Rick Astley, once dubbed a “one-hit wonder,” is no stranger to both fleeting fame and enduring success. Now 58, the man behind the iconic song Never Gonna Give You Up has experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to an unexpected twist of internet history: the viral phenomenon known as “Rickrolling.” This internet prank has introduced his music to a whole new generation, giving Astley a second wave of fans who, much like his original followers, are never gonna give him up.
In an interview with Hadley Freeman for The Sunday Times, Astley reflects on his unexpected career revival, the lasting appeal of his music, and how he has come to terms with his unique place in pop culture. Despite his early success—making so much money from his breakout hit that he could retire at 27—Astley is quick to acknowledge how fortunate he feels to still be relevant in today’s music scene.
As he and Freeman exit the pub where they’ve spent two pleasant hours chatting, a group of people in their fifties and sixties spot him and immediately recognize him. Astley, still resembling the youthful singer who shot to stardom in the late ’80s, handles the attention with grace. As the group begins to sing Never Gonna Give You Up, first hesitantly, then with growing excitement, Astley simply smiles and waves, unfazed by the impromptu serenade.
In the interview, Astley opens up about his early life, revealing the struggles he faced during a violent childhood and how they shaped his approach to fame and fortune. He also touches on his unexpected covers of The Smiths, showcasing a different side of his musical interests and talents.
Despite the rollercoaster ride that has been his career, Astley remains grounded, appreciative of the second act that internet fame has brought him. “I’m not oblivious to how amazing all this is,” he admits, acknowledging that his place in the annals of pop history has been solidified in ways even he couldn’t have predicted.
