Midge Ure

MIDGE URE is a Scottish musician, singer-songwriter and producer, a highly acclaimed artist who really needs no introduction from us!

Performing in bands including Slik, Thin Lizzy, Rich Kids, Visage and Ultravox, Midge Ure co- wrote and produced the charity single ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ And jointly organised Band Aid, Live Aid and Live 8 with Bob Geldof, and continues to write, perform and produce with the biggest names in music.

He has received Ivor Novello, Grammy, BASCAP awards along with a flotilla of gold and platinum records, Midge's services to both music and charity were recognised in the Birthday Honours list in 2005, when he was awarded an OBE, and honorary doctorates from both Edinburgh and Dundee Universities, mainly in recognition for his work with Band Aid and Live 8. 

Where did you grow up, and what are your favourite childhood memories of Scotland? 

I was born in Cambuslang on the edge of Glasgow. It was a classic, decrepit one bedroom tenement flat with no heating and an outside loo. I lived there with my parents, older brother and younger sister till I was 10 when we were moved to a new house half a mile away, three bedrooms, inside loo but still no heating. It must have been a tough existence but when everyone you know is in the same situation it never felt like it. I have nothing but fond family memories especially as the days grew shorter in the winter when the smell of the paraffin heater signalled the arrival of birthday and Christmas, October onwards. 

If you had to describe Scotland in three words, what would they be and why? 

IT'S STILL HOME. Although I moved away in '77 to pursue a career in music which was at the time, London centric, I still consider Scotland home. It's never about where you are in the world, it's about where your heart belongs. 

Are you a whisky drinker, and if so what's your preferred top three tipples? 

Having experienced swigging from a tiny 'double double' of cheap whisky when I was a teenager and barely surviving the 'after affects' I could never get another glass near my lips. I managed to achieve the process with different drinks over the years but once bitten bitten by that first bad experience, your system never forgets.

If you could be transported to anywhere in Scotland for only one day, where would you choose and what would you do?

Plockton. Sit on the shoreline looking out to sea, feeling as Scottish as I can. 

What are your favourite culinary delights of Scotland? 

Lorne sausages! I know, I know it's far from fine fare but it's always the basics from your childhood you crave.....that and Corolla’s Ice Cream...and Tunnock’s Snowballs.....etc etc etc.

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Thank you so much for agreeing to be interviewed here, can you tell us what Scotland means to you? 

Pride. Pride in my accent. Pride of my country. Pride in Scotland’s ideals. Sometimes you have to see something from the outside to see how it has shaped your life.