During their recent performance at Coachella, Britpop icons Blur faced a less-than-enthusiastic reception from the younger festival crowd. Despite the lukewarm response, guitarist Graham Coxon maintained a positive outlook and focused on enjoying the experience with his bandmates.
Blur’s Coachella Experience
In an interview with GQ magazine, Graham Coxon shared his thoughts on the Coachella performance, revealing the challenges and his approach to handling them. He stated, “I like making albums. I’m perfectly happy on stage, but sometimes, like at Coachella or something, it’s taken you 14 hours to get there, and then you’re playing to people who don’t give a s***. They’re looking at you like ‘who’s this old git?’”
Coxon emphasized his preference for engaging with audiences that are actively enjoying the show. When faced with a disinterested crowd, he focuses on personal enjoyment and tries to uplift the mood. “I love an audience that are smiling their heads off and having a great time, because you’re doing it for them. And if I see audiences of people that are bored, like maybe Coachella, I just do it for myself,” he added. He mentioned making the most of the situation by interacting with his bandmates, such as pulling faces at drummer Dave Rowntree and laughing with frontman Damon Albarn.
Band’s Potential Farewell
During their Coachella set, Blur’s frontman Damon Albarn hinted that the performance might be their “last gig,” adding a layer of uncertainty to their future. As they prepared to perform “Tender,” Albarn told the crowd, “In the spirit of clarity and truth, this is probably our last gig.” This comment sparked speculation about the band’s future activities.
Recent Projects and Releases
Blur reunited in 2023 for the release of The Ballad of Darren, their first studio album in eight years. The band also performed two significant shows at Wembley Stadium in London.
Additionally, a new documentary titled Blur: To The End, released today (July 19, 2024), provides an intimate look into Damon Albarn’s life. The film features Albarn discussing his rural Devon home, his emotional journey, and how music serves as therapy for him. The documentary delves into the band’s reunion and Albarn’s reflections on life and music.
FAQ
Q: How did Blur’s Coachella performance go?
A: The performance at Coachella was met with a less enthusiastic response from the younger audience, but guitarist Graham Coxon focused on enjoying the experience and interacting with his bandmates.
Q: What did Graham Coxon say about playing to a disinterested audience?
A: Coxon mentioned that he prefers audiences who are actively enjoying the performance. When faced with disinterest, he focuses on personal enjoyment and tries to uplift the crowd’s mood.
Q: Did Damon Albarn suggest that Blur might be retiring?
A: Yes, during the Coachella set, Damon Albarn hinted that the performance might be Blur’s “last gig,” leading to speculation about the band’s future.
Q: What are Blur’s recent projects?
A: Blur released their album The Ballad of Darren in 2023 and performed at Wembley Stadium. They also have a new documentary, Blur: To The End, which explores Albarn’s personal and professional life.
Q: What does the documentary Blur: To The End cover?
A: The documentary provides a candid look at Damon Albarn’s life, including his emotional journey, his rural Devon home, and how music functions as therapy for him.
For the latest updates on Blur’s activities and new releases, stay tuned to their official channels and music news platforms.
