Gary Barlow: My Biggest Failure And Why I Needed It

Gary Barlow is one of Britain’s most successful songwriters and record producers. As part of pop group Take That, he has won eight BRIT Awards and sold over 45 million records with almost four decades in the music industry.
Gary shares with Jake and Damian the exciting but tumultuous initial years with Take That, the relationships with his band members and how he dealt with world-wide success. He details his attempt to ‘break America’ and how this experience changed his life. Jake, Damian and Gary delve into the most emotional moments of his career, and why it is so important to embrace failure.
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[@Reginaldborington]

For someone so mellow and chilled, that was one hour and thirty nine minutes of absolutely gripping viewing. They say youth is wasted on the young, but age and experience can be equally as appealing, valuable and attractive.

[@ArmyofLove]

It was so gripping, he's a lovely and talented man

[@mary-anne7]

👏👏👏❤ LOVE every minute of this interview. Thank you! ❤

[@jasonwilliams4659]

I have a friend who's daughter goes to meet Gary Barlow (not a stalker lol, just a big fan) to get his autograph and a picture with him and everytime he stops and has a chat with her signs the autograph and takes a pic with her, he has even remembered her name and he's never too busy for her. What a guy! that's what I like about this guy.

[@34IntheGame]

I am not really a depressive or a sad person and I’m almost always happy and like to joke around, but back when I was 15/16 years old I remember being quite sad with how my life was turning out. I was overweight, looked weird, played the piano at a music school where I only played classical pieces I didn’t like, the girl I really really liked wasn’t that much into me and I switched 3 schools in two years. I really thought life was shit and since this girl I liked was pretty much my first encounter with love I was quite overwhelmed with everything in my life that was not going according to plan or according to my wishes. I liked listening to some Robbie Williams songs but I never paid attention to Take That until one day I decided to see who these guys really were and what’s up with their relationship with Robbie. I started discovering their 2006-present music and every single song I would discover was relatable and described my moods perfectly. The day I felt I fell in love I discovered the songs “Hello, You, Amazing, Ain’t no sense in love…”, when I was insecure about myself I would discover “Flaws, Will you be there for me..” and so on… All of my moods were in their songs. All of them. I really like rock and roll; Springsteen, the Gallagher brothers, the Beatles etc. so listening to Take That was really a strange thing for me as well (also because like 95% of his fanbase are girls :)) I was still quite sad but listening to Take That helped me cope with all of it. Somewhere along the way I started reading about Gary and his life, his family, his career, his weight loss, and all the ups and downs he had experienced. I also started listening to his album “Since I saw you last” and that thing moved me to tears. I spent days crying and listening to some of the song off that album. I had just finished music school and what I thought would be the end of me and the piano that I started hating - turned out to be the beginning. I started playing his songs, figuring out the chords, I spent a whole summer in my room just tearing that record apart (along side some other TT songs) and I feel like my whole perception of piano and music had changed. I played day and night and it helped me cope with all the problems and feelings I had. That was about seven years ago. To this day I still play the piano every single day, I started playing jazz, blues, rock, pop, I play all kinds of things and I enjoy it immensely. This guy and his music came out of nowhere and literally changed my life. I lost weight because of him, I fell in love with music and the piano, I got through some shit times with his songs and I wish I could just thank hin for that. I wanted to go and see Take That at Hyde Park this summer, but it’s just too expensive for me. I don’t really leave comments on videos but I was just playing one of his songs on the piano before I went to bed and now this video popped out. There is a very small chance Gary will read this comments but if he accidentally does I would just like to say; Thanks Gary, you changed my life and you had so much impact on me with your album and songs that I will never forget you and you work. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. And thank you guys for this podcast!

[@chrisknight2631]

Nice one, mate.

[@deirdredonnelly8227]

Good for you! I wish you all the best❤

[@user-ek6xm6qs8e]

It’s very touching, your comment. I think, I some corner of his mind he knows that his music helps people and sometimes even changes their life. Wish you all the luck and prosperity.

