Ian Hunter | October 2025 | Horse’s Mouth
Anthony Pastor:
Hello Mr. Ian Hunter. How are you doing this fine day? I was talking with my friend about you and I asked if he knew your favorite color. He did not. So I come to the source: what is your favorite color!? I’m guessing yellow. Thank you! – Anthony Pastor
IH: I don’t really have one – perhaps Navy Blue.
Michael Wolf:
Hey Ian! So with the colder weather getting ready to bustle in, do you guys take off in the colder times and head to warmer climes? Or do you just hang out at Hunter Towers? How is the recording coming along? Looking forward to the next release. Hoping you both are staying well and carrying on in this crazy world.
IH: For various reasons I don’t travel much these days. I’m still putting down songs with Andy, so it’s early days – very happy so far.
Gary Walden:
Hi Ian! I just wondered what process you go through to decide on an album’s title? Also, as rock stars get older and pass away, do you ever ask yourself…why am I still here (could be a good song title)? I wish you could live forever, you’re one of my favorite songwriters, so under appreciated!
IH: It just turns up. ‘Rant’ was a typical example – followed by, ‘what do you call the band?’
Willie Hynd:
You reference Picasso in many songs. Michael Picasso. Guernica. Is he an inspiration? Do you own any? What’s your relationship to him? Long term fan.
IH: I think they were the only two. Mick was a great painter of songs; and ‘Guernica’ – well, I looked at it and ‘got’ what it was.
Jem H:
Hi Ian Trust that all continues to be well with you. Thanks for the preceding HM (and to the contributors), interesting as always. I think you once said that a front-man in a band has to possess a certain quota of arrogance (or something very similar?) Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) referred to the scopophillic instinct, or a desire to be looked at and spoke about the libido naturally arising from the process. On the other hand, Carl Jung (1875-1961) might have put this down to persona (a sort of act) or ego (omnipresence). Would you agree that there may be libido, acting, or high self regard involved? I think a lot of it is also about youth (at least at the start) and a feeling of well being, wanting to pursue something that is pleasurable and desirable, maybe also to escape drudgery? Very 👌 to you.
P.S. I may have used omnipresence in the wrong place (next to ego). Perhaps (a desire for) fame might have been better – separate from say, self-confidence or belief?
IH: To be honest, I loved the music I was hearing and I didn’t want to spend my life in a factory. Nature took its course. Whatever I’ve been doing all these years – it just feels natural to me. You’d have to ask somebody who’s worked with me on this one! I’ve always liked excitement – but who doesn’t?
Duncan:
Hi Ian. Duncan from Oswestry Shropshire here. I’ve been slowing accumulating your vinyls and always find them interesting. Several people here would like to pay homage to one of our favourite sons with an event maybe on your birthday next year? I run a venue called Hermon in a former chapel near the library. You’ll find it online (currently closed for refurbishment) Wondered if you’d be interested in assisting us.. Take care and keep on being unique, Duncan
IH: I don’t travel internationally anymore (old man stuff!!!) but I was born in Oswestry (although I think I was moved to Scotland as a child because of the war). What are you thinking of?
Malcolm Lay:
I went to school in Wembley from 72-77, Preston Manor High, and remember being on my way to school in I think 1973 and seeing you in a newsagent/sweet shop with some of the band. I wanted to say thank you twice as we were late for school and you let us in front to buy some sweets one morning about 8-30. I assume you were renting in Wembley as Mott were just taking off big time. My second thank you was the gig I went to, as a 15-year-old at the then Hammy odeon (second show 14th December 1973). Changed my life and got me into gigs and rock music and I thought all shows ended with chaos. Thank you Ian
IH: I used to buy cigarettes in that shop. I remember them being kinda rude – ‘Take a basket; take a basket’. Fiona Anderson – Miller’s better half – found us the flat on Oakington Avenue – top floor– eleven quid a week.
J C Finn:
Hi Ian These questions are Soccer related. 1. When you were a youngster did you frequent Gay Meadow to watch Shrewsbury play? 2. Have you been to the New Meadow to watch the Shrews? 3. Did you ever go to the County Ground to watch Northampton play? Best Wishes and looking forward to Defiance 3.
IH: Oh yeah. I was a Gay Meadow regular. The end – standing in mud! My eldest son, Steve, took me to the new Stadium. It was totally empty. Looks very nice, but I was a Gay Meadow Fan. I saw Man U. beat Northampton at the county ground. I think the score was 6 – 1? The Northampton players all lined up at the end of the game and applauded George Best as he left the field. Nice touch.
