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Frank Turner: from punk rocker to self-taught troubadour
By David Cohen 28.10.09
Former angry young man: Frank Turner
On stage: Turner is permanently on tour
He makes an unlikely punk rocker. Frank Turner was brought up in a manor house set among rolling hills outside Winchester before being sent to Eton where he was educated, on a scholarship, alongside Prince William.
His father, Roger Turner, is the son of Sir Mark Turner, formerly chairman of high street retailer Bhs, and had himself also attended Eton before becoming a City investment banker, while his mother, Jane, the daughter of a bishop, is a respected primary school headmistress.
Yet the punk-turned-solo-artist, who tomorrow night plays a sold-out Shepherd's Bush Empire and was eulogised on Radio 1 as "one of the best singer-songwriters of our generation", recounts how he was "despised" at Eton as if it were a badge of honour.
He recalls how his classmates - including the "rather dull" Prince and "pathetic" types who are now members of David Cameron's backroom team - booed him off the stage when his punk band played at the school assembly.
"The guitarist wore a dress and made a horrible grinding noise and I stripped to the waist and shouted and spat all over the front row," he laughs.
"We wanted them to hate us, which they did, so it worked. For me, getting into punk rock as a teenager was a "f*** you" to Eton, to the Establishment and to the posh, pillar-of-society, do-the-right-thing world my parents stood for."
In leafy Hampshire his parents' 35-year marriage was regarded as a model by the respectable community in which they mixed.
But four years ago this veneer was shattered when Frank, now 27, discovered that his father was not the upright family man he had thought he was and that almost everything he knew about him was a lie.
"It came out that ever since I was about eight years old my dad had been living a double life."
He pauses. "I have to pick my words carefully because I don't want to upset my mother, but one day she sort of rumbled him and it became clear that he'd been having a long-standing sexual relationship with another partner that my mother and I and my two sisters knew nothing about.
"For most of my life, I'd had a father who had been lying through his teeth. I felt angry and let down. None of us could even look at him.
"What made it all the more shocking is that my father was so traditional and appeared to venerate marriage.
"I was a straight-A student and he expected me to follow him into the City or become a lawyer.
"He was highly conformist and held himself up as a model of conscientiousness, leaving home at 7am and often working so late that he stayed overnight in London, but now we know it was all a ruse so he could be with his lover instead of us."
Speaking in a Putney café ahead of his UK tour - his gigs in Manchester, Leeds, Oxford, Cambridge, Winchester and Bristol have all been sold out, too - Frank talks for the first time about his father's double life and the profound impact it had on him.
The fans who stayed loyal after he jettisoned his punk-rock credentials for a solo career as a folk-rocker have no idea that the 2005 break-up of his band Million Dead coincided, as he puts it, "with beautiful horrible synchronicity" with the discovery of his father's infidelity.
But it does raise an ironic question: what happens when an angry punk-rocker finds that the respectable family life he has been raging against is not so conventional after all?
"To be duped by my own father was traumatic, because although I'd been rebelling against what he stood for, it gave me the freedom and security to be who I was. So not only did I have to re-evaluate him, but also my whole childhood. And the only way I could do that was to hit the road.
"My never-ending tour of everywhere and nowhere began in October 2005. And it hasn't stopped since."
In the past two months he's toured America, Canada, Jersey and Germany, as well as recording his third solo album, Poetry of the Deed, which entered the Top 40 when it was released last month.
"I've done more than 700 solo gigs all over the world," he continues, stretching out his lanky frame.
"I set out four years ago like a regular Woody Guthrie with just my rucksack and a guitar, wanting to put my father and his lies as far behind me as possible."
It's a freewheeling lifestyle that he has grown to love and which he eulogises in his latest single, The Road, currently enjoying airtime on Radio 1.
So what has the self-taught troubadour - who takes his musical inspiration from Billy Bragg and Bob Dylan - learned on his travels?
"For a year I was out of it on drink and drugs," he says. "I went through a phase where the recreational part of doing drugs became a little less recreational and, for a while, life was pretty grim: no food, no money, playing small gigs to people who were totally out of it.
"Then one day I had an epiphany: I no longer wanted to be the Left-wing anarchist who got his kicks from throwing bricks at the police. I realised: nobody cares. Because essentially, politics is all about pragmatics.
"I went from trying to emulate George Orwell to Ernest Hemingway: I no longer wanted to change the world, just experience it."
In 2007 his first solo album, Sleep is for the Week, was released to critical acclaim and became a cult hit, particularly with students. On it, he signalled his political shift with songs like Once We Were Anarchists, and in another, Father's Day, he alluded to his dad's philandering for the first time.