[@Riviere8281]

The most underrated songwriter and composer ever. He is brilliant.

[@IrishSuzyAM]

Agreed!

[@leegallagher2325]

He seems like a guy who is finally at peace with himself good on him 💯🙏🙏✌️

[@rosslynmbutters5708]

Wow! My Aunt lived in Frodsham, and on one visit we were entertained by Gary & his keyboard in her living room, I've followed him through Take That years and his solo career, as always had a soft spot for that wee confident boy. Bless him and his family for getting through this life together, well done Gary Barlow for the man you are today ❤ and for giving me a story that no one ever quite believes!

[@nicola9808]

Best songwriter and composer ever, his voice is the 90’s voice

[@user-kq2zf5cm1v]

I found Take That and Gary in 2023 and while having an amazing talent and incredible voice, his humanity is just as remarkable.

[@IrishSuzyAM]

I hope you enjoy discovering all his music so far :)

[@kiely4561]

It’s always cool if you discover an artist for the first time who already has a huge back catalogue of music and you get to go back and hear it with fresh ears.

[@christinecarter7966]

As an American who has loved Take That from the beginning, this is the best interview EVER. Real. Raw. Fantastic.

[@helleosborne7168]

Agree!!!

[@user-ek6xm6qs8e]

Exactly!

[@garywood497]

That was wonderful, and how refreshing to watch an interview where the guest is given the time to expand on their statements. You two are exceptional hosts.

[@susannedematas7655]

p

[@kalinaperez8503]

Gary is just an amazing human being ❤

[@robkneebonemusicandmusings667]

What a great chat. Thanks for doing this. Gary is such an authentic, down-to-earth, humble guy; he deserves all the praise and success he has had and more.

[@manishbaj]

Here in Nepal, I waited from 1999 to 2005 just to see Gary Barlow's new song on MTV or Channel V. I waited and waited so desperately. I loved him more than I loved myself.

[@michaeljohn2826]

He's someone you would love to have at your house at Christmas

[@peternicho]

So pleased for Gary that he found his love of music and life again.

[@imjoat7551]

I hope people who don’t like or don’t know Gary watch this as he has an amazing story and has so much to learn from. Fascinating and just a thoroughly lovely guy x

[@sera7483]

This is one of the best podcast interviews I've ever watched. Huge props to the interviewers who asked perceptive and thoughtful questions and kept the flow and substance of the interview at 100% throughout.

[@benjaminmtang]

been a huge fan since the smash hits days and could not be happier he found his way through all that darkness, continuing to bless us with his music (which i'm sure has been marked against milestones in many people's lives)

[@emmawallace4719]

Gary is always called the greatest man

[@skyhawk747]

Probably the best interview I have ever watched with Gary. Well done lads!

[@mankydave67]

I love Gary’s vibe and positivity. From a fellow Manc wishing him all the best.

[@rODIUMuk]

Nice guy

[@leewhieldon4299]

I have a couple of guilt pleasures in take that songs…grt to see a proper down to earth Manc get to live his dreams…I started as a drummer never getting a look in with the song writing process of bands I was in…I always loved song writing still do..my songs are created…it don’t bother me they don’t make money..I just love doing it

[@stevenicol1]

he's from Cheshire!

[@udeychowdhury2529]

This interview is great and Gary Barlow is great

[@cazw179]

I could listen to Gary all day. Very interesting.

[@Seaside33]

What a great and honest interview..

[@jeani0889]

New to your channel and what a great interview. He is so open and honest about his career and the ups and downs. I have been a fan of his for years.

[@Jannine3404]

He’s the best. He’s my fave since I was a kid - that’s 30 years ago now. I’ve met him many times through the years and he truly is the sweetest and kindest person you can ever meet. Thank you for this brilliant interview. 🙏🏻❤

[@raphpitts]

Fantastic episode. Loved hearing his anecdotes especially around the halfway point where he talks about the part where he totally lost his spark/confidence. Never heard it like that before, so thank you.

