Y’Know What, That’s Just F***ing Staggering.

Rick Astley just confirmed that he is indeed the legend he always was. Today I'm reacting to his performance of The Smith's "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out" with Blossoms at Glastobury this year. I'm in awe. What do you think?
Here is a link to Rick Astley and Blossoms performance at Glastonbury 2023: • Rick Astley with Bloss...
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[@RickAstleyYT]

Dear Justin You charming man! What a lovely reaction to Blossoms and my performance at Glastonbury. We play those songs with love and devotion and it’s such a lovely thing to have that recognised by a wonderful musician such as yourself. Blossoms are a ‘kick ass’ band and deserve such credit. I was in the audience at Hammersmith at the beginning of your career with The Darkness and also recognised a ‘kick ass’ band about to conquer the world. In particular I remember singing along with the words to ‘Get your hands of my woman’ and thinking, yes! For gods sake yes! Rock and roll lives ! All my love and thanks Rick Astley X

[@marksnowden3300]

Legendary performance sir, can’t stop watching it! Thank you 🙏

[@imythemoge]

Awh Rick you cutie!! ❤

[@sj6546]

Well deserved accolades. You always look like you are having the best time when I see you on stage, and that voice ❤

[@ElleEmm]

Absolutely stunning performance, to see the connection between you and the crowd, that electrifying energy, and to hear such incredible music transformed and revitalized... it's made my week. God, I wish I could've seen it live! Thank you!

[@Daibenswan]

Rick Astley and The Blossoms, the supergroup we didn't know we needed! Legendary performance and the highlight of the weekend!

[@RolfStones]

Not only the internet brought us the ramblings of Justin Hawkins, but also a second career for Rick Astley and he is killing it. He truly never gave us up. He didn't let us down. Nor desert us!

[@leandabee]

I see what you did there 😅👌

[@meadish]

He did run around... a little bit.

[@rbolwell]

@@leandabee Me too, but I wish he didn't! lol

[@leandabee]

@@rbolwell 😅

[@HeatherBodkin]

This was really a great “second act” for Rick Astley. Here is the states it still really popular to “Rick Roll” folks using a surprise pop-up meme featuring him singing “never going to give you up” and it so annoying to get “rickrolled” I have my voicemail set to rock roll my brother every time he calls me so yes, to see him come back and cover, no, blow away The Smiths is truly special! Great comeback and way to stop the “one trick pony” association with Rick (not to mention that glorious hair)!

[@Clocktoys]

The thing about the Smiths’ songs is that you need a particular kind of front man because it’s crooning, it’s showtime but also just the slightest touch of Coronation Street. Watching the set, you soon realise Rick is actually the perfect man for the job. A wonderful performance that will live long in the memory.

[@Novotny72]

best description of Morrissey ever lol "showtime but also just the slightest touch of Coronation Street"

[@jamesrobert4106]

​@Novotny72 You saved me writing the same. I think that comment is the best description of Morrissey and The Smiths I have ever seen.

[@jamesrobert4106]

The best comment I have read in a long time.

[@Yosser70]

You should be a music critic as thats the best description of Smiths music i’ve heard 👍🏻

[@jonsc193]

1960s Coronation Street....

[@Downhuman74]

His cover of Everlong is absolutely amazing. This is a career comeback done right. Became a joke meme -- leaned into it -- and then showed everyone the incredible talent that was always there. You just can't help but be inspired by this. Call me a fan.

[@Belvie]

It's not really a comeback. He actually voluntarily retired years ago so his daughter could grow up out of the spotlight and then returned to the scene when he turned 50 with his album "50".

[@rhyswilliams4893]

As he should .. I'm surprised it took so long. My son(6) saw him and said hahaha Rick roll.

[@peterjoslyn1]

Rick Astley performing Smiths songs was the best thing at Glastonbury 2023….is not a sentence I thought I’d ever write

[@pifflepockle]

He’s a nice man. I once fitted out his pallet with rocket boosters

[@patrickfarrell4751]

I am of a certain age that remembers The Smiths and Rick the 1st time around Never did I ever think this would be a combo that would not only work but completely fit like a dovetail joint Absolutely superb!

