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Stereophonics

Stereophonics Rock icons from the valleys

Born:
1992
Place of Birth:
Cwmaman
School:
Blaengwawr Comprehensive School
Famous For:
Rock icons from the valleys
Trivia:
Animated versions of Kelly, Stuart and Richard were created for a BBC Wales TV promo for the England v Wales Six Nations rugby match in 2000.
Biography:

This hard-rocking trio have overtaken the Manics to become one of the biggest bands in Wales if not the UK.

Kelly Jones, Richard Jones and Stuart Cable began life as a covers band called Tragic Love Company performing at working men's clubs in and around their home town of Cwmaman.

The band renamed themselves Stereophonics and Kelly's bittersweet lyrics about life in the south Wales valleys attracted the attention of Richard Branson's V2 label which release their first single Looks Like Chaplin/More Life In A Tramp's Vest in 1996.

Stereophonics animatedThe debut album Word Gets Around spawned a string of hit singles including Local Boy In The Photograph and Traffic. It helped earn the trio a Brit Award for Best New Band in 1998.

Since then, the albums Performance and Cocktails, Just Enough Education to Perform and You Gotta Go There To Come Back have secured Stereophonics' place as one of the UK's leading rock acts.

They've also toured extensively, including a string of high profile gigs at Cardiff Castle, Morfa Stadium, Donington, and the Millennium Stadium as well as headlining appearances at the Glastonbury, Reading, T in the Park and V festivals.

Kelly's vocal talents earned him a guest spot duetting with fellow Welshman Tom Jones on a cover of Mama Told Me Not To Come on the latter's Reload album.

Meanwhile garrulous drummer Stuart Cable developed a sideline as a TV and radio presenter for BBC Wales, also fronting a health awareness campaign about testicular cancer.

But Cable's larger-than-life personality and media career contrasted sharply with Kelly and Richard's preference to shun the limelight off stage, and ructions led to his shock sacking from the band in September 2003.

It was more than a year later, in December 2004, that unknown Argentinian Javier Weyler was named as Cable's replacement.

But the change of personnel hasn't hampered the band, who scored their first ever number one single in spring 2005 with Dakota, closely followed by the chart-topping album Language. Sex. Violence. Other?

Meanwhile Cable continues his media career, but returned to the stage in 2007 with his new band Killing for Company.

Moment of Glory:
Their first major headlining gig at Morfa Stadium, Swansea, in 1999 in front of 50,000 was voted Gig of the Year by readers of the NME.
Off the Record:
The band was accused of racism after writing the rugby anthem As Long As We Beat The English.

your comments

Marj Prosser, Worcestershire
Hi butties - I'm proud to be welsh. I lived in Cwmaman when I was young - I'm from the mount, I'm 41. I looked at that football pitch you must have played about on and the motor bikes you had on the mountains. Well done, keep playing. Love you xx

Jane, West Yorkshire
Love going to see the band, they have seen me through good times and bad times. Always so generous with their time after gigs and so kind and friendly towards their fans. Love the music, love the band and their fans aren't bad too! Can't wait to see them again in December 2008 and hoping for some warm ups!

Tich Thomas, Swansea
In answer to Jools from Swansea - I used to busk the underpass on a regular basis and never saw Kelly down there. He would have had a job to get a pitch as there was a rota and it was fierce! Yes, you guessed it - that gorgeous person was probably me, heh heh.

Ross Cwmbach near cwmaman
Iwas brought up listnin to the stereophonics. they are good with or without stuart cable, at the end of the day they will always be good. i was up the red cow in llwydcoed with stu the other day nice man. kelly jones i talk to you mother haha-see you boys 6th dec 08 at cardiff CIA then. p.s you wicked

Shandeler
I love them guys, I just bought their new album Pull the Pin! Rockk onnnn!

Wendy from N Ireland
Was at oxegen - Stereophonics amazing. Kelly you didn't answer my question on my tshirt? Is it a yes then? I need a hubby!

Nick Pike from Abercarn
What the hell is Joe Bloggs of Merthyr on? Dad Rock is pap like Coldplay, James Blunt, Oasis,X factor winners, Kylie! The Stereophonics have carved out a quality niche for themselves, despite Mr Cable putting himself first & splitting up a winning team! Kelly is far from a rock star. He's just a successful valley boy who doen't suffer fools gladly - a bit like flip from Newport - the centre of welshness! NOT!

Phil Cheesey Jones from Hoo, Kent
Really enjoy your music - cheers for donation to Cwm band much appreciated, keep up the good work and get Stuart back cos he's a laugh - the new one is quite boring. The last time I saw you, you looked like Michael Jackson near the Bonky.

Shona Cooper, Brisbane Queensland
Love the music, favorite song DEKOTA I am a 56 yearyoung grandma.

Jenna, Halesowen
Oh my god guys, Saw you live recently for my first time... apologies for my slowness! but have follwed since the beginning. But Live you're a completely different band! completely out of this world, and the best live gig Ive been to. Rock on Wales.x

Julie, Aberdare
Known Kelly since he was singing with Silent Runner and I was seeing the keyboard player! Load of us had a cracking night one NYE up the Bonky! Ain't seen Kelly for a few years now but well done mate, you're doing really well! Cerddoriaeth Ardderchog!!

