A St Leonards musician is to perform alongside legendary rock and roll wildman Iggy Pop as part of the opening act to the Foo Fighters at Wembley Stadium next year.
Kevin Armstrong, who moved from London to St Leonards a little over a year ago, last performed with American singer/songwriter Iggy Pop in the eighties and says he is thrilled to have been asked to be in his band again.
He said: “I’ve been asked to be Iggy’s band leader and guitarist for the Wembley concerts in June opening for the Foo Fighters. It’s a great opportunity and I’m incredibly excited.”
Kevin played alongside Iggy - whose hits include
Kevin said there are many sides to Iggy Pop and working with him is an electrifying experience. He said: “He is a cultured, well-read, serious guy with a little demon inside. He’s funny too and likes a good laugh. He’s a gentleman and a poet.
“He’s pretty easy to work with and trusts his band members to do what they do best. When he’s performing you never know what’s going to happen. Things can be unpredictable and he’s got boundless energy. Mic stands can go flying in all directions and PA stacks have toppled in pursuit of rock and roll mayhem.
“It’s loud, it’s fast and it’s hair-raising.”
In addition to being asked to play alongside the legendary rockster, Iggy also put his trust in Kevin to hand pick his band for the Wembley gigs and Kevin says he is looking forward to starting rehearsals with the line-up comprising of Seamus Beaghen on keys and 2nd guitar, Scottish bassist Ben Ellis, Mat Hector on drums, and Paul Weller (Madness and the Blockheads). Paul said: “I am really happy with my guys and looking forward to working with them.”
Kevin has joined the influx of musicians, performers and artists gravitating to St Leonards. He said: “We wanted a better life-style. My mother-in-law lives in Rye and we wanted a better school for our son and a home with more space.
“There is a burgeoning music scene in St Leonards and Hastings which is very exciting.”
In the past few years Kevin has toured with Irish singer/songwriter Sinead O’Connor and currently works from home as a producer.
Of the 2015 Wembley gigs he said: “I am excited. It’s absolutely amazing.”