"What's the point in making vows that you're never going to keep?" he sang. "Yes, you've let me down, you've f***ed around, but I guess you were having fun."
So four years, three albums and 700 gigs after realising the truth about his father, is he finally ready to forgive and forget?
He looks away. Drums his fingers on the table. "For a while I was furious with the way he deprived me of a father who everyone said had a brilliant sense of humour.
"But there comes a moment in everybody's life when you give up your hurt and understand your parents as flawed people. I'm getting there.
"I see my dad every now and again, though it would be nice if he stopped seeing my music as a temporary phase.
"He's never come to one of my gigs, never, to my knowledge, bought one of my CDs, whereas my mum, who also once disapproved of my music, now marches into HMV in Winchester, proudly buys the CD and tells the cashier, 'See that - this is my son'."
Ironically his views on marriage have shifted, too - "When my parents were seemingly happily married I perversely believed marriage was an evil institution, but since they split up, I see it as something to treasure" - though his change of heart may, he admits, have more to do with Isabel, 27, an events organiser, who he's been dating "between gigs" for the past 18 months.
Frank has been lauded as a gifted songwriter - songs "just arrive and form themselves off scraps of paper," he says. Does he write for a specific audience? "For myself," he says.
"Although when I write, I go into a room inside my head. It used to be a small bar with 50 people, now it's a club with 1,000 people." In 2007 he was shortlisted for the XFM New Music award alongside Kate Nash but mainstream chart success still eludes him.
Is that his aim? "Yeah, absolutely, I'd love to break into the Top 10, but live performances are what I live for, and being sold out at the Shepherd's Bush Empire seven weeks in advance shows that I'm getting there."
Does he feel more at home as a folk-rocking hobo than he did as a punk? "Punk rock is like Catholicism," he says.
"If it's your first musical experience, you'll never escape it. It comes with an ethos attached, a mixture of f*** you and self-reliance. And I'm still into that.
"It's just that these days I'm into delivering my lines so that people can actually hear what I'm saying. And I no longer feel the need to spit on my audience."
He rolls his eyes. "Even if some of them are the same Old Etonians who now insist they always 'loved' my music."
Frank Turner plays the Shepherd's Bush Empire tomorrow night. Tickets are sold out. His third album, Poetry of the Deed, is out now.
Reader views (32)
Frank has previouisly let it be known that he only he went to Eton on scholarship because his parents could never have afforded to send himthere. A discrepancy here? That said, a great performer and thoroughly nice chap.
- Hmm, The south....
A privileged start in life neither guarantees happiness or talent (though depending how it is used can certainly help).
Frank Turner wherever he has emerged from (and now this is well documented) is a bona fide star.
A brilliant, witty and perceptive lyricist with a penchant for dry asides. His video's, live performances and ability to sell out concerts before you can say , well "sell out concert's" is amazing.
Turner is on his way to being a National treasure Eton or no Eton !
- Magicbrian, Preston,UK
Absolutely brilliant arcticle, very personal. An excellent musician, whilst he may not be particularly original in his solo career his lyrics and commentry on modern society are unrivalled by any other artist. His singing voice is actually very accomplished, he can reach extremely high noted whilst still achieving a brilliant tone, and the subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) rawness that he brings out is breathtaking. If you want to see some of his variety check out Million Dead, a rather different lyrical style - much more wordy, angry and perhaps more invigorating - but his solo output is brilliant. Not many can match the emotion that he puts in both on record and live - saw him in Cambridge Friday and it was an excellent performance, no special effects just him playing his heart out.
If anyone judges a musical artists worth based on their upbringing then they don't deserve to listen to music.
- Sam, Norwich, UK
O.k. Pete, let's put it this way. Have singer songwriters today become so Blairised and morphed into his mantra of "were all middle class now" that they are too meek to grasp the wealth of material that lies in what's going on around them? It seems so.
Or is it the fears that Turner talks of in another interview, of either being marginalised by the music industry or turned into a T-shirt selling machine. Or, his opting out on the grounds that it would be presumptious of him to expand other people's minds through his songs. In other words, he wants to play it safe in order to become mainstream. Yet, these times are ripe for a singer/songwriter to reflect the mood of the country and have an impact.
Maybe he's got a lot of comfort to lose and the required singer/songwriter will have to come from those with nothing to lose.
- Janet, London, UK
Tonight is the night! The sixth FT gig of the week, and sadly, the final one. Why did I come all the way over here to do *this*? Because every night is unique. The crowd is different, the band members may be feeling better or worse, the sound changes. But what doesn't change is that Frank Turner gives 120% each and every night. He's a man who clearly loves his job and appreciates the effort that people make to come out and see him. He knows he's got the best job in the world and he's really good at it. What do I love most about him/his music? His big brain. He's *really* smart.
