Robbie Williams: I’ve got arthritis in my back so I can’t dance like I used to but I’ll still entertain you

The singer said his stage moves will be restricted due to his health
Entertainer: Robbie Williams performs live on stage as part of the Apple Music Festival 2016
David Jensen/PA
Alistair Foster12 October 2016
The Weekender

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Robbie Williams today revealed he has arthritis in his back, which has forced him to tone down his dance routines and quit football.

The singer, 42, said he wants to tour after his latest album is released, but his stage moves will be restricted due to his health.

In an exclusive interview with the Standard, the star said: “I’ve got arthritis in my back so I can’t put my foot through a ball.”

Asked how it was affecting his dancing, he replied: “I have very tight hamstrings, barely existent calves. I dance like a drunk dad at a wedding. But I’ve got to do something to fill the time on stage.”

Looking all white: Robbie Williams at the Attitude Awards
Dave Benett

Williams was speaking after he was named music icon at the Attitude Awards in Covent Garden last night. It was announced last week that he will receive the Brits Icon Award next month.

The former Take That star has spoken candidly about his demons in the past, from depression to substance abuse. He said: “There was always lack of self-worth, a lack of confidence. That’s sort of driven my life. Both as a curse and a blessing. It’s driven everything forward and keeps me moving forward, too.

“I also think that the neurosis is interesting. It’s much more interesting to be a little bit broken and talk about your vulnerabilities. I don’t have a choice either way because I’m built for over-sharing.”

Got the moves: Robbie Williams performing upside down in 2003
Andrew Milligan/ PA

Williams lives in Los Angeles with his wife Ayda, their daughter Teddy, four, and son Charlie, who is two this month. He said: “Having kids has completely focused my attention away from my neuroses and addictions. My life is tenfold better for it. Daddy goes to work and it all makes sense. This is my job. It’s not a normal job. And having children has made it all make sense.”

The singer returned to the public eye two weeks ago with the single Party Like A Russian, from his new album Heavy Entertainment Show. The video shows him dressed as an oligarch, singing about a man who “alleviates the cash from a whole entire nation”. This led to reports that he would not be welcome to perform in Russia again — something Williams was happy to clarify. He said: “These articles and the sensationalism that surrounds them only exist in England. My record company, my promoter, my Russian friends all tell me it’s been received warmly.

“Unfortunately, you find yourself being a soap actor, having to justify the script. On the one hand, there’s been a lot of press about it. So I’m thankful for that. On the other hand – the truth behind it, is that it doesn’t exist.

Attitude Awards 2016 - In pictures

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“The song has zero malice. It’s not political. I think the only thing that can be outstanding about this song is my own stupidity. It’s theatrical. It’s whimsical.”

His single reached number 68 in the charts but Williams accepts he is releasing music into a crowded marketplace. He said: “About six weeks ago, I was in Los Angeles and I was hearing about people really finding it difficult to break into the top 40. Pop stars that are much more relevant than me, struggling. I was like, ‘God, I’m f*****! If they can’t get in, how the f*** am I going to get in?’ Because the rules have changed. It’s all about streaming — my audience doesn’t stream. Which means the singles charts are a bit f***** for me.

“The pre-orders on the album are really healthy, I’m pleased to say. I’m an ambitious pop star — that’s my job title.”

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