Tim Burgess: 'Shaun Ryder is a legend'

Tim Burgess has said that Shaun Ryder will be an "interesting" prospect as a solo live performer.

The ex-Happy Mondays and Black Grape frontman is supporting Burgess's band The Charlatans on their upcoming UK tour of 11th studio album Who We Know .

Talking about the partnership, Burgess told DS: "We've done a lot of festivals together, and in the mid-'90s when Shaun started doing Black Grape we were in the same studios.

"I've known him all along really. At times members of the Happy Mondays as well, I've known Bez and Gaz [Gary Whelan]. But I don't think they'll be with him this time."

Of his hopes for Ryder's solo career, he added: "I know he's clean now, and I know what it's like to be clean, and you just come into your own space really.

"I think that's where he's at, and I think it's going to be really interesting to see. Plus he's good fun and I think he's going to be great value for the ticket, 'cos he's a legend."

Earlier this year, Ryder married his long-term girlfriend Joanne at a surprise ceremony in Worsley following the christening of their daughter Lulu.