Additional Coverage:
- Beloved ‘80s Rocker Responds to Rumor He’s Slept With 3000 Women: ‘I Was a Kid in a Sweet Shop’ (parade.com)
Simply Red frontman Mick Hucknall, the iconic voice behind hits like “Holding Back the Years,” is celebrating 40 years since his band’s debut album, Picture Book, hit the airwaves. But as he marks this milestone, one particular legend continues to follow him around like a persistent shadow: the rumor he slept with 3,000 women.
In a recent interview with the Sunday Times, the 65-year-old English singer-songwriter finally addressed the notorious claim. The rumor, it turns out, stems from a 2010 Guardian interview where Hucknall famously stated, “between 1985 and 1987, I would sleep with about three women a day.”
However, the Times piece clarifies that Hucknall has since denied the accuracy or seriousness of that earlier statement. When pressed about his storied past, he offered a cheeky explanation: “I was a kid in a sweet shop who couldn’t believe his luck.”
A Changed Man
Fast forward to 2010, and Hucknall settled down, marrying art dealer Gabrielle Wesberry. Reflecting on his past romantic exploits, he expressed admiration for his wife’s tolerance. “My poor wife,” he mused, “How she’s stuck with me, I don’t know.”
He’s also a father to daughter Romy. When asked if he’s shared details of his wild youth with her, Hucknall prefers to keep mum.
“It’s so far in the past,” he told the publication. “And I have this peculiar old-fashioned morality.
I’m not religious but I take marriage seriously. I’ve done it once and don’t intend to do it again.
My wife knows that and my daughter does too. I’m completely devoted to the family and, again, that may be something to do with the amazing dedication that my father showed me.”
Still Commanding the Stage (and the Crowd)
The beloved musician recently graced the stage at the OVO Arena Wembley for the band’s 40th-anniversary tour. While still captivating audiences, Hucknall proved he’s not one to tolerate disruptions. When a heckler started causing a ruckus, he didn’t hesitate to take a stand.
“Shut it! Put a sock in it!
I’m sick of hearing it,” Hucknall declared, pointing a finger at the disruptive audience member. The rest of the crowd erupted in cheers, clearly delighted by his direct approach.
“I’m sorry about that, but, you know, I got to concentrate. He’s yelling so loud.
You’ve come to hear me sing, not him, with the greatest respect.”