[@chrisww2308]

He was phenomenal but Queens Of The Stone Age we’re the best

[@willdrakes7445]

Slowdive’s set was amazing

[@barneypaws4883]

100% agree with you. Amazing performance

[@brendanashe5882]

He not only sang like a champ but he also played drums like animal from the muppets. Most of us would crap ourselves if we were to do Glastonbury for the first time in our 50’s. He shoots and scores. The audience were eating out of his hand

[@tonyloco42]

At that time in the 80's , i was never a Rick Astley fan, not my style of music, but you can't knock his talent, his voice has remained and he's just super-confident in his performance. Really impressive. It would be easy to laugh at this piece of 80's nostalgia, but he does what he does soooo well. The crowd loved him and huge respect to Rick!!

[@Plymouth888]

A Java style baritone

[@tonyloco42]

@@SteveTalisman As you say, each to their own. Not as depressing as Morrisey, but hey it was fun to most of the crowd there, perhaps they were wrong. Rick Astley has at least a vocal talent, if not a songwriter, in my humble opinion :)

[@tonyloco42]

By the way, dont break your phone, its just music :)

[@tonyloco42]

@@SteveTalisman I hear ya brother. I spose Justin heard what I heard thats all.

[@davidb5173]

​@@SteveTalismanyou are a massive music snob. I know exactly the type of person you are. Stop taking yourself so bloody seriously

[@MikeKiker]

I would love a Justin Hawkins/Rick Astley podcast. Both of you guys just having a conversation for 3 hours would be a fascinating listen.

[@johnrichardson5713]

Justin, if you're reading this, make it happen!!!!!!!!!!!

[@garretisla5282]

Yes!

[@richardharrold9736]

ABSOFUCKINGLUTELY!!! And get Elizabeth Zharoff to chair it...

[@freedompanda9438]

Make it happen. Dammit, Hawkins, make it fucking happen. Don’t run around and desert us on this one.

[@WorldInMyEyes1]

I'd watch that!!

[@LostLegendTrance]

One of the few sets I'm gutted I missed at Glastonbury this year. I saw his solo set on the Pyramid stage, which was surprisingly great (He played a cover of AC/DC's Highway to Hell, playing both drums and lead vocals!) Seems he's really enjoying himself these days just being a musician and artist with no care for what others think of him, which is great to see. Comes across as a really nice fella as well!

[@ReasonablyArsenal]

I'm not the biggest fan of Blossoms but as a Johnny Marr die hard that has spent years learning his songs i have to tip my hat to them.They've absolutely smashed this and the musicianship in the Smiths was next level.Absolute masters so to hear these guys nail it note for note was quite something.... fair play lads.

[@letswalkandwalk]

they were good but the guitar on heaven knows im miserable know was way off!!!

[@johncollins5552]

​@@letswalkandwalkYou may be right, however note that even Marr needed Craig Cannon an extra guitarist to help out playing rhythm of songs like that when playing live with the Smiths back in the day and Marr uses a load of specific guitars for each song.

[@jasonremy1627]

He also did "Highway to Hell" while playing drums. It's great

[@bridgetyoung190]

I've always had a tiny, tender place in my heart for RA -- because he has such a lovely voice and he *always* seems to genuinely enjoy being where he's at and what he's doing. This performance was no different. Such humble joy -- I'm smitten. 😂🤗

[@davidhurtado2725]

Who's RA?

[@lauraslade5308]

@@davidhurtado2725 rick astley

[@richardharrold9736]

​@@lauraslade5308it seems like such a waste that he disappeared into total obscurity for two decades only to be dragged back out of it by an internet meme. Why didn't 1990s Britain appreciate what a great singer and live performer he is?!

