In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Roland Gift — the iconic voice of Fine Young Cannibals and one of the most instantly recognisable singers in British music.
With era-defining hits like “She Drives Me Crazy,” “Good Thing,” “Johnny Come Home,” and their electrifying version of “Ever Fallen In Love,” Fine Young Cannibals became global chart-toppers — selling over five million records and earning two BRIT Awards, an Ivor Novello, and three Grammy nominations. Their sharp, soulful sound continues to influence generations.
Roland returns with two major releases — FYC40, a definitive 40-year anthology, and his brand-new festive single “Everybody Knows It’s Christmas”, showcasing that unmistakable voice in glorious form.
Roland looks back on the band’s beginnings, the explosive success of The Raw & The Cooked, and how his Otis Redding-inspired delivery fused with David Steele and Andy Cox’s songwriting to create something completely unique. He also reflects on Fine Young Cannibals’ continued cultural impact — including “She Drives Me Crazy” becoming the musical centrepiece of the 2025 Chanel campaign starring Dua Lipa and Jennie from BLACKPINK.
We also talk about Roland’s return to performing — touring with Jools Holland, shining at the 2022 Hootenanny, and his triumphant 40 Years of Songs tour, which launched with a sold-out London Palladium show.
And we dive into “Everybody Knows It’s Christmas” — a glam-rock, wall-of-sound celebration co-written with Ben Barson, full of warmth, nostalgia, and classic Roland soul.
“Record company weren’t impressed with ‘She Drives Me Crazy.’ They thought it was just a line from a Queen song.” – Roland Gift
Listen to Roland Gift discuss 40 years of Fine Young Cannibals, the making of FYC40, and the joy behind his new Christmas single — exclusively on the XS Noize Podcast.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
“Everybody Knows It’s Christmas” – Listen & shop signed vinyl/CD: https://rolandgift.lnk.to/Christmas
“The split was acrimonious and not very nice… but we made something good. I’m proud of that.” – Roland Gift
Roland Gift – Tour Dates
May 2026 – Added Dates
1st – Bournemouth, Pavilion
2nd – Manchester, Bridgewater Hall
8th – Liverpool, Philharmonic
15th – Leicester, De Montfort Hall
23rd – Bristol, Beacon
29th – Glasgow, Royal Concert Hall
About The XS Noize Podcast
With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, and Michael Head — among many more.
Explore the complete XS Noize Podcast archive here
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