to sell/give through the mp3 section of the site. Just a thought.
Mike Fisher
Dear Mike No leave it out, it was a charity record you know. Too many complications I think. If poeple have'nt got it then c'est la vie. CB
Watcha CB I was watching this clip on Youtube...How long was your hair? Am I right in thinking this was when you didn\'t cut your hair for a year as a bet?
Mad Mick
Dear Mick OH MY G*WD! Those trainers were the ones I was wearing on the cover of Keep Moving!At least I have got the old Boater on. What a state! CB
I am best man for a close friend in October and am currently trying to pull together a Best Man Speech... Any help / gags would be much appreciated.
We are both massive Madness fans and have been to all your tours in London for the last few years (since we knew each other). We were in the Gold Circle 'moshing' at Madstock this year, A SUPER NIGHT well done... We'll also be at Regent Street which being the week before his wedding I may arrange a MAD-Stag!!!
There's an idea a speech to the tune of The Prince would help.
Take Care, keep up the good work
Gav
Dear Gav I haven't got a clue, you can find some funny things on the internet like:
"Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen - Before I start, let me just say that the formative years I spent in the company of the groom means that he had as much of a part in developing my sense of humour as anyone. So, although I have tried to make this speech as funny as possible, please blame him if it's not."
Looks like it's £10 for any more but some good stuff there you can nick CB
My husband and I just notched up our 10th Madness concert in the Isle of Wight & just wanted to say you were brilliant - as always. It was a long way to go & see you (living in Barnsley) but was worth it! Just wanted to say Thank you for touring nearer to us this December, we've already got out tickets for Sheffield & Manchester. Know you probably get requests like this all the time but could you ask Suggs if he could possibly dedicate IT MUST BE LOVE to Tim from me, we got married to the track & is our absolute favourite! No worries if not, it's always special when we hear it. Thanks again for always making me smile when I hear your music...the ultimate nutty girl.xx Jo and Tim
I'm co-producing a tv pilot and we need a 3rd celebrity guest. I was wondering if you Suggs or Mike might be available to eat a gourmet meal and converse with the other guests (on camera) on the 21st of Sept. It would be good fun! I can send you more info for your consideration. Let me know.
Many thanks,
Bronwyn
Dear Bronwyn Sorry I am washing my hair that night.I will send it on to the lads. CB
A question which has been nagging me for some weeks now. I read in Horace's book that Mike had conservatory piano lesson's, at the time I thought that explained a lot behind the wonderful arrangements of the songs (with all respect to the rest of the band's input, it seems you all have had conservatory experience, listening to the songs). But recently you wrote in this section that it was not true. How did Mike get so good on the piano. Again not saying you all are not good, but today my question is related to Mike's piano playing.
Stay healthy, Andre PS. Shame you are not hitting Holland for Christmas with a gig or 2, this year. It is fun here around that time, you know ;).
Dear Andre Horace is wrong in his book when he says Mike went to a music college, he says it is a fact we covered up but in fact Mike did not go to music college. He is self taught. I never saw him having any lessons, his older brother is a really good piano player and he always had a piano in his house so he learnt that way. CB CB
hey CB, seen you guys in Ireland several times, please dont forget where we are, the point depot has been done up in your honour(now the O2). by the way the new album rocks out loud. come over and see us soon thanks wheelo
Dear Wheelo The O2? Should it not be the U2? I thought they ran the place. CB
Good evening C.J. Foreman Esq. Just got my tickets for the Newcastle gig and here's the pitch. Is there any way that I could possibly sneak in to the soundcheck to have my framed Madness singles signed by you and the boys. It has pride of place on my wall and I'm loathe to take it down and just turn up on the day as these records are all original pressings and I don't want it to get damaged, especially the picture discs. I appreciate that you no doubt get inundated with these requests but please be assured that I'm a genuine fan (the day you play Newcastle is my birthday and I'm 42 that day, so very much a long time fan). I was the guy who mailed you a few months back asking did it irritate you that Madness were seen as a "funtime" band rather than damn fine musos. Anyway all the best to you and the fella's and here's hoping you can make an old fan very happy! Sean Kilminster
my boyfriend loves you he says all the time that your concert are the greatest connection of theatre and music and pure enterteintment, we really want to see you in glasgow next december but we didn't find tickets, it is anything that we can do? could you suggest any other date of your tour? best from italy camilla marchetti
Dear Camilla One that is not sold out yet - Brighton? Ciao CB
Hi Chris, Don't know if you have heard about this website, but it has a very comprehensive approach to bands, music, etc. Madness get's good reviews and it's a great read. http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=11:wifqxqe5ldfe Take care Andre
OK Andre thanks I just did a few inaccuracies as it says band members:
* Steve Nieve * Mike Barson * Mark Bedford * Jerry Dammers * Chris Foreman * Graham "Suggs" McPherson * Chas Smash * Bruce Thomas * Lee Thompson * Dan Woodgate
Some of those people have of course played with us but are not band members, although Jerry Dammers is having a go. CB
Hi Chris, who's Dad was the photographer back in the 'Take it or leave it' filming days? Wouldn't mind taking a chance that he may still be around and have the negatives . He took some wicked photos of me and my mates (All innocent but that wouldn't be allowed these days!) Sharon Chambers
Dear Sharon I don't know who you are referring to. Someone's Dad took pictures of you? CB
Hello,From Paris, France, Chris i would like to know when you started Madness back in the day, did you know an another band from North London," Bad Manners" ? i wonder who come first. Marco
Dear Marco Ah ha indeed mais oui le poulet ou le ouef? Same sort of time really. mange tout Rodney CB
Hi Guys Just to say thanks sooooo much for playing a gig at Southend. Its just up the road from me and will be my 8th Madness concert. I really can't wait, your December concerts has been my Christmas present for years now. Loved Madstock by the way, was as good as Finsbury. Love to you all Maxine xxxx
Hi Chris, Can't wait to see you guys at the 02 Academy in Newcastle at Christmas. Is ya Mum in Law getting the foldy bed out the loft for ya while ya up here?? lol.
Best Wishes Stu Cook
Deah Stew I hurp nurt [phonetic Geordie accent?] CB
Hi, I just started listening to your music after I found some of my dads records in a trunk and your songs are really good! My dad obviously has good taste in music:) Oh yeah and my question is....What is it like to stay in a fancy hotel? I'm sure you guys have been to one and I really wanna know what their like! Cheers! Caitlin
Dear Caitlin Nice question and I love the way you discovered our music. Why did he have them in a trunk? Is he a lapsed Madness fan? Here's an example of the sort of luxury hotel we have come to expect.
hi, chrissy Boy would like to ask if you will be recording any of the dates of the tour which we can buy.got my tickets for 02 Academy can't wait to see you guys again.Any chance of including Johnny The Horse (accoustic intro)please a class MADNESS tune (not that i have a favourite they are all class tunes in my opinion).Or Winter in wonderland,oh my love,Culture Vulture.anyway all the best with the tour i'm looking forward to seeing you guys in Glasgow. "OH WHAT FUN I'LL HAVE". Cheers ANDY.
Dear Andy I don't really have any answers to any of the above. CB
Hiya Chris, I've just seen on Amazon a book called The Nutty sound the story of Madness by John Reed (pre order), but there is no date when it comes out.Do you know the date that the book is released? Big Kiss.Jane.x
Dear Jane Come on, liven up. I just looked on Amazon it says:
"The Nutty Sound: The Story of "Madness" by John Reed (Hardcover - 5 Oct 2009) Buy new: £19.95 £15.96 Available for pre-order Eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery".
That would indicate perhaps, that it will be out on the 5th Oct? ZZZZzzzzZZZZ CB
hi Chrissy Boy Love the poster for the tour is there anywhere i can get one it's a great looking poster (a bit sergeant peppers look to it).Got my ticket for the 02 Academy gig can't wait christmas is early for me this year.c u in december im the one in the crowd with the MADNESS TATTOO'S on my back lifelong fan 30 years. cheers Andy
Hi Chris i Hope You Are Very Well Iam Really Pleased You Are Doing Smaller Venues As The Music Sounds Even Better ive Got My Tickets For Manchester Apollo And Cant Wait For It To Come Round Will There Be Any More Singles Being Released From The Masterpiece T.L.O.N.F My Personal Fave Is That Close Love it Keep Up The Fantastic Work And Take Care. Many Regards Mark.
Does it feel better now to be making music together, or the same? love the Liberty of Norton Folgate.got my kids singing it now too..!!..xx maeve
Dear Maeve It was very good this time. It took a long time but was mostly stress free. When we all get together and make music, that's what it's is all about. CB
Chrissy, Please could you say a big thanks to all the band I have been a fan for years but never ever seen you live until a fortnight ago when you put on the gig at Carisbrooke castle on the Isle of wight. It was reallyy special to me because last year I was diagnosed with Cancer and had to be in hospital for many months having chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant in Southampton General Hospital. I am now registered as disabled thanks to the bone cancer but I was so happy to fullfill an ambition to see you after all this treatment as something on my kick the bucket list that I know have. Could I be cheeky and ask if you and the boys could send me a fully autographed picture or some thing for my collection and a duplicate that I could auction for the mcmillan hospice over here to raise funds for them and others in the same predicament as me. I would be so thankful. Will you and the lads be coming back and if so will your fan club please let me have details God Bless you all best wishes Keith Maddern(No the name is real which is why I am so much at one with the bands attitudes and music)
I have loads of posters and badges ect that I have bought and collected over the years
Dear Keith I'll send you something, our people will be in touch via e mail. I hope you don't kick the bucket for many years yet. thanks and God Bless Chris
I know not really Madness as such, but can you pass on to Suggs that I thought his touring Italy in a mini was great, looking forward to the next episode. Especially loved the alabaster sound of the recorder! He needs more lessons, which I am more than happy to help with although my recorders aren't alabaster... Love to all, Karen x
I saw the message in regards to Madness jewellery! Been an idea at back of my head for sometime!! Some M art on belly bars and tongue bars, M ear rings, necklaces! Think u'd make a mint!! Watches would sell very well! Hope ur doin well. xxx Jade
HI CHRIS. my girl and i are coming down to london for the regent street gig took her to madstock was the first time that she has seen you have now got her hooked.will you be playing a full set ? are you going for a beer before and after ? ANDY
Dear Andy A one hour set. I don't think I'll have a beer. CB
Hello mate, I just thought you might be interested to know that the very early gig played at Si Birdsall's house was seen out of a little seven year olds bedroom window who lived next door ... I lived at number 10 Compton Terrace from 73 till 81 and remember it clearly as my Mum let me stay up till midnight for the first time! ... I don't suppose there are any pictures from that night anywhere are they? ... I would so love to see them if so.
