August 11, 2012 15:40

The Gaslight Anthem's Brian Fallon: 'It's creepy that fans look up to us'

Singer doesn't want to be shot like John Lennon, he says

Photo: Press

The Gaslight Anthem's Brian Fallon has admitted that he finds being worshipped by fans "creepy".

Speaking to the Guardian, the singer said that the band's ever-swelling popularity made him uneasy and cited both Jesus and John Lennon as figures who had met an untimely end as they became increasingly revered.

With the band's latest studio album, 'Handwritten', recently entering the Official Album Chart at Number Two, the frontman reflected on their success by saying: "You were born with that talent. The best thing you could ever say to your credit is you refined it a little. Fans look up to us and that's creepy."

He added:

It's kind of this huge thing of idolising and hero worship and – people say – religious experience. But they crucified Jesus! They shot John Lennon! I'm not looking for that kind of thing, I'm not into this.

He did admit, however, that he'd always had a blueprint to achieve success with the band, revealing: "I had a five-year plan to get to 500-seat venues and tour by ourselves and fill a room everywhere we go. I figured we could make a living off that. As long as you buy nothing stupid, you'll be OK."

The Gaslight Anthem recently extended their October UK tour. The band have added another show at London's O2 Academy Brixton on October 17 and will now play five dates, in addition to their forthcoming slots at Reading And Leeds Festivals later this month.

To check the availability of The Gaslight Anthem tickets and get all the latest listings, go to NME.COM/TICKETS now, or call 0871 230 1094.

Video: The Gaslight Anthem - '45'

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