Key Highlights
- Francis Rossi regrets not seizing complete creative control during Status Quo’s 1985 reunion for Live Aid.
- The Accidental is Rossi’s new album, marking a return to rock sound and complete creative freedom.
- Rossi discusses his past with Status Quo and the chances of further live activity from the band.
Francis Rossi Reflects on Status Quo’s 1985 Reunion
In a recent interview, Status Quo frontman Francis Rossi expressed regret over not taking complete creative control during the band’s historic 1985 reunion for Live Aid. “When I left the band, I should have stayed left,” Rossi told Classic Rock.
Complete Creative Control and The Accidental
Rossi’s new album, The Accidental, represents a return to rock sound and a significant shift in his solo career. Written with family friend Hiran Ilangantilike and solo show partner Andy Brook, the album finds Rossi in complete creative control—a position he wishes he had pursued much earlier.
Speaking candidly about this missed opportunity, Rossi stated, “This is something I should have done years ago.” He elaborated on his reasoning, saying that staying with the band would have been beneficial for one person in management and many others. “We were the goose that laid the golden egg; each year was a massive turnover,” he noted.
Looking Back at Status Quo’s Past
The interview also delved into Rossi’s past with Status Quo, including his previous criticisms of the much-loved “Frantic Four” reunion. He discussed late guitarist Rick Parfitt’s contributions to the band and reflected on the chances of further live activity from Status Quo. “So yeah, I should have dictated some time back,” Rossi admitted, adding that he was too wimped-out to do so at the time.
Despite his regrets, Rossi expressed satisfaction with The Accidental: “There’s nothing to stop me this time.” The album will be released on black vinyl, crystal-clear vinyl, CD and digital formats on January 30, and pre-orders are available now. Readers can look forward to an in-depth discussion of these topics in the January 2 issue of Classic Rock.
For those interested in more insights from Rossi, the full interview delves into various aspects of his career, including his thoughts on the band’s legacy and future prospects. With a 50-year history and countless hits under their belt, Status Quo continues to captivate music lovers around the world, and Rossi’s reflections provide valuable context for understanding the band’s journey.
