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Fantastic songwriter, superb performer (seen him live several times), survivor of terrible illness, and a modest and decent man. He's the sort of guy we SHOULD see as role models for young men and recieving honours in the queens honours list.

I love this man. He is an earthly treasure. First time I'm seeing this interview. His forthrightness in all things, all subjects, is so very refreshing and wholesome. His path has been unusual; his humility and raw brilliance are rare. I listen to his music all day and never tire of it.

One of the most underrated and gifted musicians of our time. A musical genius that had the courage to follow his own path. It is pretty shameful that radio presenters don't play his songs enough, so afraid to step out of the commercial lane and explore real talent. An interesting interview from a humble GIANT of the music industry. May he one day appreciate the absolute pleasure he has brought to all of our lives.

Chris rea so glad he’s still with us god bless

Out of the millions and trillions of songs I have listened to over the past 60 years, Drivin Home, is up there with my favourites. Chris is a lovely guy and is as strong as a lion to have survived his illness.

Always been a huge fan of Chris Rea. A genuine person and fabulous musician ❤️

Chris Rea where have you been all my life?! I’m a tremendous fan of Mark Knopfler, and have always been his number one fan for years. I heard one song by Chris Rea, Blue Cafe, and suddenly my entire world has changed! His music is incredibly moving and his songs bring fleeting memories of life! Chris Rea is by far the most talented musician, right up there with Mark Knopfler! Love his beautiful voice, could listen to him all day and night! Someone needs to tell him he is incredible!

A fantastic gentleman , his talent is tremendous.

They used to call him the poor man's Knopfler...this man has more touch and voice than a multitude of wankers I have come across in my 66 years...Thanks Chris and stay alive as long as you can mate...

This is the best Chris Rea Interview ever made

A great example of a person with a gift.

He is very tough on himself,,,, "Road to Hell" was a complete masterpiece ! And he should be very proud ! Loosen up Chris ! You are a legend ! Be proud and be happy mate ! You are loved,,,, 💞

Love how he has almost no idea how good he is and how hutch he’s loved, I remember praying daily for his recovery when he was so ill. His voice and music is so distinctive and Road to Hell is a classic. When I hear Driving home for Christmas I know the holiday season is upon us. Please stay true to you Chris and may we have you with us for years to come.

September 7, 2022. We do know Chris Rea in the United States, and we have appreciated his talent through the decades. It's never too late to come to America to tour; he would get a strong reception!

What a wonderful interview. I learnt that Chris is a musician’s musician, and a very humble human being with a loving family. What a pleasure it was listening to Chris openly talk about his life giving us a beautiful insight into the man behind the master.

Chris Rea is a musical genius. Never tire of his music. Been a fan for 40 years!

I believe he's hugely underappreciated. Such a great, husky voice and unmistakable sound of his guitar, best of the best 💜

My gosh..... His slide guitar playing hits your solar plexus and you travel with him to heaven!!!! And his voice is totally complimentary to that sound. So, so underrated. A-ma-zing live! True, true sound.... Thank you for the interview. Thank you Chris Rea for a bit of heaven in this hellish world today 🌿

I don't suppose Chris will ever read this, but just in case: THANK YOU.......

Thank you for the music Chris, what an outstanding Artist you are and will remain

Pure Genius.. Songwriter..Composer.And need I say one of the Greatest Guitar players EVER. 🎼☮️👊

This man is a legend ..and a really great human being.

He was good 20 years ago, he is genius today, hard to explain but every time I listen to his music, I feel touched

My mother listened to his music, and that's how I found out about him. When I was a kid, in communist Romania, music like this was simply alien. Because my mother worked in ”exterior commerce” she learned about a lot of amazing stuff that my country was oblivious to. I love Chris's work and voice. This interview is a treasure-trove for me. I'm listening to it on a writer's block day ✌️ LATER EDIT: Wait, did he just mention Romanians? 😍 And he knows that we play the flat 5th chord? OMG!

