In an exclusive interview, Mark Hoppus, the bass player and singer of the iconic punk rock band Blink-182, opens up about his eclectic life experiences – from raising chickens named after the band’s songs to selling a prized Banksy artwork, and even surviving a harrowing battle with cancer.
Hoppus, known for his candid and self-deprecating persona, recounts his unconventional upbringing on a 25-acre farm in Somerset, where he tended to beehives and harvested an abundance of honey. “It was crazy how much honey we got – up to 150 jars a season. It was the best honey I’ve ever tasted,” he reminisces.
The musician also discusses the decision to part ways with a valuable Banksy painting, citing concerns over potential damage. “The more money it was worth, the more precious we got with it. Eventually, it was so much stress, we sold it and gave some of the money to charity,” he explains.
Hoppus’ most profound revelation, however, centres around his personal health battle. Diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, the musician faced daunting odds, with his doctors giving him a mere 60% chance of survival. “Chemotherapy feels like you’re being crushed,” he recalls. “I thought I was going to die – and it was so freeing.”
Despite the challenges, Hoppus remains philosophical about his experiences, acknowledging the surreal nature of his journey. “I am very surprised I’m not dead,” he admits.
As for the current state of affairs in the United States, Hoppus shares the global community’s bewilderment. “I think the whole world feels confused by what’s going on in the US right now. Every US citizen, the supporters, dissenters, resisters, are like: what the hell’s going on?” he laments, highlighting the need for objective, fact-based reporting amidst the cacophony of clickbait headlines.
Through it all, Hoppus maintains his trademark sense of humour and camaraderie, praising the unsung heroes of the music industry – bass players. “Bass players are just cool. We’re the ones that bring it all together. We’re the bridge between the rhythm of the drums and the melody of the guitar and the vocal,” he says.
As Hoppus looks to the future, he remains committed to using his platform to support causes close to his heart, including haematology oncology research and the Firefighters Association. With his memoir, “Fahrenheit-182,” set to hit shelves soon, the Blink-182 icon continues to captivate audiences with his raw, honest, and endlessly fascinating story.