Anyway, i hope your all well. I live in Amsterdam now but am always reminded of you boys as 'One Step Beyond' is played when Ajax score ...
Take care Matt
thanks Matt Do you remember what date is was by any chance?I don't think I have any pictures. CB
Hi Chris I've just booked tickets for me & my husband to see you all at Plymouth in December. We love your music and last time we saw you all was many years ago when you did a gig in Cornwall at Carlyon Bay in St Austell which was fantastic. Would love to say hi maybe when we come up? If you haven't guessed by the surname I'm Brian's youngest daughter (friends of Nat). Looking forward to the gig. Cheers Anna
Hi CB, Thanks for replying to my other e-mails. I work for my friend who has set up her own mail order cake business (web address is in my e-mail address without the "shaz@" bit). The lovely Ali, in our sales dept,recently e-mailed your management team and Absolute radio about us doing a (free) cake for your Birthday celebrations. To date we have not had a reply, do you not want a free cake ? they are very nice (see the website), and as I missed you coming to my house for my own concert (see last e-mail from you) I would not mind coming to deliver the cake to you myself, and stay for the Regents St concert too !!. After all I am a member of M, and I've followed you since 1979, and I'm coming to see you again this year at Brighton and, and... you get the picture ! Over to you xx Sharon Staite
Chris I sent the picture via your gallery process, I think you will like the picture.
It's a little spooky,as it looks like my best friends Mrs!
It would have been great below my e-mail to yourself, and your reply so everyone can have a go at guessing?
I have re-sent the picture and asked the people at the Labs if this is possible.
It's great to see the December tour dates published, and at long last it sounds like you are eventually considering a Christmas single, I personally have thought you would have done this 30 years ago!, I am sure it will be a positive move and land you guys a no 1 slot for Christmas, what a great way to end 2009 and 30 years of success.
You write all the songs, therefor you own the rights surely....??
Can you explain the wonders of the music industry to a simpleton like me...!!
Thomo
Dear Thomo If you sign a publishing deal you have to surrender those rights. Sometimes this is for a set period but in the case of our early work it was for life of copyright. We own the rights to our back catalogue [excepting Mad Not Mad]. We have assigned the back catalogue rights to Union Square and after a certain period they will revert back to us. CB
Hi Chris, could you get someone to up date the contacts on the site as i have been trying to contact your management but the email and phone numbers dont work. Gaz
If you hadn't been in Madness, seriously what would you have ended up doing? Also do you have a trade? thanks
I don't really know, probably something cushy. I was doing alright as a tea boy at the post office when I left and did the first album.I had loads of overtime, I was offered work at weekends on triple pay. Then I would have maybe learnt something like computing. I was getting quite good at painting and decorating till I go the sack. CB
hi chris and all the boyz I'm a big fan and i'm trying to find a copy of the film as my copy got stolen in a burglary. But i'm find it hard to get a copy. If you know any where i can get copy I would be one happy chappy. many thanks dobbsy ps keep the new stiff coming
Dear Dobbsy It has been deleted but will hopefully be available soon.I found a copy on Play. com by using a search engine called Google which is very good, you may have heard of it. I typed in Take it or Leave it DVD and got http://www.play.com/Music/MusicDVD/4-/110068/Madness-Take-It-Or-Leave-It/Product.html in.14secs CB
hi guys I have been a mad madness fan since the beginning if the nutty boys,but have yet to see you in concert, you are the best band ever, awsome, keep it going guys.xxxx Karen Hick
Why did you change the pose on the "Absolutely" album? Got my hands on the first release last week. How many were printed with this pose?
Bjorn
Dear Bjorn It should have been 50/50. We liked one version and Dave Robinson liked another, so he said we would do half of each. Of course whenever we were asked to sign copies we noticed that the cover was much more in favour of the Dave Robinson cover, so I don't know how many were actually printed. Probably since the original re leases there has only been one cover printed. Which gives me an idea to set history straight.... CB
Hi, Just wondered if you will be playing much of The Liberty of Norton Folgate on your December tour? Or is it likely to be a greatest hits show? The new album is amazing and would love to hear it live... Also I can't believe On the Town hasn't been released as a single - everyone I know who has listened to the album loves this song, children and all! Any plans to release it? Best Wishes, Ben
Dear Ben It would be nice to play a lot of it, I think. I have been feeling like that for some time really. Some of the band like to just play the cosy old greatest hits though, so it's hard work "getting the balance". On the Town would make a great single, I've got the video sorted. CB
Just to let you know that you were brilliant last night It was worth the seven and a half hour wait. Am off to manchester on monday to get my ticket for the apollo. Cant wait. Give my best wishes to Carl Thanks Caroline
Dear Caroline Seven and a half hours! Nuts, you are. CB
I noticed your xmas tour venues this year are alot smaller than the usual Arenas etc.
Is this a purposeful decision on the bands part or are less people coming to watch ?!!! (silly, silly people) ?
Pij
p.s I sent you a b'day card in August 1993, and as yet i am to receive one for my birthday in afore mentioned year. Maybe it will come this year. How rude!
Dear Pij It's a "more selective audience". CB Ps I lost your address.
Oy! Very good concert at the Isle of Wight! Shame about the weather. It was good to hear some of the old stuff! Well done! However... why is Suggs starting to dress like Liberace?????? Mike Bell
Dear Mike You should see his candelabra. That suit is a work of art, it takes three hours for him to get it on. thanks CB
Hello Mate..Getting tickets for the gigs nowdays is complete MADNESS !! They are all bought up by the greedy touts then re-sold at rip off prices on e-bay so do you have any ideas of how to beat the system as me and my 12 year old boy would love to come see you if only we had the chance..regards Neil
Dear Neil I sympathise with you totally. Do you live near any of the venues? If so I would suggest going there and buying them in person. CB
Hey, I have been scouring the web for a copy of Un Paso Adelante to complement the original English version. Any plans for it to be included in any of the new releases. Cheers, Brillo
Dear Brillo Yes there are plans indeed. It will be on the re release of One Step Beyond album. It is time for you to stop all of your scouring. CB
a did you no that almighty records in there devine wisdom have remixed this track. its a great mix. take a listen on you tube. ps. cant wait 4 the leeds gig. nice to seethe band back in west yorkshire. enjoy. mick cannon
Dear Mick Yes what a fantastic re mix that is. I waited ages for anything to happen, fabulous. Is it you? CB
CB Regarding your answer to my previous question, I actually forgot u left in 05, u must of been well fed up with it all by then. We were glad when u came back tho, not 4 your musical or songwritng skills, but for these emails, ha, only joking.. In all honestly, from wot we've seen this year, it looks like u guys are enjoying it all more than ever, good 2 see. PS, C u in Brighton or Southend in december, my 5th madness gig. Stay cool and enjoy your rest.. Tote
Dear Tote Ha ha most droll, no one noticed I'd gone. CB
I watched the YouTube footage of the festival-saving double gig in Paris when Oasis imploded - and I was innordinately proud to be a Madness fan. Brilliant. Wish I'd been there.
PS I ordered tickets yesterday for Brum in December and just to let you know - they haven't arrived yet ;-] Mat Spillets
Dear Matt Thanks. I'm not falling for that old tickets wind up thing again. No more questions about tickets! I see a Golden Circle..... CB
I'm trying to find copies of your 'Divine Madness' cd for a birthday present - but finding it very difficult to find copies. Can you tell me how to obtain a couple of copies? Thanks, ex Camden girl now in Isle of Wight x Kay Butler
Dear Kay It has been deleted and replaced by total Madness - out soon. CB
Just wanted to let you know that your concert on 05/12 at the cliffs pavillion has sold out in a few hours I haven't missed a concert in london for years but looks like i'm out of luck this time- shame as it's just down the road to me. So this is me "by popular demand" asking for extra dates in london or the cliffs. See you on regent street. Tom.
Just wanted to say what an excellent gig Splendour was, me and my mate Andy had a thoroughly enjoyable time down the front. Couple of lads behind us before the gig started where being idiots saying you all looked the same and where rubbish, sufficed to say they ate their words once one step beyond kicked off... :)
The new album is absolutely superb, have even brought a copy for my 50 year old uncles birthday, he plays a bit of sax so hopefully he will appreciates lee's genius. Can't wait for the next album!!!
Also read a comment on here about Virgin still owning the rights to Mad Not Mad. Not sure if you are aware but they seem to be selling the Utter Madness album for download on Spotify which contains a fair few non Mad Not Mad tracks. Not sure if they have the rights to do that or not so thought i should point it out to you. After all not really fair if their trying it on and stealing your earnings.
Jordan
Dear Jordan Don't worry, we still get paid. Thanks for pointing it out to me. CB
Well just a few things thankyou from the bottom of my heart for helping me through my youth your songs helped me through a tough time im my life you guys were constant for that i thankyou so is just a good now being in the band as it was when you were younger or is it tougher to jump and run round now you guys are just a bit older lets not forget we are used to boy bands when you are on stage its all men thanks take care xxxx Annemarie Glover
Dear Annemarie It does get a bit harder these days. I'm glad we helped you out in some way, that makes it all worthwhile sometimes. thanks CB
just like to say what a great day you were brilliant and especially enjoyed you doing some of the new album heres to the next one and come back to island soooon cheers les eldridge
hi ya chrissy boy my boyfirend has got the number one nutty boys comic that came with the vinyl "thats the way to do it" i am just wondering if there was any more that was released? if so how many? my boyfirend would like to get some more nutty boys comics MEGAN- the chequergirl
Dear Megan We don't have any left. It was a long time ago, we did 13 and a half issues I think. CB
i just wondered if you enjoyed it down iow whilst the rally was on thats all did any memebers of the band venture to the camp site or anything? colin reynolds
Dear Colin I went out to the main area to see some mates.That was it really I have had enough camping this year. CB
Just a line to say that LONF has to be the best album to date. Congrats to you and the boys on an excellent piece of work.
Now then, what chance you guys could do a night or two at The Anvil (Basingstoke)? You'd be guaranteed to pack 'em in and blow the bloody doors off the place.
Hello chris I read reads it songs of "total Madness" and oh! Surprised! There is no piece of new song in the style of "house of fun" in when the return of Madness of big time(period)?? lord guns
Dear Lord We didn't have the time or any new songs left. We just did a 23 track box set actually, the album has 14. CB
How can you justify chargin 33.50 (36 with booking fee) to see Madness? who has 36 now a days?! Nate
Dear Nate If it was up to me [and this my personal opinion by the way], we would charge less and the booking fee is a total greedy rip off. £3.50 per ticket! CB
Hi Chris. Really looking forward to seeing you in Leeds or Sheffield in December. I was wondering if you've considered asking the fans what they'd like to hear on the tour, I think this could really help with the 30th Anniversary celebrations.