[@RhetoricalMuse]

Rick has become mostly known as the original internet meme, but he is also a genuinely talented man. Nice to see his skills showcased appropriately - mostly for our enjoyment lol

[@smileypeople5978]

Loved the Blossoms superb backing throughout, but Rick what a voice and what a gentleman. So great, so life affirming. Best thing ever

[@eunicedavies6045]

This is a really enjoyable reaction video of you reviewing a fellow artist. You encapsulated everything I felt watching RA at Glastonbury. It was a pure “ I can’t believe this is happening “ moment for him, he was so humble and thoroughly appreciative of the crowd. I too felt choked to watch him do himself proud. ❤👍💋

[@juliethorne8050]

That Astley lad is just bloody fabulous!! He hasn't lost his voice, his sense of humour, or his hair!! He's ace! Watched this on iplayer and was up dancing more than most others I watched that weekend. What a game and fun fella he is! Very cool. 😎 Thanks for the react, Justin! ❤

[@chrisp1355]

Rick's obvious love for music and the crowd is what makes his performances unique.

[@ZuzuTheLemon]

Aah, love a bit of Rick, he always looks like he's having a brilliant time. He really puts the effort into taking the audience along with him as well, proper old-school performer.

[@Dandiesonthinice]

It was certainly a scene stealer. Self depreciation, fun, quifftastic, warbling, and with a Smiths back catalogue that any songwriter would die for, Rick performed that with gusto. A shout out to your nod to Rick in your jacket too.

[@VAPIDISM]

It was the Blossoms he performed it with, I think Gusto were playing on the acoustic stage

[@Dandiesonthinice]

@@VAPIDISM boom tish.

[@flor9389]

He started life as a drummer. He’s so cool - a lovely bloke who is down to earth and loves rock music.

[@s12856]

Known for 2 cheesy hits in the 80s, and is an absolute superstar in 2023. What a guy.

[@GH02-o_o]

I saw the Smiths twice in the 80's and the RA/Blossoms set gave me goosebumps. His own set later on was just as good. I never thought I'd say I was a Rick Astley fan, but I definitely am now.

[@northwoodfalls1403]

A jolt of happy excitement and delight shot through my body the second you hit play on the performance. Hearing his voice, seeing him in his iconic choice of a suit, the crowds “whoop” of delight and the INSTANTANEOUS eruption of their united singing of the song ….. if we could bottle that feeling, we’d have arrived at Nirvana. I’m grinning like an idiot with such happiness for him. And for us as well. There’s just something endearing about the man. If we get to have a moment of actually appreciating his musical and vocal talent, what a perfect cherry on the top.

[@PaulMurphyMusic]

Rick Astley has such a fantastic voice. If he was a front man of a rock band he would have been regarded as one of the best front men of the last 40 years.

[@Harryhas26]

Just seems like a thoroughly decent humble bloke having the time of his life. Lovely stuff.

[@sophiaspilatesclub4184]

Rick was already a legend for me when he did an impromptu/ unrehearsed song while drunk with the Foo fighters in Tokyo!! His Glastonbury performance was THE highlight for me. Also while on top of his game, he was able to walk away from the “crazy” music industry back in the day…. LEGEND! Thanks Justin for this video!

[@DJChrisNeon]

I'm so glad somebody else mentioned the Foos Rick Rolling the crowd in Tokyo. That's not only one of my fave performances of anyone ever, but also my fave anecdotes behind it.

[@ourbackyarddownunder5041]

@@DJChrisNeon me too, absolutely awesome moment! I heard him talking about it and he hilariously apologised to fans in advance if they were yet to see it as he was so damn stoked that he swore a fair bit 😂 It's the Foos, he got a "motherfucker" in there before he even sang lol.

[@deborahcarson8310]

It would be great to get him on for the podcast. Loved all his Glasto stuff this year. Talent and fun..a great mix.

[@CarlosTilbury]

Rick Astley blew the doors off Glastonbury! Legend indeed!

[@barrypos55]

Rick has a beckon awesome voice....and comes over as a top lad! You are right , he's opened up The Smith to a new generation who would have missed out!

[@MatthewGill-nv4tb]

What?

[@667neighbourofthebeast]

​@@MatthewGill-nv4tbWhat, 'What?'?

[@MatthewGill-nv4tb]

@@667neighbourofthebeast the beckon awesome voice top lad stuff....

