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Blur's Alex James: Rock stars either die or end up on a farm
Dec 18, 2024
Alex James, the bassist of Blur and a now full-time farmer, shares his fascinating journey from rock star to rural life. He humorously discusses his struggles with aging and fitting into his old jeans, alongside tales from the iconic band’s reunion tour. Topics like the camaraderie within the band, the essentials of the bass guitar, and the balancing act between music and family come to life. Alex also offers witty reflections on farming life, inheritance tax, and the joy of savoring long lunches filled with French cuisine.
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Quick takeaways
- Alex James transitioned from a tumultuous rock star lifestyle to farming, showcasing his adaptability amid crises in British agriculture.
- The unexpected reunion of Blur highlighted the emotional connections in music and rekindled James' bond with his children through shared experiences.
Deep dives
The Unexpected Journey to Farming
After Blur's hiatus, Alex James ventured into farming, a life he embraced unexpectedly during a significant transition in his life. He and his wife Claire purchased a farm shortly after they got married, marking a departure from his rock star lifestyle. This shift coincided with a challenging period for British agriculture, highlighted by crises like mad cow disease and foot-and-mouth outbreaks. James found himself pouring passion and resources into transforming the farm into a successful venture, demonstrating his resilience and adaptability in the face of these challenges.
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