Robbie Williams: A Survivor of the 90s, But at What Cost?
In a world where social media reigns supreme, it's hard to imagine a time when celebrities didn't have to navigate the digital minefield of online criticism and scrutiny. For Robbie Williams, a veteran of the entertainment industry, this reality is a blessing in disguise.
"As a British person, I can tell you we're experts at tearing ourselves down. It's almost like a national sport! But I'm determined to savor this moment and embrace the success I've achieved," he shares with BBC News.
With his new album, Britpop, Williams has shattered records, becoming the first artist to claim 16 number one albums, surpassing even the legendary Beatles.
"Britpop is the album I've always wanted to make. It's a collaboration with some incredible artists, including my former Take That bandmate Gary Barlow, Gaz Coombes, and Tony Iommi. It's a dream come true," he reveals.
But here's where it gets controversial... Williams looks back at the Britpop era with a mix of emotions. While he achieved immense professional success, he also battled deep depression.
"I was going through a dark period, and despite all the incredible things happening around me, I couldn't fully enjoy them. It's like I was trapped in a bubble of my own mental illness. But now, looking back, I realize what an amazing decade it was. The '90s were the last great era of popular culture, and I'm proud to have been a part of it," he reflects.
Williams has been open about his struggles with stage fright and the terror he felt before performances. However, everything changed when he became a father to his daughter, Theodora, known as Teddy.
"Becoming a dad made everything click into place. I realized I had been running from responsibility, and it was time to embrace it. When my focus shifted from myself to my precious daughter, I understood that I had the best job in the world."
And this is the part most people miss... Williams also shares his relief at being back in the UK, away from the torrid British press, especially during the early days of his solo career.
"The media can be ruthless, especially when you're at the top. They're always looking for ways to bring you down. But I'm in a different place now. I can just focus on my music and my family without the constant intrusion. It's a blessing."
One aspect Williams is grateful to have missed out on is social media. He believes it would have been his downfall.
"I tend to fixate on the negative. I think it's human nature to seek out problems and threats. Social media would have amplified that for me."
As for a potential reunion with Take That, the band that launched his career, Williams teases, "Never say never. I have immense love and respect for the boys, and I absolutely loved the recent Netflix documentary. It brought back so many memories."
On February 13, it will be 30 years since Take That's first split, which also happens to be Robbie's birthday. When asked about his plans for that day in 1996, he laughs, "I was probably buying a Scalextric from Harrods. Not very rock 'n' roll, I know!"
With such an impressive career, I had to ask Robbie what's next. His response? "I want to build hotels with my own venues and perform exclusively for my guests. I also have this idea for a university of entertainment, where I can revolutionize education. It would be my way of giving back."
Robbie Williams' Britpop album is available now, and his Long 90s tour is well underway. Join him as he celebrates his remarkable journey and leaves his mark on the music industry once again.
