Robbie Williams, the iconic British entertainer, boldly declares that social media would have 'finished him off' if it existed during his 90s heyday. But here's the shocking truth: he believes the British have a unique talent for undermining their own success. As he embarks on his Long 90s tour, Williams reflects on a career spanning over three decades, revealing the highs and lows of fame, mental health struggles, and the transformative power of fatherhood. And this is the part most people miss: his controversial take on the Britpop era, where he thrived professionally but battled deep depression, labeling it 'the last great decade for popular culture.'
In a candid conversation with BBC News, Williams admits, 'We Brits excel at popping the bubble of our achievements, downplaying our worth.' Yet, he's determined to savor his current success, embracing it fully. The tour, kicking off this week, revisits the intimate venues of his early solo days, a nostalgic journey for the 51-year-old star. His latest album, Britpop, a collaboration with Gary Barlow, Gaz Coombes, and Tony Iommi, is a dream project he envisioned post-Take That.
But here's where it gets controversial: Williams reminisces about the 90s with a bittersweet smile, acknowledging its cultural significance while confessing his inability to enjoy it due to mental health issues. 'It was an amazing time to have a bad time,' he quips, sparking debate about the era's impact on artists. He openly discusses his past stage fright, a terror that vanished after becoming a father in 2012. 'Fatherhood gave me purpose,' he shares, 'making me realize I have the world's best job.'
Returning to the UK after a tumultuous relationship with the British press, Williams feels a newfound peace. He criticizes the media's tendency to tear down successful figures, a phenomenon he's experienced firsthand. 'Now, I'm left to my music and family,' he says, relieved. The absence of social media in the 90s, he believes, was a blessing, as its constant scrutiny could have been his downfall. 'We're wired to seek negativity,' he observes, a thought-provoking comment on human nature.
The question on everyone's mind: Will Robbie reunite with Take That? He teases a possible reunion, expressing love for his former bandmates and their documentary. As the 30th anniversary of Take That's first split (and his birthday) approaches, Williams humorously recalls buying a Scalextric set from Harrods in 1996, a far cry from rockstar clichés.
With record-breaking achievements under his belt, what's next for Robbie? He envisions building hotels with integrated venues and establishing a revolutionary entertainment university, a bold revenge on a system that once overlooked him. But here's the real question: Can Robbie Williams' ambitious plans redefine the entertainment industry? Share your thoughts in the comments – do you think his ideas are genius or far-fetched? One thing's for sure: Robbie Williams continues to captivate, both on and off stage. Britpop is out now, and the Long 90s tour is a must-see!
