Hugh Laurie: 'Blues is more important than almost anything I've done'

Hugh Laurie: 'Blues is more important than almost anything I've done'
September 26, 2011
By Justin Harp
Digital Spy

House actor Hugh Laurie has revealed that playing blues music has become one of his great passions.

Laurie recently released his first blues album Let Them Talk, which features collaborations with Tom Jones and Dr John.

The actor said that he ranks Let Them Talk among his most "important" work.

"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," Laurie told The AP.

"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."

Laurie is famous for his comedy stage shows with Stephen Fry, but admitted that he found the idea of performing live music terrifying until recently.

"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," Laurie joked.

"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."

House kicks off its eighth season on Monday October 3 on Fox.