Interview

Five Questions with...Derek Forbes

1.Who are you currently listening too and what music inspires you today? 

I am currently listening to Glasgow band 'Suspire'. Brian turned me on to them, and they are something special. Music that inspires me comes from the past usually. I like to recharge my artistic side by playing the records that made me who I am, and then get into contemporary stuff later.


2. Which Simple Minds song and album are you most proud of and why?

That's a hard question, because all the albums were unique life experiences. If I had to choose, I may go with the 'double album' of Sons and Fascination and Sister Feelings Call, although New Gold Dream is well up there. Songwise I would say 'Somebody Up There Likes You' although technically , that is an instrumental.


3. What was the best gig you ever played, and the best show you have ever attended?

Manly Arena in Sydney..what a day that was. Our road crew had to pour buckets of water over us as we played, because of the fierce heat in the building..well it is Australia we are talking about. The best show by far was ACDC at Hampden Park...I am a neophyte to this band, but now I am a fan...brillliant


4. What can fans expect when they attend the forthcoming September 2010 Tour?

The fans can expect the unexpected. We have a great idea in action, which should thrill every true Simple Minds fan and newby's alike. We perform like it was, way back when the band started, and we will have a Single out in time for the tour, with an album following closely, which will take the roof off. XSM are getting better and better, so don't miss it..



5. I hear you were voted Scotland ’s greatest ever bassist by the readers of ‘Dear Scotland’. What advise would you give to any young budding bass players and musicians out there who will be reading this?

Get a trade. I did. You never know the minute in this game. As for advice. Be yourself. By all means emulate your favourite players, but try to achieve something which defines you as a bass player. I am naturally a Lead Guitar player, so, that is why my bass lines are melodic lines, and in your face, almost like a guitar solo throughout the songs. I love bass though, and love to experiment with different styles and fretless work too.Keep the faith. If you want something badly enough, you will get there in the end, so Keep the Faith..Good Luck ... Derek Forbes XSM