ASM: You completed the album at your home in London using a 1983 Fairlight CMI Synthesizer that you purchased off of eBay. What can you share about that story?
Hayes: The album was recorded primarily in London at Mayfair Studios where Madonna is working at the moment and bands like Coldplay and U2 have made records. But the Fairlight brought with it a kind of vintage, old school vibe. It was the sound of all my favorite '80s electronic records and we managed to capture it forever on this album.
ASM: I've read that this album is one that you'd like to be remembered for. What did you enjoy most about this experience?
Hayes: The connections with sound. The connections with my collaborators. The emotional joy. It was pure bliss and fun.
ASM: Outside of having to pay for everything on your own, what's been the most difficult challenge of being on your own, without the backing of a major label?
Hayes: Radio airplay! But I'm kind of loving being a rebel.
ASM: You are the third most popular Australian artist in history in the U.S., along with INXS and Kylie Minogue, yet many feel that you haven't received the recognition that you deserve. Why do you think you've been overlooked?
Hayes: I don't care, really. Don't mean to be cheeky, but none of the artists you mentioned have had number ones in the States! So I know what time it is [laughs]. I'm like a good wine from a tiny vineyard. I don't care if many people don't know about me, as long as some adore me.
ASM: At one point, you desired to be a big mainstream male superstar in the likes of Justin Timberlake. However, you've since lost that desire and it helped you in the making of this album. Why did you move away from your superstar aspirations?
Hayes: Because I realized it wouldn't make me happy. I don't want a cologne, a restaurant, a clothing chain or a movie role. I don't want my own brand. I don't want to be in the tabloids. I just want to make music.
ASM: What are your interests outside of music? I understand that you are a "Star Wars" buff?
Hayes: HUGE Star Wars fan. I collect the vintage toys from the '70s. We are also huge film buffs and collect vintage posters and watch, make and discuss animation and film all the time. Plus our dog, Wally, keeps us amused for days.
ASM: I've read that you don't consider yourself a celebrity, and it seems as if being in social situations surrounded by the likes of Victoria Beckham and Angelina Jolie make you uncomfortable. Is it a challenge for you being in the public eye?
Hayes: I hate getting my photo taken. Does that answer your question? I just don't see myself in that light or that stratosphere. Bless the people who do. But I'm just happy sitting here watching the wheels turn 'round and 'round [laughs].
ASM: One of your idols is Madonna, who reportedly admitted to being a fan of yours when you met her at a dinner party in London. Was that one of the more surreal moments of your life?
Hayes: She didn't admit to being a fan; she admitted to knowing who I was. Yep, totally surreal. She's stunning in real life and totally charming. Sex pot.
ASM: What else would you like to accomplish in the future?
Hayes: I'd like to open a toy store. And be a dad. In that order.
ASM: One of the biggest themes in your music is "what does not break us makes us stronger," and you've mentioned that until you met your Richard, the '80s were the last time you were happy. Are you finally at peace with your life?
Hayes: I'm not at peace. I don't think I ever will be, because I strive hard to be a better version of myself constantly. But I'm happy and grateful, and that's a lot closer to peace than I've ever been.
For more on Darren Hayes and his new album, be sure to visit his official Web site — www.darrenhayes.com
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