Dean Stockings from Bildeston, Ipswich, puts five questions to Toyah Willcox

Dean: I once read that as a child you weren't allowed to kiss your parents or touch your mother. Is there any truth in this? 

Toyah: It's not as severe as that. We didn't communicate through touch, our affection was stronger in mental areas. Because we're a family of strong independent characters we 
weren't kissy kissy.. My sister and I decided that we would try 
and break down the barrier but after all this time I just can't do it. It doesn't mean that I didn't love them - we're very loyal and close. If anyone hurt them - I'd do 'em. 

Dean: After a concert do you travel to the next town, sleeping on a coach or do you stay the night in a local hotel? 

Toyah: It depends. Sometimes we travel back to London through the night. Most of the time we stay in a hotel. It's very tedious - all the time wasting between gigs. If someone gave me a time capsule to get to the venues without any hassle I'd do the concerts one after the other. 

Dean: Which song of your own do you most enjoy performing live and why? 

Toyah: Ooh a few. 'Ieya' because it's an absolute rock and roller - you can really let rip on it. 'Jungles of Jupiter' is great cos it's really descriptive. I want to develop a few new ones onstage; quiet, performable songs with deep lyrics. The tracks off 'Anthem' are also good. 

Dean: Which is your favourite venue for playing live concerts and do you prefer playing at small or large venues? 

Toyah: I've got used to the larger ones. We played the Marquee, London, two years ago and it was really strange having the audience touching noses with me. It's very inhibiting. The Odeons are better equipped for the shows I like to put on. When we play Hammersmith it feels like coming home and they go  wild in Newcastle, clapping so loud you can't hear yourself over the P.A. It's a great buzz. 

Dean: If I pay will you come out for a meal with me? 

Toyah: Aaah. That's really sweet. Unfortunately I'm quite busy and will have to refuse your kind offer (even though I wouldn't expect you to pay). Thanks for asking anyway.

Number One Magazine, 1985