Pete Doherty, the enigmatic frontman of both The Libertines and Babyshambles, is basking in the triumph of his recent musical endeavors. Despite past personal struggles, the musician has emerged with fresh vigor, showcasing not only the return of The Libertines but also hinting at significant prospects for Babyshambles.
This year, The Libertines reunited to produce their first album in nearly nine years, titled All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade, which catapulted to the top of the UK's Official Albums Chart upon its release. Doherty shared his enthusiasm about the band's revitalized unity, stating, "It’s been a long old slog this year. At the same time, the band seemed to come together. We’ve had moments of unity... it was our best time." These sentiments were echoed during their recent tour, which has reinvigorated the band's dynamic.
On the road this year, Doherty humorously reflected on the need to transport his family, including his two dogs, during band tours. "I was actually banned from the band bus. One baby, a wife and two dogs was too much, so I was put on the crew bus. But you know what? The crew bus is a f****** cool place to be!" he expressed to NME. This banter highlights the often chaotic yet heartfelt nature of Doherty's life as he balances personal and professional responsibilities.
Looking forward, The Libertines have announced plans for another tour throughout Europe beginning in 2025. Fans can expect insight from Doherty himself, who plans to create and sell his own fanzine titled On Strap during the concerts. "I’m starting a fanzine. I’m going to try and reignite an analogue people’s front: The People’s Front Of Analogia!" he said. His aim is to connect with fans beyond mere performances, inviting them to contribute their thoughts and creativity to his publication.
Meanwhile, as The Libertines ride the wave of their resurgence, the prospect of reuniting Babyshambles to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut album, Down in Albion, is tantalizingly close. During a solo performance earlier this year, Doherty made headlines when he shared the stage with fellow bandmates for the first time in ten years. "It is on the cards," he remarked, emphasizing the feasibility of bringing the group back together. He hinted at the longstanding unfinished business with numerous unreleased tracks, including one he has termed 'Stad Ocean'. "We had so many songs we never got around to recording," he lamented.
The backstory of both bands is rich and scattered with challenges and triumphs. Doherty’s own battles with substance misuse have been well-documented, though he claimed to be increasingly technophobic since getting sober, stating, "Since I’ve got off the gear I haven’t had a phone... My wife has one, so if it’s an emergency, you can get hold of me.” This withdrawal from technology has generated humorous side effects, including struggles with purchasing train tickets.
The Libertines’ success has encouraged combined interest for the potential Babyshambles reunion. The members have hinted at the desire to explore their musical chemistry again, with Doherty admitting, "It’s the ‘who’ and the ‘when’... We will get back together and get in a room with the instruments and play through the old songs." Many are eagerly awaiting news on not only concerts but potentially new music. Of course, as he shares ambitions of venturing back to the studio, Doherty also acknowledges the unpredictability of the creative process: "For someone who’s well-known for being chaotic, I like to be well-prepared in my own way."
Fans of both The Libertines and Babyshambles are left hopeful and excited at the prospect of new music and riveting live performances. With the release of their latest album and new ventures burgeoning from their shared experiences, it seems Pete Doherty is on the cusp of exciting new chapters both personally and musically.
Stay tuned for what these iconic artists have planned as they take to the stage and potentially rekindle the magic of earlier days.