Tim Hewston:
Ian, Does it ever baffle you as to how many ardent Mott the Hoople fans never followed you into your solo career? I have seen so many comments on music sites where people have said they loved MTH but they knew absolutely nothing about your solo career. I get the problem. I’ve listened to Pete Townshend solo projects and was underwhelmed, although some people claim that Pete sings better than Roger Daltrey. I’ve listened to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards solo ventures, and, yes, there are those who believe that Keith sings better than Mick. Idiocy abounds. But here you have the driving force, the increasingly dominant songwriter, of a major band – the guy who wrote nearly all the hits – and he goes solo, and you don’t even look him up? And it’s not just you. I’m sure there are a ton of Eagles fans who have never heard two of Don Henley’s greatest songs – ‘Miss Ghost’ and ‘Dammit Rose.’ Equally, I’m sure that many ardent Jethro Tull fans don’t know Ian Anderson’s solo work. I’ve listened to Verden Allen’s solo projects, and Mick Ronson’s solo projects, and Mick Ralph’s solo projects (as well as Bad Company). I have even listened to Mott after you left, and that was a miserable experience, apart from the stellar ‘Career (There’s No Such Thing As Rock N Roll)’ – the greatest Ian Hunter song you never wrote. But I’m guessing more MTH fans gave the headless Mott version of MTH a go than ever gave you a go as a solo artist. You must have wondered why yourself.
IH: My manager at the time, Fred Heller, told me I would lose 2/3’s of record sales if we split, but the band had split – and that’s exactly what happened. People were probably pissed at us – me, in particular. The pressure of touring, writing new records, recording and touring to support the record was unrelenting. It was good to be free of the cycle.
Kartoshka Mercury:
Hello, Ian Hunter. What do you think of Benson Boone? Well, the one who performed with Brian May back in April, the one who also did Bohemian Rhapsody. And in general. How do you feel about TikTok musicians? The ones who make 30-second catchy songs that have no meaning, and die within the same 30 seconds after they come out.
IH: It’s just the way it is now. It’s what this generation wants.
Steve Meyer:
Hi Mr H, Were you aware that the was a recent “celebration” of MTH in Ross organised, I think, by the Welshman? Unfortunately, I had left to return to Switzerland a few weeks before so missed out. However, there is now a “Blue Plaque” celebrating one of the first gigs performed by some of the boys in the band. Cheers – Steve
IH: Buff and Pete came from Herefordshire. I think it’s great their village memorialized them. They had a gig in Hereford and Phally, Luther and Morgan all played. Half a century – time goes fast!! Memories don’t.
Joe S:
Hey Ian, I hope you are doing well. I have been a huge fan since your Mott days in the early seventies – I consider Mott Live to be one of the best live albums ever – Rock and Roll “Medley” is incredible. Question – I love that Mott used to have “The Planet Jupiter” by Holst play as the group came on. It is a great track. Wondering who in the band thought up the idea to play Planets – Are you a fan? Stay well
IH: Pete Watts came up with the idea. He actually put the last chord on the intro. Still get the chills. Perfect.
Lewis Patterson:
https://i0.wp.com/rockviewroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2.jpg?w=744&ssl=1
I thought I might share a photo I took of a rock. (Rock Art @ Rock View Road) Of course it is somewhat manipulated. I can’t think of a question off hand as it seems others have done quite well in that department, I enjoy reading The Horses Mouth, and many of the questions and comments re-ignite that feeling of excitement I had going to a show. (That and the Veterans Administration built a clinic next door to the celebrity theatre, so that, every doctor’s appointment, I am reminded of all the great shows I saw there, including MTH! Top of the list BTW.) LP
IH: Interesting…..
Martin Paver:
Hello Ian I have always wondered why songs as good as Rose and Rest in Peace were B-sides and not A-Sides or LP tracks. The only way to hear them was to buy the single or play them on a juke box. I had heard Rest in Peace as I had The Golden Age of Rock and Roll as a single, but did not hear Rose until I bought Mott Live. I had not heard the studio version of Rose until I recently bought the Mott CD with the bonus tracks. Were your chord progressions influenced by Jimmy Webb or Burt Bacharach? All the best Martin.
