Speedway

Four piece Scottish band Speedway are the brainchild of vocalist/guitarist Jill Jackson and drummer Jim Duguid. They bonded over a mutual affection for U2 and haven't looked back since.

By the end of 2000, they caught the eye of label head Hugh Goldsmith at a show at Glasgow's infamous King Tut's Wah Wah Hut. Impressed with their onstage charisma and highly charged original material, Speedway were soon signed to Innocent Records.

The UK Press has been very enthusiastic about the band: 'Speedway are that rarest of rock things: a British band with a fantastically photogenic lead singer, songs minted in some exclusive, radio-friendly hit factory, the makings of a great live act, and a sound that seems to come emblazoned with dollar signs.' --- Sunday Times Culture

'The Scottish band, somewhere between the Pretenders and Blondie, really is one to watch.' --- The Sun Bizarre

'Jackson exudes confidence and looks every inch the rock star' --- Mail On Sunday

Speedway are fronted by the stunningly gorgeous 23 year old Jill Jackson who comes from Paisley and Music-News were lucky enough to put some questions to her.


You formed because of your love of U2's music, what are your favourite U2 songs?

Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For, All I Want Is You and Wild Honey.

What other covers did you consider before choosing Christina Aguilera's Genie In A Bottle.

The Eagles - Best of my love.

Why not a U2 song?

No-one should EVER cover a U2 song because you can't compete with the best.

In Italy they wear red underwear on New Years Eve to bring them luck the rest of the year, do you have any superstitious rituals before getting on stage?

I have a lucky charm my grandpa gave me before he died called a New Zealand Tiki, and I always take that on stage with me.

What is the most memorable thing that has happened on tour so far?

Someone threw a bra on stage and Jim [Jim Duguid - drummer] caught it, put it on and played the rest of the gig with it!

Who's your favourite Scottish band?

Texas of course!

What gigs did you go to growing up, and which where the most memorable?

I went to loads of country gigs when I was a teenager, the best one was seeing Trisha Yearwood in Glasgow then I got to meet her. Most of my mates went to see Take That, not really my kind of thing.

Who's the wild one in the band?

Jim or Tom [Tom Swann - bassist], they're equally as wild.

You have been supporting Blue, do you consider that to be Speedways typical fan base?

The Blue fans are very mixed, between 10-35, I would consider that to be a big percentage of our fanbase.

What album are you most into at this present time?

Damian Rice 'O'.

When you become megastars will you still give Music-News.com an interview?

It will always be my pleasure! Anytime!


I'm gonna hold her to that.

'Can't Turn Back' is out on Feb 9th while 'Save Yourself' is out on Feb 23rd.