Lily Allen was just 13 years old when she skipped school to make her pop debut on the iconic World Cup anthem 'Vindaloo' in 1998. The chart-topping star joined her father Keith Allen and his famous friends in the studio to record the football classic, which was dreamed up by actor Keith, artist Damien Hirst, and Blur's Alex James. Fat Les, as they called themselves, was a group of bon viveurs having a laugh, and they hit the jackpot with a song that returns to the charts every major tournament.
Alex James Recalls Lily's Surprise Talent
Alex James told the Daily Star: "Lily Allen does the high vocal, Keith's daughter. She must have been at school then. It's 1998 so she's bunking off school, but we were like, 'you're here all right, you can try singing'. And then 'Okay, you're quite good!'." Lily also appeared in the music video and had an uncredited acting role as a lady-in-waiting in the film 'Elizabeth' that same year.
Other Guests in the Studio
The Fat Les session also featured Charles Fontaine, the chef at Le Caprice, who delivered the famous 'bonjour monsieur' line. Alex James reflected on the era: "It was a time when music was created by bands, which was basically a bunch of mates just mucking about and having a laugh in a room." He admitted to being a party animal back then but has since settled down, though he still keeps in touch with Keith Allen.
Blur Reunions and Sausages
James remains in contact with his Blur bandmates, sending sausages to Graham Coxon. He noted that the last Blur tour was the best they'd ever done, finding a new audience, and for the first time no one said 'never again'. He is now taking his Britpop Classical show on the road, playing hits from Blur, Pulp, Supergrass, and even Oasis. "I think I should be thanking Noel (Gallagher) cos those songs go down so well," he joked.
Football-Themed Parties with Vindaloo Pies
Alex James is hosting BRITPOP football-themed warm-up parties in London ahead of England's group matches this June, serving Vindaloo PUKKA pies with his sparkling wine. He said: "We're turning Trafalgar Square into a kind of alfresco dining experience. The pie goes perfectly with my sparkling wine and a few Britpop bangers before the football." The events will be held at Lost Oasis, St Martin-in-the-Fields, on June 16, 22, and 26.
