Fifty years ago Michael Chapman decided to make music professionally. On this occasion the 76 year old from Leeds points out once again on his new album "50" that he was never the big hit supplier, but an artist who went straight: as a sometimes sarcastic, autobiographical song poet who orientates himself on rock, blues, folk and country. Six of the songs on "50" are reworkings of older pieces by the musician, in addition there are two (LP) or four (CD) new songs. Guests like the exceptional guitarist Steve Gunn, Bridget St. John or James Elkington gather around the jubilarian. A party of great underdogs!
eclipsed: How and when did the idea for the anniversary album come to you?
Michael Chapman: I started making music professionally at the beginning of 1967 and have been able to make a living from it ever since. Besides, until recently I was sure I had recorded forty-nine albums. Under these two aspects it offered itself to record this record and to call it consequently "50". A few weeks ago a total freak of my work contacted me and said: "Hey, man, you've already recorded fifty-six albums! He may be right. At my age and in the course of time one loses the overview of one's own work. (laughs) Anyway, I'm really proud of my career, as arrogant as it may sound. And I'm proud never to have had the big commercial breakthrough because it gave me all the creative freedom.
eclipsed: Why didn't you make the breakthrough?
Chapman: I'm pretty sure that's because of my temper. I'm an inconspicuous guy, by the way, quite deliberately. I have lived almost all my life somewhere in the country, I still do today. I can think wonderfully about it, work on new songs and finish them in peace. I'm also constantly inspired under such circumstances.
eclipsed: You've got some conspicuously illustrious guest musicians with you - how did that come about?
Chapman: Steve Gunn was ultimately the engine of the whole thing, he has a lot of contacts to different musicians, and he likes my stuff, for whatever reason. In fact, it took a few years before the party guest list was complete.