[@MatthewGill-nv4tb]

Wtf language are you speaking... I'm waiting for a long speech on something now

[@SteveTalisman]

@@MatthewGill-nv4tb The beckon awesome voice has opened up The Smith to some people like him who had never heard of The Smith before they heard Astley's beckon awesome voice, you fool.

[@botchick]

I could probably write a 3,000 word think-piece on this astonishing set, but in short, it frankly strikes me as a patriotic act. For Britons, for music lovers, for a catalog that has been hammered around by miserable old men Morrissey and Marr, who don't seem to even grasp the gravity of what they created together. When Astley sings it straight through despite the volume of the crowd, it's because he's there singing as a fan himself! These are the moments that temporarily wipe out the stupid drudgery of life and elevate us out of pain. The proof? Almost no cell phones. Virtually none. No fan videos online. Everyone is fully present and flying together, totally consumed. I don't know what Morrissey and Marr might do in reaction, but for the record, I would fly literally anywhere to see one of these performances, and I'm even willing to pay an overage/tax to satisfy creaky old man wallets. Vive la résistance.

[@highdownmartin]

The phones not being aloft sez it all. Spot on comment. Great

[@gohumberto]

Great point about the lack of phones. If you're viewing your life through a phone screen then you are simply not viewing life.

[@metalbearuk]

I read somewhere that Johnny Marr doesn't approve of the Rick Astley /Blossoms pairing, but how true that is, I don't know.

[@rich_devoto]

Marvellous comment. I was going to write something similar myself (😅) but you've done it for me.

[@sarahmills-tb5ey]

Loved The Smiths since the 80's, and now I love Rick Astley for doing such an amazing job 👏

[@lisabell736]

This set was one of the Glasto highlights. Absolutely fantastic. What a bloke. Great show ❤

[@chris-cole]

Shout out to the Blossoms too!!!! As Justin says, they played it note for note and as wonderfully as you want to hear it! Watching this so many times!!!

[@gamingflixx]

One of the all time great Glastonbury performances.

[@jonbingham7525]

The whole set was entirely Smiths songs, i was there it was awesome!!

[@jamesmurphy1167]

I was also going to post the same, quality set list with classic after classic

[@davidpalay361]

Rick is LEGIT great. His last few albums are wonderful.

[@clairew137]

I watched it live on Iplayer. I don't know all of The Smith's songs. Totally agree with you, people have expectations of what Rick will do based on his pop past but he surprises everyone. Thought he was amazing. I'm so glad you reviewed this. I would love you to do one of your long form interviews with Rick. He knows a lot about music.

[@ThornyLittleFlower]

I have been a Smiths fan since the very beginning. Rick was Amazing! It's as tho us smithies have been stranded on a dusty dry vulcan desert for decades, then a beautiful oasis that is Rick Astley appeared before us quenching our thirst and we drank in every last drop!! Thankyou! ❤

[@jonahart777]

This was the highlight of the weekend, as a rampant Smiths fan I heartily approve....Fantastic from Rick and the Blossoms...

[@eoinhanley4185]

Such beautiful positive vibes watching this performance !! !

[@charliekane135]

I love The Smiths and I now want to watch this whole performance. Great review 👍👍

[@davek7256]

Honestly it’s one of the best sets I’ve seen at Glastonbury, both Rick and Blossoms absolutely nailed it. Blossoms really are worth checking out btw.

[@ChristopherCaldwell72]

One of your most enjoyable reviews to date. Brief, to the point and absolutely ON POINT! This was the first time in a long time watching where I was in conversation with my screen laughing, agreeing and replying to you like a mad man. Thanks Justin. I salute you

[@shelle100100]

Rick and Blossoms’ performance without a doubt was one of the most surreal, unexpected and amazing parts of 2023 so far (and I think will be hard to beat). And Justin’s reaction made me grin because it was so like my own. I just sat there for close to an hour with a dazed expression and a big smile, and the odd tear, swearing occasionally. Just breathtaking!

[@christineobrien3565]

Ah we need a Rick Astley podcast chat!

[@kbusby4824]

Second that!!

