By Ian Woolley
“It puts a great deal of trust in each other’s ability and we never rejected anything that anybody had written. If there was any criticism we would say well I think we could make it better rather than chuck it out. The finished song was adopted by the four of us and that was a very healthy attitude I think. We really enjoyed what we were doing and had total freedom” – so said Graham Gouldman…
10cc in 1974
Since 10cc’s first single Donna came into the charts (excuse the intended pun) back in the ’70s, the band is one of the few who achieved commercial, critical, and creative success in the 50 years that have passed since 1972.
Gouldman’s career started a decade before as a credited songwriter in his own right. The Yardbirds ‘For Your Love’, ‘Still I’m Sad’ and ‘Evil Hearted You’ were all penned by his hand. Hit songs he also gave to the Hollies, Hermans Hermits, Wayne Fontana, and even Jeff Beck. Teaming up with Kevin Godley before the other ‘duo’ of Lol Creme and Eric Stewart morphed into what became 10cc. With their own studio in Stockport, Strawberry picking took on it’s own meaning as their chart success brought many to taste their sweet success, even Neil Sedaka.
10cc 2021
From his early days, Graham’s influences helped him weave his way in the world, and eventually, his quarter worth in the band reaped dividends. Even when the band eventually split, the hits kept coming as the original duo morphed as Wax.
Graham talks about his long career as both songwriter and singer through the 50 years of the band and where the current lineup has carried on the legacy.
Graham may or may not be in love but his love for 10cc has never been in doubt.