Blue's Backstage Transformation: From Party Antics to Wellness Focus
Duncan James of the iconic pop band Blue has unveiled the remarkable changes his group has implemented as they embark on their latest reunion tour. The singer, 48, shared insights into the band's current backstage demands, which starkly contrast with their hard-partying reputation from the early 2000s.
A Health-Conscious Rider for Vocal Preservation
In a candid interview on QVCUK's Joy of Shopping podcast, Duncan explained that he and his bandmates—Lee Ryan, 42, Simon Webbe, 48, and Antony Costa, 44—have completely banned alcohol and junk food from their rider. Instead, they prioritize items that support vocal health and personal hygiene.
"We don't have alcohol. We don't have sweets or crisps or anything like that," Duncan stated. "We're healthy. It's all about the voice and hygiene." He humorously described their rider as "very, very boring" due to its health-focused nature.
The Star Ingredient: Premium Manuka Honey
A key component of their rider is Manuka honey, specifically requiring a high-grade variety with a rating of at least 250+. Duncan emphasized its importance for vocal care, noting that the higher the number, the stronger the antioxidant properties and quality.
"It's really good for the voice—a good spoonful of it," he said, explaining that the thick, smooth consistency coats and calms the throat and vocal cords, aiding recovery from strain. This honey, produced in New Zealand, is favored by many singers, including Ariana Grande, Ed Sheeran, and Lady Gaga, for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
In the UK, 250+ Manuka honey typically costs between £32 for a 250g jar and up to £65 for a 500g jar, depending on the brand. The band also includes fresh mint to accompany their honey and lemon concoction.
Practical and Hygiene Essentials
Beyond vocal care, the rider features practical items like hairdryers and phone chargers. Duncan noted that touring with personal hairdryers is impractical due to space constraints, making it easier to request them backstage. Phone chargers are another staple, as band members often forget them and need reliable access.
Hygiene is a top priority, with toothbrushes and mouthwash included to ensure fresh breath before performances. "Sometimes you get to a gig and you just think, nice, clean toothbrush, mouthwash—because you don't want to go on stage with a coffee breath, do you?" Duncan reasoned.
Tour Success and Band Legacy
Blue is currently on their 25th anniversary tour, performing to sold-out venues across the UK with support from pop icons 911. The tour began in Asia in November last year and has since visited cities like Oxford, Bournemouth, Torquay, Cardiff, Birmingham, Stoke, and London. It will continue throughout April and May before heading to Europe.
The band released their latest album, Reflections, in January, which secured a UK number one spot. Since their debut single All Rise in 2001, Blue has sold over 15 million records worldwide, with hits like One Love, If You Come Back, and Fly By. After splitting in 2004, they reformed in 2011, represented the UK at Eurovision, and joined The Big Reunion in 2013.
This shift to a wellness-focused lifestyle highlights how the band has matured, prioritizing longevity and performance quality over the revelry of their earlier years.
