Welcome to the Cabaret Supper Club blog! With “The Music of James Bond” just around the corner, we are thrilled to give you a sneak peek into the minds of the extraordinary artists performing at our event. In today’s blog, we sit down with the phenomenal Jay Hutchinson. Renowned for his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, Jay will be bringing the legendary Bond songs to life. You can read on to discover his favourite Bond movies, the songs he loves to perform, and what you can look forward to during his performance on Friday, 6th September.
Bond Beginnings
What is your earliest memory of watching a James Bond movie?
I have always connected with James Bond and spent Sunday afternoons on the sofa with my dad, watching the classic Roger Moore Bond films. My most memorable memory is the white Lotus Esprit running away from a Helicopter, diving into the water, and turning into a submarine. I thought it was the coolest thing ever, and then I got a toy version of that car for Christmas, so 1997 was the year I thought I was the new James Bond.
Which Bond film is your personal favourite and why?
The classics truly reflect the essence of James Bond: suave, sophisticated, and charming. Pierce Bosnian’s Goldeneye was a cracker, but when the reboot of James Bond and Daniel Craig came around, my favourite had to be his first, Casino Royale. But Skyfall and No Time to Die are also brilliant.
Musical Inspirations:
What inspired you to take part in this James Bond musical tribute?
All the songs that have been a ‘Bond Theme’ are belters. Just incredible singers and bands doing epic things. It’s hard not to love!!
Which Bond theme song resonates with you the most and why?
I’m a big fan of Sam Smith’s Writings on the Wall. Vocally, it’s incredible!
Performance Insights:
Can you share any interesting behind-the-scenes stories from your rehearsals?
Getting into the room for the first time with our band was fantastic. The first thing they played was the theme to Dr. No, and it just sent chills through the body. Then, Karen sang Goldfinger—which was insane, so it’d be fair to say I was very nervous to join and sing, but Karen and the band made me feel at home. These rehearsals can be hard to navigate, but we were all on the same page, and the result was spot on!
How do you prepare for a performance of such iconic and beloved songs?
It’s tricky. The bands/artists that have done a Bond song are so different and require different vocal qualities, and as I’ve mentioned – all the songs are epic. They are big numbers! So, I’m trying not to ‘be Tom Jones singing Thunderball’ but not going too far away because that song belongs to Tom Jones. It’s a balancing act… but a fun one!
Favourite Bond Elements
Who is your favourite James Bond actor, and what makes them stand out to you?
Pierce Brosnan has the classic essence of what Bond stands for whilst delivering those brilliant one-liners. A great crossover from the ‘old’ to modern bond. He did a cracking job!
Do you have a favourite Bond girl or villain? What do you love about that character?
Ooo, interesting… I always thought Jaws was terrifying and Odd Job. Whenever I saw a bowler hat, I was positive it was a secret weapon.
Show Highlights
What can audiences expect from “The Music of James Bond” show at Cabaret Supper Club?
A classy, elegant look at some of the cracking Bond songs thought out the years. Sang by the amazing Karen Rush and some guy from Jersey!
Are there any particular songs or moments in the show that you are incredibly excited about performing?
Karen and I come together to sing ‘You Know My Name,’ and we just get a chance to rock out and bounce off each other. It’s a fun moment, and I can’t wait to share it with the audience.
Personal Touch
How do you bring your unique style and interpretation to these classic Bond songs?
That’s the balancing act I mentioned. It’s tricky, but I’m always working hard. One of the songs that suits me is also faithful to the original, and the vocal placement is also faithful to the original.
What do you hope the audience will feel or take away from your performance?
I want the audience to sit back, relax and enjoy the sound of all these great songs. Whether you’re a Bond fan or not, you’ll know most of them and be singing along with us… and we can’t wait!
Local Connection:
How does performing in Belfast, especially at Cabaret Supper Club, make this event special for you?
This will be my debut performance at Cabaret Supper Club. It’s a beautiful space and am very much looking forward to it. I only moved to Belfast from London, originally from Jersey, in 2022 so be be able to perform here will be lovely.
Can you share any thoughts on the local music scene and how it has influenced your career?
As I say, I’ve only been here for a couple of years but the arts scenes is huge and so accessible over here. My wife and I are lucky enough to run a business within the entertainment/wedding sector, something I could only dream of when based in London.
Future Projects:
Are there any upcoming projects or performances you’re excited about and can share with your fans?
I am thrilled to announce a brand new band that I’ve created with another 3 lads. The JerseyTones. We are quickly selling tickets at the Belfast Barge for the 26th September and have lots of exciting plans. I am also performing in the Christmas show at the MAC this year playing ‘The Wolf’ in ‘The Adventures of Red Riding Hood’.
Fun Facts:
If you could play any character in a James Bond movie, who would it be and why?
It has to be Bond. Get me in a Tux with a vodka martini, although I’d stir mine.
What’s your favourite James Bond gadget?
It has to be one of the many incredible cars he drives. I’d pick the Aston Martin Vanquish in Die Another Day.
Audience Engagement:
How can fans and attendees best connect with you on social media or follow your work?
Follow our band at @jerseytones or me on Instagram – @jayhutchinson89
Do you have any particular messages or shout-outs you’d like to give to your fans and the audience at the show?
My wonderfully supportive wife, who is always there to hear me practise all over the house and is used to hearing all sorts of noises as I attempt to sing these huge songs, is a brutally honest, secret fact: I first recorded a Bond song to get this part when I was a little under the weather and played it to my wife. After about 10 seconds, she said, ‘Under no circumstances can you send that… it’s awful, and you won’t get the job!’ – at least she’s honest. I waited to get better and got the job! Enjoy the show!
