Tony Cowell
Musician Professor Green, 34, has suffered more than most. But now he’s in a happy place
Congrats on the new single, Unruly. When can we expect the album?
Albums are a dirty word now, as most music is sold digitally these days! I’m armed to the teeth with new songs – I might just keep putting out singles.
Will you be doing more co-hosting on Channel 5’s Lip Sync Battle UK?
I love doing that show. I’m pretty harsh on the celebrities, but I’d be petrified if I had to do it! We’re just in the process of sorting it out, so I hope I’ll be doing more.
Who were your musical inspirations growing up?
I listened to a lot of jungle [drum and bass] in my bedroom, and my nan used to yell at me to turn it down! Then it was Michael Jackson’s album Bad, then rap music.
You’re working with homeless charity The 999 Club. What prompted that?
The number of homeless on Britain’s streets has reached the highest levels since records began. I’ve never been homeless myself, but I lived my early life on the wrong side of the tracks, so I know what it’s like.
Was your own childhood difficult?
I was raised by my grandmother on a council estate. By the time I was one, I’d already suffered abandonment when my mum walked out. Then came the chaos of growing up. Nan had three jobs. It got pretty bad – I spent a lot of time alone and crying. You shouldn’t be suffering from anxiety as a kid: you should feel safe.
Your father committed suicide when you were 24. Does the experience of that time still haunt you?
Of course, yes. It all got too much for him. I wish I’d known what was going on in his head. He wasn’t a great father, but I remember the good times we had.
Do you feel you’re in a happy place now? Would you like to settle down one day and have children?
I’m happy, yes. I’m where I want to be. Kids? Maybe. It’s difficult – I think you should do everything you want to do before having children, because they demand so much of you! I have so many things I still want to achieve, so having a family may have to wait for a while…