The Denton-born singer, who will play at the M.E.N. Arena next month, also says he plans to "wind down" when he hits 50.
The 45-year-old said: "The nurturing spirit that was inherent in the music industry when I first joined has gone.
"Look at the biggest band in the world, U2. They had time to develop their sound, but these days Bono and the boys wouldn't get past their second album.
"The idea of letting a band develop is no longer economically viable in the eyes of the industry. They sell it like soap powder on the TV - and you're going to pay the price for that culturally in the long run.
"I find what's called culture now is derivative of the 1960s and 80s and, as a music lover, I want more than that. It's not all doom and gloom but I think everything is a bit of a clich'."
Having sold more than 45 million records worldwide - with a catalogue of hits including Holding Back The Years and Stars - Mick says reality music TV shows fail to find enough talent.
He said: "They don't encourage the writing enough - certain people get percentages from certain people who write those songs. I think more investigation could unearth these things that are unfair and doing young artists no good."
Having previously said the male voice starts to fade after 50, Mick intends to wind down when he reaches that age.
He said: "I don't know how long I'm going to be doing it. I've other interests."
Those other interests include a red wine-making company he's set up in Sicily.
Mick said: "We focus on quality, using a grape found only on Mount Etna.
"We'll be auctioning it later this year. Unfortunately, not many people will taste it - there's only going to be 3,000 bottles produced."
The star was recently reportedly attacked on stage by a fan in Cuba.
Simply Red's new album Simplified is released in October, along with a single called Perfect Love. Tweet
Comments
Login or Register to comment
Why is he having a dig at U2 for sounding the same. At least they have hits, cant remember the last hit Simply Red had. Money must really be too tight to mention now. Cant wait until he calls it a day!
Mick has a devoted following. Born to Sing, his voice is very special with qualities that last and stand the test of time. Touring takes so much time and energy, we can see retiring from that aspect, but hope he continues to produce music as long as possible, even if it is only appearances on TV shows + specials. Live performances give back to the performer, even if it is in a studio. We will enjoy your recordings for years to come.....
I think you have missed the point Scott Dogg.Mick was not having a go a U2. Only saying that Bands of today have a quick turn over and do not have a chance to have a long carear in the Music Business like U2.
Hi
I think these TV shows just donB4t attract talented SONGWRITERS. Songwriters have the need to express their thoughts and feelings in song, but they donB4t need this superficial platform, being about beauty and outfit and show and making loads of money fast. Maybe they are in need of a songwriting contest (hint hint), but this will probably be an economical failure on TV (or Radio).
I also think that the idols of the youngsters changed: when Mick Hucknall started out in 1984 he wanted to be like the Beatles or the Rolling Stones, and he wanted to be a accomplished songwriter first, and secondly a singer.
The idols today seem to be of the more short-lived (casted) boy- and girlbands; they just fit in at a certain moment in time, and then thatB4s it
We all know by know that Mick is hugely successful both as a singer AND songwriter during the last 20 years, and weB4ll see whatB4s to come in the future - hopefully a lot of excellent wonderful tasty delicious music and a selection of wine of the same quality
Cheers to you
Mica
Nice article, and I have to say that I do agree with some of Mick's comments about the music industry! they make it look like a "mickey mouse" club sometimes, which means they don't appreciate good talent because they think it's all about pop music. Real music comes from a real talent within, and I feel that programmes like the X-Factor tend to make a joke out of some people, and this complicates the real need for such talent. I remember Mick once said, the best way is make a tape, send it to a producer and if you are a young band! go on the road and do gigs around pubs etc! it's a start, and if you have the talent, you will get noticed. I have to admit, that some of the people that enter these contests on the TV are talented, but if they contribute something different, they get laughed at, and booted off because it doesn't fit in with the so called "Industry" of today! and that's a shame because I feel that diversity is needed in this business. If anyone can have a long standing career through music then you have what it takes. As you get older, other interests do take a hold. The wine off Etna is simply the best, have sampled a few. Good Luck to Mick with the vineyard. Sicily is a beautiful place.
Lori
I truly hope that wine of his is auctioned over here in the States - gotta taste that yummy Il Cantante!
Mr Dogg - I don't think Mick was having a dig at U2 - that's just the way the music industry is at the moment. If you're not immediately marketable record companies don't have the patience to wait around for you.
Come on City. I tried to tell you the other night on stage.
I agree and don't think Mick is having a go at U2.
It's just reality these days!
I agree and don't think Mick is having a go at U2.
It's just reality these days!
Glad we have the wonderful music of Simply Red to listen to.
Without it there would only be "canned" music.
Think what he is saying is right. Even in the movie business and the book copyrights it is the same story. The major productions is in the sets and then the fees for the performers. The writer is always getting the short end of the stick. I am not speaking of any journalist yet. So far they are in the clear. I do however wish to admit to the fact the music of Mick Hucknall will continue to play long after the Jessica and Jo-los are gone. The talent along with words and sound have more appeal to continue to play in the long run for getting old has its needs as well. Take it from one who listens to Iggy and then sleeps with the crooners in my ear. I get up and have my dose of java and opera or classical. Yet it can be done! We still have the 50 and 60 yr old and they listen to dean, elvis, bing, frank. Should'nt been Fabian, Chubby Checker? See the beat and the lyrics mean something! You UKers are some of the best when it comes to the arts! Never forget your theatre and actors! The BEST!
We are all entitled to our opinions after all! No matter the fame or fortune! Mick and the band where absolutely astounding in Cuba, which I was fortunate enough to be there!