Performing after years of Covid-19 lockdowns was like being released from prison, Charlie Reid of The Proclaimers says.
Reid, who turns 61 today, spoke to Sunday Morning from Sydney, Australia ahead of the band's nine New Zealand concerts.
It is part of a 14-month long tour, which kicked off shortly after Reid and bandmate twin brother Craig Reid turned 60.
Craig and Charlie Reid of The Proclaimers. Photo: Murdo MacLeod
"I don't know about other performers but we certainly felt, you know, we couldn't wait to get going after Covid slowed everything down."
Being able to perform again after their last tour ended in 2019 felt like being released from prison, Reid said.
"To actually be able to go on stage and interact with people again and play live music.
"We're still enjoying it and I'd say we enjoy it more now than we ever did. With every tour that goes by, with every year that goes by, you appreciate more what you've got."
Reid said they had fans who would often come to more than just one gig so they always changed the set a bit to keep the audience on their toes.
Having a smaller number of hit songs, such as 'I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)', 'I'm On My Way', 'Sunshine on Leith', and 'Letter From America' made it easier to accommodate them in the gigs, he said.
Auckland band The Bads would be the supporting band at the New Zealand shows, adding extra colour and interest for the audience, Reid said.
Photo: the proclaimers
Reid said he was a big fan of blues and folk music - things that hit the emotions.
"There's something about the imperfections of humans that makes music special," he said.
"Be it the lyrics or be it the way its played or conducted. The colour, the light, the tone, that's what I listen for. Good lyrics, and people who sound like they know what they are talking about."
The Proclaimers will play in Auckland, Hamilton, Hastings, Palmerston North, Wellington, Blenheim, Christchurch, Oamaru and Dunedin from 15 March.
Tickets are available here.
