Singer Colin Hay on how his family home inspired him

The singer, best known from Men At Work, is happiest in his home basement studio.

 What is your strongest memory of your childhood home?

We lived behind and above the music shop that my parents owned in south-west Scotland. Sometimes my father and I would play records after hours. That’s a strong memory, that, and the smell of French polish, used on the pianos.

What do you recall about buying your first home?

The first property my girlfriend and I bought, in the late 1970s, was 55 acres of bush in Bermagui (on the south coast of NSW). We built a small cabin, where three of the stumps were still living trees. If it’s still there, it’s probably a treehouse by now.

Have you ever house-shared with flatmates?

Yes. I have amazing memories of all kinds of shenanigans during that time, for the better part of the ’70s. I met very important people in my life, who are still important. Much music was played, with spontaneous meals with whatever was in the fridge, like pumpkin and walnut salad (thanks Pat).

Can you share any tips for organising your home?

Yes, you need much less than you think you do. Don’t skimp on the important things, like where you sit and where you sleep. Just because you have a nice room, doesn’t mean you have to fill it with crap.

Do you have a favourite room?

I have a studio in the basement. When I’m in that room, I am happy, with occasional, fleeting moments of euphoria.

What is the worst piece of furniture or household item you have bought?

I’m looking around the room, at the furniture I bought 26 years ago, for the house I still live in. And I still love it. It’s held up well.

What’s the best household item you own (and why)?

My pressure cooker. It’s fast and completely awesome.

Do you enjoy gardening?

I want to say yes because I like gardens very much but I’m on tour a lot, so don’t have a lot of time to run my hands through the dirt. I walk through the garden to get to the studio, and I often stop, and sit for a while, in wonder at my good fortune.

If you could live in a dream house, anywhere in the world, where would it be?

The one I have will do me. If I had to find somewhere else, probably northern California, on a hill, looking at the sea. Mind you, Jervis Bay is deluxe also. As is the north-west of Scotland, if you like rain that comes down in sheets and freezing cold. But aaaah, when the sun comes out, heaven on earth.

Colin Hay‘s new album Fierce Mercy is out now. Hay will tour this January and February on his Fierce Mercy tour.