In a heartfelt feature for The Guardian, Si King, half of the beloved culinary duo the Hairy Bikers, unveils his ‘Honest Playlist’—a personal soundtrack that reflects his life’s milestones, passions, and poignant memories. From his teenage years to his current adventures, King’s selections offer a window into the music that has shaped him.
A Teenage Anthem
King’s musical journey began with a rebellious streak. His first single purchase was “I Don’t Like Mondays” by the Boomtown Rats, bought from Sounds Nice on Birtley High Street during his teens. At the time, he resonated with the song’s defiance, even though he later learned it was about a school shooting.(The Guardian)
Drumming into the Heart of Rock
The track “Still in Love With You” by Thin Lizzy, especially from their Live and Dangerous album, holds a special place for King. As an aspiring drummer, he was captivated by Brian Downey’s shuffle beat. This song not only deepened his love for music but also inspired his lifelong passion for drumming.(The Guardian)
The Soundtrack of Life
King’s playlist is a tapestry of songs that evoke various emotions and memories:(The Guardian)
- “When the Levee Breaks” by Led Zeppelin: A track that left a lasting impression on King, especially as a motorcyclist. He describes it as “perfect for when you’re speeding along,” highlighting its powerful rhythm and energy.(The Guardian)
- “Desperado” by Eagles: Despite the cultural jab from The Big Lebowski, King has a soft spot for this song. He even played with a tribute band called Bootleg Eagles, showcasing his deep appreciation for their music.(The Guardian)
- “Gimme Some Lovin'” by Spencer Davis Group: A morning energizer for King, this track gets him up and moving with its upbeat tempo.(The Guardian)
- “Ain’t Nobody” by Rufus and Chaka Khan: A party favorite, this song brings a lively atmosphere wherever it’s played.
- “On the Wire” by Troy Cassar-Daley: A poignant ballad that moves King deeply, reflecting themes of love, loneliness, and the challenges of modern life.(The Guardian)
Karaoke Confessions
While not a regular at karaoke nights, King admits to enjoying a few songs when the mood strikes. He mentions “The Royal Mile” and “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty, as well as “Take the Money and Run” by the Steve Miller Band, as tracks he can belt out with some confidence.(The Guardian)
A Mind for Lyrics
King possesses an exceptional memory for lyrics. He recalls songs like “China in Your Hand” by T’Pau and “I Want to Be Free” by Toyah Willcox, even decades after hearing them. His ability to remember such lyrics is akin to his knack for recalling old phone numbers, showcasing his sharp memory.(The Guardian)
Love, Loss, and Legacy
Music has been a constant companion for King, especially during challenging times. The song “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack brings painful memories of lost love, while “On the Wire” offers solace and reflection. These tracks underscore the profound impact music has on processing emotions and experiences.(The Guardian)
In sharing his ‘Honest Playlist,’ Si King invites fans into his world, offering a glimpse into the songs that have accompanied him through life’s highs and lows. It’s a testament to the power of music in shaping our identities and memories.
