Chris Olley is probably the most rocking of our rock & roll dads.  He wouldn’t give a photo of his kids because he didn’t want to damage his rock & roll credibility.

QRD – How old were you when you first realized you wanted to be a professional musician?

Chris – About 16.

QRD – What are a few highlights of your musical career?

Chris – Playing Later with Jools Holland with Blondie! 5 Peel sessions!

QRD – At what age did you decide you wanted to become a father?

Chris – 30.

QRD – What are some positive & negative impacts your family has had on your career?

Chris – All positive, they make you realize you’re in for the long haul.

QRD – Have your children effected the music you make &/or listen to?

Chris – No, only in the lyrics, my daughter is 11 & really into Arctic Monkeys & stuff like that.  My son is 9 & plays the drums; he likes the Kaiser Chiefs & Ambulance LTD.  They both like six.byseven & Fuck me USA of course!

QRD – Have you had problems with the lack of steady money from a musical career providing the security you feel necessary in your household?

Chris – Yeah, but doesn’t everyone feel these pressures.  There are good times & bad... so long as you have your health etc....!!

QRD – Given the limitations having a family has on being a touring musician, would you have toured more earlier in life if you’d known?

Chris – It hasn’t had any limitations on touring or what I do, I had my daughter before I had a record deal.

QRD – Do you think being a father or a musician has a greater impact on your community?

Chris – Dunno?

QRD – Would you rather see your child eventually become a musician or parent?

Chris – Why not both?

QRD – Both family & music seem like things that will take up as much of your time as you’re willing to put in.  How do you end up dividing your time?

Chris – 70% music, 30% kids & family… music is how I make my living.

QRD – Do you have a split/secret life between being a parent & being a musician?

Chris – Perhaps I do, there is a certain amount of role-playing isn’t there.

QRD – What do your children think of your music?

Chris – They love it, they have been to Glastonbury twice & seen me play.

QRD – Do you think you could ever do a musical project with your children?

Chris – If they get good then yeah, I don’t work with slackers.

QRD – Any words of advice to young people?

Chris – Yeah, don’t follow my advice.

QRD – Could you send a photo of yourself with your kids for the article?

Chris – No way, that just ain’t rock n roll.

Other QRD interviews with Chris:
Six by Seven interview (june 2000)
Six by Seven interview (september 2002)
Chris Olley (Twelve/Six by Seven) interview (May 2006)