John Simm's Candid Playlist: From Early Favorites to Unexplained Dislikes

The first track I became enamored with
My most primal memory is entering a space at kindergarten where they were playing Yellow Submarine by the Beatles. I was captivated by the audio textures, and Lennon bellowing: “Full speed ahead!” When it arrived at the chorus, I remember thinking: “This must be music!”

The inaugural single I purchased
When I was eight, I was victorious in a contest at school to select a new vinyl to play at the weekly dance party we had on Fridays. My teacher took me to Woolworths, and I opted for Come Back My Love by the group Darts. The first single I purchased with my own pocket money was Mull of Kintyre by Wings from a music store in Lancashire. It was number one at the time, and I chose it when my father noted that it was by one of the Beatles.

The song I perform at karaoke
I candidly do not enjoy karaoke and steer clear at all costs. But if I had to, I’d choose Summer Wind by Ol' Blue Eyes.

The song I strangely know each line to
I not long ago became aware that I have memorized virtually every word to The Boy in the Bubble, You Can Call Me Al, and each track on Graceland by Paul Simon.

The ideal tune to blast at a soirée
It hinges on the point of the evening you are at. For the beginning it would likely be I Heard It Through the Grapevine by Marvin Gaye. As the night wears on, I’d move on to Prince, the Stones and David Bowie, and when it really kicks off, Phat Planet by the electronic act, Born Slippy .NUXX by Underworld, and Ascension by the virtual band, which is an undeniable hit.

The track I can no longer listen to
I for some reason cannot stand Mr Brightside by the Killers.

The ultimate track to make love to
Come Together by John, Paul, George, and Ringo.

The record that changed my life
When I was twelve and starting to learn the six-string, I’d only listen to early rock and roll, and was fixated on Elvis, Chuck Berry, the killer, the New Orleans legend, Buddy Holly and Eddie Cochran. Then my babysitter played Let There Be Rock by the Australian rockers. It was still guitar music, but it was electrifying rock music. Instantly after he dropped the record on the turntable, I was a fan for life.

The track that motivates me in the morning
What’d I Say parts 1 & 2 by Ray Charles.

The song that brings me to tears
Most music makes me moved. Aretha Franklin, The Chairman of the Board, Elvis and the Fab Four all stir my emotions because of the harmony and sheer brilliance of the singing. But The Ocean by Richard Hawley hits me hard every time.

The song I’d like performed at my final send-off
The King. If I’m cremated, I’ll have Burning Love. If I’m laid to rest in the ground, I’ll have Way Down.