Hows about a poll on the website asking fans to pick their top three songs from all of the albums, you could pick the top 15 fan's votes and then the remainder of the gig could be your choice.
I know Level 42 did this last year and I have been informed Erasure did it too with great success. This way the older fans and the newer fans will be happy.
Just wanted to say we are SOOOOOO PLEASED!!!! you are coming to Swindon, we have seen you lots of times before but it's great your coming to our home town. Got our tickets and can't wait to see you in December! Lovin you all!!!!xxxxx Clare Murgatroyd
Does any of you remember a kid about 12 with a bowler hat on and loads a madness badges on his jacket at the record signing at hmv oxford street for complete madness? that was me and ive still got the signed record! 12 years old and I met all my hero's (execpt woody, maybe he was in the loo?!). Love the new Album, a proper return to form. Just really wanted to say Ive been a fan since the start (9 years old!) and still listen to all the old albums. Absoloutely is still the best. You lot are the nuts, the real thing. thanks for 30 years of Madness!! Simon Wilkinson
Thanks Simon, I can honestly say I think I remember you. CB
Hello chris, have'nt spoke for a while now, just bought tickets for me and the missus at Swindon, hope you lot are not going to blow me ears up again as happenend at the Nec a couple of years ago, anyway after all these years of following Madness since 1979, any chance of finally meeting you lot backstage ? Dannyboy
Dear Dannyboy There is always a chance, you just have to make your own opportunities. thanks for the support CB
Chrissy Boy, hope you are well. I've been a Madness fan since I was a kid (40 this year), good to see that 30 years on and the nutty boys are still going strong. I've got 3 questions for you.
1)What was the name of the school featured in the Baggy Trousers video?
2)Did you ever play the "Hope and Anchor" in Upper Street, islington as the North London Invaders?
3)who invented the "nutty steps", and in the "one step beyond video" who is it performing them?
Cheers mate and best wishes to you and the rest of the band
Mark Smith (Islington, London)
Dear Mark 1] Islip Street school Islip Street Kentish Town. 2] No - we were called Madness by then. 3] Chalky in [front of houses] and Prince Nutty [in front of telephone box and neon lights] choreographed by Arlene Phillips. CB yours CB
last monday i really got my flat cleaned,live on me own you see.then i put on dvd take it or leave it.had 3 bottles of magners and was rotten.went football training in eveining did not last 2 mins was sent home ,watched madstock [class].do you think me need help,or would the pannel said i need to get a bird,,,,, gerry boy
Dear Gerry That Magners is sweet and very dodgy, deceptively strong as well. Get a more sophisticated drink, with a little umbrella in it and you will get a bird no probs. CB
hi cb , show was fantastic at iow ,i was very upset that suggs thanked all the iow locals for coming but did not mention nothing about the scooter rally and all the scooter boys that came to the show , just thought it was very odd as it was half full of scooterboys and not isle of white local yocals . us old skin head scooter boys made you famous would of been nice to have got a mention , nick
Sorry Nick I will give him a dry slap, thanks for the support. CB
BIG thanx Question: No question ..but just a quickie too say big thanx for doing the toon gig ...got the tickets for the family ...wife and 3 kids lol Nils from the TOON
Just wanted to say Hi to all and that I'm really excited about seeing you guys in Brighton in December - been waiting for you to come back to my fave venue!! I first saw you there 28 years ago, aged 14, it was my first ever concert and I can still remember so clearly how excited I was! Made up you guys are all back together again and am wondering if I still have a Madness t-shirt that I can squeeze into...Second thoughts....
Hiya Chris, just wanted to say thank you,thank you,thank you to all of you because your going to be doing some December gigs.My mates and me were at Madstock and after our bodies recovered from bouncing up and down too much,we wanted to do it all again.So see you in Birmingham in December. Big Kiss Jane.x P.s. I told my mate if she booked the tickets today,Suggs would smack her bum.You couldn't fix that one could you Chrissy boy.No ok i tried.lol
I last posted explaining how me and my friends were attending Madstock in fancy dress in tribute to my Dad dressed in Nightboat to Cairo outfits...You replied saying that you were going to bring the park down - And you did and we thank you!
To be honest this message is just a bit of an arse licking session but its good to be honest :-)
I am delighted that you will be coming to Southend on the 5th December, that has really made my day.
We have Bad Manners in Septmber, The Specials coming down in November so having you guys down in December is a right treat.
Am I right in saying that this is your first time to Southend (probably your last as well!!)?
On a serious note, its great to see you boys perfomring at the top of your game and we all hope it contiunes.
Thanks Chrissy,
Benny
thanks Benny We must have been to Southend in the 80's. I think not, though. CB
After 30 years, Isn´t it about time to photoshop in Chas on the One Step Beyond picture with the rest of you lads. Hasn´t he payed a enough high price for not being an original member...? Think about his feelings! Johan
Dear Johan... You again! He was all over the back cover, you know. CB
HI Chris, I would like to just say a big big thank you to all of Madness you guys have just made my Xmas 09. I have been a fan from the start and 1st can see you all in Derby Xmas 1980 and have been ever since, I now have made a fan out of my son so we will see you all in December at Birmingham it will be his 2nd Madness gig. so many many thanks guys .... Karl & Kyle
no question just to say thanx cos your finally coming to sheffield, and my tickets are booked already, but will still make the journey to london again, simply the madest and best band in this mad world, cant wait till december now see ya soon Greg
Dear Chris here is the poem I wrote to you back in the early 80s when i was in your fan club,I got a reply which made my day. So here goes, dont laugh, remember I was only 13.!!!!!!Chrissy Boy,Chrissy Boy i really love you, but i know i cant have you oh what should i do? Ive tried to forget you but all is in vain, my heart is in two and your causing me pain. With you family and the band you have everything in hand, but i can still dream and think of you until one day maybe one day my dream will come true. How sad is that, I actually remember the poem. When i got a reply it said it had really made your day.You probably didnt even see it, but at the time I was chuffed!x Nicola Melody
Dear Nicola If I replied then it was me, I never used to get things like that, so it was very nice of you. CB
Hi Chaps dont think i have forgot Back down here in the heat of Lagos and serching for the truck with the Guys boping to uncle sam in the back Just wish i had a vid of it It was so Good!!
Gone miss you at home tomorrow also Have a ball in Ireland
Just a huge thank you to you all for the December tour: looking forward muchly to it. Hurrah!
Going to be a knackering few weeks isn't it? Are you all in training now? Is it down the gym for you all? I'd steer away from that treadmill thing if so: it isn't right.
Hi Chris, It would be great if you could release all the sessions you recorded for Radio 1 over the years they would be agreat to listen to again as they were all those years ago.I think it would be a great idea. Cheers,Andy
Dear Andy A lot of them are property of the BBC, so it's a bit hard to do. CB
I just wanted to thank you soooooo much for giging close to where I live now at xmas, bit of a s**t I'm movin lol. Oh well I am still goin to be there no matter wot! Its my dads weddin on Friday, 3rd time lucky, and going to play some Madness (obviously) Didnt no if you wanted some cake!?! It's fruit wiv s**t loads of brandy, fancy a slice of cake? xx Jade
Dear Jade I love wedding cake! I've been married 3 times too, maybe some coincidence there. Say good luck to the old boy from me. CB
Thank you *so* much for holding a gig near a Sam Smith's at last - Man in a Box £2.17! I'll be able to afford your beautiful box set soon.
And as for December... I feel sick with excitement! Thank you!! Please don't knacker yourselves out though. I think an intimate Dublin Castle gig would be the perfect end to end your anniversary year. Don't you?
I do have a question (occurred to me while watching Divine just now): When planning the video for Tomorrow's (Just Another Day) did you say, 'Please can I be the bluebell'?
Amanda xx
Dear Amanda Thanks I don't know what your on about the man in a box thing. I wanted to be a pansy actually. But I didn't have the bottle. I dug those holes we were in, you know. CB
Johnny The Horse is my Favourite Madness Song of all time, yet I have heard that the band didn't want it released for some reason or another, can you shed any light on this. also wanted to ask your thoughts on why Nightmare Nightmare was not released from the brilliant The Madness Album
Kepe up the good work, perhaps you could do a Suggs Homecoming gig in Hastings? steve
Dear Steve I already answered this a while back I liked it and I liked playing it live as well.It probably should not have been a single though.Nightmare Nightmare, yes that should have been a single I think. CB
Hi Chris Well done for madstock this year brilliant! just wondering whether you know how much the tickets will be for you upcoming tour? Harley
Dear Harley Try Google - It's great! Really, it saves time for me if you do. I just looked and......what a rip off! I went on to Ticketmaster and tried to buy two tickets for Brighton as I fancy seeing the lads myself as it happens. Ticket Price £33.50 x 2 Service Charge £3.50 x 2. Why the f*ip does it charge you £3.50 twice for sending some tickets to you? I would go and get them in person, a saving of £7.00. CB
Hi Chrissy Boy! First of all can't wait for December. Looking forward to my pre Christmas Nutty Night Out! I was just wondering if your fellow band member Suggs was doing any in store book signings whilst promoting his new book. I would love to get my hands on a signed copy. Look forward to hearing from you Cheers, Barry Mingard
Dear Barry You mistake me for someone who has knowledge of Suggs' book signing tour. The great man has not informed me where, or indeed when he will be doing it. CB
Hi CB Firstly,Thanks to you and the fellas for the 2 great gigs I've seen this year, Romsey and IOW. Also a massive thanks to you, Suggsy and Chas for taking the time to let me have my photo taken with you all. Right, to the Question; which I should have asked one of you but forgot. Why, oh Why did the band never play at Live aid 85 as far as I remember you were still together, did Geldof not ask or were you too busy? Thanks again. See you at Xmas. Olly P
Dear Olly I have answered that one before. To cut a long story short, we were asked to be in a photo to promote the single and we couldn't make it. We didn't get asked to appear at the concert. thanks CB
I am thinking of taking some time of work this Friday ,2 come and see you play at Blackpool. :) plz could you let me know if posible what time your on stage. It would help me out on my wagging work lol
Thanks Nutty Mad Andy from Manchester
Dear Andy sorry - been and gone. We were on long after work.. CB
Helloooooooooooo, yes its mee again. Exited to hear about the xmas tour, and yes manchester on the 15th Dec. Well you know me by now and what i'm about to ask ! Please can you all sign my wheels at Manchester, i also need to get a programme signed for Looby. Seen as i couldn't make the madstock because of moving into my wonderfull bungalow, please ? could you put me in touch with the tour manager about coming backstage? Thanks Chris, your a star xxxxx
Sharon aka wheels68
Dear Sharon I don't even know who the tour manager is, calm down. CB
Hi Chrissy Boy, my 8yr old son Dillon has fallen in love with Madness and keeps asking for me to play my cd`s of Madness when ever we get in the car, I have said I will take him to one of your concerts some time, any idea if you will be coming to Cardiff or surrounding areas anytime? Cheers
Gareth
P.S. If you would be kind enough to address some of your email response to him, it would make his day.