[@gavinmcinnes6391]

Wonderful watch, what a man, what talent and humble. Inspirational. Loved it. Thank you.

[@dsdsdsdsdsds3139]

this was excellent

[@richarddawson8040]

Gary, just watched this again, that guy in the Sun you should name him, let’s get stuck into him. Your Album “ Older” I bought in the 90s and still listen to it now, proper job mate. Your cracking, so strong and talented. Thanks for being in my life mate.

I love Gary, he’s a humble man! He’s so talented. ❤

[@lynn1848]

Everything in life happens for a purpose, and even though it doesn’t feel it at the time at some point all will become clear. Faith and an understanding of life is all part of life’s rich tapestry. With age comes a great wisdom, recognising you have to go through the rough to really appreciate the smooth. I have always loved Gary’s talent from seeing him on Pebblemill at One to what he is doing now. When you have a talent like he has it has no bounds.

[@chillwalker]

I always adored his clever Songwriting and still do!!!!

[@richadambudgen7520]

What a lovely down to earth man.

[@shirleyhanusyn7615]

Thanks Gary your music makes my day- I found your music / band late in life- but now I can't get enough' I just wish Jason was back because he wants to be back together' thanks foreverything"!❤

[@Leeroy1979]

Great interview, You guys asked questions I think, every fan would want to ask! Great respect shown to Gary, loved how you let him finish answers before asking another! You both looked genuinely interested Great effort fellas, new subscriber from me 👍

[@urbansoban2669]

Fab interview. He is a compelling storyteller, not to mention a very good songwriter, pianist and singer. I think he would deserve another chance at making it huge.

[@phylliewilly]

This was interesting, authentic and honest. Lots of lessons and takeaways. Thank you.

[@zuleicagoncalves9091]

That's what I most admire you on your path Gary. Going down the hill , going through hard time for 6 years or so, and get back to stardom again diligently - you are a great person and I felt that very closely reading your book " A better Me", which is super inspirational on how we have to deal with failure and never give up. You lost confidence for a time but then you bloomed again. However, concerning your family you stood strong building a wonderful family, with great kids and a lovely wife. On the whole you didn't fail on the most precious matter - Your Family. A big fun here.😍

[@dedismukes]

What a fantastic interview. Gary Barlow is an inspiration. He seems to take whatever happens in his life and turn it into gold. Nowadays playing the victim and whining is the fashion. He seems to have none of it. I listen to whatever I can find of this man because I learn something from every interview. OK, sure - he’s easy on the eyes, but that’s not the most captivating thing about him. He radiates grace, integrity & kindness. I have to say, I loved the little anecdote about how his wife is the only one who hears what he hears when she goes to a concert. I think his long lasting marriage is another glimpse into a man who truly knows what’s important in life and treasures it. I love his music, I can’t get enough of watching his concerts, and I’m so glad to have found this interview.

[@captainfeedback1]

Brilliant, brilliant interview. Gary Barlow has gone right up in my estimations.

[@maryloudelacruz8501]

I finished listening from start to finish. Thank you for having Gary Barlow.

[@91amh]

Massive respect for Gary - such a candid interview, humility defined. Glad that he’s gone on to have more success

[@SteveWoodsGsy]

Great interview lads Gary is such a likeable human 🥰

[@pauldrew6854]

As a gigging artist,on the UK club circuit, every word of what gary said about show arrangement is so so true, its vital that whilst getting to that point you also keep it fresh, for you the performer. I've played all over the UK to probably thousands of people now and in twenty years as a professional singer my best gig was Halton Royal British Legion, there's a guy that used to compare alongside gary his name is Chris he's still there going strong and talks fondly of there time together, and at this very moment I'm packing my gig bags going through my set list ready to go on stage at........ Halton Legion.