IH: Long story short – the band weren’t too keen on slow songs – especially Pete – fast was foremost. Dylan was my influence – simpler the better.
Alan in Portlandia:
Ian, Looks like English Civil War reenactment is big in UK. Saw a Battle of Shrewsbury game set up on FB. If you were to get involved, would you be a Parliamentarian or Royalist character although I find Roundhead vs Cavalier term more interesting. We had a neighbor move next door and tell us she was a descendent of Roundheards that got us interested
IH: Shrewsbury history goes back. I’d probably fall into the Parliamentarian camp.
Matthew Zuckerman:
Hi Ian Not a question, but a link to a reaction to what is my favourite of all your many songs, Guernica.
The woman in the video, Shebs, has impressed me more than any such hosts, and it was good to see that the song speaks to someone who has no knowledge of the background.
IH: Well this one’s only 26 so I’ll have a go. OK – she’s happy with it! Ever notice slow songs don’t get as many hits as fast ones? Kinda sad really. Thanks to whoever sent it to her….
A lot of my stuff don’t get heard because I’m not ‘mainstream’. I tried it for a fortnight and I did not like it. It’s not like what you think it is. If you’re not mainstream, your label doesn’t spend on promotion (which you have to pay back). Business!
Richard Mills, Rotherfield:
Hi Ian, Hope you’re keeping well. I attended a talk by Glenn Hughes (ex- Deep Purple) a few days ago. He claimed he only joined Deep Purple because he’d been told Paul Rodgers was also joining and they’d share vocal duties. Two weeks later, it was announced that Paul and Mick had formed Bad Company and the rest, as they say, is history. Mick had left Mott and Bad Co became massive and Deep Purple were left auditioning for a new singer. How much of that did you know and what might have been your path if Paul had joined Deep Purple? Would Mick have stayed with Mott or was he destined to go elsewhere? What if, what if, what if??? Keep on keeping on, Ian. Can’t wait for Volume 3 and whatever comes next.
IH: Oh Mick would have definitely stayed with mott. Mick had a problem leaving Mott. Pete, Buff, Phally & Mick went way back. Paul’s voice was just so perfect for Mick’s songs – so he went. He came back later – with me – and with Mott. He loved Mott The Hoople and MTH loved him. It was simply my voice not suiting his songs. Didn’t know about the Glenn Hughs story.
Bary Sokolowski:
Hey Ian, no question this time. Just wanted to show you MTH coming in at number 1. https://youtube.com/shorts/Nt4fHivZtiU?si=foCWxqR72zgnlO3
IH: Cheers, Bary!
Ken Grady:
Hi Ian. Always wondered about this! Considering Hugo & Luigi’s ‘Shanendoah Rose’ wasn’t a massive hit, how on earth in those pre-Internet days did you hear it’s B-side, ‘Rockabilly’ Party’?! And what was it about the intro that made you think it would be so suitable to use so brilliantly in ‘Roll Away The Stone’? Thanks, as always, for the great tunes! Cheers, Ken
IH: You’re just telling me something I don’t know!! Never heard of Hugo & Luigi or Shanendoah Rose. Wow.
Steve Karmazin:
Greetings…. Loved reading in the October Horse’s Mouth that you are “hard at work” on lyrics for Defiance Part 3. I’ve long considered you to be a consummate rock ‘n roll songwriter. So here’s my question: What do you do when you’re out and about…in the car, at lunch, traveling, walking the dog, whatever…and suddenly a lyric, a melody, a guitar lick or piano riff comes into your head?? You’ve said that at home…you have notebooks around the house to record a sudden burst of inspiration. But what do you do when you’re out of the house??
IH: Note books everywhere – literally everywhere. I’m forgetful; you think you’ll remember something, but if I don’t write it down……
Dru:
(I like your answers, by the way) In your opinion what is the role of a producer?
IH: A producer’s role is to get the best out of everyone and everything. And you need a little luck as well.
Mary Ziegler:
Hi from retirement land, Northern -Lower, Michigan. Can’t wait for Defiance III, it’s like collecting numbered comics! Do you know much about Andrew Fields? I heard that his books were sold at Mottfest. Anyhoo, I hope that becomes a tradition! I can’t thank you enough for helping we youngsters put our “angst” into words!
IH: I know there’s a book, but that’s about it.
