Colin Blunstone, the esteemed lead singer of The Zombies, expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his bandmate Rod Argent, affectionately declaring him the “cornerstone” of the iconic band, as the group prepared to perform their final gig in their hometown of St Albans, Hertfordshire.
The poignant event, taking place in the very city where The Zombies first formed in 1961, carries a bittersweet air, especially as they perform without the presence of the talented keyboardist Rod Argent, who has had to step back from touring following a stroke earlier this year.
“I think Rod’s one of the greatest keyboard players this country has produced. He’s world class,” Blunstone affirmed in an interview with the BBC, underscoring Argent’s immense contribution to music.
The Zombies shot to fame in the UK and America in the 1960s with hit songs like “She’s Not There,” solidifying their place in the rock pantheon.
The group made a remarkable entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019 and proudly holds the title of the world’s longest-running band, a testament to their enduring legacy, as highlighted by Blunstone, who noted, “We actually have a certificate to prove it.”
Reflecting on their beginnings, Blunstone recalled, “We first met outside the Blacksmith’s Arms in Peter’s Street” when they were merely teenagers, “I was stunned when I first heard Rod play keyboards, he could play classical pieces very, very well.” His astonishment at Argent’s talent as a 15-year-old musician is palpable as he added, “he’s been the cornerstone of the band.”
New and original members of the band are set to perform at the two-day Begin Here festival in St Albans, a tribute to the invaluable contributions of Rod Argent.
Blunstone indicated there will be “a whole cast of musicians desperate to explain their relationship with Rod and give him thanks for all the inspiration and support he’s given to them over the years,” suggesting an outpouring of appreciation from the music community.
He elaborated, “I think it will be a wonderful show but will be tinged with sadness. It will be great for people to get up on stage and explain what Rod Argent means to them.” In a hopeful note, he mentioned that Argent plans to continue writing and recording as his health has been “much better” since his stroke.
When asked what message he would convey to his dear friend, Blunstone sincerely replied, “Thank you for giving me a career in music. I would never have had that career without Rod.”
**Interview with Colin Blunstone**
**Interviewer**: Colin, it’s a bittersweet moment for The Zombies as you prepare for your final gig in St Albans. Can you share your feelings about performing in the city where it all began?
**Colin Blunstone**: Absolutely. Performing in St Albans holds a special significance for us. This is where we formed The Zombies back in 1961. It’s a very emotional experience to return here one last time, especially knowing that Rod won’t be by our side on stage.
**Interviewer**: Speaking of Rod Argent, you referred to him as the ”cornerstone” of the band. What does that mean to you personally and to the band as a whole?
**Colin Blunstone**: Rod has always been the heart and soul of The Zombies. His talent is unparalleled; I truly believe he’s one of the greatest keyboard players this country has ever produced—world-class, without a doubt. His musical vision shaped our sound and influenced us all. It’s hard to imagine the band without him, and he’s left an indelible mark on our journey.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned Rod won’t be touring due to his health issues. How has the band coped with this change?
**Colin Blunstone**: It’s definitely been a challenge. Rod’s presence is irreplaceable, and we’ve all felt the gap. However, we want to honor him during this performance and celebrate everything he has done for us and for music. He’s given us so much, and we carry that spirit with us on stage.
**Interviewer**: What do you hope the audience takes away from this final performance?
**Colin Blunstone**: I hope they feel the love and gratitude we have for them and for Rod. We want to celebrate our legacy, the music we’ve created together, and the unforgettable moments we’ve shared with our fans over the years. This gig is for Rod, and for everyone who has supported us along the way.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Colin. Wishing you and the band all the best for this final show.
**Colin Blunstone**: Thank you. It means a lot to us. We’ll make Rod proud.