- Katt, Arlington, VA - USA
Janet,
Being that you are such a voice of the people, speaking for all Londoners, all fans of singer songwriters and all that is original, I was hoping you could point us in the direction of your masterpiece... Wait... What's that now?
- Pete, London
In music, why does it matter where we come from, if we end up in the same place and unite others whilst doing so?Agreed, our histories can influence our song-writing, but why should one artists history be judged less valid than another?
As for 'Your cause being a personal emotional reaction', it didn't stop Picasso's 'Guernica' being hung in galleries and people travelling to see it. Not that i'm trying to compare FT to Picasso, but hopefully you get my meaning.
Do we really reserve our judgement on music until we have learnt the life-story of the artist? Or do we hear something and engage with it?
We all have choices in life, and sometimes our circumstances can guide us towards certain ones. But surely, if those choices result in people coming together positively, (as anyone at Frank's gigs would most likely attest) then that should be celebrated?
- Laura, South West
A lot of people are asking why isn't there someone around today who reflects the spirit of the times in the way that Guthrie and Dylan did? No one is doing that.
O.k. Frank Turner's music is good student bar type stuff but nothing exceptional and no different than a lot of singers endlessly gigging around the country. He just doesn't stand out enough nor is original enough to connect with a wider audience and make a real difference. He's stuck in one style.
Break out of that, start being really original, then I might get interested.
- Janet, London, UK
It's good to see a fairly in-depth piece on Frank Turner in mainstream media, I really enjoy his music, and a friend of mine who has met him say's that he is a very friendly and approachable man - so probably not 'Eton through and through' or even 'another white kid with a guitar.'
The music is good, the lyrics are coherant and thought provoking, and he spent three years touring solo. When did punk become so (anti-)elitist that you had to grow up as a crack adicted child prostitute to avoid people sneering?
- Fi, SW, UK
The reason he would 'swan off' around the world wasn't his father's money and his background but the fact that he was able to make a career out of being an outstanding songwriter and entertaining performer. Million Dead were more punk rock than the Sex Pistols and maybe the negative posters commenting on this should realise that. Frank Turner is one of the most refreshing artists out there today.
He's a humble man, and grateful for any support he can get. Music is his life, and the fact that he's been able to make a career out of his main pleasure is incredible. Take it from someone who has actually spoken to him (and someone who isn't 'Eton through and through' just for the record, either).
- Rob, London
Great article and well said Kenny. Frank is a great guy, down to earth and hard working. It's great to see all the hard work paying off and him getting the recognition he deserves. Frank is all about the lyrics and the music, his background only serves to fuel the songs - Janet, you've obviously no idea what you're talking about.
- Iain, Christchurch, Dorset
I have also met Frank a couple of times. What always strikes me about him is his sincere humility, on and off stage. I remember seeing him play at Reading Festival 2007 - the look of genuine surprise on his face when the whole audience sang every word of 'The Real Damage' was priceless. I'm the same age as him and I know it's a cliche but I really think he's the closest thing to the 'voice of a generation' for our age group, surprising given that our backgrounds are pretty far removed from each other. I've seen him play live 8 times and every time has been fantastic. He ends with the words 'my name's Frank Turner and I come from Winchester' (a custom borrowed from Billy Bragg?) so clearly is not trying to hide where he comes from.
He is not trying to gain street cred, it is a by product of being an amazing, hugely passionate songwriter who puts everything into satisfying his fans, among the ranks of which I shall remain for ever. In two weeks I will be getting the cover art of his latest album tattoed on my arm.
- Darren, Darlington, UK
Your belly was empty through choice. Woody Guthrie lived through the hard times of the Depression and the Dustbowl when hungry people had no choice. You're no Woody Guthrie, mate. (mate = old traditional London expression used by us Londoners). Your cause is merely a personal emotional reaction which seems to be the fashionable trend these days. As you say, you want to be in the Top Ten and have mainstream chart success. Says it all really!
- Janet, London, UK
Lots of hate in the comments... all I would say is go and see him live. I don't need to say more than that.
- Jb, Manchester
Anyone who has a bad word to say about this great man is very misguided and wrongly prejudiced. A true entertainer, an unbelievable lyricist and capable of speaking the truth that brings alive our otherwise meaningless lives. He headlined our first ever festival, 2000trees, in 2007, for which I will be eternnally grateful - and we have followed his steps toward greatness ever since - including at Bristol this Monday.
