Norman Cook, DJ and musician

Norman Cook, DJ and musician

July 25, 2026 · 51 min

About this episode

Norman Cook, known as Fatboy Slim, shares his journey as a DJ and musician, discussing his accolades and musical influences.

Norman Cook is a musician and DJ also widely known as Fatboy Slim. As a DJ, he has played everywhere from Bondi Beach and the Great Wall of China to the House of Commons and a fish and chip shop. His many accolades include a world record for the most number one singles by one musician in different acts. He has had a number of musical aliases including Pizzaman, Cheeky Boy and Beats International. He was also a member of the Housemartins. He was christened Quentin by his parents and changed his name to Norman when he embarked on his musical career. His passion for music and collecting records led him down the path of becoming a DJ and his outdoor gigs, particularly in Brighton, saw him play to crowds of over a quarter of a million people. He has been married twice, his second wife was the DJ and radio presenter, Zoe Ball. Norman lives in Brighton DISC ONE: The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash on the Wheels of Steel - Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five DISC TWO: Golden Slumbers / Carry That Weight - The Beatles DISC THREE: Rainbow Connection - The Muppets DISC FOUR: (White Man) in Hammersmith Palais - The Clash DISC FIVE: I Feel Love - Donna Summer DISC SIX: Satisfied ‘N’…

People in this episode

Host: Lauren Laverne

Guest: Norman Cook

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BBC Radio 4

Books & works: The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists

Places: Brighton, Bondi Beach, Great Wall of China, House of Commons, fish and chip shop

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