Hello Dillon You have very good taste in music.The gig guide is above my head on this page. If it ain't there, then we ain't coming. love CB
now then chris i dont suppose you've had time to listen to that CD i gave you at the Norton Folgate launch night have you, what with you being such a busy chap & all. and my next question is how do you ask a member of your all time favourite band if he would ever possibly consider inviting an unsigned band such as ourselves to support them during their forthcoming tour? all our new songs are on our website which has 3 comedy videos too. and we feature on that 30th anniversary tribute album. i know its a long shot but you cant blame me for trying. should i get in touch with your management or could you put in a good word for me? DD
Yahoooooooooooooo thank you for making my day week month year.xmas concert for newcastle HOWAY THE LADS!! Are all your geordie relatives happy this year chrissy boy?love to you and yours.I think I'm having a cardiac arrest with all the exitement.xxxx nikki exited mobbs
Excellent news about the Christmas Tour, I'm glad you are doing a Newcastle date this year I just hope I manage to get tickets as Im at work at 9am and the venues are a lot smaller venues than the arenas. Hopefully I will manage to get to see the whole gig this time and not just 4 songs like I did at Madstock :-(
You said you would get some stuff sent to me to help make up for the crap at Madstock. I have heard nothing yet, but I would much rather meet you all, if you could possibly arrange this I would be extremely grateful(bit cheeky of me I know).
Are we going to treated to a extra helping of The Liberty Of Norton Folgate songs or around the same amount as you are currently playing?
See you in December Dicka
Dear Dicka I have forwarded this on. I hope you got some tickets. Let me know. More Norton songs I will try for. CB
Hi Chris... Not sure if you remember me... Just saw you are playing down my neck of the woods and thought of you... be nice to hear from you. Regards. Stewart "Beany" Sutters
Dear Beany Yes of course er.. you did some art work for the Nutty Boys - yes? Correct? mate of Payneys? Hello there let me know I'll sort you out.Um..what is your neck of the woods though? CB
just seen the december gig list and get in ur back up here in newcastle im so pleased this will be my 14th time iv seen you now and it just gets better n better everytime and never get sick of seeing u boys , so take care and see u in geordieland on the 12th , maybe this time i might get the chance to meet yous fingers crossed . michael
Hi there! First of all congrats for the great concert in Victoria Park.. I was wondering wheteher a DVD will be made for that gorgeous event? Have a great day. GL Gian Luca
Dear Gian I tell you what. I will get some done and sell them at Brighton station car boot along with me Hackney Empire bootlegs. thanks CB
hello chirs just wanted to say many thanks from meself and the mrs, we had a great time at the show at carisbrooke,what a great venue! i'm loving the new album,if yor ever in willesden nw10 the kettles on mate, were a hope skip and a jump from battery studios, keep up the good work. and all the best to you and yours. aidan + mary
Dear Aidan and Mary No problem, it's Mark you should thank - he gave me your details. CB
aww chrissy you are all actually fit...and have been for the past 30yrsxxxthere are several chrissy boys on facebook..i now know they arent the original...xxim booked for blackpool and regents park...not sure about the question because when i put the answer in it replied WRONG...How can i be wrong!!what else can the answer BE?..See you 4th..ill be wearing "fishnets"..xx helen moore
Dear Helen oo-err missus pack it in! I only just read this. Fishnets indeed! did you catch anything? The question a few people have said this, it's probably another scam to get money out of our hard pressed fans. Nothing to do with me. sorry CB
Thanks for an amazing gig on Sun night at the Isle of Wight, right in the middle of a farmers field with the combine harvesters hahah!! I had a really good weekend and it was worth travelling 10 hours all the way from Chesterfield, Derbyshire to see you all again. Shame Mark wasn't there, where was he? Lucky enough to get to loads of gigs so far this year, been to HMV signing was lucky enough to get a pass to VIP launch party and made it to the Splendour fest in Notts and Newbury where you signed the tshirt I made. I'll see you at Blackpool at the weekend and then the Regents Street Fest. Can't wait!!! Send my love to my gorgeous Carl! Jen xxxx
Dear Jen Thanks for coming all that way. Bedders is 'resting'. CB
Hey CB. I'm so sad ): My Mum&Dad were going to bring me to the Blackpool Lights just to see you guys & I can't now cos my dad has swine flu! Oh well, hope you have a great time & the weather stays good. Leah xx
Dear Leah What a pig. Has he come out in rasssshhers? We only di 3 songs anyway. CBd
Hey CB, Any idea where i can get a copy of Night Boat to Cairo (Paul Gotel)mix,was re-leased on CD,it had a few different mixes on it,Ive looked everywhere for it,even trawled Camden market?? Would love to get my hands on it,did have a copy but played it to death and desperately need a new copy...Any plans for a gig in Cardiff any time in the near future?? Cheers Wayne
Dear Wayne Here's a novel idea. Go to a page called Google. Type in Madness + Paul Gotel mix and you might find http://www.mattscdsingles.com/acatalog/madnesscdsingles.html Took me.40 secs actually, it took Google a bit longer... CB
Hi Chrissy - Great to say Hi at Carisbrooke - had a very wild weekend. Missed 3 ferries going back!!! Dont know what Tad means when he says you are a wrong un! Looking forward to the next one :) Sue
Thanks Sue for persevering...We were steering our ferry. CB
hi chris, i bought the 3 hackney gigs you did last year for the liberty of norton folgate & madstock 09.i think this is a great way to release your gigs any plansto release any of your other concerts this way.i first saw you at the apollo in glasgow the 12 days of christmas tour 1980.i would love to hear thet gig again.MADNESS were great then & 30 years on still the same.the music world is a better place with MADNESS.You have been a great band you have given me great joy & happiness over the last 30 years keep going you guy you truely are a great band. cheers andy.
Dear Andy Some one has probably got the 12 Days of Christmas gigs on tape or something.. thanks CB
Dear Chris, As I have been reading all over internet and how I feel myself, respect for saving Rock en Seine. It just shows what a great, professional performers Madness is and last but not least, how everyone loves Madness and the music. It doesn't matter were you play, everyone starts to dance and goes bonkers and that 30 years on. I wasn't there but man I wish I was... ;) Take care, Andre
It's done. I'd waited during 19 years to see you in fact. I was at Rock en seine and it was great, really great. You are Madness. Thanks for the Anglo-French relations and congratulations again. Christian from France. PS: Bedders wasn't there or i've took my grand father's glasses? Christian
merci Christian. You picked a good time to come.Yes Bedders is resting for the moment. CB
Dear Chris and members of Madness (I'm sure you'll pass on my message)
Un million de mercis for replacing Oasis on the main stage at the Rock-en-Seine Paris concert. You were fantastic, the sound engineers did a great job and Madness simply saved the festival ! The following days, the story of your two gigs in the same night was all over TVs, radios and papers ! I hope you'll come back next summer !
My eldest son is 16, besotted with playing guitar- and rehearsing like mad with some mates in a garage. I'm pleased to say that, besides his own music, he also listens to my CDs and, dare I say it, vinyl. So besides his own stock of Kings of Leon, Kooks, Muse and so on, he has also introduced his bandmates to some Madness, Jam and even Brown Eyed Girl (that suprised, but pleased me). Now I've never played guitar. Would hardly know one end from the other. So .... can you cast your mind back. Any gems taht you thought were straightforward to learn and an audience enjoyed (yours or others)? And He has already said they will write their own stuff. It must be the English Lit GCSE he has just passed. It's gone straight to his head! Any tips on song writing? Is it easier to put some chords together first, then add the words? Or is it so simple any idiot could do it (but most of us don't)? Ha ha.
Disappointed you're only due to do 3 tracks in Blackpool. Presume you're only travelling up to top up your tan. All 3 of my kids want to go along. It could be a very cold, wet evening for us. So please pick 3 good, foot warming tracks! Mark
Dear Mark I learnt by playing along to records I liked which were mostly pretty simple nothing as hard as Queen, for example.I write music mainly, the lyrics I leave to Thommo, Chas, Suggs and Mike mostly. I get a rough idea down and send it to Thommo, Chas, or Suggs and quite often we come up with something really good. It sounds like he is doing the right things it's just writing that first song that's hard..Hope you enjoyed Blackpool. I am currently 1 wek and three days behind in my replies. CB
hi yeh chris,i see your in ireland this weekend,to put it blunt chris iam smashed,skinded,no wonga etc but would love to see you guys,any spare tickets lurking about,would be grateful,(out of work)can't afford the weekend ticket,would of bought a day ticket if they where availble,also heard today on the radio(31/09) there's just under 10,000 tickets left for that gig,why promoters never done day tickets,i;ill never know,anyway have a smashing time with the lads and hopefully i'll get to see you guys soon back in dublin maybe in the new O2,once again take care and well done on sugar and spice GAFFO IN DUBLIN.
Dear Gaffo Sorry - I only just read this, but the guest list was very tight anyway.We will be back some time we love Ireland. thanks CB
I loved the show at Rock en Seine last Friday! It was great seeing you guys perform twice in one year ;D Too bad I couldn't get the remaining autographs on my LP ;) Sooo.. Come back to the Netherlands soon :3 Or any country near us haha! xx Anne-Karlijn
just wanted to say thank you for coming to the isle of wight and making my summer, great support acts (highlights for me being gentlemans dub club and geno), slight tech hitch at the beginning of your set and jason statham on bass. which leads me to my question, where was bedders?.... yours in anticipation(that you will make this a yearly event)keep up the good work, you're still the best.....stu gander
hi nutty boys i just got back from your gig on the Isle of Wight( i was that women at the front with the chequered hat, gloves and hat.) i just like to said how much i loved it. hope i did not scream to much. your song OUR HOUSE means so much to me,were i come from a big family most of us lived in my nuns housein the middle of her street (reelly on joke)i was so glad you played that song you made me so happy from megan xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hi CB, I hope the gig went well at Isle Of Wight!?!I am gutted I could not have been there, would have been amazin to see u guys again but money wouldnt alow me.... AGAIN!!I will try my upmost to get to Regent Street but now have college so....I hope xmas will be a good opportunity as I am movin to Cardiff and hope there will be a gig!As for my back still havin big problems :( and have been quite ill but all in all I'm always happy lol. Hope ur ok CB and rest of band n really hope to c u soon. xxxx Jade
Hi Chris Great time last friday with the special offer of the day : buy one, get two ! Amazing, i just could not believe it. By the way, i had lot of fun to see you so serious on stage ;-) Thommo really seems to be the maddest of you all (how will i get up there...)and it was quite funny to here suggs say "ladies and gentlemen, we are... oasis (oa- who?)! Well done guys, fred.
y'know we have our moments don't we! But then you go and do a Paris on us. Brilliant. So glad you stepped in, they loved it. So did I. Simon
Dear Simon Well, a band's gotta do what a band's gotta do. Plus we got paid loads more.I don't think Oasis can pull the old "Liam had a sore throat" one again. Shame, I wanted to see them. CB
hi chris its 20.33 went with my bros boy 2 day 2 c u at casisbrooke as my bro lives on the island got there with 2 ticket at 70 pound .got 2 the door had my pockes dipped my bros boy tyler is 6 had come home the boy and me r in bit sad 2 not have seen u thanks how had the tickets a good day f*cked up went 2 c the door man wot can thay do no way of us getin in daren
Dear Daren Really sorry to hear this. I will get you sent something. CB
I would like the stuff to go to a good home. Please would you let the Madness community know that it will be on ebay this week from today the 30th Aug 2009.
