David Gedge’s 40 year stint as the main man behind The Wedding Present comes down in great part, to luck. John Peel, the famously powerful DJ from BBC’s Radio One took a shine to the first Wedding Present single, and played the song a whopping ten times on a single show. The power of Peel’s nationwide show and his influence as a tastemaker helped to pave the way for the Wedding Present to get a real opportunity at stardom.

Gedge and his bandmates would not squander their opportunity. In 1986, The Wedding Present released their legendary debut album, George Best. The album was living proof that the band were far more than a one hit wonder. Fans and critics began flocking to the Weddoes in droves.

During their four decade run, The Wedding Present have maintained a strong following throughout Europe and in their native UK, and have even found regional successes in the vast expanses of the United States. David and I talked about the differences between touring in America versus life on the road in Europe and Great Britain. We also take a look at some of the cultural differences that exist between the Brits and their American cousins.

David also shares stories of working with legendary recording engineer Steve Albini in Chicago, and talks about the discoveries he and his bandmates made whilst reinterpreting much of the Wedding Present catalog during the Covid lockdowns. We cover transitioning from a singles mindset to an album outlook when making and releasing records, and David even shares the story of the time he took the Trans-Siberian Railway to a gig.

Cheers,

Matty C

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