Wet Wet Wet on Legacy, Evolution & Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek

Few bands manage to stay relevant across generations while holding onto the essence that made them iconic in the first place. With a career spanning over four decades, Wet Wet Wet continue to strike that rare balance—blending nostalgia with evolution, soul with pop sensibility, and timeless songwriting with fresh energy. Ahead of their performance at the Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek, the band reflects on their journey, creative process, and what still drives them today.

Q: Wet Wet Wet, your career has spanned over four decades—how has your approach to music-making evolved since the early days of the band?

A: With Wet Wet Wet it’s gone from instinct and hunger to a bit more craft and patience. Early days we just went for it—now we still trust the feel, but we’re a bit smarter about how we get there.

Q: Your signature sound blends pop, rock, and soul—how do you maintain the balance between these genres in both recordings and live performances?

A: It’s always been about feel over formula. Soul sits at the heart, with pop hooks and a bit of rock edge. If it feels right, it is right—simple as that.

Q: Love Is All Around became an iconic global hit—how has this song shaped the band’s identity, and how do you keep it fresh for audiences today?

A: Love Is All Around changed everything for us. It’s part of the DNA now. We keep it fresh by letting the crowd own it. It’s different every night depending on the room.

Q: Over the years, you’ve released numerous albums—how do you approach songwriting now compared to the 1980s and 1990s?

A: Back then it was more raw and immediate. Now we take our time, shape things more, but still chase that same spark. You can’t fake a good song.

Q: Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek brings together global and African artists—what excites you most about performing at this festival in South Africa?

A: Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek is a special one. There’s a mix of cultures, proper music lovers, and a stunning setting. That kind of energy lifts a performance.

Q: Your live shows are known for energy and audience connection—how do you adapt your performance style for large international festivals versus intimate venues?

A: Big festivals you can go larger, grab attention quick. With smaller venues, it’s more personal, more connection. Same songs, different delivery.

Q: Collaboration has played a role in your music—are there any new collaborations or special guest artists you are excited to work with?

A: Nothing nailed down just yet, but we’re always open. The right voice or vibe can take things somewhere new.

Q: How do you balance nostalgia for long-time fans with exploring new musical directions in your performances?

A: You’ve got to respect the past but not live in it. Give fans what they love, but sneak in a few surprises—you’ve got to keep it moving forward.

Q: Can you share a particularly memorable live performance or tour moment that has stayed with the band over the years?

A: Plenty, but those massive singalongs with thousands of people, all in sync—that never gets old. Proper goosebumps stuff.

Q: Looking ahead, are there new albums, projects, or international tours you are planning after Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek, and what directions are you most excited about?

A: There’s always something brewing—new music, more shows. Still chasing that buzz of creating and playing live. That’s what keeps it all going.

As Wet Wet Wet prepare to take the stage in Franschhoek, it’s clear their longevity isn’t just built on hits—it’s rooted in authenticity, adaptability, and an unshakable love for music. Whether performing for thousands or in more intimate settings, their mission remains the same: create moments that resonate, connect, and endure. Four decades in, the spark is still very much alive—and if anything, it’s burning smarter, stronger, and louder than ever.