Chesney at Dubai's Chi for one night only

Dubai certainly seems to be having a penchant for all things 1990s in recent times.

Tomorrow night, it's back to 1991 to witness one of that year's most popular singers live in Dubai for the very first time at Chi @ The Lodge. Chesney Hawkes – best known for his mega hit The One and Only – headlines with support from DJs Tim Cheddar and Emtee.

Emirates Business talked to the English singer via e-mail ahead of the Dubai show.

What will your Dubai set be like?

It will be just me on acoustic guitar and my brother, Jodie, on drums. As far as songs, I'll bring out some classics, as well as a couple of my old songs. I'm sure we'll all be toasting England for the match the following day as well.

Isn't this your first time in?Dubai?

Yes – everything I've ever read or heard about Dubai sounds like heaven in the sun. I played Scunthorpe recently so my expectations of Dubai are pretty high. I'm only in town for 48 hours, so I'll see the airport, the hotel, the venue, the England game and hopefully fit in some sightseeing as well.

How do you react to being called a one-hit wonder?

It's not a phrase I hear much these days, but I have to admit it was a memorable record, so any other smaller hits I have had were always going to be swept aside. When you look at how many great artists have never had a Number One, I have to feel privileged. I can't help but love playing the song.

Do royalties from The One and Only keep you rolling around in riches?

The song-writing royalties don't because I didn't write the song. If I'm rolling around in riches at all, it's down to getting out there and gigging, which I love, and seeing more and more artists record my songs.

Tell us what the songs you've produced? What are you working on now?

I've had songs recorded by Tricky, Jennifer Paige, Curt Smith from Tears for Fears, Caprice, A1, and a number of X Factor. Now, I'm writing with Rob Davis, who wrote Can't Get you Out of My Head for Kylie, and this week I've been working with Shayne Ward.

And a new album?

I have an album out at the moment, available from all digital retailers and also from my website, chesneyhawkes.co.uk. I also have a band project called Marvelous Mechanical Mouse with all proceeds going to Amnesty International.

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