[@ZuzuTheLemon]

Hell yes! 😂

[@louleavy686]

Yes please!

[@witch_haunts_ghost]

Rick Astley is such a legend! I loved his song when I was a kid, BUT I love him so much more now. He seems like a genuinely excellent person. AND I watched his "what's in your bag" episode on here and he has the BEST taste in music. Bauhaus being one of his record choices. I'm so glad you covered this, Justin! He is worth our time and he is worth the accolades he rightly deserves. Let's listen to The Smiths!

[@ellenmeilee]

Seen many a Smiths tribute band but Blossoms nailed every part of every tune. It was delightful. And as for Sir Rick of Astley… my jaw dropped, had no idea what was coming, was completely blown away. The Smiths… stratospheric, but this was IMMENSE.

[@nickjh1968]

Heard a radio interview with Rick a while ago, and he came across as a really nice guy, not at all egotistical and just very genuine.

[@jezza8558]

I've always liked Rick, he's a down to earth Northern fella who is just making the most of/enjoying his life. He played drums, rocked out, did a killer solo set and to top it off he and the Blossoms pulled off an amazing Smiths set. I know the die hard Smiths fans probably hated it but honestly he probably exposed a whole new generation to the Smiths and did every song justice. Its a win win for everyone in my opinion! Thanks for showing your opinions Justin, I was looking forward to them!

[@johnlucas2317]

I think most Smiths fans recognize Rick as one of their own. Even Morrissey gave him props.

[@JulieAiken]

Fantastic! Thanks for featuring that -- I never would have known about that awesome performance otherwise. Perfect!

[@bellaD7]

He also played drums whilst belting out AC/DC’s Highway to Hell on his own set. Brilliant.

[@danielhartwig3150]

I saw the video yesterday and was brought to years. Amazing performance of one of the best songs ever written. And the crowd - omg. Loved the linked-in comment - i feel the same 😊

[@davidh.8798]

90%+ of the people in that tent weren't even born when this song was released, and yet it so clearly speaks to them. Amazing how classic music perpetuates itself like this, somehow, era after era. How do these kids know this song, and no doubt the entire Smiths' catalogue? Dunno, but I love it, and long may it continue.

[@daviebananas1735]

Whisper it, I don’t want everyone else knowing, but we have this thing called……recorded music. It means people can listen to music without being in the room when it’s being played. I predict it’ll be huge one day.

[@him050]

It’s amazing what a bit of sincerity can do. I think there was a collective eye roll when people heard he was playing, but oh my god how he stole the show!

[@denisdowling3971]

Rick Astley is a good lad. Fantastic voice, loves his music and aleays gives his best. Glad to see him finally getting a bit more ' cred' than has been given to him in the past.

[@jhocktro]

Having seen Rick Astley live 3 times he is the consummate entertainer. His voice has got better with age. A Justin and Rick duet needs to happen!

[@jonblackburn7634]

Watched it live in Woodsies, it was incredible. This was the WHOLE of Blossoms' set. They did an hour of Smiths tracks. How Soon Is Now made me cry.

[@crowolfe290]

Rick Astley has an amazing, low, full voice. I think the humor surrounding his big hit was that he looked like a young boy with a giant voice. This is phenomenal.

[@johnlucas2317]

He looked like Tintin and sounded like Peabo Bryson.

[@mrfox8256]

I've seen Blossoms live three times, they're tremendous and worth every penny. What a performance from both Rick and Blossoms!

[@elevndv]

My first Glasto and I was there for that incredible performance. Rick Astley is an absolute legend and now part of possibly the greatest tribute act?! Justin you are just brilliant! A charming man yourself. Can't wait to see you on the Permission to Land 20 tour!

[@denimator5651]

I am a massive smiths fan and I was at glasto this year (and have been for 13 years), I’m SOOOO gutted I missed this performance because I know it would have been my favourite ever. I know that Michael Eavis (the Glastonbury organiser) is also a massive smiths fan so hopefully Rick and Blossoms will be back next year 🙏. We need more of this

[@jubear1493]

Right!!! I'd come again next year if they did!

