Get ready to say a final "Merry Xmas Everybody"! Dave Hill's Slade, a name synonymous with Christmas anthems and rock 'n' roll energy, is embarking on its farewell tour, and Birmingham is on the list. But this isn't just another gig; it's a nostalgic journey for a band deeply connected to the heart of the West Midlands.
Slade, spearheaded by founding member and guitar legend Dave Hill, will be rocking Birmingham's O2 Academy on Saturday, December 20th. Joining Hill on stage are John Berry, handling lead vocals, bass, acoustic guitar, and even violin, Russell Keefe on lead vocals and keys, and Alex Bines laying down the beat on drums. This lineup promises to deliver the classic Slade sound that fans know and love.
For Dave Hill, Birmingham holds a special place in his heart. The original Slade lineup famously formed in Wolverhampton back in 1963, making the West Midlands their stomping ground. "The thing with Birmingham is - we had so much time in Birmingham in the early days when we used to work with Black Sabbath, when they were a young band and used to know Jeff Lynne and all those people," Hill explained. "Birmingham has always been the place where you'd go buy your guitars and things like that."
Hill's roots are firmly planted in the region. He spent his childhood in Wolverhampton, although he was actually born in Flete House near Kingsbridge, Devon. Interestingly, Flete House had been converted into a maternity ward after the local hospital in Kingsbridge was bombed during World War II, adding a unique chapter to his personal history.
But the story doesn't end with the farewell tour. Dave Hill is also working on a solo album, a project that's particularly special because it's being produced by Django Holder, the son of his former Slade bandmate, Noddy Holder. "I couldn't have thought of a better person to work with. It's nice for me because Nod's been such a good friend and encouraging me to do this," Hill shared, highlighting the enduring camaraderie within the Slade family.
He describes Django Holder as a "fantastic" and exceptional producer, clearly thrilled with their collaboration. The album is slated for release around 2026, just before Hill celebrates his 80th birthday on April 4th.
This solo venture will be biographical, featuring songs about his time with Slade and the individuals "who helped [him] make it, people in the Midlands". This album promises to be a personal reflection on his life and career. But here's where it gets controversial... Will the album delve into the tensions and disagreements that inevitably arise within a band after decades together? Only time will tell!
Beyond his musical endeavors, Dave Hill is also a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. He's been appointed as an ambassador for mental health in the West Midlands and has openly shared his own struggles with mental well-being. "I'm working with Lenny Henry's sister and she said we need a voice," he stated. "I said I'd be good at this because I understand the horrors of it."
His commitment to this cause is deeply personal. "Sadly I lost my mom over it but she saw me make it before she died," Hill revealed, underscoring the profound impact mental health issues have had on his life. And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about raising awareness; it's about creating a supportive environment where people feel comfortable seeking help.
So, are you ready to experience Slade one last time in Birmingham? And what do you think about Dave Hill's decision to use his platform to speak out about mental health? Do you believe more musicians should be vocal about such important issues? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let's get the conversation started!