One of our treasures . . . .

Such a extraordinarily humble and modest man, a rare thing these days. The fact that his talent came to light relatively late makes me respect him even more now. A reluctant genius whose story goes against the grain in so many ways. Wish him good health 🤞

one of the greatest artists of all time , my favorite

Chris Rea's voice is soft, low, yet powerful; like 'an iron fist in a velvet glove!'

I can't believe Chris doesn't like his own voice. I can't sing, but if I could, I would want Chris's voice. Pure smoothness.

Chris Rea is a real star! his true calling in life is to make music not chase celebrity, I think this is possibley one of the reasons his music will last the test of time.. Bring it on Chris..

Absolute genius very under rated guitarist and exceptional songwriter one of the best ever....outstanding volume of work in his career, complete pleasure to see him live over the years god bless Chris long may you reign.....take care in these times

Love our boy. So proud he's from where I live. Humbling. X

Chris Rea's voice is deep blunt, and like a true lion. He's a worrior fighting so many health problems. I wish him well!!! Funny when he first started playing, he didn't want to big a big star, yet he became one regardless, yet other people try, and try to become a star but can't no matter how hard they try.😜😜😇😇😎😎👍👍🎸🎩🎩🎹🎵🎶

Absolute genius is Chris Rea.

No other voice can match the warmth, depth and emotion of Chria Rea's rasp,y soulful baritone.

What a grounded, honest, intelligent, modest and talented musician....is Mr Chris Rea 👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻

Having lived in Middlesbrough for a big chunk of my childhood through my teens... Late 70s to 90/91 i can fully relate to the life Chris had in The Boro. I remember the cafe's in town & opposite albert park... Ice cream to die for - A truly iconic down to earth man who has been a musical inspiration to me for many many years ~

i love you chris - your music means a world to me!

I think you are the best......ever...your voice is something else 😊💙🎤🎸🎧☘❤⚘

I carn’t understand how Chris keeps pulling himself down, he’s a great songwriter !

Mr Chris Rea kept me alive. I had no friends as a teenager. I love him. I love all his music. His voice. I am your biggest fan Mr Chris Rea. Fool if you think it's over is one of my all time songs! I absolutely love Shamrock Diaries.

Grew up on Rea. Took me through most musical genres. Met him once and a more truly genuine man you could not meet.

The North of England is brimming with talent.

I bought Chris's album Whatever Happened to Benny Santini purely by chance when it was first released and have been totally hooked ever since. I've bought every album as soon as they've been released ever since and savoured them all. I've got all his albums, boxed sets and compilations and regularly listen to them all in chronological order on an almost endless loop. He is a lovely, humble man who is a musicial genius. So sad that he's been so ill as it's undoubtedly deprived us of even more of his wonderful music. My favourite ever musician !

There isn’t a thing I don’t love and admire about Chris Rea. A thoroughly remarkable human being and artist.

He doesn't owe anyone anything. I get it. But: "People don't know me in America" No way. People in North America adore Chris Rea, whatever he plays, whatever he sings. ADORE him

Am a boro lad who lived with chris rea,s music all my life thanks for the years chris

Chris told the interviewer that he doesn't tour America because we don't him. So not true. He has a huge fan base here, especially those of us who love blues and slide guitar. Chris Rea we love you!😎👍

What a legend.

