World-renowned guitarist Pete Hawkes will hit the stage at Flamingos Live on Sunday, 11 October with his troupe, The Tripsy Tipsy Gypsies.
Born in Lake Macquarie, Hawkes has toured the world, sharing stages with iconic acts like Joe Cocker and Steeleye Span.
Newcastle Live spoke to him ahead of the show, which you can purchase tickets for by clicking here.
NL: What’s the wildest thing that’s ever happened on stage/during a show?
PETER: A long time ago now. A chick came up in the middle of the concert in London and tried to rip my clothes off. (Must have loved the song)
NL: Who’s the most blow-your-mind musician you’ve performed with?
PETER: Joe Cocker, we toured the US and had a blast. He’s a wild one, for sure, especially in his younger days. For me he’s the greatest blues voice ever. He’s also a very nice guy.
NL: What’s your most favourite and least favourite instrument you play and why?
PETER: I love acoustic guitar, it’s my favourite and l play many different styles. My least favourite instrument is bagpipes. I only can play a smidgeon. I am of Scottish decent. Remember it was a weapon used in war to scare the enemy ! Bon ( Bon Scott) however could play one OK! I caught up with him years ago. We had a few good times. RIP mate.
NL: What’s the worst gig you’ve ever played and why was it the worst?
PETER: A gig in Europe, festival, l had too much to drink prior. Then the sound was poor and it started to rain!!!!! It just guess it was meant to be.
NL: What’s the best gig you’ve ever played?
PETER: 50,000 people in a stadium with Joe Cocker with the crowd really rocking. So great.
NL: What’s the best and worst things about touring?
PETER: Best thing is doing the gigs and playing the music. Worst thing is the long travel that at times you have to do. But it’s part of the job and you get used to it.
NL: What’s something you’ve seen that shocks you?
PETER: On the road in Egypt years ago we were held up by gunmen going to a place called “ Dahab” We were in an aircon bus. We all thought that was it, they are going to kill us. They killed or shot someone who apparently they were chasing. First time l saw it close up. ( from the bus window). It’s a rough place. And it’s not getting any better sooner.
NL: What’s the most memorable thing anyone’s ever said to you?
PETER: I had a fan in the Netherlands who tracked me down after three years, l mailed a CD through the Fairport Convention group which goes all over Europe. She was determined to contact me. “Keep playing your music Pete, it’s very beautiful, don’t worry about the hard times, they will come, but keep going for me .” She was a great inspiration.
NL: What gives you the biggest buzz?
PETER: The smiles on the audience faces. The satisfaction that comes with making a connection. That’s why l do it.
