Billy Lockett: 'I really missed playing in people's living rooms'
The singer-songwriter is returning to fans' homes for exclusive gigs this summer
Northamptonshire singer-songwriter Billy Lockett is bringing back his house-gig tour, giving fans the chance to host private performances in their own homes.
The musician, who was born and raised in Northampton, said he decided to revive the idea five years after first performing in fans' houses around the UK.
Lockett said the original tour was "really fun" and inspired him to return to smaller, more personal shows.
"I really missed playing shows to people who can really see you and chat to you in between the songs," he said.
"I thought, I've got a bit of downtime, let's just go into people's houses and actually get to know the fans a bit better."
"I like doing unconventional things"
The singer said the previous tour involved travelling around the country in a campervan with his then-girlfriend and a bulldog puppy.
"The actual gigs themselves were great," he said. "I think it was just the stress. We were on campsites every night, there was no electricity and no showers. It was a nightmare."
This time, he said, the plan is much simpler: "We literally just drive there, meet the fans, play the gig and go home."
Personal connection
Lockett said the appeal of house gigs was the opportunity to spend time with supporters in a more relaxed environment than a traditional venue.
"You get to actually have a chat with them and eat and drink and chill out"
He added that fans would also have more influence over what songs are performed.
"In a venue setting, especially when I've got the band, we have a strict set list and we don't really stray from it," he said.
"With this, it feels laid back."
Despite regularly performing to large audiences, Lockett said house gigs can feel more daunting. "You're so close to 15 people and sometimes that's actually more nerve-wracking than playing in front of thousands," he said.
Although the performances are being advertised as house gigs, Lockett said he was open to unusual locations.
"For us, it's really about whether there's a plug for us to put the speaker in," he joked.
Northampton pride
Lockett said it was important to remain connected to local communities and credited Northampton for supporting him throughout his career.
"I'm born and bred here. I still live here. I'm very pro-Northampton"
"It's always been really behind me and it's always the first shows to sell out.
"I do think the people make it and I'm very proud to be from here."
The singer said he believed the town was "getting better" and pointed to recent sporting successes and positive community projects.
Family affair
Fans hoping to host a performance must first arrange a Zoom call with Lockett's mother, who helps organise the events.
The singer described her as an unofficial third manager.
"She runs a lot of the logistics for everything and she loves being involved," he said.
The performances will be documented on social media throughout the tour, with videos and live updates shared online.
Lockett said only a limited number of dates would be available this year, but encouraged fans interested in hosting a show to get in touch.
"I like doing unconventional things," he said.
"What I love about these house gigs is it's so simple. Literally, turn up, sit in the living room, play and leave. It's so nice."
Those interested in hosting a performance can arrange a Zoom call with his mother by emailing [email protected].