A1 chat

Mark> Middle of the year hopefully - April, May time - we've already recorded 8 songs and we're finishing off another 5. It should be worth the wait we hope!

Mark> My ring tone is the extra track on the 'Caught in the Middle' single 2.59!

Sarah Morrison> How will you feel if Caught In The Middle reaches number 1 tomorrow night?

Mark: It would be fantastic! Today the main focus for us is to have a hit whatever chart position it gets. But it would be amazing if we got to number 1.

Mark> Signings are going well. We're getting a great response. Haven't managed to get to some big cities because the local police wouldn't allow it. We're in Peterborough today for one. One thing you'll notice about my signature it's usually smudged because I'm left handed. My hands were filthy on the Pepsi Chart because I'd just done a signing.

Mark> He's a great producer - he's worked with the Manics, U2 the list is endless. Caught in the Middle is the first example of what's to come. We're really happy with the sound.

Lindz> What do u guys think of Pop Idol and who do u think will to win?

Mark> I don't really think a lot of the concept. It's great TV of course. They're not really interested in the true development of a pop star - it's all about ratings as far as I can see. But to answer your question they are all great singers but the one I think will win is the girl Zoe she has the complete package

Mark> I hope so! We don't know yet. We haven't got our schedule, but we better have. We had a lot of time off last year, so this year I expect we'll be busy promoting the album

Nurul_Fairuz88> Can you guys spill the truth about the Blue vs a1 thing?

Mark> There is nothing like that of any kind - we're not a million miles away in style and sound. It's what the press do. We get on really well and have a lot of respect for them. Anthony's sister works for our record company.

Ben> We've been to Singapore many times already - probably the next time will be when we've finished the album

Ben> Sit down and write lots of them. Sometimes you'll come up with rubbish and sometimes you'll come out with 4 or 5 great songs in the same day. I write mine on the piano in my studio. You have to have confidence and you must love it not just give it a go for fun.

Ben> Christian, Mark and Paul!! They're are my best mates a lot of other celebs are "up there own bottoms" - Elton John's great, Lionel Ritchie, Morris Gibb the long timers so to speak are the best people to speak to.

Ben> My favourite present was a play station II and some more equipment for my studio

Ben> Not a lot - I don't have it at home yet, but I use it in the office and on the laptop we have with us going around.

Amy G> Ben, did u celebrate with Paul and Christian for their birthdays

Ben> we'll be celebrating next week at a big party so yes I will be soon!

Ben> A man walks into a shoe shop with 2 left feet he says can I have a pair of flip flips please!

Ben> not really - we're quite happy not doing that for a moment. But if one of our idols came and asked us I'm sure we wouldn't say no.

Claudia (from GER)> Hi guys, do you come to different countries for promoting your new single "Caught In The Middle”?

Ben> Definitely! We go wherever the record company sends us. If it does well in Germany we'll be over there very soon!

Ben> We've written 2 songs for Michael Jackson - he's kept hold of them we're not sure what he's going to do with them though.

Ben> She's fine now - she was just being a bit of a weed pretending her leg was hurt. She was making a load of fuss about nothing really. She's fine

Paul> It depends how much you do it - If you finish work and go an have a quiet drink it's fine. Depends how desperate you are for it I suppose

Paul> Thanks. I got some CD's - Piercings for my nose from my mum and dad, books and other bits and pieces.

Paul> It's a shame, they had a really good run and I wish them all the luck for the future

Paul> No idea yet - it's just called the 3rd album at the moment. We've still got a few months to think of one though.

Paul> Personally - dreams, films, my friends, and stupid little stories will trigger off a thought in my head. Being totally slaughtered sometimes sets it off which is what 'Caught in the Middle' was- Ben and me were in the same room writing.

Gemma17> Paul, my friend Emma loves u and never stops talking about u! haha Are u getting any more piercings? If so, where? xoxox

Paul> No I'm pretty covered now! - I've got 2 tattoos and I'm getting another one designed at the moment that will go all over the left arm and left side!

Paul> I don't really chat people up unless I'm drunk - I can't really tell you mine because it's disgusting but sometimes it works a treat!

Caroline> Will you be bringing out any more videos like 'In The Picture'??

Paul> Hopefully when we've done a bit more touring so we can get some more footage - it should be a really good video when it comes out

Louise> I just watched your video and it looks a lovely place. Where was it filmed?

Paul> it was filmed in Finland - it was lovely it was covered in snow all the time.

Paul> All the time! We're always arguing but then we're always doing stuff together, so we fall in and out all the time, but we really close and good mates.

Paul> I jumped off the end of a pier in Whitby. It was really cold! - I send money to different charities each month as well, that keeps me happy.