Andrew Field:
Hi Ian (part 1) Any fans who missed out on MottFest in the UK in October can watch videos from you, Joe, Blue and Dennis and Ranters if they follow this link. https://www.hitthenorth.co.uk/mottfest
Hi Ian (part 2) Any fans wanting a copy of You Are One of Us (the Mott fans book) can visit this page. The John Harris story brought a tear or two to my eye. Kris Needs’ intro did the same. And a few others too. Always about people. https://www.hitthenorth.co.uk/you-are-one-of-us
Hi Ian (part 3) I know it’s a long time ago but was I Wish I Was Your Mum written for Trudi, Diane or somebody else?
IH: Yeah, I saw Kris Needs. He looks the same! Phally looks good too. Still playing great. IWIWYM – was Trudi.
Pasquale:
It’s October 28th! Happy anniversary to you and Trudi (also for me and Marisa, we are on year 25…). Someone told me that in 2019 Kinks were reforming, some gigs were scheduled with Mott the Hoople playing as guest..
IH: Cheers, Pasquale! We just rang up 53! Kinks gigs? Never mentioned.
Graham Knowles:
Hi Ian If you could relive one year, what would it be?
IH: There’s a few, but I’d say 1946 – the war was over.
Dru:
I wish I could hear the original groove of “All The Good Ones Are Taken”
How’s Mick Jones doing? Either one.
IH: So do I! No news on Mick.
Andrew:
Hi Ian. I sent an email a little earlier using the form under the “Contacts” tab. I then discovered I should have used this column to ask the question. When going through the emails received under the Contacts tab, mine is the one concerning the mystery vocals at the very beginning of “Who Do You Love” off your self-titled debut in 1975. I will keep an eye on this column (Horse’s Mouth) in the event you reply here. Regards, Andrew.
IH: Either way, I haven’t a clue.
Steve Meyer:
Hi Again, Just to say please ignore my message of a few weeks back re the Blue Plaque in Ross being “plaqued” last month. Just been doing some surfing whilst listening to Down ‘n Outz on the cans and came across confirmation that you certainly did know all about it. Annoyingly, I missed it ‘cos I had to return to Switzerland after 6 weeks baby-sitting my 91.5-year-old mum who lives in Ross a few days before it took place. Cheers – Steve
IH: Well it’ too late now, isn’t it! All that effort in vain!
Michael:
Hi. This is a tech question that has to do with Ariel’s guitar tone. I know I should be asking him directly but have no way of doing so. You’re a guitar guy so maybe you can shed some light. How did he get that twangy, banjo-like tone? Treble boost?
IH: You’ll have to ask him!
Michael Baseman:
Forgot to send you well wishes with your bout with tinnitus. Were any of the guitar solos on the live album overdubbed?
IH: Which live album?
Charlie:
Hi Ian, Felt I had to write a short note. Your music has been with me for the last 53 years. One of only a few long-term musical heroes that I have. Alongside David Bowie and Nick Cave. I was gutted that Mott split in 1974. Had front row tickets for the Caird Hall, Dundee show. That gap in my life was partially filled by being at the second (originally the first) night at Hammersmith. Took the whole family. Along the way every year or so going to see you and various combinations of bands has kept me in touch with old friends as we never miss one. Would be great to see you back in Scotland for one last catch up. Any chance even if not a full band show? Suggestion for collaboration on Part 3. Nick Cave. Your combined lyricism and unique vocal styles could be epic.
IH: You can never say never, but doubtful come to mind.
Matt Giarrizzo:
You are simply the best. I hope you will tour again. (There’s always hope.) I remember seeing you & Mick Ronson perform in 1979 in Berkeley. Incredible. Live music is magic. Your songs & musicianship have brought much joy to fans over the years. Rock on, Ian Hunter. Thank you for everything. MG
IH: Cheers, Matt.
Tony Jay:
Hi Ian. I recently saw Todd Rundgren in Birmingham on his short UK tour. It was a fantastic gig. What a performance and a great band. Can you please share any memories of working with Todd. Thanks
IH: Todd’s amazing – what a brain – in addition to fantastic vocals and guitar. Great to work with him. Look what he did with ‘Don’t Tread on Me’ on Defiance I – brilliant!
Al Moore:
Hi Ian, you did a great version of Jesse Malins song Dead On for his fundraising album. Is there any chance of getting Jesse to contribute on Defiance 3?
IH: You never know (at this point).
O.K.!
Thanks for dropping by – keep ‘em comin’
IH x
The Horse’s Mouth