Niks Blog
November 2008
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I recently got my copy of the very fine "You've Got To Laugh" album and notice that you had Nick Beggs doing his thing with the Chapman Stick on some of the songs. Do you play 'The Stick'?
Nik: Only in the privacy of my own home. Beggs doesn't seem to care where he whips his out. (Actually, no I don't. There are far too many strings and the whole playing concept is alien to me. I'd find it easier shuffling cards with my feet).
December 2007
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Is it possible to release a Remix-CD with all the vinyl-extended-versions? What do you think about these remixes and the whole extended-mix-thing in the 80's?
Nik: It's possible, but I can't say I'd be enthusiastic about it. You write a song that's three and a half minutes long and that's how long it is... three and a half minutes. Then someone turns up and asks for a seven minute version because that's what everybody else is doing. What's that all about?
July 2007
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I've listened to your Human Racing album many times, and often I get a strong feeling of Stevie Wonder's influence, even in the way you sing. Is this true? A good example is the title song - it makes me think of the song 'Village Ghettoland'. Also (somewhat related), I maybe reading into them too much, but I also get the feeling of spiritual themes from some of your songs. If you were to describe your spiritual path in a few words, what would they be? I love the heart and wit in your songs and it is very apparent that you put a lot of work into them.
Nik: I listened to a lot of early Stevie Wonder in my formative years and people have commented in the past about the track "Human Racing". Though I'm very flattered by the comparison, I don't see it myself and certainly wasn't trying to sound like him (tonight Matthew, I'm going to be Stevie Wonder). As regards to being spiritual, I'm not sure I even know what that means. I think a lot of people who claim to be spiritual have just read too many books about being spiritual. I know that there is more to us than flesh and bones. Does that make me spiritual?
April 2007
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I wondered if there was any truth in the ironic rumour that Nik had used some of his royalty money, from the recent well-known sofa manufacturer's advert, to purchase a sofa from said vendor. If so, did he take up their offer of 5 years interest free credit, with nothing to pay for the first year?
Nik: No truth, I'm afraid
January 2007
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What is your advice to budding songwriters like myself for getting involved in the music business? I don't know where to begin, and Chrysalis rejected my demo!
Nik: Ignore the rejection slip but keep it for framing at a later date (I've still got all mine). You have to believe that you have what it takes and keep plugging away regardless. Play your songs to everybody, no matter how much influence you believe them to have. As long as you have faith in your own abilities, you've as much chance as anyone else. Once you lose it, it's time to visit the Jobcentre.
August 2006
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Is there any particular method as to how you arrange the order of the track listing on your albums?
Nik: There's no particular science to putting together a running order. It's a bit like constructing a setlist. You look at the pace and energy of the tracks and try to vary that a bit. Separate tracks with similar keys, guitar solos etc. Alternatively, you can stick them all in a hat and pick your order that way.
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