Damon Albarn restarted a Blur performance after messing up, as seen below.
He fucked up, he’s not the first to do it🤭 pic.twitter.com/659IkwWQoF
— dee (@deetledum) August 12, 2023
Alex James, the talented bassist of Blur, recently returned to the band’s fold after a series of shows across the UK and Europe, including memorable performances at Wembley Stadium. While the music journey with Blur has been filled with excitement and creativity, James admits that it’s still a lot more “relaxing” than the chaos of parenting.
As reported by NME – In a candid interview on the Parenting Hell podcast, James reflected on his rock ‘n’ roll days and some of the wild antics that had become legendary tales. However, he admitted that playing the bass in a rock band is a breeze compared to the challenges of being a full-time parent. Reuniting with Blur brought him back to a comfortable and manageable space, which he fondly refers to as the “Blur bubble.”
While Alex James finds solace in the world of music with Blur, his home life with five children proves to be an adventure of its own. He humorously describes how his kids lead a more “rock ‘n’ roll” lifestyle than he does, with parties that can be both exhilarating and terrifying for a parent. James quips about their 16th birthday parties, which he finds particularly daunting but takes comfort in hosting them at his farm’s annual event, Feastival, to avoid personal liabilities.
He stated: “The last time I went away, I dropped the kids at school and flew to Mexico City, where there were thousands of people waiting for us at the airport and hotel… When we got to the venue –a stadium – it was huge, but afterwards, you get home and you have to wash up and the kids are like, ‘Dad, stop being a wanker.’”
In another interview with Red Magazine, James contrasts the thrill of performing for thousands of fans with the reality of everyday life at home, where he’s just another parent doing the dishes. Balancing his roles as a musician and a father can be a challenge, but he embraces it with humor and grace.
Blur’s latest album, ‘The Ballad of Darren,’ has been well-received, showcasing the band’s emotive and contemplative side. NME praised the album, noting its sense of unfinished business, as Blur continues to captivate audiences with their unique sound and heartfelt lyrics.
As they gear up for more performances, including a special livestreamed gig at London’s Eventim Apollo, the legacy of Blur continues to thrive. Alex James may find comfort in the “Blur bubble,” but fans around the world are grateful for the moments when the band steps out and shares their music, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Britpop.