A great great singer songwriter, to watch Chris sing and play his guitar live was just awesome!! Hope he's doing ok in 2021 🎸

Amazing interview , learnt so much about my hero from Middlesborough !! Loved his stories , I adore icecream , always have , didnt know that , as for MAKING TUNES , wow , wow , wow , thats fanastic , and boy oh boy , does the wonderful , magnificent , master MAKE TUNES , he is so humble , I dont like my voice , that's unbelievable to hear him say that , thats why he is still here , not getting involved with a load of rock stars , he is so much more , i certainly feel he is sooooo much more than Elton John , and dont get me wrong , I too loved Elton John back in the day , especially in the 1970s and 1980s , this guy Chris Rea has produced sooooop many great , wonderful , magical songs , Steel River is my all time favourite and will be played at my funeral , cant get over 6 1/2 stone following his pancreas surgery , I lost 2 cousins , both brothers , both aged 62 years old , 5 years apart , to this horrible disease , they both have 2 sons each , I often worry about them , and what the future holds ?? Pancreatic Cancer , very few people survive Pancreatic Cancer, Chris Rea is a miracle , to be still here with us , all those years ago , he is a STAR and always will be , a true master of his craft , a genius in my eyes , after hearing this interview , I have learned soooo much , so informative , Dublin is a Viking City , that's why he feels so at home Shamrock Diaries , so glad I took the time to listen to this interview , just stunning , I'm in awe ❤ this man , one of lifes greats , it was a bloody honour to hear that interview , well done , thanks for sharing

Be happy with your Beautiful family you so deserve it so lovely to watch....your room is filled with all your lovely things happiness right there ❤💙☘🎤🎸🎧⚘

My IDOL! I NEVER BEEN so much with JOY and HAPINESS until I started to watch& listen to HIS MUSIC! BLESS HIM! BEST REGARDS FROM BUCHAREST ROMANIA ❤😊😅

His self-depreciation is inexplicable. But he truly is that person. It's not false modesty. May he live long and prosper.

I can't believe how much modesty could have this man! Dear Chris, you said you don't like your voice. I really don't understand why, bu guess what :your voice is AMAZING! About playing guitar you mentioned Mark Knopfler. He is a very good guitar player but... That's it! Same thing applies to Eric Clapton. Your voice sounds hundreds of thousands of times better! I am still listening in my car a few songs, but from you, a few albums! You are a Genius, a Survivor, a real model to follow and I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART! I wish you good health, and DON'T STOP PLAYING GUITAR!

Humble, modest, honest and extremely talented. I’ve seen him concert many times. Never disappoints. Good to see him looking better

Fool If You Think Its Over. Chris's Best Hit Song.

Chris Rea most humble 🎸 legend ever❤lovely interview 👍

My mum had a Teas Maid in the 1960’s! It worked cos we as children heard the alarm and ran to our parents room to see it working! Got us up ready for school. Clever mum!!

Chris Rea is the Middlesborough Jeff Lynne! Both get up in morning and play a musical instrument,before going to the toilet! That's a symptom of genius!

Amazing! Truly his destiny and how fortunate for us All !

One of the sought after name in music industry worldwide 🎉❤he is amazing we luv u ❤🎉✌️🎸luv from Degas from Cochin

A most loveable and talented guy

Chris rea. UNIQUE

Thank goodness he never strayed and become over comercial instead we got the brilliant chris rea he is. A true legend. Those who follow him worship him. My biggest collection of music by one artist is Chris rea.

This man is solely responsible for the best memories of my life with "On The Beach"... Growing up in cold Finland during the 80's and in the summer when that tune "On The Beach" came on and warm sun was shining through the window blinds in my room and that was on MTV at the time, and you saw the water waves and the beach and him with his blue and white clothes and guitar on those now old bulky Tv's with snow effect lol... ..... It was just magical. It was one of those "moments in life".. That were and are special. As the song says: Takes me back to the places that i know...

Loved Chris when I heard him play way back early 80's and the greatest respect to him for continuing with all the health struggles he's been through. He's someone I really admire. Naturally gifted musician.

My absolute musical hero since I first heard 'Que sera' all those years ago. Bought and loved every album since. My all-time favourite is 'Nothing to fear', sends shivers down my spine every time. I'm 55 now and he's still my favourite artist ever. Thank you Chris Rea. 😊

Love me some Chris Rea ❤️ US here.