Paul> No we're not - we had a really quiet year last year so it's not surprising

Paul> my Dad. He's great. I see him as much as possible he comes to gigs and stuff.

Ella> what other career would you like to do if you weren't pop stars?

Paul> I'd do anything - I've worked in a bar, delivered food up and down the Costa Blanca, I've filmed strippers in Benidorm.......

Ashley> if you could play a trick on any other member what would it be and who to?

I WANA BE CAUGHT IN> Most bands at the moment seem 2 be slagging you off, does that get on your nerves? ur so much better then Blue and Atomic Kitten lets hope they spray u with cream next year instead off your van cos i'd definitely lick it off!! ;)

Paul> what a lovely thought! Can I just say that I'd love more fans to start flashing their tops at us. We'd love that. More photos, MORE MORE MORE, more mums too!.....in school uniform

Paul> from the stuff we've already released - 'Every time' off the first album. The new albums got some great stuff too but you won't know them yet

Carrie scullion> what other band would u most like 2 go on tour with?

Paul> we're debating over 2 songs at the moment - but it will be great either way!

Paul> if we do tour in Scotland it will be part of the UK tour in the second part of this year probably. We've had some of our best dates in Scotland on our first tour it's really great up there.

Christian> ET - cause it's got all the ingredients of a great film - exciting, adventurous, sad, dramatic and just brilliant really

Jade> Christian what do you like more playing an instrument of singing

Christian I like both - I've been playing instruments since I was 6 I really love it

Jenni-Paulz Perve> Christian, do you ever get fed up with people thinking that you're American?

Danielle (a1 angel!!)> Is the "monkeys" style show going to be made soon?

Christian> when everything else was put on hold last year that was one of the things that got stopped. Right now we're just concentrating on the music we may revive it at a later date though. Who knows?

Christian> this one! No just kidding - we got so many strange questions but I honestly can't think of one right now.

Christian> Maybe - we haven't decided yet - we'll probably do the older hits with dance routines

a1_angel> I met you guys on Monday it was brill... I waited outside for 7 and half hours...what does it feel like knowing people do that for u?

Christian> It is extremely flattering and it inspires us to keep doing what we're doing. Thanks for waiting!

Gemma17> Christian, love the new haircut, it really suits you! But have you ever had a haircut that you look back on now and think "did I really have my hair like that?!"

Christian> Most of my haircuts since I joined the band have been dreadful I used to listen to the stylists, this time I just went ahead and cut it short and I'm really happy with it.

Sarah> When are you guys coming back to Durham because it was postponed?

Christian> We are yet to be informed about our tour schedule - we're waiting to hear from the organisers what's going to happen with that. So can't tell you yet sorry

Christian> No - if we were to make a film we'd act and be different characters not ourselves. Unless someone gives us a billion pounds to do it

Hannah> Christian, what did you get for your birthday, and did you have a good time?

Christian> I got a wonderful portable telephone for my house. A digital camera from Sony and a feather duvet from my parents a frying pan from my flat mates family, loads and loads of really nice books and from many devoted fans I've been given cool clothes, eau de toilette, jewellery etc thank you EVERYONE!

Christian> myself and Mark have talked about this - we've experienced so many extraordinary things that it would be a shame not to write about them someday

Sarah Morrison> My Danish grandma watches everything you are on. You have a massive fan base covering all ages. How does that make you feel?

Christian> It's great - especially with the new direction - we're extremely pleased to have noticed that our music appeals to audiences of all ages. That's what music is all about reaching as many people as possible. It makes us happy.

Christian> I always used to do a lot of acting, I almost pursued it as a career.

Moderator> That's the end of the chat with A1. Thanks to everyone who took part.