[@shaungreatbanks9155]

It's a great podcast this. He's full of wisdom. A great story to listen to.

[@keithrogers2745]

Brilliant interview. And kudos to Gary for opening up on such personal things. He is a great artist

[@BitsOfBen]

When Gary Barlow talks Runcorn!!!!

[@iainholmes2735]

Great interview. Gary is ageing like a fine wine. Always has interesting insights.

[@daveparsons6956]

1:01:10 They both did well to not laugh at 'Relight My Fryer' and 'Back for Pud'. I know you're all thinking it. For the record I'm a big fan of Gary.

[@gabriellebluemarine4463]

AMAZING! What an enjoyable interview that was. Great questions from the hosts and an authentic Gary Barlow who offered many insights into life's ups and downs that many can relate to despite not being in the music business. I wonder how Clive Davis felt after ruining someone's career, but - as reflected by GB- he needed this to change things for the better.

[@gemma-leighjames2618]

Brilliant interview very honest…I have huge respect for Gary. x

[@lisaslaymaker7303]

Absolutely loved this, what a wonderful humble man he really is ❤

[@empowerhealthandwellbeing6352]

the first time I've ever watched one of these episodes. I was absolutely gripped from the first word. Thank you so much - thoroughly enjoyable with some great takeaways

[@finlear3320]

What a fantastic interview by all participants, thoroughly enjoyable……..thank you 😊

[@carlmckiernan9137]

Brilliant interview had me glued throughout . Love Gary’s music. What a down to earth guy

[@EmmalinaFortuna]

Gary Barlow is so admirable as an artist and human being. From a boy to a gentleman with a strong and open heart. As a younger fan it’s crazy to hear he was ever so full of himself given the fact that he is so personable and self aware now ❤

[@adamwalsh3880]

Fascinating. What a guy and a great interview. One of the best interviews. Gary, legend in every sense of the word.👍

[@TheCurtisdavies]

what a fantastic interview… taking my mom to see take that in just over 6 weeks for her birthday today

[@edilcegruber6464]

Parabéns! Entrevista espetacular com muita sinceridade, demonstrou ser uma pessoa de ótimo carater. Sucesso sempre! Deus te abençoe e sua família. Esperamos um show no Brasil ❤

[@maryloudelacruz8501]

I was his fan in the 90s with Take that .I lost track of the band not until lately and your interview gave me insights what happened in between those years of their band. Again thank you.

[@justinowusu8351]

Not one to leave comments. This was a Superb interview. I loved the spirit. Gary Barlow had me locked in. Kindness is often seen as weakness, to hear him talk on this was amazing. Wish him and his loved ones well

[@sergiomontesdeoca5955]

what a great interview! thanks, regards from Costa Rica

[@richarddawson8040]

Gary…… your not giving yourself enough credit. You are absolutely amazing. It’s really hard to get through those tough times and proper people appreciate what you did and what your doing. I tip my lid to you mate.

[@alievans7988]

Love Gary Barlow ❤

[@maragarnica580]

Gary is talented and handsome! Wow! Greetings from Brazil 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@flyoverfredusa]

brilliant and honest, High Performance just keeps getting better and better

[@khill6510]

Amazing interview! Thank you so much!!!

[@virginiaprivett630]

That was brilliant..Gary is such an inspirational musician…has bought me so many amazing musical memories in Take That and as a solo artist…absolutely fascinating musical journey…his recent solo theatre show was so moving and fantastic..Have been a big fan from the very beginning in the 1990s😊❤️🎶

[@susycrypto]

That was absolutely beautiful ❤ Thank s Gary and you guys rocked !!

[@danc1460]

Great interview and content. Gary’s openness about his journey is really relevant to people in all walks of life, not just music. Very grateful for the insight, thanks guys - and thanks Gary!

