Norman Cook (b. 1963)

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Biography

Norman Quentin Cook, known professionally as Fatboy Slim, is an English musician and DJ who helped popularise the big beat genre in the 1990s. His music makes extensive use of samples from eclectic genres, combined with pop structures, processed rhythms and "sloganistic" vocals.

Timeline

The story of Norman Cook, told in moments.

1963 Birth

Born Quentin Leo Cook in Bromley, Kent. Changed his name to Norman at school because he didn't like "Quentin." Grew up in Reigate, Surrey.

Why did 'Quentin' bother you so much as a kid? Did growing up in Surrey feel limiting? When did you first know music would be your life?

1985 Life

Played bass for the Housemartins, an indie pop band from Hull. They had a Christmas number one in 1986 with "Caravan of Love." The band split in 1988.

What was the Housemartins' energy like? Did that Christmas number one change your sense of ambition? Was leaving the band your choice or theirs?

1996 Event

Reinvented himself as Fatboy Slim. Released Better Living Through Chemistry. His big beat sound mixed eclectic samples with driving rhythms.

What made you reinvent yourself so completely? Where did the big beat sound come from? Did Fatboy Slim feel like a disguise or your real self?

1998 Event

Released You've Come a Long Way, Baby. "The Rockafeller Skank" and "Praise You" became global hits. The "Praise You" video, directed by Spike Jonze, cost nothing to make.

How did Spike Jonze pull off that zero-budget video? What hit harder -- UK or US success? Did 'Praise You' surprise you as a hit?

2002 Event

Played Big Beach Boutique II on Brighton Beach to a crowd of 250,000. The city hadn't expected more than 60,000. Traffic gridlocked for miles.

What went through your mind when 250,000 showed up? Did you feel responsible for the chaos on Brighton Beach? Was that the peak of live performance for you?