Getting personal with The Undertones' Damien (sic) O'Neill

Interview by Phelim O'Neill - Guardian - Tuesday June 6 - 2000

Have you ever adopted a pseudonym - and if so why?

Yes - Tommy Tate And The Torpedoes (used on an Undertones B side-.) Why? Not one of my better moments-.

Have you ever lied about your age - and if so why?

Yes - when I was 18 I was in California and I had a fake ID card made for me claiming I was 21 so I could get into the clubs.

How would you describe yourself in a lonely hearts ad?

Unavailable (my girlfriend made me write this!)

What was the last illegal thing you did?

Mind your own business!

What was the last kind-hearted thing you did?

Lending money to a friend in need.

Who's the nicest person you've ever worked with?

Too many to mention really but I suppose it might have to be Kevin Shields(My Bloody Valentine/Primal Scream).

What are the initials of the most unpleasant person you've ever worked with?

I love everyone!

Has a critic ever made you cry?

With laughter maybe.

What would you advertise without a fee?

I already have - I co-wrote a song called Mars Bars in 1978.

What would you never advertise?

My body.

What wakes you up screaming at four in the morning?

My nine-week-old daughter Rosa.

What takes you to a happy place?

Seeing Rosa and her mum when I wake up in the morning.

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