The items can be found through the link:
http://www.itsmadness.co.uk
Many thanks if you can help.
Even though the physical support is going (my memorabilia) I'm still 100% with you. :)
Hope to see you play Regent street! Happy 30th Birthday Madness.
Hi again, When will Virgin be bringing out a Volume 2 of the Madness Singles? It's around this period you started to do more 12" remixes, some of which never made it onto "The Business" 3CD, in particular, one of my faves the cool jazz verion of "Tomorrow's Just Another Day" with Elvis Costello. Top drawer stuff in my humble. Anyroad, tell them to get their fingers out and earn you some more cash! Gordon Lowe
Dear Gordon You again! Virgin won't be putting anything out for a while, except Mad Not Mad. The back catalogue is now with Union Square. Singles box Volume two I don't know if that will ever come out, as these sort of things are not economically viable. That is to say they don't make any money back. sorry CB
Hi Chris, You've probably been asked this before and I've missed your answer (assuming you have and you did) but what the heck... I bought the album "7" when it first appeared on vinyl and on Stiff and wore it out, basically! I later replaced it with a reissue copy (on Virgin) to find that some of the tracks (most noticably "A Day On The Town") where mixed differently. For example, the aforementioned had a dub-style outro with more of Lee's sax on it. And "Mrs. Hutchinson" features a bit bit of mumbled banter which wasn't on the Stiff version. The remastered CD is the same as the Virgin release. Now to the question: what, if anything, happened in the interim to cause this mysterious anomily? Gordon Lowe
Dear Gordon They got wrong first time round, so when it was re pressed we changed it. CB
HI CHRIS Any more info on the regent street gig . will it be a full set. took my girlfriend to see you for the first time to madstock she thought you were great.Keep it up boys you are the best . ANDY
hi chris sorry for my language j'avais peint vers les annees 80 un saxophoniste qui devait figurer sur un album de madness et que je ne retrouve plus . le dessin etait en noir sur blanc et stylise . peut tu m'aider trouver cette image ? thanks.
translation [via Babel] hi chris sorry for my language I had painted in the Eighties a picture os a saxophonist who was to be reproduced on an album of madness and whom I do not find any more. the drawing was in black on white and stylise. you can you to help me to find this image? thanks. stephane cormier
Dear Stephane Sorry but those sort of things were probably at Stiff records who no longer exist. There is a company with same name but I think all the art archives would be gone. CB
in Fench Cher Stepane Désolé mais ceux la sorte de choses étaient probablement aux disques raides qui n'existent plus. Il y a une compagnie avec le même nom mais je pense que toutes les archives d'art sont allées. au revoir CB
how many people do you think you have played to this year - i reckon its got to be a few hundred thousand - the most ever in one year?
I don't know. In the 80's we did a few massive Stadiums in the US with The Police and David Bowie. Must have been 80,000 at least each time for sure. However, our own shows were in smaller venues [to a more selective audience] in one case in the car park of one of those festivals so it probably cancelled it out.. CB
Helloooooooo ! What a mervellous surprise when the organisator of 'Rock en Seine' announced that Madness is going to play a second time in place of Oasis ! Waouw ! I immediately bought a big beer to celebrate the news ! (Sorry for Oasis's fans). Even if, honestly, I was curious to see Oasis who I had never seen on stage. I came from Belgium espacially for you (and could also see Keane and Amy MacDonald by the occasion) and I had the chance to assist to two shows of Madness !! What a real good surprise ! You were Great ! You were funny ! You are Wonderful, you are The Pleasure, you are The Cheerfulness, your music embodies the Joy of Life. You are the Best! (and not Oasis, as they say about themselves lol ). I saw you in Brussels last year and in Lokeren 3 years ago. It's always a very very great moment. Thank you to Madness for all you give us. Hope to see you very soon in Belgium again. I love you since you were on the top of the charts with 'Embarrassement' and I immediately bought 'Complete Madness' LP in the beginning of the 80's. Long life to Madness and thank you very much again !!! Stephane
Just wondered if you have any idea if the new book 'The Nutty Sound - the Story of Madness' by John Reed is any good? Saw it on Amazon for release in October. Any release date or track details for O.S.B. as yet?
Many thanks,
Stephen.
Dear Stephen I have not heard of him or the book. OSB out in October with some extra tracks, come on - you want to be surprised don't you? CB
Just wanted to say its great to see the MAD is Back! The liberty of Norton Folgate is an excellent album - top notch!
And its played on British Airways!!! Yes i couldn't believe it myself. I boarded the plane from Qatar to travel back to blighty and low and behold on the telly was "The liberty of Norton Folgate" in Concert. So naturally i called the Stewardess to bring me plenty of Beer and Gin & tonics! There was a Amercian guy sat next to me who had never heard of the Madness, and i got him watching it aswell, he didn't have a clue what it was all about..." so which one is Norton Folgate" he asked me when it was finished....bless him!
Normally i hate the trip back to Qatar after being home, that was made easier this time as i got to watch it all again!
The Album is great fellas, any chance you can do a gig round my gaff in Portsmouth next time i'm back in blighty? Be October time i think?
Hey! Just wanted to drop you a quick line to say that me and my mates saw you at the V Festival on the Gold Coast, Australia earlier this year and you brought a tear to an ex-pat's eye! Love living in Oz but miss, miss, miss good UK bands and you boys are one of the best. Promise me you'll tour Australia again soon and make sure you include Queensland in your dates....
Dear Chris, I have a slightly out of season question, but living in a place where it constantly rains (even in 'Summer'), I've often thought,'Wouldn't be great if I had a Madness umbrella instead this boring one?!'. Has anyone ever considered designing a Madness umbrella to sell as merchandise? I think it would sell really well. Thanks, Suz
Dear Suz When we released the single I had some pac a mac type coats made and I called them Mad Macs. I don't think we ever made umbrellas..What do you mean out of season? This is England. CB
Great to see the whole gang still going strong. I think I am a Madness convert. My allegiance has been with Bon Jovi since 1985 but as you were all so lovely when I took U to the Eurostar, I'd love to come to your gig in Regent Street. Chris, can you please send me some info so I can get the time off work( I am a shift worker!!). Can't make Ireland as I will be in Amsterdam. Enjoy Rock en Seine & hope to hear from you very soon. Shalom, Jennifer
Dear Jennifer Ah the Eurostar. We love it you know. If you subscibe to our mailing list, you will probably know when we are playing before me . CB
Dear Chris, I'm getting married on Sept 23rd. As we walk down the aisle as man and wife, I'd like Wings of a Dove played on PA. It's in church, do we need any kind of permission? It's my all time favourite song of all time in the world ever. Regards, CCC.
Dear CCC You have my permission. You might have to ask the vicar though. Congratulations CB
I remember this,it was a programme called Final Frame on channel 4.Suggs played a pop star called East who was supposed to be into animal rights,I think the animal rights activists blew him up cos he was a fake. Doddy
Any chance of getting a Madness Car Sticker designed. We have been looking for one for years. It will probably double the price of our car and always helps to spread the gospil according to Madness!!
Cheers Brian
Dear Brian There are no plans for this at present. Sorry.Good idea though, we did some for "Driving in my Car" CB
Hi Chris, Having been a fan since The Prince came out, and playing your music at home ansd in the car my kids (8 and 10 year olds) have become hooked as well. Thought about bringing them down to Regent Street for your gig there. I have read half a dozen reports all stating different info, just hoping you could clarify for me. I know that Absolute are giving away 1500 tickets for their "birthday zone", but will we be able to get to see your show from behind this area or is it as suggests in some reports, that only the 1500 will see the show and everyone else will have to watch big screens dotted around Regent Street. Hope you can help.
MattA
Dear Matt I think the screens will be quite big, otherwise I don't have a clue. CB
Dear Madness I saw you in Heaven with the Pet Shop Boys. Since then I have become homeless. I notice you are doing a gig in Regent Street and hope to see you maybe.
Dear Jasmine I am sorry to hear that you are homeless. Have you contacted any organisations like Shelter, or do you have you any relatives you can contact?. The gig is free, please come. CB
28th August 2009 MADNESS are planning on injecting some baggy brilliance into the Christmas No 1 race by giving The X Factor a festive musical rival.
Re-invigorated by the Top 10 success of latest album The Liberty Of Norton Folgate, the band are plotting a winter tour and an offering to coincide.
Frontman Suggs told me: “We are definitely going to do a Christmas tour and have talked about a single.
“Madness and Christmas go together like a horse and cart, but we’ve never done a Christmas single.
“Most bands are too scared to be cheesy now - we could give it some wham, bam.”
Madness will be adding another first to their list of achievements when they perform at the Regent Street Festival for Absolute Radio’s First Birthday Party on September 27 in London.
The gig also ties in with 30 years since the band formed.
Suggs, 48, continued: “We live in a world full of clipboards and folk who don’t want people to have fun but we’ve burnt the clipboards and got permission to close off the street.
“It’s the first time a band will have done it.”
We could also be seeing a hook-up between Madness and Pet Shop Boys hitting the airwaves soon.
Neil Tennant, 55, has penned a song called Without You about a mutual friend, and former security guard for both acts, called Dainton Connell, who died in a car crash in 2007.
He explained: “It’s sung from the point of Dainton, about his wife Mandy. I can just imagine Suggs singing it.”
When I told Suggs about the track he was taken aback.
He confessed: “I’ll need to hear it but I’m very interested of course.
“I like artists who write their own lyrics and have a sense of fun so PSB are up there with us – we’re both fans of pop music.”
* See absoluteradio.co.uk for info on how to get tickets for their party.
