Dave Hill, the iconic guitarist of Slade, recently opened up about his remarkable journey in music, from the early days of the band to his debut solo album, Dirty Foot Lane. Speaking from his home studio in Wolverhampton, Hill shared insights into his past, his creative process, and the emotional themes that shape his new work.
At 80 years old, Hill is still brimming with enthusiasm, proudly showcasing a special guitar that has been part of every major Slade hit. He explained that while he had not focused on songwriting during his time with Slade, he felt encouraged by bandmate Noddy Holder to explore his own musical voice. Hill’s new album is described as deeply personal, reflecting on his childhood and family experiences, as well as his struggles with mental health.
One of the standout aspects of Dirty Foot Lane is its collaboration with Django Holder, Noddy’s son. Hill sought out Django for his talent and sensitivity, particularly for songs that delve into poignant memories of his mother. Hill’s recollections of her, a war cabinet minister’s secretary who battled depression, add a layer of depth to the album’s narrative.
Reflecting on the chemistry that formed the original Slade lineup, Hill recalled the excitement of their early rehearsals, where it felt as if they had been playing together for years. He expressed gratitude for the fans who supported them throughout the 1970s, noting that their classic song, Thanks For The Good Times, serves as a tribute to that era.
Hill also shared a fascinating anecdote about Kiss, revealing that Gene Simmons credited Slade’s performance as a key inspiration for the band’s formation. He recounted a memorable moment when he fell on stage, which Simmons found captivating. Hill’s influence extended beyond Kiss, with many rock legends, including Kurt Cobain and Aerosmith, acknowledging Slade’s impact on their music.
As he continues to create, Hill remains passionate about performing and storytelling. He plans to collaborate with Django on more albums, highlighting his enduring love for music and the connections it fosters. With Dirty Foot Lane now available, Dave Hill proves that age is just a number when it comes to creativity and inspiration.