[@raydecampos7327]

Cracking’ me up in the States! Ty! Digging your channel the mostest!!!!

[@samanthafenoulhet2271]

He was definitely the best thing about Glasto this year - his own set also awesome esp him on drums and singing Highway to Hell. Love him!

[@taffboyslim]

I felt like you did when I watched it. I was 18 when the Smiths were in their prime and 21 when Rick Astley came on the scene. I loved the Smiths (still do) and found that if you danced to Rick Astley you could dance with some lovely girls. Like you, I was close to tears hearing these songs getting the appreciation they deserve.

[@SkipTwo]

Thank you so much for covering this performance!!!

[@jamesmurphy1167]

I was at Glastonbury for this set, definitely my highlight!

[@phoenixgirl70]

Wow he was amazing and so were the Blossoms backing! I love when people do things that people don’t expect. The Smiths are legends in my eyes and they did a fantastic job!

[@alanflint7732]

Rick swinging the mic around his head was so rock and roll. Love it.

[@ben_jam]

I was at the gig and it was incredible, not only did Rick get the Morrissey quirks spot on, you're right Blossoms absolutely nailed it. The Smiths are extremely difficult to cover due the fine musicianship of the original band, Rourke and Joyce came from funk and soul bands and had that deftness of touch that almost made them a bit groovy, on top of that Marr's melodies and superb guitar playing gave them that 'sound' and lastly the crooning of Mozza made it all completely original. Put simply, not only did Rick and Blossoms elevate themselves they did one of the UK's finest bands justice and have put The Smiths rightly back into the limelight (or did they ever really leave it ?) !!

[@steviemick8074]

I couldn't agree more. On all your points

[@ben_jam]

@@steviemick8074 👍

[@jimmyinreallife]

Justin just wanted to say that watching your KZbin videos has given me alot of joy! And believe it or not, has inspired me to pick up the old stringed shovel once again! You rock!

[@waygonner]

I can’t believe the timing of this. I was literally watching Rick with the Foo Fighters at Tokyo moments before this popped up in my feed. Rick Astley has become the king of epic guesting!

[@rabbitisrich]

The Smiths have an extraordinary back catalogue and watching the whole set on BBC iplayer brought a tear to my eye. I hope this introduces a new generation to a band who, although critically lauded, were never as big as they ought to have been. We are talking The Beatles level of song writing, with incredibly pure melodies.

[@richardJWAKEFIELD]

Says a lot about he two of you as respectful members of the human race that you appreciate how good a performer Rick is and that Rick thanks your for expressing this honesty. Keep on rocking the pair of you !

[@philliplsmith]

I am crying. Thank you for sharing!

[@jenniferpennoyer3753]

I have always loved Rick Ashley since I was a little 13 year old! I think he is so underrated. I’ll also add I have loved seeing all the performances on Glastonbury on KZbin. When I watched this one, OMG!!! I swear I have watched like 7 times. I can’t get enough of it. You are also correct about returning to the Smiths catalogue. I did that immediately the next day. On top of looking for where I can stream “500 Days of Summer!” 🤣🤣 In all seriousness, these are great songs that I personally have not listened to in a very long time. It’s nice to be able to revisit them!

[@deborahhumble6018]

RA was by far one of the best performers from this years Glastonbury that I watched on iplayer; he was a breath of fresh air. He just went out there and showed us how it should be done. What a brilliant performer

[@thelivingcarrotmusic]

well this is funny, I was going to comment a few days ago asking for a video on Rick Astley. cheers Justin, nice one

[@ditavee]

So happy Rick’s being rediscovered, always loved this guy.

[@dominey]

This feels like a communal celebration of The Smiths and their music. Everyone is in it together. Please tour the United States!

[@Zakkrifice]

Rick Astley for..... the PodCAST!!

[@peterprice5896]

Cheers for that Justin that was beyond cool ❤️

[@dougm24]

Thanks Justin! Great reaction, great performance, and a great song to revisit!

[@LindaSmith-xo8qb]

Just love Rick Astley!

[@victorshapona3909]

Well damn! I suppose there is only one thing to do...become a fan! Awesome performance!

