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Bobby Elliott - the archivist of the Hollies
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1) During the 60s you were among the most successful bands in England. What are your best memories from the 60s?
The best memory is playing The States in 1965. Five shows a day at the Paramount theatre NYC for ten days. The 16 piece King Curtis orchestra were the house band. The Hollies were one of the few white acts on the show. Amongst the other artists was Little Richard, with Jimi Hendrix on gtr. I was able to go down all the Jazz clubs and be within touching distance of my idols - Charlie Mingus, Miles Davis, Stan Getz, Cannonball Adderley... I could go on... I was so happy to see REAL Jazz. It's now all gone.
2) "He Ain't Heavy...He's My Brother" - what do these lyrics mean?
Considering your fellow man/woman. You may have problems - but there are others much worse off. Caring for the under-privileged in this uncertain world. Love for one another.
3) In what direction do you think The Hollies have changed over the years from the very beginning till today?
In some ways not much. We still love great songs and aim to be the best musicians.
We're older and wiser - but still learning.
4) "Staying Power" is a true fine album based upon good songs and a remarkable production (according to my review of it). Are you planning to do a new album in the nearest future?
We have more good songs and hope to begin recording in the New Year.
5) If you could choose what would you rather be doing if you weren't The Hollies' drummer all these years? Do you have hobbies, activities etc..?
Not really. The Hollies are my life - although I love the countryside and birdwatching - Like my father before me - I can tell a bird by it's song.
6) You just finished touring in Great Britain now. What's the difference of touring today from likewise in e.g. the 60s?
Early 1960's - Small van, two amps, one drum kit. 3 vocal mics. No lights. Cheap.
Today - Largest truck stacked with hi-tech PA equipment. 10 mics on the drums alone. State of the art lighting rigs...Very Expensive!
Early 1960's - Hollies would play for about 45 mins.
Today - On our UK concert tours we're onstage for about 2hrs. 15mins.
7) Do you go to concerts yourself? What music do you prefer to listen to?
Paul Weller recently wrote a song for us. I saw his performance in Manchester.
I like all kinds of music.
8) Graham Nash has announced the release of a 65-song box set starting from the beginning of the 60s. Have you been involved with this box set production in terms of selection songs or any influence etc..?
No.
9) Rumours say that you will do an album with Paul Weller. Is that true?
As I said earlier, Paul gave me one song that we may or may not record.
There is no intention of doing a whole album with Paul.
10) On stage you perform a Buddy Holly song with using his singing voice along with you guys playing to it. The recent high quality reissues by EMI of Romany and Buddy Holly have been very well received by your fans. Are there any more plans to do follow ups on these?
I believe EMI will release Another Night and HOLLIES.
11) Is there any chance that you will play Norway in the nearest future?
If an enquiry comes in we will consider it.
Bobby was interviewed in Preston, before the Hollies show, by rock journalist Per Rannug, for NorwayRock magazine no 1/2008.
