Alan Fletcher Talks New Christmas Single, ‘Neighbours’ And More
Words by Glenn Sargeant
Photo Credit: PR
Alan Fletcher is known for being on hit soap opera ‘Neighbours’ as Karl Kennedy for over 27 years. However, he is also a songwriter, vocalist and guitarist with a brand new Christmas single. He graciously took time to talk to us:
You will be releasing a brand new original Christmas single called ‘It’s Gonna Be A Good Christmas’ featuring Melody Moko. What was the inspiration/story behind this song?
I have written and recorded three Christmas/Holiday songs over the last ten years. They have all been in a different style – swing, rock ballad, soft ballad. This year, I wanted to give my festive tune a very Australian feel in a Country music style. It’s Gonna Be a Good Christmas is a collection of my memories from my many Aussie Christmas Days.
What does Christmas mean to you?
It’s the time to take stock of the year that’s been and catch up with family and friends and check where they are at year’s end.
Earlier in the year you toured the UK. What was that experience like for you and do you have any interesting, funny or memorable stories from the tour?
Our music tour in March was my first full tour with my new music and it was a huge success. We played 13 gigs over 14 days to the warmest possible responses from fans. My most memorable gig was in Glasgow where we played Oran Mor. We were filming this gig and the audience really rose to the occasion.
Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?
My hometown is Melbourne and I would describe it as Artistic, Gastronomic, Picturesque, Practical and Friendly
Do you have any favoured stage instruments, effects, pedals?
I have two magnificent guitars. A Martin HD-28 V and a Gibson Hummingbird. I alternate between the two depending on what songs I am playing. I don’t use pedals or effects wanting to preserve a clean Americana sound. I love to have a pedal steel on stage accompanying me as well if possible. And, of course, the keys are my favourite instrument on stage because my beautiful wife Jennifer plays them!
Most people will know and recognise you as the character Karl Kennedy from the Australian soap opera ‘Neighbours’ which was actually going to end before returning in September 2023. What was your reaction on hearing the return of the show and how has it been making new episodes?
I was totally gobsmacked when I heard Neighbours was returning. I couldn’t imagine it happening in my wildest dreams. But it made total sense. The show was still hugely popular around the world when it ended, and Amazon recognised that and stepped in to save it. Working on new episodes is like working on a new show. We have new cast and crew who have helped to re-invigorate the show and stimulate everyone to step up and make the programme the very best it can possibly be.
In celebration of the show’s return, you released “(I’ve Got a) Crush on Susie K”. What is the story behind that song?
I wrote I’ve Got a Crush on Susie K years ago and performed it at the Neighbours Celebration tour in March. The fans at those shows beseeched me to release it so I re-recorded the song with my producers and put it out this year. It has been a very welcome success!
How do you look after your voice?
I use my voice constantly for music and acting so I must apply all my training to be sure I don’t wear it out. The secret is hydration!
Do you have any plans for any new music releases and a possible return to the UK in 2024?
Big plans for 2024. I am planning a 4-week tour of the UK with my music that will reach into all corners of the country. My ode to beer called “For the Love of Lager” will release digitally after being so well received at shows and on CD. And I am writing and recording songs for a new album hopefully releasing in time for the July tour.
What makes Alan Fletcher happy and what makes you unhappy?
Performing my music with my wonderful wife and music colleagues and working on Neighbours makes me happy. The response from fans to my work and my connection to
fans makes me happy. However, my greatest happiness comes from seeing my family grow and thrive.
Photo Credit: Supplied By PR
Alan Fletcher featuring Melody Moko’s new Christmas single ‘It’s Gonna Be A Good Christmas’ is out now.
You can purchase it here: https://ffm.to/ItsGonnaBeAGoodChristmas
For more information visit his official website here: https://alanfletcher.net/
