Norman Cook’s Fatboy Slim persona only exists on stage now thanks to his 14 years of sobriety, the superstar DJ explained on the latest episode of a new podcast.
The Rockwater In Conversation With episode covers Norman’s rise to fame despite his parents’ disapproval, how he jockeyed the music industry throughout the 90s and 00s, and his journey to performing now as a husband, father and charity partner.
The podcast is hosted by Sophie Corbett, daughter of Ronnie Corbett, at Rockwater, the beachside cultural hub in Hove.
The 59-year-old tells listeners his career began one night as a teenager when he was approached to DJ a local party based on his reputation as an avid record collector.
Sparking a joy for mixing music, Norman approached amateur DJ uncle Dennis to show him the ropes.
Despite some family encouragement, his parents were seemingly “not keen” on his career choice.
“My dad saw it as slightly below prostitution in terms of respectful jobs - and worst paid in his mind,” he said.
Despite his parents’ disdain, Norman’s career exploded, inevitably shaping the electronic dance music and DJ scene throughout the 90s and onwards.
Landing a Grammy and two Brit awards, Norman also holds a Guinness World Record for the most top 40 hits under different names.
Norman explains that the name changes not only allowed him anonymity and to explore different genres but operated as a legal decision - meaning contractually, he could make music for different record companies.
Throughout the episode, Norman expresses his withstanding love for performing.
“There’s something really beautiful that happens when the whole crowd connects,” he said.
“It becomes this big seething mass of human energy and euphoria, and joy, and a sense of community and togetherness.”
“That’s the reason why I’m still here.”
- Read more: Fatboy Slim reveals who he would like to see headline Brighton Pride
After more than 30 years in the industry, Norman now identifies Fatboy Slim as an alter ego - “an irresponsible lunatic” with a “mental state of about 17” that emerges only while performing.
Marking 14 years of sobriety, Norman prioritises his duties as a responsible husband, father and charity partner with Martlets Hospice.
His love for connection even saw him working at the Big Beach Cafe, in Hove, during lockdown.
Fans looking to experience the "irresponsible lunatic" that is Fatboy Slim are in luck, with 20 shows across the UK announced between February and April. Tickets and full details can be found here.
For those seeking additional Fatboy Slim content, Norman features in new documentary Right Here, Right Now looking back on Brighton’s The Big Beach Boutique concert. Out now on Sky Documentaries and NOW.
Speaking about the launch of the podcast series, host Sophie Corbett, said: “We thought we knew our podcast guests, but we only knew a little piece of the pie.
"So we were privileged to have them really open up and tell us about their journey and that's when we can learn so much, from other people’s experiences.
“Our guests’ stories are funny, moving, inspirational, educational, brave and the list goes on. At Rockwater we are excited to keep talking and listening.”
The full interview can also be watched on Youtube.
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