Robbie Williams, a stalwart of the British music scene for over 30 years, is set to embark on his Long 90s tour, celebrating his latest album, *Britpop*. This release marks his 16th number one album, surpassing a record previously held by The Beatles. As he prepares for this tour, Williams reflects on both his personal journey and the cultural landscape of his career.
A Moment of Self-Recognition
In an interview with BBC News, Williams expressed his desire to embrace success rather than diminish it. “I think as British people we’re very good at piercing the balloon of our own success and undercutting it,” he remarked. “But with this one, I really want to let it sink in and stand in the middle of it and go, ‘OK, success, do your thing to me’.”
The upcoming tour will see Williams performing in more intimate venues, reminiscent of the early days of his solo career. The artist revealed that *Britpop* embodies the album he envisioned creating when he first departed from Take That, featuring collaborations with notable musicians such as Gary Barlow, Gaz Coombes from Supergrass, and Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi.
Reflecting on the Britpop Era
Williams has mixed feelings about the Britpop era, a time when he achieved significant professional success but also battled profound personal struggles. He candidly shared, “I was going through my own mental illness… they can’t experience joy, and there were lots of incredible things happening.” Despite the challenges, he looks back fondly on the decade, describing it as “the last great decade for popular culture.”
“The ’90s was an amazing time to have a bad time,” he added, noting the distinctiveness of that era compared to more recent musical trends.
A Newfound Perspective on Fame
The singer has also spoken about overcoming stage fright and finding clarity in his life following the birth of his daughter, Theodora, in 2012. “The world started to make sense because I’d been running away from responsibility,” he noted, reflecting on how fatherhood shifted his perspective. “When things stopped being about me and started to become about precious souls, I realised I’ve got the best job in the world.”
After experiencing tumultuous interactions with the British press, Williams expressed relief at his current situation. “I’m in a different place now,” he said, appreciating the space he has to focus on his music and family without the constant scrutiny he once faced.
The Challenge of Social Media and Future Aspirations
Williams acknowledged that, had social media been prevalent during the early stages of his career, it might have posed a significant challenge for him. He shared his tendency to focus on negativity and speculated about the psychological implications of this behaviour.
As for his future plans, Williams hinted at ambitious projects, including the idea of creating hotels with performance venues and even establishing a “university of entertainment.” He sees this as an opportunity to revolutionise education, especially considering his own experiences with school.
*Britpop* is now available, and the Long 90s tour has commenced, promising to be a celebration of both Williams’ career and the era that shaped it.
Why it Matters
Robbie Williams’ journey through fame, mental health, and personal growth resonates deeply in today’s society. His candid reflections not only highlight the ongoing struggles many face with mental wellness in the spotlight but also serve as a reminder of the importance of embracing success rather than undermining it. As he embarks on this new chapter, Williams exemplifies the potential for transformation and resilience, inspiring fans and fellow artists alike.
