Nick Beggs Opens Up About Musical Roots and Kajagoogoo Legacy
In an exclusive interview on the Phoenix FM morning show, presenter Michelle Ward sat down with acclaimed musician and songwriter Nick Beggs to delve into his storied career. The conversation spanned his formative years, the explosive success of Kajagoogoo, and the creative paths he has pursued since.
Early Musical Memories and Influences
Beggs recounted his earliest musical experiences, starting at school where he began playing drums at just ten years old. He often accompanied his music teacher on piano, sparking a lifelong passion. Around this time, he formed his first band, Johnny and the Martians, with school friends. They attempted to play classics like Rock Around the Clock, which he humorously admitted sounded awful but felt thrilling nonetheless.
He also highlighted the influence of his father, who left a drum kit in his room as a child. By the time his father returned, Nick had already taught himself to play it, showcasing his natural talent and dedication from a young age.
Kajagoogoo's Rise and Misconceptions
Michelle Ward asked about Kajagoogoo's breakthrough hit Too Shy, which topped the charts in 1983. Beggs emphasized that the band's success was far from overnight, having worked tirelessly for years prior. He expressed frustration at the common perception of them as a one-hit wonder, noting that while they might be seen that way in America, they actually achieved six hits across Europe.
This underscores the hard work and persistence behind their fame, a point Beggs was keen to clarify during the interview.
Diverse Projects and Current Endeavors
The discussion also touched on Beggs' varied work beyond Kajagoogoo. He has performed live with ex-Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett, earning praise for his exceptional talent. Additionally, he talked about Dangerous Potatoes, a collection of children's stories born from bedtime tales he created for family members. With touring quieter, he is revisiting this project.
As a result of the interview, listeners have been exploring his album Walmart, which he made available for free on Bandcamp and has received positive feedback for its quality.
Where to Listen and Local Coverage
The full interview can be heard again on the Phoenix FM website. The Brentwood Gazette, which serves areas including Billericay, Brentwood, Hutton, Shenfield, and Wickford in Essex, continues to cover such engaging local stories, connecting communities with notable figures like Nick Beggs.