True Musician. One of the true breed. They are not around these days.

The crap you have to go through just to do your job. Chris had the wisdom to be the master of his own convictions, you are a blessing to music and your fans for over 40 years, thank you.

Chris Rea is a class act! Sorry to hear that about the experience with "Fool If You Think It's Over". He'll always be one of the greatest ever in my book! Godspeed and blessings brother -- Bethesda,Maryland USA

I was first introduced to the music of Chris Rea when asking the salesman in the record shop about his style of music. I purchased my first Chris Rea album “On the Beach” that day and absolutely loved the album. I just love “Hello Friend.” In fact, I love most of his work. The fact that he writes all his own material makes him a great musical communicator.

Happy 70th Birthday Chris Rea

Back listening again 😊❤

You have gone through so much and made it out the other side. Pleased dont leave us for a long time. You are loved oodles.

What a nice chap. Haven’t heard about him at all since he had a stroke on stage at Oxford. I wish him all the best....👍

Awesome talent, unassuming, modest, brilliant!

I could listen to CR, day in day out, and never get sick of his music. He has the sexiest voice. This man just fascinates me. Please come play in America. ❤💋

What a great man.

Criminally unknown in the US. He has one of the most distinct and memorable voices eve r, has written many great songs, and is fantastic live. What a sad commentary on popular music in America that we couldn't find a place for an artist of this caliber.

Great interview with the guy who never sold his music soul...

The advantage with digitised streaming is record companies now know what you listen to. Fool was on my top 10 most played songs for 2022 and I have been listening since 1988. Now don’t worry about that LA DJ . He is long forgotten, whereas your music lasts forever Chris. And I might add, is appealing to a whole new world of younger generation listeners…. I recommend the new mix for instance of “Josephine” dance track which is on the re-release road to hell 2019 album…GOLD

As an aspiring indie artist myself, I look at Chris as one of the best of us. We're only on this planet for a very short time and if you are an artist you have to be true to that vision.

_Driving Home for Christmas_ was my entry point for Chris Rea's music. What a darling man he comes across as in this interview! I've been listening to a lot of his music for the first time over the past couple weeks, and it's so refreshingly different. I wish I'd discovered him sooner. Thanks for a lovely interview, Tom.

I had heard " Working on it" on an FM radio station in South west Florida February ,1989. I went to a shopping mall record store, and asked the clerk for that " new ZZTOP song about work." That drew blank stares from the help! " I just heard it!" After a time , the clerk recognized what I was after! The album was " New light through old windows." They didn't have the album, so I bought the cassette single! From there, I bought the Chris catalogue !

Chris Rea A music legend

Love the accent, what a cool man.

Thinking back to those days when Chris was young, I was young, and there was a new Rea album coming...I miss those days. It'd be a dream come true to meet this man.

First time I heard him was Steel River and its all gone,such a unique sound. Obviously then listened to most of his stuff before and after. Think his voice is very sincere and soulful.

I LOVE his music!!!!!!

Chris seems a humble man and a unique man the Nikola Tesla of music.

You are amazing could listen to you all day songs interviews always down to earth and enjoyable best voice ever 🎸🎤🎼❤

Rea can impart a wealth of emotion in just the break in his voice. He could sing the telephone directory and still make it sound profound and meaningful.

I wish he could live forever. been listening to his music for such a long time.

Love this man's music. The scale and quality of his work is on par with many of the 60's musical greats. He himself is a musical giant. Love his independence. He's followed his own path and that is not an easy thing to do in the music industry. I really wish I could have seen him live. I'm Canadian and I don't know if he's ever done a live concert here. He also seems like he would be an interesting man to talk to.

I can hear your heart beat is my favorite 🎶💕💖 beautiful

I love this guy! Big respect for getting back to music and playing guitar after stroke. He's a living LEGEND!

Chris you are just LEGEND,fabulous voice,amazing music,love you Master!❤❤