Justin Hawkins of The Darkness recently addressed criticism over his BBC Breakfast interview. He expressed frustration about being questioned regarding Oasis’ Knebworth performances. His response was shared on Justin Hawkins Rides Again.
Hawkins explained his irritation at being asked about the Oasis reunion during a television interview. He emphasized that he had no involvement in or knowledge of the event.
“I couldn’t give a frog’s fat ass if Oasis are playing at Knebworth. So, we’re doing Knebworth with Iron Maiden, by the way, which is awesome. That’s the gig to go to,” Hawkins said. “I mean, if you want to go and see Oasis at Knebworth, that’s fine, but don’t f*cking interview me about it on the television. What’s the point? I’ve got nothing to say about that. I didn’t even know it was happening. It’s f*cking madness.”
Beyond the immediate frustration, Hawkins reflected on the broader pressures artists face in the music industry. These obligations extend far beyond the creative work itself.
“When you decide to do music and you think about the romance and the glory and the pageantry and all that cool stuff that comes with doing rock and roll, there’s also a whole load of other sh*t that you never signed up for that you’re obliged to do,” he continued. “You just have to do it for political reasons to sort of appease your relationships with your booking agents and your promoters and the record companies.”
Hawkins concluded by noting that artists sometimes reach a breaking point. At this point, external pressures overshadow the core enjoyment of making music itself.
Hawkins’ comments about The Darkness performing at Knebworth come at an exciting time for the band. The Darkness will support Iron Maiden at Knebworth Park on July 11, 2026, according to WRAT. This marks a significant milestone for the rock band.
The Darkness is experiencing a major career resurgence beyond the Knebworth appearance. Kerrang reported that the band has announced their biggest UK headline tour in 20 years. The seven-date arena tour will commence at Glasgow OVO Hydro on December 8 and conclude with the band’s debut headline performance at The O2 in London on December 16, 2026.
The tour features an impressive lineup of support acts. Entertainment Focus revealed that Brothers Osborne and the band A will serve as supporting acts. Hawkins humorously describes the alliance as a “Bands of Brothers” collaboration.
The Darkness has also been active creatively in 2025. Arrow Lords of Metal noted that the band kicked off the festive season with a unique cover of Cliff Richard’s “Mistletoe And Wine.” This showcases a musical shift with shoegaze elements. The creative experimentation demonstrates the band’s willingness to explore new sonic territories while maintaining their rock credentials.