Oi Oi Mr Foreman Shannan Once Again Oh By The Way The reply Was much appreciated Real Confidence Boost Any Way On To The Point..I Here You Guys Aint Been Given An MBE Yet...Errrr Why ??..So You Guys Become Brilliant Musicans, Brilliant Dads& Hubbies And Guys In Genrel Been Going For 30yrs Have Other Music Projects On The Side,Become Most Succesfull Band Of 80s And Still No MBE Cor Blimey What The Queen Thinking At The Moment You's Guys Should Take Charge But Not Just Of England..Please Take ireland Too We Need A Good Presidant...or 7 ha Ha So AnY Way When do You think You'll Be Getting One..P.s I Know This Might Be A Freaky Message But I'm Speacking On behalf Of My self And The Rest of The True Nutty Boys Fans Shannan
Hi Chris, we just watched the watched the Glastonbury Gig again on TV. Brilliant!!! We had "Must be Love" as our first dance at our wedding 9 years ago!!! I am determined to come and see you with our two kiddies next year. I want you guys to be the first band that my children experience live! See you next summer! E&S&B&M XXX
I watched your Hackney Empire gig on a BA flight (of all places) it really made me wish I was there - it was sooo good. The secong best thing would be to buy the DVD - any plans to release it? Terry
Dear Terry You know what? I don't know. I would like to sell it through the site. CB
I recall the first time I saw y'all on ToTP doing 'The Prince'. My mate went out and purchased hisself a two-tone suit that weekend at Petticoat Lane. Ah! Happy days!
So...I was at the Madstock IV event, Finsbury Park in 1998, the infamous booing off of Finley Quaye. I have to admit that he deserved it. It looked like a monster spliff he was toking on though.
It was a fun-packed day despite this and the small amount of rain.Am in NZ now so not much chance of seeing you guys on this side of the world.
Anyhoo...what were the thoughts of the band on this incident? Marc
Dear Marc All over very quick for me. I saw some old friends, the weather favoured us, if not some of the other acts. CB
Hi Chris sorry to disturb you with but it's not the first so I'm very angry. Each time we order for tickets for Madness cocnert, we pay by internet for postage (5-6-7 pounds) and each time the tickets never arrive to France and we have to collect them at the venue. For this Madstock it was the same, and I when I went for the tickets for the entrance, they told me I have to send an e-mail to have the repayment and I just received that answer form AEG.
'Dear Mr Caillaud, Thank you for your email. I was sorry to learn that you have an issue with your previous booking. Unfortunately, we are unable to refund any postage in this case. As you will be aware Trinity Street, the company in which you booked your tickets through went in to administration in February. AEG Live honoured all tickets for this event purchased through Trinity Street but we are not able to retun monies for postage. Many thanks, AEG Live enquiries'
SO 5+5+5+5... we can have another Madstock free with all the money for postage we lost. How can I get my money back ? they are a few french guys like me who come each time in London to see Madness ! Thanks for you answer (and I have a problem with my wisbrand bought on the 17th at the concert. except that It was a really good show Cedric
Dear Cedric Sorry about that. At least you didn't get your pochette picked! I have forwarded this on. CB
massive respect to the mad fellows Question: hello to you all, new album is f***ing amazingly brill(just what the ears required). perhaps next single could be idiot child. craig b
hi chrissy boy i've been trying to find an mp3 of starvation wonder if you can help? it's driving me mad!! ps newbury racecourse gig brill!! cheers shaun
Dear Shaun Try http://www.vinyltap.co.uk/shop/label/Zarjazz.aspx It was never on CD as far as I know and is probably not available as an mp3. Someone has probably converted it somewhere. CB
When shall I expect you ? Question: Right, I've ordered my Norton Folgate box set, as part of my members privilages, when should I expect you lot round for my own private concert ?(after all, I have been to see you on all of your tours since 1980 !) sharon
Dear Sharon We were round your way last week, you'll have to wait a few years till next time. thanks CB
Hey Chris, I recently got into Madness and decided the years of my life I didn't know about you were wasted. I have two questions for you, now. Have you or any of the guys expressed interest in playing somewhere in the States? We'd roll out a royal welcome. My second question is who is the woman singing on On the Town?
Cheers, Alexa
Dear Alexa It's either Rhoda Dakar or Amber Jolene singing. Amber was on the download that you got if you bought the box set. CB
hi. my email ends with .com.ar, then, i´m living in argentina, where madness came to play in 2007. in that time, suggs and chas where to play with a local band called "dancing mood", and they share theirs cd´s. do you hear it? what do you think about they? in argentina exist a great band, very known in all latin america called los-fabulosos-cadillacs and they are playing with madness style and similar story with the band (ska, pop, a break-up, a re-union, mundial gigs) do you know they? if yes: do you like this music? if not: type on youtube strawberry fields fabulosos cadillacs and you could watch they playing with debbie harry, from blondie... greetings....
andres
Dear Andres I like it, a good version, nice trumpet solo.
What pub are you all going to after the Isle of wight gig ,lol been a fan since I was little and my brothers used to try and look like you guys ,relly great that you coming back to our little Island ,never seen you live ,looking forward to sunday say a big hello to ryde firefighters please x Shazza x ps making my 3 young daughters come under protest but know they will have a great time ,who wouldn't.Shazza
Dear Shazza We were straight home on the ferry as it happpens.The captain let us drive it - honest! CB
My daughter has been admitted to hospital where she has been diagnosed with Diabetes. It would mean a lot if you could e-mail her the band's best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Thanks
Paul Whip
Dear Paul I am sorry to hear that. I hope she recovers. I know diabetes is a life long illness but it can be treated .I'd love to send a message -what's her name? It would help! CB
Do you know when the Ashley Beedle Edit of Africa will be available for download via this website? Coming from Australia I have had trouble accessing this track through the regular sites due to \"geographical restrictions\". Paul
Hi Chris, This is on behalf of my Dad, are you re-issuing Divine Madness and Take It Or Leave It? If so, are they with the same commentries? He recently went blind but enjoys listening to the commentries on the originals, and would love new ones on the re-releases. Thanks in advance, James
Dear james I'm sorry to hear that. There is no more divine Madness and there is no commentary on total Madness the new compilation, which has the videos. CB
After watching videos from the Camden Crawl, I was wondering what you think of Madness having an acoustic album with Bedders on the ukelele? I reckon it's either a genius idea or completely stupid but I can't decide which haha! Holly
ime coming down to blackpool next friday to see you chaps i have uploaded a cartoon that a friend drew for me
i have 7 copys one for all of you i will lamer nate them for you
will i be able to get them to you on friday at blackpool in person ???
also would love to get mine singed ???
what are the chances of that ???
whats a good time to get down there for ???
adam devere
Dear Adam Sorry we've been and gone I am behind with my replies. It was in and out anyway. Send them to our management, the address is on this site. CB
Hope all is good with u & the band? With the pending release of your greatest hits package cd/dvd Total Madness released 21/09/09 this doesnt include your zarjazz years 85-86 (yesterdays men- waitng for the ghost train)i was informed this was down to licencing if this is true, will the mad not mad cd re-release see the light of day?
Kind regards
Dave
Dear Dave Yes, who'd have thought it? Not me, that's for sure. It turend out it was NOT part of the back catalogue. So we can't include Yesterday's Men or Uncle Sam in any compilations which is a shame.I trust EMI/Virgin will re reales the mad Not Mad album at some point, I still have some friends there. CB
Hi... as unfortunately for Germans it's only possible to buy from iTunes-Germany and there it is not possible to purchase Sugar&Spice: will it be available on iTunesNonUK as well? Regards Lars
dear lars I don't know, I have asked someone. danke CB
Influences Question: Chris - I love your guitar work, and was wondering who were your early influences?
Cheers! James
Dear James Wilko Johnson [Dr Feelgood], Chuck Berry, Duane Eddy, Ernest Ranglin [Old Reggae guy], Phil Manzenara [Roxy Music],Steve Cropper [Booker T and the Mg's amongst others] Nile Rodgers [Chic] Angus Young, Mick Jones [Clash] Steve Jones [Pistols] er.. I could go on all day really. Sometimes I am doing something and I think what would the Edge do? Honest When we were recording the song Africa, I thought of a very Edge type guitar part simple and chiming which I really liked. CB
How many beers does it take to get you lads to A) look at www.thepennyblackremedy.com .B) listen to their album, \\\"No ones fault but your own\\\" .C) Get you to go to the forthcoming gig at the LEXINGTON in Angel on the 27th Aug #tight for the French gig, I realise# or, before they jet off to a Dutch festival, a bar in sunny Gravesend-on-mud, leading to, ultimately, D) a support slot ... pretty please .. they are very good. x Peter Richardson
Dear peter Ah, if only life were that simple. They are really good quite rocking. I will pass this on to the band and see what happens. Don't hold your breath. CB
A while ago I heard 'One Better Day' being played on the radio. At the end of the song the DJ said something along the lines of " That was those nutty boys Madness with One Better Day" When I heard this I thought "One Better Day is anything but nutty!" Anyway, does it ever get on your nerves that your decribed as nutty all the time,or doesn't it really bother you?
Just curious! Cheers Herbert
Dear Herb Er..sometimes.We made our bed I suppose it's better than some comparisions CB
Despite your many chart successes which song was the only one to make the charts in America? Jay Storey
Dear Jay Only two songs, only two..Our House and It Must be Love. I think some of the early stuf got in at number 179 or something.Sounds like you thought you knew the answer. CB
Hi Chris, Wassup? Just heard Night Boat to Cairo on the radio. Even after hearing it more then a thousand times, it's still great. I think Madness is the only band which I have that with. I just can't get enough of all the songs. Everything OK, we haven't seen new stuff for a while now on your cupboard. Wishing you all a good weekend. Andre
Dear Andre I was away for a while in my mind. Been doing a few gigs too, you know..We are Oasis' stand in band. CB
Out of curiousity, I was wondering if the band has played any of these tracks in concert: Samantha, Missing You, Overdone, Mr. Speaker (Gets The Word), Time For Tea, Pac-A-Mac and Day On The Town...all personal favorites!
All the best! James
Dear James I don't remember exactly when but I think we have played all of those songs at some point. CB
Re-release Question: You were saying you are going to re-release one step beyond, are you going to include the old artwork? the collection of B&W images that were on the original inside sleeve? You could always get people to send in a new set! I look great in a wig!!! Cheers Steve
Nah,yer alright Steve. We have got the original picures and a couple of other ones. CB
Dear CB U propably won't be interested in this nonsense, but please put our minds at rest. There have been rumours this week that this is Thommo's last tour and Chas is also leaving as he is bored with it all. Can't say where we got this from, but we hope it's just ****sh*t. stay cool.
Tote
Dear Tote Where did you hear this? Oasis? It comes and goes. I left for two years, you know. CB
Hi chris, Great album as always from you guys. Just wondered your thoughts on Johnny the Horse, its my favourite Madness track ever, but I am curious as to why it didn't chart and I did hear the band hated it as a single...was this true? your thoughts please.
