- Mon, 2012-11-19 18:01
A few weeks ago I sat down with Fun Lovin' Criminals front man / BBC 6music and BBC Radio 2 DJ Huey Morgan to chat about his debut solo record Say It To My Face. The interview took place in his Man Cave, a converted garage attached to his London home packed with guitars, trinkets, photos, models, music, flags, crystals, skulls...basically, floor to ceiling cool stuff. Though I am no man, I quickly adapted to Man Cave lifestyle, emerging three hours later wishing I could spend that much time with everyone I interview for I Like Music. Everything seems much more genuine if you get to hang out a bit before and after the "interview"...
Anyway. News followed a few weeks later that Huey was opening a tattoo studio and music venue with longtime friend, Miami Ink star and renowned tattoo artist Ami James. An extension of Ami's Miami Ink LoveHate studio, LoveHate London Social Club opened its doors on Friday 16th November and we were invited to celebrate the launch of the venue.
Ami James and Huey Morgan. The lovely LoveHate ladies. Tattoo studio turned party venue...
After a day of press and tattoos, LoveHate was set up for the launch, free beers were stacked outside and very quickly we'd spilled out onto the street. As Huey explained to us that Ami still needed to complete a dragon tattoo he'd started for him nearly 15 years ago, an entourage of impressive custom motorbikes pulled up outside led by Snob of Snob's Customs. Despite the fact that he licked my face and invited me away for Christmas, I actually promised I'd deliver some home brew to his shop (I'm currently cooking up my fourth batch of real ale - it's just like Breaking Bad).
On that slightly illegal note, I should mention that the police turned up a couple of times. Ha. I think it was because of the noise and maybe the drinking in the street - is that illegal? News to me. The shop is in the heart of beautiful Notting Hill, culture ridden it may be but I don't think the majority of residents have a burning desire for new ink or a badass custom ride. Anyway, Huey chatted to them and they left...
Huey models his skull and crossbones lining. I pose for a photo with Ami. Huey, Snob and me...
LoveHate London has been based on the LoveHate Wooster Street Social Club in Soho NYC. One of the most exciting things about the venture is their passion to engage the creative community. The space is set to act as a multi-dimensional art gallery exhibiting local artists and holding events with musical entertainment curated by Huey while a host of quality tattoo artists work throughout the store. Those artists will include; Ami James, Tommy Montoya, Chris Nunez, Grant Cobb and Charlie Roberts.
For More information and to make a booking visit: www.lovehatesocialclub.com
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