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Sir Cliff’s top NZ tour secrets

The British singing legend reveals why he can’t wait to have a catch-up
Photos: Michelle Kloboucnik, Sue Andrews.

Sir Cliff Richard returns to New Zealand next year, 12 years after his last visit, performing in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. The Weekly caught up with the 84-year-old, whose hits include Living Doll, Devil Woman, Summer Holiday, The Young Ones and more.

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What’s bringing you back to our shores?

I decided years ago I wanted to return to New Zealand and finally, it’s happening! The first time we came, someone told me there were more sheep than people. I thought how funny – I got off the plane and there was no sign of any sheep whatsoever! You Kiwis were so welcoming and I’m hoping you’ll be the same this time. We’re looking forward to seeing you.

As a wine lover, what Kiwi wines will you try?

I do like a glass of wine. My house in the Algarve in Portugal was surrounded by vines, and I partnered with a friend and made wine. It even won some medals! It’s difficult to choose what wine I prefer – if I eat steak, I’ll have a red, if I have fish, I’ll probably have white or rosé, but my favourite wine is Chardonnay. I hear New Zealand has some wonderful Chardonnay, so I’ll definitely be tasting that!

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You have a very loyal fanbase here…

My most loyal fans are in Britain, Denmark and New Zealand. I’ve met Katrina Richards, who’s run my NZ fan club for many years, and I’m grateful when radio stations play my songs as there was a time that if you’re over 35, you didn’t get your records played.

Good to go: “Docs say I’m one of the healthiest octogenarians they know!”

Will you play tennis while you’re here?

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I worry that if I trip, I could break something, which would be a disaster, so I don’t play tennis on tour any more. On our days off, I’m normally travelling, so that stops me playing tennis, even if I wanted to! I was thrilled that [Kiwi tennis player] Lulu Sun made the final eight at Wimbledon this year. Let’s hope she can do even better next year – I hope so. I’ll be watching to see it happen.

What are your nutrition and exercise essentials?

I don’t exercise on tour. Being on stage each night is enough. You have to keep moving when you get to a certain age. My diet is based on my blood type, which is A positive. I was given a list of foods I could and couldn’t eat – I had to give up some things I loved, but there’s about 10 or 12 foods that suit me fine, so I stick to those. Doctors say I’m one of the healthiest octogenarians they know, so it must be working!

How do you keep your energy levels up?

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I’ve never needed help to be energetic. I learned a long time ago you can’t sing rock and pop songs while staying still. I don’t dance any more though – I get out of breath, so I fake it.

What will you be singing when you’re here?

Summer Holiday, Living Doll – oldies like that. But some of my “mid-ies” from the middle of my career are important to me too. I hope I’ll be able to please Kiwis with songs they grew up with or what their grandmother insisted they listened to.

What’s the one song you’re most proud of and why?

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If a Martian landed on the planet and I had to explain what I do for a living, I’d play them Devil Woman! I’d like to have written a number-one song. I wrote music early in my career, but there are some very gifted people who write fantastic music for me to sing – so that’s what I do.

Who do you admire in modern music today?

Ed Sheeran must go down as one of the best writers – both in talent and character. I certainly admire him.

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Who has been the most influential person in your life?

That’s easy – Elvis! He started my whole desire to become a singer. I was about 14 when I first heard his voice. This guy pulled up in a car next to us, windows open. His radio was on and I heard Heartbreak Hotel. I’d never heard anything like that. Elvis created a whole sea change within music.

What’s on your personal playlist?

Elvis, Buddy Holly, Little Richard and The Everly Brothers. I also play Boz Scaggs – fabulous bluesy singer, funky, plays a great guitar. I love Bonnie Raitt and I play Ed Sheeran too.

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Have you embraced the digital revolution?

I think music sounds so tinny through smartphones! The best sound comes from a CD and through a decent speaker – it sounds more like the vinyl that way. I don’t think I’ve really embraced the digital revolution.

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