‘I love wandering around Belladrum and supporting other local bands’ - says Scooty and the Skyhooks’ Davie Ross
Scooty and the Skyhooks founder member Davie Ross loves going to Belladrum.
Q You've performed at Belladrum before, what are you most looking forward to this time around and why?
A We have been performing at Belladrum since 2010. On various stages. Opening the very first Thursday Garden Stage and headlining the opening of the then new Ice House Stage. I am really looking forward to seeing Deacon Blue again. I wonder if they remember us from 1987 when we supported them!
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Q This is obviously a significant anniversary year, do you have any messages for the Belladrum fans who may have been with you since day one, grown up listening to you guys, or perhaps even about to see you all for the first time?
A The same message as we always put out: how lucky and appreciative we are to have such a wonderful following - not just at Bella but at all our gigs. They have stuck with us through all the years and now a new generation are about to see us as we embark upon our 40th anniversary tour around the Highlands.
Q It's also a significant anniversary for Bella; looking back, what have been your favourite memories or stand-out moments from over the years at Belladrum or otherwise?
A There are so many over the last 20 years. For a local band to play to a packed Garden Stage on a sunny Saturday afternoon in 2013 with the stewards at the front of the stage having a boogie is a great memory. Watching headliners such as Sir Tom Jones, Chic and Madness stands out for me. What a coup that was by Belladrum to bring such icons to the festival.
Q When you're at music festivals do you ever find time to soak in the atmosphere and catch up or watch any of the other acts, if so, who will you most likely have an eye on at Belladrum this time around?
A Yes, I love to wander around the festival, going around the different stages and having a listen to the artists. I always try to take in any local bands performing to lend my support. I also like how you bump into people that you may not have seen for ages and have a wee catch up.
Q The festival theme is love, what is your favourite love song of all time and why? Also, can you give us any hints of anything special you are preparing for your set?
A The anthem All You Need Is Love by The Beatles. It’s such a strong message of peace, love and happiness. Plus it’s a great sing-along. Maybe someone will perform it at Bella! Well without giving too much away, we are reviving a few songs that were very popular in our set-list from our 40 years during our tour this year so we may include some at Bella. Who knows?
Scooty and the Skyhooks play the Garden Stage on Friday.