[@DandyT1990]

I don't know any Smiths songs, but love Rick in his own right... Fantastic performer who is often overlooked by many

[@debbiecollier4665]

Rick Astley smashed Glastonbury, brilliantly entertaining & just pure joy 🥰

[@markweaver8529]

He made that tune his own,and that’s saying something from such an anthem,blossoms played it perfectly,Rick took it to another level. Kudos to Rick astley. Glasto looked amazing this year,the crowd were right up for this festival and gave the bands such a great reception (from what I saw on tv😂).

[@quietowl1246]

Rick is a legend. He is a born entertainer and he comes across as a sterling bloke. I’m a massive fan ❤

[@PsychoGallagher]

I saw the "There's a light..." video by Rick yesterday and was absolutely blown by the audience. They were soo loud and enthusiastic! Fantastic! Rick Astley and Blossom did a top-notch 1:1 cover version - really, really great!

[@TheSpanielXD]

I was in the crowd when they played a full setlist together in London in 2021 - it was one of the best nights ever! You can tell they all adore the source material.

[@mcal27]

One of my clients works with Rick on Charity events for a Cancer Charity. He really is a lovely and genuine guy from all I’ve seen… amazing how well he survived the PWL machine..

[@AussieMaskedOwl]

He sang 'Never Gonna Give You Up' with Choir! Choir! Choir! in Canada after they invited him (when he was visiting the country). The choir seemed to adore it. Such a legend.

[@Slupel]

And on top of all that he really enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity. Fab voice.

[@andrejasinkovec5070]

Referring to your speach about his playing on drums... As far as I know Rick taught himself playing drums by himself as well as other instruments (keyboard/piano, guitar...). He said in one interview that a friend just showed him a few chords. And drums... one day he has just walked into a school room, picked sticks and start playing and from that moment he was unseparatable from them. He was a drumer in a band he had and also one day they were left without singer so he just picked a microphone and started singing - a song he wrote. All band than realised he has had a greate voice so he became frontman as well.. And years later at the age 50 celebrating his birthday, he made the whole album by himself... wrote lyrics and music, played all instruments, sanged and produced it. And I tell you that are very very good... briliant songs! He is just great!

[@robquince3076]

In the 80s Rick was one of those acts you never admitted to liking but really you did😊 his drumming is awesome something i never knew he could do he's a top man 👏👏👏

[@DougScottYoung]

I was there Justin and it was fucking awesome 🤘🏼

[@benjhannah]

It was a full set of Smiths covers they did. Two of the best moments of GLASTONBURY this year was watching Rick Astley owning the Pyramid and Woodsies and having the absolute time of his life! Was infectious.

[@chris-cole]

Unequivocally agree with you Mr Hawkins!!! Rick nailed his solo set, this is the first I've heard of this Smiths stuff with the Blossoms!!! Holy fucking shit it's MEGA!!!!!! Kudos to that geezer!!!

[@clangerism]

The Smiths are my desert island band. I saw them on the Queen is Dead tour in '86 ( the two guitar line up ). I've seen footage of Morrissey playing these songs ( Sung well but with a dull backing band ) and footage of Johnny Marr playing them ( the less said about that the better ) and, as much as it surprises me to say it, this is absolutely brilliant. The musical backing is really faithful to the originals and Rick Astleys love of the songs is undeniable. I very much doubt that, even a reformed Smiths ( obviously minus Andy Rourke R.I.P ) could match this, what with the formers increasingly dodgy political rhetoric and the latters mis-judged hair dye and ludicrous rock star posturing. Absolutely Joyous.

[@aquablushgirl]

We went to see Blossoms at Brixton Academy in December and who should pop up on stage as special guests but Miles Kane, Melanie C and Rick Astley! Rick came on to perform about four Smith songs and it was flipping brillliant. So when I saw that Blossoms and Rick were doing a secret Glastonbury set, I knew what was up. They have a really good rapport and obviously all love the music very much hence why they get together to perform them. It is so much fun to watch. I absolutely adore Blossoms and Rick seems very lovely too.