Bryan Ferry

The acclaimed Rox y Music frontman appreciates fine art, dry martinis – and men in tight pants.

What’s your greatest strength?

Perseverance.

And your greatest weakness?

Curiosity – it really did kill the cat.

What scares you?

Death. So much to do and so little time.

What virtue do you most admire in people?

Loyalty.

What’s one thing about you that would surprise people?

My keen interest in American football. The players are such amazing athletes; giants who can run faster than anyone else in the world. I also love their outfits.

If you could do any other job, what would it be?

I’d paint pictures. I studied fine art at Newcastle University [in the United Kingdom] in the 1960s and the art world still fascinates me.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

A classic dry Martini.

What’s your most treasured possession?

My toy tractor. It was given to me as a boy and I’ve held on to it for 70-odd years.

What’s your idea of absolute happiness?

Happiness is not absolute... but I do love watching the seasons change.

If you could have dinner with two famous people, who would you choose?

Historian Kenneth Clark for his knowledge of art history and Marilyn Monroe for her beauty and wicked sense of humour.

If you could turn back time, what would you change in your life?

I’d have bought a work by [Andy] Warhol back in the 1980s, when I lived in New York.

What’s the most English thing about you?

My sense of humour. I only wish I spent more time laughing.

Where would we find you at a party?

Strategically placed in a dark corner.

What travel experience is on your bucket list?

A leisurely riverboat cruise along the Danube [Europe’s second longest river]. It’s dotted with ancient castles, changing landscapes and, I hear, excellent wine.

What’s your greatest achievement?

My four wonderful sons [Otis, Isaac, Tara and Merlin, with late ex-wife Lucy Birley].

Who is your personal hero and why?

Charlie Parker, the great jazz saxophonist, has been an inspiration since childhood.

If you were an animal, what would it be and why?

A Shire horse. They’re such beautiful creatures and they remind me of my dad, Fred, who was a farmer.

If you were down to your last $20, what would you spend it on?

A good espresso coffee, which I’d drink on the terrace of The Gritti Palace hotel in Venice. The view is worth a million dollars.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a lover of beauty.