SINGING star Rick Astley is back on the Island this weekend as part of the 1980s Summer Concert being staged in the grounds of Osborne House.
Rick, who had a string of top five hits in the late 80s, has fond memories of previous visits here, and is now looking forward to being part of Sunday’s night music spectacular.
He will be in a star-studded line-up thatwill also include Bananarama, Belinda Carlisle, Howard Jones, Go West and ABC.
Rick spoke to The Gazette ahead of the concert to recall his trips to Cowes, and give an insight into what fans can expect on Sunday. He said: “I used to have a boat on the Hamble, so I often popped over to Cowes quite a lot. I have heard of Osborne House and have seen it from the water, so I am really looking forward to playing there.
“I know some of the other artists really well, from the 1980s and from touring with them more recently, and I sure it is going to be a lot of fun for us and the audience. It’s one of those occasions when you need everyone to go with the right attitude.”
Rick who had hits with the likes of ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ and ‘Whenever You Need Somebody’ continued: “Perhaps it’s a bit different when people go along to see someone like Simply Red, because they have to like them. But with our show, maybe some don’t like me, but go along to see the others, so there is something for everyone.
“I shall be doing all the old favourites – I think I had eight top 10 hits. I shall also be doing a new song called ‘Lights Out’ which has had quite a lot of air play on Radio 2. But generally on a night like this I tend not to do too much stuff because folk have come to hear all the old stuff and take a trip down Memory Lane.”
He added: “I’m afraid it will only be a flying visit because I am in Scarborough the night before, but like I said I have been the Cowes quite a lot, and I always enjoy the fish and chips there.
“My brother John has been there loads of times, and loves the Island. He says it is a place that has kept the good things that you want to look at again. There is something magical about the place, and even getting on the ferry to go over is an enjoyable experience. It’s stepping back in time, so to speak.
“I have been to the Isle of Man recently, and I think Island life is very unique; there is something charming about. I remember being there once to visit Mark King from Level 42. He co-wrote a couple of songs for one of my albums, and I have always been a big fan of Level 42. They are an amazing band, and Mark is a fantastic bloke.”
Former Pop Idol winner Will Young headlines at Osborne House tomorrow night (Sat) with special guest Lizzy Pattinson.
