On the couch . . . with Johnny Logan
Born in Australia to a musical Derry father, Johnny Logan was reared in Dublin and got into showbusiness soon after leaving school. Between 1980 and 1992, he became the only person to win Eurovision three times: twice as performer, once as songwriter. He also wrote his own 1992 winning entry. Johnny continues to enjoy popularity throughout Europe, touring and releasing albums.
Who controls the remote in your house?
Normally when I’m home I have that honour, as long as I don’t change any of the settings the guys use or go near the leads at the back.
Did you watch a lot of music TV growing up?
I remember watching The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, and discovering Jimi Hendrix when he performed Hey Joe on Top of the Pops. But most of the time as kids, my brothers and I were outside playing.
Is there just too much good TV now to watch it all?
I love a good series like The Blacklist, Game of Thrones, Supernatural and Sherlock. There are also some great documentaries and comedy shows. I really don’t watch reality TV or talent shows, as I see enough reality around me and the talent shows are about the judges, not the talent. I also feel very strongly that somewhere along the way, fame became more important than being great and I can never accept that.
Are you a “telly on, laptop on the knees and phone for tweeting” over-load kind of person?
I watch the TV when home, the iPad when travelling – and the phone I use way too much. I sometimes feel controlled by it so these days I’m trying to use it a little less.
What are your unmissable shows right now?
Apart from The Blacklist and Game of Thrones, there’s Arrested Development and I’m always on the lookout for a good art documentary.
How well do you remember your first Eurovision appearance?
All of my Eurovision appearances are locked forever in my memory. You can’t win three of them and not relive the moments every year at Eurovision time.
What TV show would you love to write songs for?
Great question. I really love songs that enhance and make you feel the moment in any TV show, so I would love to work from that perspective.
Are there any shows you have on box-set, DVR or red button that you haven’t quite got round to watching?
I have all the Poirot series, Sherlock Holmes with Basil Rathbone and countless others.
What’s your all-time favourite TV theme tune – and why?
I have to say I love the theme music for Game of Thrones. Growing up I loved the Avengers (I also had a terrible crush on Diana Rigg).
Johnny Logan plays Vicar Street in Dublin on September 22.
See ticketmaster.ie