Hugh Laurie has won a Golden Globe and been nominated for an Emmy for his starring role on “House.” But those accolades didn’t do much to boost his confidence when he started recording his very first album, “Let Them Talk” — he says he was “absolutely terrified.” The album is steeped in New Orleans blues, and Laurie sings, plays piano and plays guitar on classic tunes. “Let Them Talk” debuted in the United Kingdom at No. 2 last spring and was released in the United States this month.
Q: Did the success of your album in England make you feel more confident about releasing it in the United States?
| LISTEN UP |
| ‘Let Them Talk’ |
| » Artist: Hugh Laurie |
| » Label: Warner Bros. |
| » Price: $9.99 |
A: I suppose so, yes, because you worry about your own family, don’t you? You worry about what your family thinks before anyone else, and whatever triumphs, big or small, you might have in the outside world, if your mum says it’s rubbish, that’s always going to [bother you].
Q: What’s it like performing it live?
A: Live music seems to be growing and growing. It’s as if people really more than ever seem to hunger for that actual communication. If you’d asked me a year ago, I’d say I’d go to any lengths to avoid the terror of that confrontation. But, I’ve really got a taste for it now. I’m not saying I know how to do it. I absolutely don’t. I’ve really got a taste for it. I’ve had a fantastic time.
Q: The album really pays homage to this type of music.
A: I wasn’t born immersed in this music. I’ve immersed myself throughout my whole life, but that still doesn’t really count, you know, when you’re having a green card interview; that doesn’t really count to say I’ve listened to a lot of Screamin’ Jay Hawkins records — that question didn’t come up. But, I’m approaching the source of this music that I’ve loved all my life and I do so with trepidation and a lot of respect. I hope people will believe and understand I’m not being cavalier about it. This is not a casual thing for me at all. This is more important than almost anything I’ve ever done.
