Mike Kerr, lead singer and bassist of Royal Blood, discusses his journey to sobriety and exploring new ways to release energy and adrenaline as a live performer. Topics include the challenges of being creative and performing sober, the impact of music on workouts, the importance of reaching out for help, and a transformative moment that led to quitting drinking. They also reflect on their favorite song from their latest album and announce an exciting tour in 2022.
Finding new ways to release adrenaline and energy as a sober musician is crucial for personal growth and thriving.
Rock and roll can serve as an outlet for rebelliousness, allowing individuals to express themselves freely and embrace their primal instincts.
Deep dives
Overcoming Identity Loss and Rebuilding
Mike Kerr of Royal Blood discusses his journey of self-discovery and rediscovery after becoming sober. He shares the fear and challenges he faced in relearning how to live and create music without the crutch of alcohol. Kerr emphasizes the importance of finding new ways to release adrenaline and energy as a sober musician, and how it has ultimately led to a period of thriving and personal growth.
Embracing Rebellion and Rock 'n' Roll
From a strict religious upbringing, Mike Kerr was drawn to the rebelliousness of rock music as a way to push against the constraints of his upbringing. He discusses how rock and roll became an outlet for his rebellious spirit and allowed him to express himself freely. Kerr also reflects on the need for more opportunities in everyday life that encourage us to release built-up emotions and embrace our primal instincts.
The Power of Wild Water Swimming
Mike Kerr shares his love for wild water swimming and the sense of freedom and control it brings. He describes the exhilaration and release that comes from immersing oneself in cold water and letting go of inhibitions. Kerr notes that these experiences offer a unique space to express oneself and find moments of clarity and gratitude.
The Journey to Sobriety and Musical Transformation
Mike Kerr discusses his decision to become sober and the transformation he experienced in his creative process. He reflects on the challenges he faced in finding his artistic identity without relying on substances, and how he eventually found new inspiration and clarity in his music. Kerr also opens up about the support he received from his bandmate and producer, as well as the importance of acceptance and self-acceptance in his journey towards sobriety and personal growth.
Mike Kerr is the lead singer and bassist of Royal Blood. As the band’s success grew, alcohol became an integral part of his life, but he’s now been sober for two years, and is thriving both personally and as a musician. In this chat with Fearne, Mike explores the new ways he’s found to release the energy and adrenaline that come with being a live performer, including running, kite-surfing, and cold-water swimming. Plus, Fearne explains why she thinks this game-changing moment in Mike’s life might be something to do with his Saturn Return…
Royal Blood’s latest album, Typhoons, is out now.
Thanks to Stripe and Stare for sponsoring this series of Happy Place. Use the code HP20 when you make your purchase at stripeandstare.com for a 20% discount.