Also how about doing a homecoming gig in Hastings for Suggs?
regards
Steve
Dear Steve Personally I liked the song. Maybe it shouldn't have been a single, but it always went down well live and I enjoyed playing it.It did chart though, at 44. thanks CB
Hello Mr C.J.Foreman. Plese post this one. I'm sat here watching the Madstock in 92 i think it is. Just got the DVD. Love it! I am wondering because i have just got a guitar, are there any Madness Guitar book, anywhere with guitar tabs or anything where i can learn some of the songs? I would love it (: Thanks Leah xx
Dear Leah There are probably a few out there. Try Google it's quite good for finding things..hold on..I typed in Madness songbook in 0.22 seconds Google and found this:
We missed "My name is Michael Caine" at Øya, Norway!!One of Madness` best songs ever. Hope you play it next time you visit us up here in the north. Please bring Michael Caine as well to play the backing vocals..hehe.. Keep up the crazy Madness work!! Live (sic! ) Johannessen
hi chris i have volume 1 of the singles collection is volume 2 beng released along with all your other back catalogue.im off to buy SUGGS' book on thursday would love to get it signed.do you know if he is doing any signings of his book in scotland. cheers andy
Dear Andy The box set is another thing I would like to get done but it all takes time. Priorities are Absolutely, Seven..er..Rise and Fall, Keep Moving, and er..Wonderful. you will note Mad Not Mad is not there, which is a bit of a problem.Seems we didn't own it.Suggs will be signing his book all over the UK I should imagine. CB
Chris, I think this has been touched on elsewhere, but could you put a decent quality cover image for the Sugar and Spice downloads somewhere on site for those of us who've written the tracks to cd? Would be much appreciated - Cheers. Wid
Dear Wid Yes sorry, I did ask but it hasn't been done yet. CB
as a lifelong fan do you or the group see youselves going back to the nuttiness that was madness. i see that you are starting to go in a different direction to what once was, although new stuff is great the two tone sound seems to have gone,,is it just that you all want to try new things or is there a reason you think nuttiness has gone.remember you are all still very well liked..thanks for taken the time.Brian
Dear Brain What was the Two tone sound? Our first album had some out and out SKA type songs - One Step Beyond and Night Boat. It also had Rockin in Ab, a rock and roll type song, Razorblade Alley, which was jazzy type stuff I don't think we were ever part of the Two Tone sound.It was the nutty sound read the back of the Absoluteley cover for further information. The latest album has some songs that would not be out of place on our first two albums. On The Beat pete = Hunchback of Torriano for example. The Fish and Chips Parade [on the box set] is totally nutty if you ask me. yours CB
Dear Chris Inspired by Woody's London marathon run this year, I am running the New York marathon in November. I'm raising money for the MS Society (I have a cousin that suffers from the condition) and was wondering if Woody would like to sponsor me. You can do it online at http://beatms.mssociety.org.uk/NetCommunity/dominic. Of course I'd be honoured and grateful if you or any other members of Madness would sponsor me too! Yours sincerely Dominic
new single Question: Hi C.B, I'm sure you are getting fed up with everyone moaning about the new single not being available on cd/single! But sadly i am very disapointed with you and the rest of the camden 7 - since the age of 12 i have been buying every conceivable format of every Madness single and album that was released. Over the past 30 years i have built up a very large collection of Nutty Boy memorabilia (this includes posters,t-shirts,fan club goodies etc etc). Is this the end of mine and every other Madness fans collection - after all these years i do not want to end up having the rest of my collection on a usb stick !!!! Surely there must be something you can do to keep me and all the other nutty punters drooling over their vinyl/cd collections...!?! Anyway - thats my rant for the day, All the best big fella, Jason. (how's the t-shirts by the way..? hope they all fitted...!)
Dear Jason T The next single will have some physical release. They are still in the bags. I'll give some to Thommo.
hi chris what wud hav happened if the madness had sold many thousands of copies of the album n had a couple of top ten hits from it would you have continued without mark n woody martin
Dear Martin I really don't know the answer to that one. CB
See pictures from Madness's concert on the Oya-festival in Oslo: http://ostkantavisa.no/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=OA&Dato=20090814&Kategori=KULTUR&Lopenr=383463722&Ref=PH Feel free to post the picture-gallery on your web-page.
Best regards Oystein Dahl Johansen
Thanks Oystein [hope that's your name the blogger site blanks out some letters] CB
At last, after 29 years, you came back! I was right in front of the scene both times in Oslo in 1980 and in front last friday at the Oya festival in Oslo too. It was wonderful to see and hear the best band in the world live again. We brought our teenage children with us this time and we had a fantastic time. "I knew you'd come back, we always do" Please don't wait 29 years again before visiting us up in North :) Terje
Firstly Greetings for B'day earlier this month. Also thanks for the call out @ Romsey for me during B.Trousers..made the flight down all the more worth while! Met into the Main Man y'day in the city & managed to get some footage, please tell Suggsy all was appreciated for his comments (also mentioned to go via the forum for future ref & may be a Mad meet when I am next down & if u guys r on @ the sametime).
Plse see link below, also added some pics as well:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLpofiUOtPw
Busy promoting Nuttiness @ the moment, hopefully catch up soon & as ever will let you know of more footage. p.s. next time on the box any chance of a sticker on the guitar saying Hiya Rags ! Will keep me going for longer..
1) The song TLONF is credited to Suggs/Chas/Barso (I think) - but who wrote which bits?
2) Was the basic backing track recorded as one piece, or were the three or so movements recorded seperately for later assembly and overdubs?
All the best
- Mike
Dear Mike I don't know who wrote exactly all the bits Suggs and Chas did lyrics and music Mike did some of the music. It was all recorded in one go. The backing track, that is. thanks CB
Hey CB, how ya going? Sian from Perth here, my love. First of all, I should've written to you months ago about TLONF box set. The extra bits make us Maddies feel extra special and priviledged. The music... well I'm sure you've heard all the accolades before. Can't quite bring myself to say it's the best album, because I love Absolutely and 7 so much. It's definitely the best produced, and the best lyrics. And some of the best melodies. OK, it's probably the best album. I love it to death, as does everyone else in the Western World, apparently! Even me ole mum was gonna buy it, she tells me. She's nearly 70, quite posh, and couldn't find her way to the betting shop, never mind a record shop. If my youngest son (Carl) hadn't had a reason to live before I got the box set, he would now have one. He plays the 2 cds on repeat on his mp3 constantly. Some of the kids at his boarding school which I worked at, knew the words to some of the songs cos Carl was singing them all the time! And that's why some of the students asked me, "Please miss, can I download that Only a Fiver song?" or the "Idiot child clutchig to life" one miss? or "I would give you everything"? How bloody proud was I?!!
And btw, two of Carl's favourite songs at the moment are Dreaming Man and The Roadette Song.
And so to Madstock.... Saved and saved, brought my Kellie over for her 21st, then...."Hey You!!" Wow! That and the rest was well worth the flight and money. What really was the icing on the cake for me though was the Madmeet at the DC the night before. I got to meet Graham, Looby, Patrick, Jon, and it seemed like 30 others. I've been good mates with Graham for 3 or 4 years now, Chigs for 4 years, and Looby, Louise, Owen Collins, Gav, etc for... well it seems like such a long time but probably only a couple of years. To meet these guys, have a drink and a laugh with them, and talk about Madness and Madness songs was unbelievable. That's something I can't do in Oz. Everyone I talk to says, "Ohh yes, I love Madness - I like driving in my car. I live in my House. I'm going to the House of Fun..." and it's PAINFUL I tell you!! Kellie and I were sooo pleasantly shocked when billions of Madness fans turned up in Perth. Where have they been??? Hiding under some fkn rock that blocks the internet?? Jeeesus! Had I known there were so many of us I would've passed cards around advertising Madness Central. These poor people probably each think they're the only ones! Same as me! In fact I do remember everyone who was adorned in either black and white check, fezs, bowlers, braces, pork pies, Martens, bleached jeans, Fred Perries, Harringtons, green bomber jackets, ska t-shirts or tattoos, looking at each other sideways in bewilderment.
Sooo.. back to Madstock again. Thanks so much for winking at me when I waved my Aussie flag at you. Made my night. In case you don't remember, I was the one at the front who waved an Aussie flag at you, which made you wink.
Well worth the trip, my dear. Sian xxxx
Dear Sian What can I say? Except thanks for all your support my dear. CB
Thank you for a great concert in Oslo this Friday. It was so fantastic to hear the good old songs together with songs from the brilliant "The Liberty of .." Please come back again !! What is the name of your backing playing trombone, sax ?? And what do you think of the public in Oslo ! Thanks from Rune
Dear Rune those reprobates are: www.violinmonkeys.co.uk/ Oslo was very nice, what I saw of it. The Opera house is quite an amazing building. We were staying right opposite it.
Just wanted to say hi to everyone and ask what is norton folgate? billy gradwell
Dear Billy Norton Folgate is: ...a short length of street in London, connecting Bishopsgate with Shoreditch High Street on the northern edge of its financial district, the City of London. It constitutes a very small section of the A10 road, the former Roman Ermine Street. Its name is a reminder of the tiny ancient liberty and parish of Norton Folgate situated in and around this area.
History
The Liberty of Norton Folgate was a distinct administrative unit between the Bishopsgate ward of the City to the south and the parish of St Leonard, Shoreditch to the north. Its origin was as the area of land occupied by the inner precinct of the Priory and Hospital of St Mary Spital. This was dissolved during the Reformation, but the land, reverting to the Crown, retained its status as an extra-parochial liberty. Within the 8.7 acres (35,000 m2) of the former liberty are Folgate Street and Spittle Square in Spitalfields to the east and a small area of land between Primrose Street and Worship Street on the west side of the main road.
It is noted as the sometime residence of the playwright Christopher Marlowe. The theatrical association continued, with the construction in 1837 of the City of London Theatre, here, by the architect Samuel Beazley. The theatre specialised in "domestic" and temperance drama, and closed in 1868. Performances included The Pickwick Papers between March and April 1837; and Nicholas Nickelby in Nov and Dec 1838.
The liberty was abolished in 1900 and was divided between the Metropolitan Borough of Stepney and the Metropolitan Borough of Shoreditch. A civil parish of Norton Folgate in the County of London existed between 1889 until it was absorbed by the parish of Whitechapel in 1921.
Norton Folgate was also the site of the London Gas Light and Coke Company, the works, also known as the 'Curtain Road Works', were established from about 1812, when the Company received a contract to light Bishopsgate and supply the surrounding area with gas. The site obtained was cramped, and riddled with springs. The Company was applying novel chemistry (devised by Fredrick Winsor) on an industrial scale, and these factors resulted in the Company paying substantial fines for non-delivery. The site was in operation from about 1820 to 1871, when the new works at Beckton took over supply for much of London. The site was then used as a coal siding - for coaling trains at Broad Street and Liverpool Street. Latterly it was used as a yard for taxis, before redevelopment in about 2000.