[@shereewidders]

Hi Gary l am a great fan of yours l would be honoured to meet you in person you are a great singer l am a abba fan as well l live in Australia nsw l have never been out of Australia at all ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@charlotteminshull6686]

Really enjoyed this great interview talk thanks guys

[@ArmyofLove]

Gary, This has been an incredible discussion. I overthink every thing and perfectionism is my prison officer. You're a lovely, lovely man. Peter

[@kushbansal8684]

"Christopher, how old are you? 34! How the hell have you kept that voice hidden till now?!!"

[@CarFinanceSimplified]

Love the bit about being nice. There is nothing simpler than being nice and also, to provide encouragement. It is so simple, but something which often is forgotten, especially by leaders and managers. I'll never forget something which I was told years ago - 'always catch your (staff) doing something RIGHT'.

[@2shotym]

A great interview! Gary is such a talent, and he seems like a really great person, too.

[@user-ek6xm6qs8e]

Great interview, probably the best one I have seen with Gary’s and I have seen many. Thank you, guys, for being to attentive and involved, he looks more candid and I would say vulnerable in a good sense, and it’s great cause only confident people can afford that.

[@wisdomforwellness5509]

What an inspiringly authentic convo.

[@hadynvarley4625]

He came across very humble, I have a new found respect and appreciation for Mr Barlow, also, weirdly, occasionally will listen to old Take That stuff, which I never really like when I was a kid. Maybe it reminds me of a time of my life as it was always on the radio

[@lynnyapphd6060]

Love Gary B, just T T, love the band

[@paulamurphy2385]

Absolutely brilliant show!

[@robertt4176]

Simply a beautiful man excellent interview well done guys

[@raymondlee1751]

This interview was fantastic and the one I was waiting for about his comeback and the struggles during the Robbie years. I have learned so much in this one interview than all the other ones about the split and reunion. He has overcome them all. But please, High Performance. Give the interviewee a better chair to sit on for +80 minutes!

[@johnferguson4869]

Just a note on confidence: it’s precarious because you may have done things in the past, but there’s a nagging feeling that you won’t be able to do it again, that something will be ever-so-slightly different, but different enough that you won’t be able to do that thing again. It’s why I think people have superstitions. I don’t really work in a creative capacity and I have a problem with confidence, that if I speak up and say something in a meeting, or suggest something that it will be the wrong thing. So I usually don’t speak up. I did have a couple of very confident years and then I got a new job and years later, doing something very similar to the job before I still don’t have near the confidence I had before.

[@repboy1]

Just great experience and wisdom, everyone knows the success but talking about the failures is so insightful and useful

[@JaneKellie-uh3mo]

So pleased for Gary Barlow . Finding his life & music again 🎶 gives him a professional personality boost 🎉😊 ..

[@simonwilliams4367]

An excellent interview.

[@aurelielopez851]

Great interview , great job .

[@nelisaortinero386]

im your number 1 fan sir gary im from Philippines, I'd really love your song take that back for good.. hope someday i will see you in person..💋♥️♥️♥️

[@user-gc3ef9gl7l]

Simply love his enthusiasm ❤ His one great artist.. Actually a legend ❤❤❤

[@emmawallace4719]

Well done mate keep it going mate keep up great progress and you are my favourite person and my husband we will always remember your support for your team mate good luck with your journey Gary Barlow is married to me

[@mtns7036]

Brilliant. Nice one garry. Bless you

[@user-zu3ip6tf9e]

Brilliant interview

[@nessah23]

Lovely guy,.❤

[@wendysharpe4568]

Incredible interview, incredible life, amazing human being ❤

[@carmenkloppers6334]

Really enjoyed this interview. I was a huge fan in my pre-teen and teen years and am still a huge TT and Robbie Williams fan

[@carollollol]

What a brilliant interview and story. I love how you listen and let someone speak. I wich more news /tv interviewers worked like that.

[@danielb.2460]

What a great authentic human! Learned so much from him 🙏🏻

[@Gerardjhughes]

Inspiration