He
triumphed at Casino Barrière de Toulouse in September
2010, with just one other musician at his side. The
composer and singer of Supertramp returns July 2, again
as a duo. Delight is
guaranteed.Between Toulouse and Albi and Casino Barriere and Guitar Festival, Roger Hodgson, the legendary composer of almost all Supertramp hits is not stingy with visits to the southwest. He loves France, which is well ...
You come back and see us every time, it is a triumph!
What can I say? Some of these songs were written 35 years ago and I see in the audience of young people of 15 or 17 years singing loudly along with their parents! Frankly, I would never have imagined - and yet I dreamed a lot when I was a young musician and penniless - these little melodies fall within the heart of so many people ... In France, it is true, I am always very well received. When I come back to France, I feel at home.
Do you have a recipe to write such songs?
Well, I thought about it and I found that I wrote my best songs ... when I relax! Let me explain: when I sit at my table, saying: "Come on, I will write an extraordinary melody," the result: nothing! However, when I when I let the music naturally out of me, my heart and my mind, well, what comes out is often spiritual, emotional, sincere ... I have never taken this ability have to write melodies for granted. I have always questioned my feelings and explore what I feel. This is probably why so many people were moved by these songs: they are honest.
I must admit: each interview, I am amazed by your optimism, your love life!
I'm not naive, however, I know the evil that meets so many people, and life is hard for many. In my case, the answer is in spirituality. This is where I find the strength to live. The music? It is not the answer, but it helps me to stay positive. Music is food for the heart, for the soul.
Your songs - I think "Hide in your Shell," for example - have been a refuge for some people who feel helpless ...
That is what I've been told. This song has struck a particular chord with many people, as I say, "I know exactly how you feel, I felt it too, you're not alone!" These are simple words that we want to hear. It is a wonderful thing to be able to "connect" with people in the world ...
Everyone knows the song that you have written, and you sing at the Casino Barriere. Do you have a favorite song?
That is like asking me which of my children I prefer, as you are! (Laughs) I love them all: I still get goose bumps when I play "Fool's Overture", I love the smiles "Give a Little Bit" brings on the faces of people who come to see me in concert, and when I attack the first chords of "Breakfast in America" or "The Logical Song" ...
Roger Hodgson in concert at the Casino Theatre Lucien Barriere (Island Woodpigeon, 18 chemin de la Loge, Tel.05 61 33 37 77) Tuesday, July 2, 2013 at 20:30. Rates from 51 to 63 euros.
Interview by Yves Gabay