Mick Hucknall, the 58-year-old frontman of Simply Red, has credited his vocal longevity to an unusual method: staying silent. In a rare interview with BBC News, Hucknall explained that he avoids talking during the day to keep his voice in good condition.
“As I've gotten older I've got more bass in my voice but also because I don't talk very much during the day I've managed to keep my voice in good condition,” he said. “I'm still lucky enough to be able to hit the high notes... I don't do anything to take care of my voice except not talk very much.”
Hucknall recently released a live performance CD and DVD, Symphonica in Rosso, recorded over three nights in 2017 at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam. The show features Simply Red backed by a 40-piece orchestra, performing hits and jazz standards. Hucknall admitted that singing with an orchestra was a challenge, especially as he rarely rehearses.
“It was very, very different when you perform with an orchestra,” he said. “I don't usually rehearse, which scares my bandmates sometimes but in this case, I thought I'll turn up and sing a bit and keep everybody happy.”
The singer also reflected on his decision to step back from touring in 2009, which many interpreted as a retirement. Hucknall clarified that he simply wanted to focus on raising his daughter. “Bringing up my kid was the main reason why I stopped,” he said. “I cut the cord when my baby was born, I'm around all the time and it's given me the happiest 10 years of my life.”
Simply Red reunited for a 30th anniversary tour in 2015, followed by a 25th anniversary tour for their album Stars. Hucknall remains committed to his family-first approach, despite industry pressure to release new music regularly.
