They’re some of the most iconic stars of the 1980s and 30 years on, they’re coming to Kent. Nik Kershaw joins Go West and T’Pau’s Carol Decker in Folkestone as part of a 31-date revival tour that has already included a show in Tunbridge Wells. What's On spoke to Nik...

It’s not everyone who writes on their website "the gigs came thin and slow" about their very early career – how much can you laugh at yourself?

I’ve had 57 years practice at laughing at myself. I’m good at it. I spend most of my days doubled over with tears of mirth streaming down my face. I should have my own TV series. I could be the new Miranda. On my website, the funny stuff – that was me. Anything mediocre or substandard was somebody else.

What’s your favourite song (of your own) to perform now?

I still get a huge buzz banging out those opening guitar chords of Wouldn’t It Be Good. The buzz could be a faulty guitar lead, though!

How well do you get on with Go West and Carol Decker (who you’re touring with)? Did you know each other in the 1980s?

We tolerate each other, truth be told. Richard and Pete are too tall and good looking for my liking. Have you seen that photo of them in the suits and the shades? They look like the Men From Uncle. I keep out of their way for the most part. I did know them back in the 1980s but I used to pretend I didn’t. Carol supported me on my UK tour in 1987. I’ve been trying to shake her off ever since. There’s been this underlying tension between the four of us simmering away for years. It’s only a matter of time before it all boils over. You’d better not come to the shows if you’ve got a weak stomach. There may be physical violence.

What do you remember most about the 1980s? And what do you think you’ll remember most about this decade?

It’s all a bit of a blur, to be honest. I only know I was there because I’ve seen it on YouTube. As for this decade, who is going to remember it? It hasn’t even got a name. Last decade was “the noughties”. The next decade will be “the twenties.” What the hell are we calling this one? We’re halfway through it and no one’s thought of anything.

Did you ever think 1980s music would be popular again?

I’m amazed it was popular in the 1980s!

Elton John has called you the best songwriter of a generation – how does that feel? What would you say about him?

He did say that but he was taking a lot of drugs at the time. Still feels good, though. Your Song was the first record I ever bought. He’s a sweetheart. He was supportive of me back in the day.

Do you feel like songwriters don’t always get the credit they deserve?

I don’t think knowing the writer to a particular song matters to most people. Why should it? I don’t know who wrote the screenplay to the Shawshank Redemption. It wouldn’t alter my perception of the movie if I did. What I do object to is songwriters not getting the financial reward they deserve from Spotify etc.

I recently interviewed Paul Young as he played in Kent – as he’s your mate what would you recommend asking him?

Can I have my copy of The Age of Reason by Jean Paul Sartre back, please? Shakin’ Stevens has asked if he can borrow it.

DETAILS

The show will also be at the Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone on Sunday, November 29 at 7.30pm. For tickets visit www.atgtickets.com.shows