Robbie Williams is celebrating a milestone moment in his career. His new album Britpop has become his 16th number one, surpassing the record previously held by The Beatles. The 51-year-old singer, who rose to fame with Take That before launching a hugely successful solo career, is marking the achievement with his Long 90s tour. The shows will take place in smaller venues, reminiscent of the early days of his solo journey.
Embracing Success
Speaking to BBC News, Williams admitted that British people often downplay their achievements. “We’re very good at piercing the balloon of our own success and devaluing ourselves,” he said. “But with this one, I really want to let it sink in.”
The album features collaborations with Gary Barlow, Gaz Coombes of Supergrass, and Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi. Williams described Britpop as the album he always wanted to make when he first left Take That.
Looking Back at the 1990s
Williams reflected on the Britpop era with mixed emotions. While professionally successful, he struggled with depression at the time. “Anything good that’s happening to somebody in the throes of depression… they can’t experience joy,” he recalled.
Despite the challenges, he now views the 1990s as a defining cultural decade. “You don’t know 2007 from 2023, but you know the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, ’80s and ’90s,” he said. “It was an amazing time to have a bad time.”
Family and Perspective
Williams credits his daughter Theodora, born in 2012, with changing his outlook. “The world started to make sense because I’d been running away from responsibility. When things stopped being about me and started to become about precious souls, I realised I’ve got the best job in the world.” He also feels more at peace living in the UK, away from the intense media scrutiny that plagued his early career. “I’m left alone just to put my songs out and be married,” he said.
Take That and the Future
The question of rejoining Take That remains. Williams praised the recent Netflix documentary on the band, saying he felt “overwhelming love” for his former bandmates. Looking ahead, Williams has ambitious plans. He hopes to build hotels with performance venues and even launch a “university of entertainment.” For now, fans can enjoy Britpop and catch him on the Long 90s tour, celebrating a career that continues to evolve while honoring its roots.
