In a recent interview with Billboard, the iconic producer Fatboy Slim, also known as Norman Cook, opened up about his remarkable career, the 25th anniversary of his legendary album “You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby,” and his thoughts on retirement.
Having been a global star for decades, Cook has been on an extensive tour, celebrating milestones and curating his own festival called “All Back to Minehead.” He reflects on his journey, from his very first album purchase of The Rolling Stones’ “Black and Blue” to his parents’ mixed reactions to his musical pursuits. During the interview, Cook discusses his rapidly growing art collection, with a particular admiration for the works of Keith Haring. He highlights the uniqueness of his festival, which takes place in a classic British holiday camp, and the diverse community it brings together.
As the 25th anniversary of “You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby” approaches, Fatboy Slim fondly recalls the album’s incredible success during the big beat era. He acknowledges the overwhelming fame that came with it, but also recognizes the importance of taking a step back when needed. The interview takes an interesting turn when Cook addresses the topic of retirement. He candidly shares his experience of attempting retirement during the pandemic, describing it as unsuitable for him.
Cook firmly believes that he can continue his career until he can no longer do so, emphasizing that DJs don’t rely on appearance and can keep performing as long as they enjoy it. Throughout the interview, Cook’s dedication to sharing his love for music shines through, highlighting his unwavering passion for his craft. Last year, We Rave You had the privilege of sitting down with Norman during Creamfields UK to discuss the 90s scene, the UK crowd, and his legendary Big Beach Boutique.
