Vi i Norgesklubben Sveits er utrolig takknemlige for muligheten, via Christer Løvold, dirigenten for The Swiss Gospel Singers, til å intervjue Chris de Burgh i forbindelse med konsertene “Believe in Christmas!” Hvordan Chris de Burgh endte opp med å opptre med et sveitsisk gospelkor ledet av en nordmann, er en spennende historie – les mer om det på korets nettside og i artikkelen fra BZ november 2021.
Årets julekonserter finner sted i Zürich 12. des., Basel 13. des. og Saanen 14. des. Info om konsertene finner du her.
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“Before we begin the interview,” says Chris de Burgh, “I want to share something with you—Norway holds a very special place in my heart.
I have a deep affection for Norway. If I recall correctly, I’ve had six number-one albums there over the years. I’d have to double-check, but I vividly remember Norway playing a pivotal role in my career during the late ’70s. It was a time when I needed a boost, and I performed in cities like Trondheim, Oslo, and Bergen—where it always seems to rain—and then on to Stavanger and perhaps a few others.”
It’s no surprise, then, that a gospel choir led by a Norwegian director captured the heart of the Irishman.
Concert Preparations
As you prepare for your upcoming concerts in Switzerland, what can fans expect from your setlist? Will there be any surprises or new arrangements of your classic songs?
– I’ve already performed two concerts in Switzerland recently, in Bern and Zürich, and they were completely sold out—just like the other 29 shows since last summer, so it’s clear people’s taste for my music hasn’t diminished. While there will be some slight new arrangements, especially involving the Swiss Gospel Singers, I always believe in keeping the original feel of my classic songs like “Lady in Red,” “Don’t Pay the Ferryman,” and “A Spaceman Came Travelling.” People come to hear those songs as they remember them, so we stick to the original arrangements. Of course, there will still be surprises—it’s a concert, after all. The Setlist will be based on the Album „Believe in Christmas“ which I recorded last year together with the Swiss Gospel Singers. We will also perform the brand new song „On This Day“ from my latest album „50“!
Switzerland and Ireland
What do you find most different between Switzerland and Ireland, and what do you think they have in common?
– Switzerland and Ireland are similar in terms of size and population. Politically, though, we differ: Switzerland has a high level of democratization with frequent referendums on matters that might seem minor elsewhere. Ireland, on the other hand, uses proportional representation in its elections, which is also significant. Both countries are incredibly beautiful—Switzerland has its Alpine splendor, while Ireland is home to the rugged beauty of the west. Performing across Switzerland—whether in Geneva, Lausanne, or Neuchâtel—has always been a joy.
Audience Connection
You’ve performed all over the world. What makes performing for Swiss audiences special, and how do you connect with them during your shows?
– Swiss audiences have a reputation for being reserved, but I’ve found that they love to loosen up during concerts. Once the music starts, they’re anything but reserved—they rush to the front, dance, sing, and wave their arms. Breaking down the barrier between the stage and the audience is crucial for me. My goal is to make the audience part of the evening, not just passive observers. Whether in a historic venue like the Royal Albert Hall or an open-air arena, it’s about creating a shared experience. Performance is seduction, and my job is to engage and energize my audience.
Career Reflection
With such a long and successful career, is there a particular moment on stage or a song that you hold especially close to your heart?
While I wouldn’t single out one specific moment, performing in Ephesus, Turkey—a 300 BC amphitheater under a starry sky with 20,000 people—was unforgettable. Of course, things can go wrong on stage. Just last week in Zurich, my guitar didn’t work right as I started! But you learn to stay calm, engage with the audience, and keep the show moving. That’s part of the magic of live performance.
Creative Process
Your storytelling through music is legendary. Could you share a bit about your creative process when crafting a song with such vivid imagery and emotion?
– Storytelling has always been at the heart of my music. My English teacher in school emphasized the importance of a beginning, middle, and end where something changes—and that stuck with me. Songs like “Spanish Train” explore universal themes, like the eternal battle between good and evil. I aim to create a blueprint for listeners to bring their own emotions and ideas to the story. Inspiration can come in many forms—sometimes an idea is planted and grows, like with “The Keeper of the Keys,” a song about the suppression of women in places like Iran. Other times, melodies just drift in, like “This Day,” which I recorded with the Swiss Gospel Singers. Writing isn’t easy—it takes discipline and patience—but it’s always worth it.
Legacy and Impact
– Looking back, how do you feel your music has impacted your listeners? What do you hope they take away from your performances?
Music has a profound ability to touch lives. I’ve heard from fans who’ve used my songs at weddings, funerals, and other pivotal moments in their lives. Knowing that my music has helped people through difficult times or been part of their happiest memories is incredibly humbling. At the end of my concerts, one of the last songs is “High on Emotion,” and I hope that’s how my audience feels—uplifted, inspired, and connected.
Future Plans
After this tour, what’s next for you? Are you working on any new projects or collaborations that your fans can look forward to?
– I’m always working on new projects. My latest album, “50,” features 29 songs, each with its own story and energy. I’ll continue exploring new ideas, writing songs, and collaborating with talented artists. The journey isn’t over yet, and I look forward to what’s ahead.
Editor’s note: “50” is the 2024 album by singer-songwriter Chris de Burgh, released on 4th October 2024 by Rockware.
