gopophits

You're an Australian pop star living in San Francisco. Are you the most famous person in town?
Americans know who Savage Garden are so they feel quite complimented that I chose one of their cities, but I have a very secluded life. I don't live a "star life". I just potter about in this little village. I don't want to be at every showbiz party. I think the reason I live in another country is that I don't feel that famous.

Do you think there is a typical Savage Garden fan?
I know who comes along to the shows: it's everybody. The average person goes out and buys a Savage Garden album because we write songs they can relate to. I'm a romantic and I write songs about the way my heart feels.

Would you ever date a fan?
I've never dated anyone who knew who I was. They never had a clue what I did for a living. I am sceptical of someone looking at me and saying, "Yeah he's got a lot of money and the whole fame thing", 'cause I'm not into the fame thing at all.

So how do you deal with that "fame thing"?
It's a bit weird because I'm prepared to be available 100% in my songwriting or on stage and during an interview but in the privacy of my house or in a hotel room I don't want to be available. I can understand when you go onto the public street you're a public person but sometimes it can be a little creepy.

Do you ever get hassle from fans?
I have very close contact with our fans especially through our internet site. I chat to them every week, I know what they're up to and they know what I'm up to, so I'm approachable in that way. But there have been moments when I've been on tour in America when every time you walk out of the door there were people there. But generally, I do like to think our fans are pretty cool.

Finally, if you were to place a lonely hearts ad, what would it say?
At the moment, I'm happy being single so it would say: "Don't bother replying I'll get back to you". I had my first girlfriend at 17 and I've been in a relationship since then but it's only been the last two years that I've been single. But if there is anyone, you'll be the first to know!