Meet Jeff Christie
Singer and songwriter Jeff Christie, born in Leeds in 1946, began his musical journey at a young age. After gaining experience with bands from age 13 and turning pro at 18 with his band Outer Limits, he formed Christie in 1970. Their debut single Yellow River became a worldwide hit, reaching number one in 26 countries and earning them various accolades including the prestigious UK’s Ivor Novello Award and a record 32 weeks on the Billboard. Christie has continued to make music throughout his career, touring with the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd abd releasing albums and singles like his new album Here and Now. 1 In Music emeets the chart-topper.
What would you say is unique about you and your music?
Jeff Christie [JC]: I’m unique in the sense that nobody sounds like or looks like me. Nobody has exactly the same set of emotional aspects to their personality as me and nobody has experienced the same life journey as me. As much as I’d like to be labelled unique musically, I’d be more comfortable with the label of a singer-songwriter in a long line of songwriters committed to the pursuit of excellence in that craft.
It would be indulgent to think of myself as musically unique, apart from having the odd song that in a portfolio of several hundred songs sounds like no other song I’m aware of, but all songwriters are influenced subconsciously if not consciously by other songs and we’re all magpies wittingly or not.
The sound of Jeff Christie
What or who shaped your music and who supports you?
Originally my mother, by exposing me to the beauty and magic of music from my very early childhood. My support base is my family, close friends and fans.
When did you realize you were going to make music professionally?
From the age of 13
Jeff Christie’s Inspiration
What type of music do you listen to?
A wide range from the great classical symphonic composers, to operatic arias, the great American Songbook, Jazz, Blues, Vintage Rock ‘n’ Roll, early Motown, Soul, Country and quality Pop/Rock.
Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?
Too many to mention
Getting inspiration from Jeff Christie
How do you prepare for your performances?
Try to rest my voice and find a little space for calm
What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?
I never don’t do music as it’s my default position for sanity! Walking Swimming, eating, sleeping, foreign movies, theatre, reading and loyalty.
Success to you is…?
A life well lived.
What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?
Don’t put off tomorrow what you can do today and failing to plan is planning to fail. Believe in yourself and be the best you can be.
What is next for Jeff Christie?
Any upcoming projects?
My new album Here And Now released September 13th 2024
Where do we find you music?
On Sony Records, Cherry Red Records, MTS, Spotify, Apple, Deezer etc.