In 2008, in opposition to a plan to demolish the trendy Light Bar (built as a power station for the Great Eastern Railway)in order to build an office block, local activists claimed that documents in the council archives showed that the abolition of the Liberty of Norton Folgate in 1900 was technically invalid and that it still existed.
hi chris. hope you,re still enjoying the day job.id like to know what you and the rest of the band,s favorite madness album is?. id like to chose The rise and fall. id also like to confess to being a prolific shoplifter of statinary in my early teenage years.i got arrested in 1985. the only legitimate item i had on me was Keep Moving. regards, bill.
Dear Bill I'm glad you bought it. My favourite has to be One Step Beyond. CB
i recently bought madtock on usb,& the 3 liberty of norton folgate gigs at hackney empire you did last june on usb wristband.is there any plans to release any of your recent concerts or the many you have in the recording vaults on usb.i think this is a great way to release your concerts.would love you to release a lot of your conerts from the early days.i first went to see you at glasgow appollo in 1980 the 12 days of christmas tour you were brilliant then 30 years later MADNESS are still brilliant.keep going you guys you brighten up the music world & mine. cheers Andy
Dear Andy Not really. The usbs just about pay for themselves and it would be too hard to put every concert on them. thanks for all the support over the years CB
I just wanted to say how much my family, friends and I enjoyed the Newbury Racecourse gig on 30th May. I expected Suggs to have a bit of a croaky voice, having been cheering Chelsea on to their FA Cup win earlier in the day, but it was a superb performance from all concerned, and a very enjoyable evening out. I hope you do it again sometime as I live not to far away. It was my 5 year old sons first gig, and he really enjoyed himself. He spent the entire gig on my shoulders bouncing around!
Also, TLONF is still constantly on the cd playeer in my car, it's such a good album. I'm surprised that Misson from Hell and Hunchback of Torriano didn't make the standard album, but i guess you couldn't put everything on one cd.
All the best, Graham.
Dear Graham Suggs hires some one to do the cheering for him. He does all the rest, though. I'm glad you and your son enjoyed it - another convert..[ha ha evil cackle counts possible merchandise revenues] thanks CB
just like to say i saw you boys at Madstock 2009 and i loved it!! love the new video and absolutely love the new album!! i myself play the piano! and was wondering if i could get hold of the sheet music for The Liberty of Norton Folgate? because some of the songs are not so easy to work out by ear! i would love to play forever young on the piano! i think it is one of the best songs you guys have ever made!!! thanks dave allen
Dear Dave Sorry no sheet music as of yet. Forever Young is quite easy a lot of minor keys. Verse is Bm Em er..Bm Em then Gbm. If you get that right, the rest is easy. good luck CB
CB. Your camera skills are outstanding. So good that I spotted myself in the "That Close" footage. White Jacket/Hat and swine-flu mask. I have been advised that your mother-in-law "Elaine" works for the same Housing Company as me... Small world.... I guess you are taking advantage of the two-week gig break now... Enjoy your holidays... Mr ScUrF
Dear Mr ScUrF How funny. Where you there when she pressed the alarm button one Friday afternoon and locked everyone in at 4pm? She is a scream! thanks CB
ted was on top form on satuday mate ,he told me a few stories about you and i dident know marks a gooner his gone right down in my estimatoins now ha ha , all the best regards spene
You have now got my daughter listening, she's 14. We live in Esperance Western Australia. She relate's to "Our House". So great to have to listen to 'intelligent music'. Mind you we are a very versatile house. Reminds us of our friends from Catford who have been living in Perth WA for years now, but they were over there when you guys began. Anyway great to hear and see nice blokes, etc. Ta. Byn's
Dea Byn's Thanks, it is always nice to hear of a new young fan. Possibilty of future revenue stream as we say.. CB
I was just wondering, I found on IMDb that Suggs was appearing in this movie called "Billy and Lilly go to New York." Is this true? I have never heard of the movie before.
I also wanted to bring awareness to a video manipulation technique I mastered yesterday: http://www.flickr.com/photos/29143375@N05/3821178667/
http://justincottawa.blogspot.com/
I am playing a part of the song "In The City."
Also, I also found out on IMDb that a verson of "The Prince" was used on the movie Shark Tale.
I'm still drumming to your songs, and I finally recieved my bass so I may post a few covers on it up on YouTube. I should note that I also posted a video of my opening your prize on YouTube as well.
Hope you are all well and good, and I like your new video - I must say that you beat me to the instrument miming idea - I was going to do that, and I see you guys doing it first. Oh well. It's all part of the Madness!
One last note: I wrote of my personal experience of that mental condition, synesthesia, here:
Dear Justin Suggs is in that film, I think it's a 'cameo role' as we say. I didn't know, he is very modest. I tried to watch you getting our gift but it wouldn't load. You haven't won anything this time, you are question number 2353. all the best Chris
Roskilde Question: Hi Chris, Just want to say what an amazing day we had at the Roskilde gig. I took my 6 year old son as his first concert experience. He is now converted and goes to sleep to 'Divine Madness' each night. So thanks again from an old fan and a new one for a shared memory we will never lose. Dancing with my little lad to all the classics. Who'da thought. Priceless. Cheers, Mark ps Norton Folgate is astonishingly good and deserves all the plaudits. Will there be a Xmas tour this year? Mark
Hello Chris, I just saw your meet and greet with Alex James and you said "I tell you what I read your-" and then it cuts off.
Did you mean his book? After you guys left HMV I was looking for a Madness book and couldn't find one, so I got Alex James biography instead which was a great read.
I look forward to the Madness book, any news on it? I look forward to a big heavy thing, plenty of content, anecdotes and archive pics.
Love the new video and the Dust Devil one has grown on me, I don't really think it got a fair trial.
Cheers,
Cameron
Dear Cameron I said "I tell you what, I read your ....column in the Independant...I didn't realise you were in a band.." CB
why was this never released? the video was funny as fook. 1 of the best from the 1 step album. who was the guy dancing? and as 4 el tomo. bows. was that the knicked sax from the film? the mind boggles about madness. so many memories. ernie and to be said. nice man george news agent on the corner not very rich but never any pourer. n who said get ur knickers down? lmfao.chris.sis dont remember u lol. please spiil the beanz. cheers mate. and madnes back in bradford live? your fans await a west yorkshire revival. bed and breakfast man
Dear bed and breakfast man You were going alright till the end. 4 singles was enough from `One Step Beyond'. Night Boat to Cairo we didn't want put out, we thought it was rip off, hence the 4 track Work Rest and Play with 3 unheard songs. CB
Hello Chris (and the rest of Madness! Thank you SO VERY MUCH for signing my reccords at Oslo Airport and for getting me a free pass for the festival. Sorry I was not there when you asked if I where there. I had to leave about five minutes before because I started working at 4AM next morning. I was very dissapointed when I saw the recording at www.vgtv.no and was aware that I left just before. I could kill myself (don`t worry, I will not do that. Great concert by the way. What happened during "The sun and the rain"? You had some trouble there. Hope to see you again soon. Still got some reccord unsigned :-)
Dear Bjorn It was nice to meet you too.Trouble? Listen - I was playing all the right notes, but not necessarily in the right order. CB
Dear Chrissy Boy, So, as a bit of variety from irritating whinges about a download single (loving the video, by the way, Chris!), here's a question about your song credits. I know you tend to just write music - and great stuff, too, 'That Close' is a corker - but you have also done a bit of the old lyrics back in the day, haven't you? They were as good as the other lyricists efforts. No lyrical inspiration, or what?
Keep up the good work, mate! Big E
Dear Big E The competition is very hot. Suggs Chas Thommo and Barso are all very good with lyrics and indeed tunes. I have got an idea for some song lyrics a few bits as it happens. We shall see. thanks CB
just read horace panter book ska'd for life have any of you nuttyboys written anything worth reading jimbob
Dear jimbob Suggs has written a book on London. He may give me a copy and I'll let you know. CB
PS There are a few mistakes in that Horace book. He says Mike went to music college a fact we "conveniently brushed under the carpet". Er.. because he didn't go to music college. I have told Mr Gentleman this and he admitted it was a mistake. Other wise quite a good read.
Hey chris I like the video for sugar and spice its really cool .Its my birthday on the 26 th august .Dont laugh i will be 37 .Im getting old Mark Morrow
I am hooked on the new album.. It is awesome, the title track is so clever and puts a smile on my face. I got stuck in a traffic jam coming home from Birmingham last Friday and it made the whole journey enjoyable... I think people in other cars thought I was a wierdo drumming and singing along at the top of my voice.... I love it!! I've even finally converted my wife into a madness fan... she's always singing forever young around the house... and so is my 3 year old son!! Steve
Dear CB wouldn't it be great for all us fans to post our top ten all time Madness tunes. It would be very hard I know, as the band have never made a bad or average record. Here's mine anyway, it was a very tough choice, could at least do three top ten charts, but here goes; From 10 to 1
COMMUNICATOR SHUT UP SO CLOSE OUR HOUSE TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT IT MUST BE LOVE MY GIRL THE PRINCE NIGHT BOAT TO CAIRO BAGGY TROUSERS
Hi Chris, Me again, I have one question before the weekend. There used to be a box set called Madness The Lot which was on sale. It had six CD's with 12 interactive videos on it. Will this be re-issued? Can't find it anywhere, in Holland that is. By the way Les Paul has died at the good age of 94. What a pioneer he was. According to a mate of mine in the early 1920's the Ukelele used to be the most popular instrument in America. The mind boggles about this. We would all be playing like George Formby, with respect to George of course. ;)
Regards, Andre PS. Great video for Sugar & Spice.
Dear Andre The Lot was a Virgin release. We are no longer with Virgin but we will be doing some similar things with Union Square who now own our back catalogue.Ukeleles? Hah! yours CB
Hey CB. I was wondering which day are you playing at blackpool and what time? I am hoping to beg my mum to let me come, Is there any change of meeting you guys? Leah x
Dear Leah I don't know when we are on. There is always a chance to meet us. CB
Don't know if you'd seen on the news yet Les Paul passing away following Penumonia complications. News of which certainly educated me to the mans many other achievements inventing things like Multitrack and Overdubb etc. I was wondering if you'd played many of his particular variety of invented electric guitar breeds or had any related comments? I can see heavenly harps getting amped up from tomorrow. Jon
Dear Jon All I can I say is I have used Les Pauls for many years on lot of the Madness recordings and they are fantastic. I use one now as my main guitar live. CB