	A1 Fanzite 2002 \| home A1 chat Dani> so when's your next album out guys? Mark> Middle of the year hopefully - April, May time - we've already recorded 8 songs and we're finishing off another 5. It should be worth the wait we hope! Sarah Morrison> what ring tones do you have on your mobile? Mark> My ring tone is the extra track on the 'Caught in the Middle' single 2.59! Sarah Morrison> How will you feel if Caught In The Middle reaches number 1 tomorrow night? Mark: It would be fantastic! Today the main focus for us is to have a hit whatever chart position it gets. But it would be amazing if we got to number 1. ben_a1s_rose> how are you enjoying doing your signings??? Mark> Signings are going well. We're getting a great response. Haven't managed to get to some big cities because the local police wouldn't allow it. We're in Peterborough today for one. One thing you'll notice about my signature it's usually smudged because I'm left handed. My hands were filthy on the Pepsi Chart because I'd just done a signing. RedsGrrL> what was it like working with Mike Hedges? Mark> He's a great producer - he's worked with the Manics, U2 the list is endless. Caught in the Middle is the first example of what's to come. We're really happy with the sound. Lindz> What do u guys think of Pop Idol and who do u think will to win? Mark> I don't really think a lot of the concept. It's great TV of course. They're not really interested in the true development of a pop star - it's all about ratings as far as I can see. But to answer your question they are all great singers but the one I think will win is the girl Zoe she has the complete package KazMarazzi> Do you have any time off this year? Mark> I hope so! We don't know yet. We haven't got our schedule, but we better have. We had a lot of time off last year, so this year I expect we'll be busy promoting the album Nurul_Fairuz88> Can you guys spill the truth about the Blue vs a1 thing? Mark> There is nothing like that of any kind - we're not a million miles away in style and sound. It's what the press do. We get on really well and have a lot of respect for them. Anthony's sister works for our record company. Candy> when will you guys come down to Singapore?? Ben> We've been to Singapore many times already - probably the next time will be when we've finished the album Claudia> can you tell me how to write a great song just like you? Ben> Sit down and write lots of them. Sometimes you'll come up with rubbish and sometimes you'll come out with 4 or 5 great songs in the same day. I write mine on the piano in my studio. You have to have confidence and you must love it not just give it a go for fun. Crystal> who are your best celeb mates? Ben> Christian, Mark and Paul!! They're are my best mates a lot of other celebs are "up there own bottoms" - Elton John's great, Lionel Ritchie, Morris Gibb the long timers so to speak are the best people to speak to. Ella> what football teams do you all support? Ben> Man U, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal Lee Adams> what did you get for Christmas? Ben> My favourite present was a play station II and some more equipment for my studio Sweetie19boro> Ben, do you use the Internet a lot? Ben> Not a lot - I don't have it at home yet, but I use it in the office and on the laptop we have with us going around. Amy G> Ben, did u celebrate with Paul and Christian for their birthdays Ben> we'll be celebrating next week at a big party so yes I will be soon! markz_ickle_nutta> Ben can ya tell us 1 of ya cheesy jokes ???????? Ben> A man walks into a shoe shop with 2 left feet he says can I have a pair of flip flips please! Neil> Have you considered collaborating with any other artists? Ben> not really - we're quite happy not doing that for a moment. But if one of our idols came and asked us I'm sure we wouldn't say no. Claudia (from GER)> Hi guys, do you come to different countries for promoting your new single "Caught In The Middle”? Ben> Definitely! We go wherever the record company sends us. If it does well in Germany we'll be over there very soon! Terri> what is happening with the song writing for Jacko? Ben> We've written 2 songs for Michael Jackson - he's kept hold of them we're not sure what he's going to do with them though. Alex> What is your current favourite song? Ben> Alanis Morrisette - Wash My Hands Clean Jen Pauls wanna be g> Is holly better Ben???? Ben> She's fine now - she was just being a bit of a weed pretending her leg was hurt. She was making a load of fuss about nothing really. She's fine Amanda> Is it stressful been in the limelight all the time? Paul> It depends how much you do it - If you finish work and go an have a quiet drink it's fine. Depends how desperate you are for it I suppose May> Happy Bday to Chris and Paul.. What did U get?? Paul> Thanks. I got some CD's - Piercings for my nose from my mum and dad, books and other bits and pieces. Lee Adams> What do you guys think of Five splitting up? Paul> It's a shame, they had a really good run and I wish them all the luck for the future Kelly> what will the album be called? Paul> No idea yet - it's just called the 3rd album at the moment. We've still got a few months to think of one though. Donna Michelle> Where do you get all your idea's for song's from? Paul> Personally - dreams, films, my friends, and stupid little stories will trigger off a thought in my head. Being totally slaughtered sometimes sets it off which is what 'Caught in the Middle' was- Ben and me were in the same room writing. Gemma17> Paul, my friend Emma loves u and never stops talking about u! haha Are u getting any more piercings? If so, where? xoxox Paul> No I'm pretty covered now! - I've got 2 tattoos and I'm getting another one designed at the moment that will go all over the left arm and left side! Amy> what is your best chat up line? Paul> I don't really chat people up unless I'm drunk - I can't really tell you mine because it's disgusting but sometimes it works a treat! Caroline> Will you be bringing out any more videos like 'In The Picture'?? Paul> Hopefully when