Frank, if you're reading this, you're our hero!
- Andy, 2000trees Festival, Cheltenham, UK
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c21SfaAwBw0
- Rob Main, Northallerton, England
Well whatever people want to say about Frank, I can hold my hand up and say he is one of the nicest people I've ever met and his live shows are by far and away the best I have ever seen.
'nuff said.
- Will, Oxford, UK
"your Eton through and through"
...which presumably means he might know the difference between "your" and "you're"
- Richard Devine, Brooklyn, NY USA
Jimmy have you actually heard or seen him play, his hardly another posh boy with a guitar. His lyrics are about things everyone can relate to and puts on an amazing show, which you can clearly see he still has punk in the heart like from the days of million dead.
Great to see him getting some well earned media coverage and selling out such great venues. Looking forward to the next tour in March.
- Anon, London
From what i remember him telling me at the time, he mainly dug the place as it gave him access to one of the best educations a lad thirsty for knowledge could ever wish for, as well as a large degree of creative freedom.
Hate on though...
- Steve W, Leeds
Janet: If you've ever met him, you'll realise that Frank's a nice guy and is very approachable at gigs - he spent the last 5 years touring the country, the first couple of which playing to about 30 people for nothing more than petrol money. He worked hard where most would have given up, and is finally achieving his dream - where he was educated doesn't come into it.
- Joey, UK
Frank - much love, hoping to see you in Cambridge again soon (Friday was one that won't be forgotten). In the mean time keep 'em coming, and see you in Norwich in March!
- Luke, Cambridge, UK
Why do you have to have guts to drop out of school? That doesn't make any sense. I think Frank Turner is an excellent musician and fantastic lyricist. If you can - check him out live. One of the best entertainers around at the moment. And with a fierce independent spirit.
The music scene needs more artists like him.
- Anon, London
How many working class kids can swan off around the world or wherever they like for four years, cos' they felt their dad had let them down?
Something not being said that should be, like who paid, not that naughty daddy by any chance?
- Ken.H, Harrow. UK
another posh white kid with a guitar, hardly lived the life of a punk
- Jimmy, london
'Old Etonian Spends Years Sleeping On Floors For Street Cred Shocker'.
I can see the headlines now....
Admittedly the well brung up aspect has come in useful. Plod tend to look more kindly on people who can actually communicate with them!
- Cj, London, UK
The comment by 'Janet' amuses me: I don't know how many other Old Etonians sleep on stranger's floors and only earn enough to pay for the train fare to their next concert. Also, why should Frank be criticised for the eloquence that makes his lyrics so heartfelt, incisive and concise? Nonsense.
Great interview, very raw and unusually open. Having seen Frank play gigs in some pretty rank places, his success is heartwarming.
- Rick, Herts, England
This is one of the best articles on Frank Turner that I've read. Though it can be difficult to analyse painful experiences, and to acknowledge that they've led you to the path you've taken, it's obviously worthwhile.
As for the previous Eton dribble from Janet; if I'd gone to Eton I'd have hated it, but of course I would have gone. What's the point in life if you have no expectations to crush?
...oh and I don't want to get all 'punk with a degree' on you but that should have been "YOU'RE Eton through and through."
- Kim, Nottingham, UK
Trying to be cool and streetwise... Seriously how old are you? The guy played in Million Dead. He doesn't need credibility the music did the talking as it rightly should do.
- Tage, Kent
A wonderful article.
Janet: I spent two years of my life living in Eton (the town, not the college), and I am familiar with people who are "Eton through and through". I've also met Frank many times, and he doesn't fall into that category. He's the friendly and familiar everyman who spends as much time interacting with his fans at the bar and the merchandise stall as he does on the stage. In his solo career he's inspired and supported many other artists, has a legion of fans from all walks of life, and has even released a song with profits to charity in memory of a dear friend he lost to breast cancer. I think if you spoke to him for 30 seconds you'd soon see the moniker "Eton through and through" is wildly misplaced.
- Kenny, Oxford, UK
Well Janet, you've either not met Frank or not met many old Etonians. I can assure you, having met both, he is absolutely nothing like your average Etonian.
And don't call people you don't know 'mate'; it sounds crass, common and ill-educated. Unless of course that is what you are going for, sweetpea?
Great interview by the way and lovely to see some much deserved mainstream recognition for Mr Turner.
- Dave, London
He looks like and sounds like your average Old Etonian trying to be cool and street wise. If he didn't like Eton then why didn't he have the guts to drop out? Nah, he wanted the benefits it offered and now criticises it to give himself street cred. Won't work mate: your Eton through and through.
- Janet, London, UK
