Illusionist Derren Brown Shares His Unique and Personal Playlist

From early childhood memories listening to 'I Can Sing a Rainbow' with his mother, to the songs that shape his mornings on tour, renowned illusionist Derren Brown delivers an honest glimpse into the music that has soundtracked his life. The first song he recalls hearing is one that now feels like a relic from a bygone era. It was on 'Listen With Mother', a show meant for children on BBC radio.

Youthful Mischief and Musical Memories

At the age of 16, a rebellious Brown dabbled in shoplifting, but a close call involving a Luther Vandross cassette at Harrods put an end to his light-fingered pursuits. Karaoke, typically a fan favorite, is not on his list of enjoyable activities, with one notable exception — an experience with 'Mustang Sally' that turned out to be bizarrely enjoyable.

Streaming Favorites and Guilty Pleasures

While Brown might not paint walls, he does paint portraits, often to the tunes of Leonard Cohen, Jeff Buckley, or the newer sounds of Rufus Wainwright's album 'Folkocracy'. He harbors a secret affection for early Whitney Houston hits, unabashedly belting out 'The Greatest Love of All' with his partner despite claiming to dislike it to others.

Life-Changing Melodies and Morning Motivation

A piece by Bach grips Brown emotionally, pointing to a pivotal moment in his affection for classical music. To kick start his days, particularly when on tour, Vivaldi's 'Gloria' serves as his go-to anthem for energy and positivity, no matter the external circumstances.

Intimate Choices and a Funktastic Farewell

His choice for a lovemaking soundtrack may raise some eyebrows – 'All By Myself' by Eric Carmen – while his funeral song, should leave attendees with a memorable smile as 'I Got You (I Feel Good)' by James Brown resonates in the venue.

Embedding himself into stories, Brown fantasizes about having penned 'The Luckiest' by Ben Folds and similarly creates elaborate scenarios where he's credited with directing films, a whimsical tendency he muses might be shared by others.

playlist, music, memory