we've done a bit more touring so we can get some more footage - it should be a really good video when it comes out Louise> I just watched your video and it looks a lovely place. Where was it filmed? Paul> it was filmed in Finland - it was lovely it was covered in snow all the time. Susan> Do you get on each other's nerves? Paul> All the time! We're always arguing but then we're always doing stuff together, so we fall in and out all the time, but we really close and good mates. Socky> what's the criaziest thing you'd all do for charity? Paul> I jumped off the end of a pier in Whitby. It was really cold! - I send money to different charities each month as well, that keeps me happy. Jacqui> are u's up for any nominations at the Brit Awards? Paul> No we're not - we had a really quiet year last year so it's not surprising Lee Adams> who's you're role model? Paul> my Dad. He's great. I see him as much as possible he comes to gigs and stuff. Amy> what do you regret the most since joining the band? Paul> having so many stupid hairstyles probably Ella> what other career would you like to do if you weren't pop stars? Paul> I'd do anything - I've worked in a bar, delivered food up and down the Costa Blanca, I've filmed strippers in Benidorm....... Ashley> if you could play a trick on any other member what would it be and who to? Paul> I'd shave all Ben's hair while he's asleep! I WANA BE CAUGHT IN> Most bands at the moment seem 2 be slagging you off, does that get on your nerves? ur so much better then Blue and Atomic Kitten lets hope they spray u with cream next year instead off your van cos i'd definitely lick it off!! ;) Paul> what a lovely thought! Can I just say that I'd love more fans to start flashing their tops at us. We'd love that. More photos, MORE MORE MORE, more mums too!.....in school uniform Gemma> what's your favourite a1 song? Paul> from the stuff we've already released - 'Every time' off the first album. The new albums got some great stuff too but you won't know them yet Carrie scullion> what other band would u most like 2 go on tour with? Paul Red Hot Chilli Peppers because they've got some mental fans Moderator a1_angel> what is your next single called? Paul> we're debating over 2 songs at the moment - but it will be great either way! Vicky Stewart> when will you be touring in Scotland? Paul> if we do tour in Scotland it will be part of the UK tour in the second part of this year probably. We've had some of our best dates in Scotland on our first tour it's really great up there. Elin_SWEDEN: What's your favourite movie???? Christian> ET - cause it's got all the ingredients of a great film - exciting, adventurous, sad, dramatic and just brilliant really Jade> Christian what do you like more playing an instrument of singing Christian I like both - I've been playing instruments since I was 6 I really love it Jenni-Paulz Perve> Christian, do you ever get fed up with people thinking that you're American? Christian No - I don't have a problem with that - I like Americans Danielle (a1 angel!!)> Is the "monkeys" style show going to be made soon? Christian> when everything else was put on hold last year that was one of the things that got stopped. Right now we're just concentrating on the music we may revive it at a later date though. Who knows? Holly> what's the strangest question you have ever been asked? Christian> this one! No just kidding - we got so many strange questions but I honestly can't think of one right now. Alex> what is your favourite game? on Play Station or Computer. Christian> It would have to be FIFA soccer Sophie> Will you still do the dance routines on tour? Christian> Maybe - we haven't decided yet - we'll probably do the older hits with dance routines a1_angel> I met you guys on Monday it was brill... I waited outside for 7 and half hours...what does it feel like knowing people do that for u? Christian> It is extremely flattering and it inspires us to keep doing what we're doing. Thanks for waiting! Gemma17> Christian, love the new haircut, it really suits you! But have you ever had a haircut that you look back on now and think "did I really have my hair like that?!" Christian> Most of my haircuts since I joined the band have been dreadful I used to listen to the stylists, this time I just went ahead and cut it short and I'm really happy with it. Sarah> When are you guys coming back to Durham because it was postponed? Christian> We are yet to be informed about our tour schedule - we're waiting to hear from the organisers what's going to happen with that. So can't tell you yet sorry Karen> would you ever do an A1film like Spice World? Christian> No - if we were to make a film we'd act and be different characters not ourselves. Unless someone gives us a billion pounds to do it Hannah> Christian, what did you get for your birthday, and did you have a good time? Christian> I got a wonderful portable telephone for my house. A digital camera from Sony and a feather duvet from my parents a frying pan from my flat mates family, loads and loads of really nice books and from many devoted fans I've been given cool clothes, eau de toilette, jewellery etc thank you EVERYONE! a1_angel> will u guys ever have a book out like a biography? Christian> myself and Mark have talked about this - we've experienced so many extraordinary things that it would be a shame not to write about them someday Sarah Morrison> My Danish grandma watches everything you are on. You have a massive fan base covering all ages. How does that make you feel? Christian> It's great - especially with the new direction - we're extremely pleased to have noticed that our music appeals to audiences of all ages. That's what music is all about reaching as many people as possible. It makes us happy. Sazzle> What secret talents do you have besides music? Christian> I always used to do a lot of acting, I almost pursued it as a career. Moderator> That's the end of the chat with A1. Thanks to everyone who took part. Christian> Bye guys - thanks very much for sticking around. Mark> Bye! Paul> See ya! Ben> Take care.