Paul Heaton appeared on BBC Breakfast on Tuesday (August 25), where he spoke to hosts Sally Nugent and Ben Thompson about his new album.
Heaton is known as the lead singer and main lyricist of the Housemartins, who achieved commercial success in the UK and other European countries from 1985 to 1988. He later formed the Beautiful South with the Housemartins' drummer, Dave Hemingway. The band's debut single, Song for Whoever, and debut album, Welcome to the Beautiful South, were released in 1989 to commercial success. A series of hits throughout the 1990s propelled Heaton to worldwide fame.
Hosts introduce the star
Introducing the musician, Sally said: "There are not many singers that can say they have been in not just one chart-topping band, but two, and then gone on to have a really successful solo career. Paul Heaton, founding member of the Housemartins and the Beautiful South, has done just that."
Ben added: "Yeah, he's got a brand-new album out and is currently preparing for a UK tour. Paul's with us in just a minute, but first, here are some of his greatest hits."
After a montage of some of Heaton's biggest singles, including Perfect 10 and Fish 'N' Chip Supper, the star appeared in the studio to reflect on his 40-year career.
Viewers share their excitement
Viewers were delighted to see Heaton on the programme, with many sharing their excitement on X (formerly Twitter).
"Paul Heaton. What a decent man," one person wrote, with another adding: "Great to see Paul Heaton on #BBCBreakfast. So many great songs. Loved the PH night on BBC2 a couple of weeks ago."
A third said: "National Treasure & all round Top Guy," while someone else commented: "At last a properly talented guest." A fifth viewer echoed the sentiment, saying: "Top bloke."
New song and career reflections
Speaking about his new song, Favourite Kind Of Idiot, Heaton said: "It's a romantic song, it's supposed to be anyway. But I don't think you hear it the first time, because there's a lot of lyrics involved."
Sally then noted: "What I love about it, it's about loving someone and seeing all the things that are wrong with them," before Heaton added: "Yeah, and forgiving them."
Heaton admitted that he only watches back his music when he has to learn lyrics for live shows, adding: "I don't often watch videos like that. It's just funny the change in me, just seeing the different outfits [I was wearing]."
BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am.
