Robert Kane Talks First Ever Solo Album And More

Lead singer of Dr Feelgood for a quarter of a century, Robert Kane is to release his first ever solo album – Blues Is Blues – Out via Conquest Music on Friday 26th September 2025. He took time out of his busy schedule to discuss the new album: 

What is your earliest musical memory?

Listening to my dad’s Al Jolson 78rpm records. I still love that voice.

When did you begin songwriting?

I wrote my first song when I was 13/14. I was really getting into the 50s rock’n’rollers then and I think it was some kind of Gene Vincent rip off. I was always writing bits and pieces but didn’t start to take it seriously until the mid seventies and I haven’t really stopped since.

You have your debut solo album ‘Blues Is Blues’ released on 26th September 2025 on Conquest Music. What was the reason for wanting to release a solo album now? How did you want to approach the making of the album?

I originally intended to release it about five years ago but after making a start on it, Covid came along and put a stop to everything. When things opened up again, I was so busy with Dr Feelgood that it took a while before I had the time (and money!) to get on with it again. Anyway, it’s done, and the time is Now!

First of all, I knew exactly what I wanted and how I wanted it to sound – stripped back with no unnecessary embellishment: so, no harmonies, no backing vocals, no showy playing. Basically, get the songs down as simply as possible.

I didn’t want to waste time in the studio, so my intention was to do three-hour sessions like The Beatles did in their early days. I remembered an interview with McCartney saying it really made you focus, and I liked the idea of that so the sessions for this album were done in just a few afternoons from about 1pm till 4pm. I also wanted to use Bob Dylan’s old way of working which was simply to play the song to the musicians, run through it, and then try and get it first take. This approach worked really well so all the basic tracks on the album are first or second take.

Where did you record the album and who produced it?

The album was recorded in a small studio just outside Durham owned by Frankie Gibbon, a local musician.

There is no producer credit on the album. Frankie recorded it and it was mixed and mastered by Steve Dawson in South Shields. I was there at every stage, and the final say on any decision was mine.

Who were the musicians on the album with you?

All the musicians were local.

George Fearon on guitar I’d worked with in a band called The Alligators from 1989 – 94. The Alligators drummer Dave Dodsworth is on two tracks.

Ian Hamilton, a well-known drummer locally played on four tracks

Frankie Gibbon played bass. He also played piano and even added drums to one track.

Steve Dawson plays guitar on two tracks.

Dave Chapman is on organ on one track.

I played harmonica and guitar.

Was it a difficult album to write?

Not at all as the songs were all written over a period of many years.

Who designed the album artwork?

Liam Bell who is a local graphic designer(and married to one of my nieces!) did the layout from my idea. I wanted it to reflect the music, so keep it simple – photo, name, title, nothing unnecessary, and Liam got it.

Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?

Sunderland. There’s no place like home.

You have released the single ‘Halfway To Memphis’. What was the story/inspiration behind the track?

George Fearon had the riff and chord changes, and I added words and a tune. It was written a long time ago, so I don’t remember what sparked the lyric.

How do you look after your voice?

Nothing special. When I’m gigging, I don’t do vocal warm ups or stuff like that. I do drink plenty of red wine before I go on so that loosens me up!!!

Do you have any live dates planned in the UK/Europe in 2025/2026 to support the album release?

No, this was always intended to be just a recording project. Also, I’m very busy on the road with Dr Feelgood.

Who are some of your musical influences? Do you have any recommendations?

I’ve already mentioned Jolson who was the first when I was just a boy but then along came The Beatles, and hearing John Lennon singing Twist and Shout changed my life. I heard it and thought “I want to do THAT”. Of course, a world of music opened up after that and I listened to as much of everything as I could, all genres, and it’s all had an influence.

Advice.?…don’t get stuck in a rut, listen to everything.

Feature Image Photo Credit: Pete Zulu

Album Artwork Photo Credit: Pete Scofield

Robert Kane is to release his first ever solo album – ‘Blues Is Blues’ on British independent label, Conquest Music.

Blues is Blues will be available on CD and digital services from Friday 26th September 2025. 

The Blues is Blues album can be pre-ordered from the special Robert Kane shop. Each order will also include an exclusive free Art Card. 
 
https://conquestmusic.tmstor.es/product/blues-is-blues-cd