Bryan Ferry’s Musical Journey: A Retrospective

As Bryan Ferry curated tracks for his latest boxed set, “Retrospective: Selected Recordings 1973-2023,” he discovered a poignant and recurring theme within his vast discography. This collection serves as a comprehensive overview of his illustrious solo career, distinct from his time with Roxy Music, the groundbreaking British art-rock ensemble he famously fronted. Speaking via video from his London recording studio, Ferry reflected on his body of work, noting, “There’s a lot of love songs, a lot of romantic songs.”

However, Ferry’s approach to love songs often veers into the territory of melancholy and unfulfilled desire. In his narratives, the boy often yearns for the girl, grappling with a sense of longing that renders him unable to move on. With a hint of humor, he mused, “But those are always the best love songs, aren’t they?” He elaborated, “I do like music that’s introspective, and a bit on the sad side.”

The boxed set opens with tracks from “These Foolish Things”, released in 1973, where Ferry boldly reinterpreted a diverse range of songs. This included intricate covers of Bob Dylan’s elaborate metaphorical compositions and the nostalgic teen heartbreak anthem, “It’s My Party” by Lesley Gore. Having studied at art school alongside the influential British Pop Art innovator Richard Hamilton, Ferry absorbed the belief that there should be no hierarchical distinction between high and low culture—a philosophy that continues to resonate throughout his artistic endeavors.

This past month, Ferry celebrated his 79th birthday, with plans for a new album set to release next year. However, he hinted that extensive touring might be behind him, remarking, “As you get older, the travel is a bit tiring.” Raised in a working-class family on the outskirts of Newcastle, where his father worked with horses in the coal mines, Ferry’s rise to fame with Roxy Music in the 1970s opened the doors to a world of luxury and sophistication that he came to embrace.

In a recent conversation, he shared a list of 10 essential inspirations that beautifully intertwine urban and rural elements, modern and traditional influences, all viewed through a lens of glamour and drama. Here are some edited excerpts from that enlightening discussion:

• His Own Recording Studio

  “I’ve worked in a lot of studios, and it’s a joy to finally have this place. Prince once used this studio for an album he recorded with a girl band, ‘Plectrumelectrum,’ and they were truly exceptional. I like to think some of their magic might’ve rubbed off on me.”

• His Garden

  “On weekends, I escape the hustle of London and retreat to the countryside for some fresh air. Being a musician can sometimes feel confining, with days spent indoors, so it’s refreshing to find solace in nature. My garden boasts a stunning apple orchard, and during this time of year, the fruit is ripening, ready to be harvested.”