Joanna Graham, Fife, Scotland
Whilst I can see where some feelings are coming from about the first albums compared with the later albums, I don't think one is better than the other. It's like past lovers; frequently one is no better or worse than another, only different. I believe it's the same here. Word Gets Around is better if you like that style, You Gotta Go There is better for that style. But neither is good or bad, just different. I think some people have been confusing being a fan of the band with being a fan of the album. If you only like one particular album or song, then you're a fan of that album, not a fan of the band. And there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. No one likes everything. However, fans of the band themselves will always continue to support them, no matter what their albums sound like. And that's fine too. No one's right or wrong here, just have different tastes and opinions. "That's what's beautiful about the world!" Personally I'm just thankful for the Phonics - whoever makes up the band and whatever is being sung - because without them and at least one of the songs you like, music, lives and Wales would be a very different place. Talent (real talent) is very rare. It's a gift, and gifts are precious. So whether we only like one song or everything they've ever done, these talented boys pleased us at least once in our lives. Which is more than I can say for a lot of performers. I will always be a fan because of that, I know a lot of people will be. Well done to the Phonics for reaching so many people, even if for some it was only once. They're something we all have in common.

gilfach gogh
kelly has gone to big for his boots

Louise, Pontypool
Been a big fan from the begining and still enjoy listening to the husky voice of Kelly Jones. I do miss Mr Cable but what can you do? Looking forward to seeing them live in November again - bring it on.

Jeanine Jones from Houston, Texas, USA
Wow. Just saw this amazing group for the 1st time ever on a cable tv program which aired their concert at 4am. Can't wait to share them with my husband. I am 58 and thought I had already seen all the great bands. What a wonderful revelation. Way to go Wales!! Tom Jones and Stereophonics! Bravo!!!

Nancy Jones, New Mexico USA
Hey, I live very far away from where 'phonics play but hey I've listened to them since i was 23 now i'm 33, so basically i've been there all the way which is cooler. I've been to all their concerts I'M SERIOUS always in the front and wow Kelly as he gets older, gets even sexier!!! I even saw him passing by the coffee shop I was at while I was in London - he looks even better when you get closer. Hope the Stereophonics stay together even longer so hopefully Kelly doesn't wear out and the band too but Kelly is my eyecatcher.

Ali Smith from Mountain Ash
Well done boys. You done the valleys proud. Bring back Stew. Nuff said.

Gaz from Bradford
Met Kelly after his solo gig at Manchester Opera House and he was sound as a pound, and the gig its self was fab. The Stereophonics are the best band in the world.

Julie from Grantham, Lincolnshire
Have loved them since I heard The Bartender and the Thief, didn't know what Kelly looked like - just loved his voice. Went to see them in November 2001 and realised how gorgeous and talented he was. Saw them again in September 2005 and he was even more gorgeous and his voice was even better. Wish I'd gone to see him on his solo tour, but will certainly be going to see the group when they tour again. Love Kelly's solo album and the Rewind DVD - clever way of buidling up our anticipation for you again. Love you loads Kelly xx

Christine from Caerphilly
Bring back Stuart!

Jane, Derby
Just wanted to say how good Kelly's new solo album is! I've followed Stereos from the start - I'm very proud of Kelly. The boy has done good ... love you Kelly xxxxx

Sarah Williams from Liverpool
Stereophonics - well what can I say? I think they are fantastic, the lyrics are great, and as for Kelly Jones he gets sexier as he gets older, and his voice - WOW. He is gorgeous. I first saw them in 1997 at the Hillsborough concert in Liverpool after which I thought I would follow them. I bought the first album and every one since then. I went to see them in Old Trafford cricket ground 2004 which they were headlining the bands, I was so proud it was raining but I still rocked on the grass. Then saw them in the M.E.N in Manchester in 2005. Went to see Kelly (the man himself) last night in the Opera House in Manchester. It was amazing especially near the end when he did some of the Stereophonics songs, which rocked the place. Can't wait till the next album and they gig again, I will be there. Keep up the good hard work lads I am behind you every step of the way. Good Luck. A very proud fan. Diolch, Cym Ofal.

Sadie, Hull
Stereophonics are one of the best bands I have heard. I have liked them ever since I was 3. I'm 12 now and hope they will bring out another album out soon!!!

Sabina Hudson from Newbridge-on-Wye
The Sterophonics rock!

Kelly from Glasgow
Just like 2 say I was at the concert on 7th sept 2005 - I really enjoyed it and also Kelly was as hot as ever. Can't wait for the new album and tour dates. Keep up the the good work boys.

Ben, a Phonic fanatic (valleys)
Yes!...somewhere just to talk about the greatest band ever!....live and love the Phonics. Whatever the mood the Phonics can make it even better! Kelly Jones has to be a true Welsh idol for all! Can't wait until the next album and tour.

Jordan from USA
The Stereophonics are great! Their "Live From Dakota" is what converted me into a fan. Kelly is such a talented singer/songwriter, and was blessed with an amazing voice. Keep up the great work, fellas!

Tizer - Cwmfelinfach, South Wales
Just wanna say other than Greenday, Stereophonics are by far the best band in the world. I hope they are here to stay for a long time to come, cos their music is just simply awsome. Wales forever ^^. Oor yeah 1 more thing - it's good Wales is getting a bit more popular worldwide, and it's due to bands like the 'phonics.

Dakota
They are the bestest band ever!!! And Kelly Jones is so hot! And my name is Dakota - it is so cool to have a name after my favorite band's song.

Laura, Oxford
I love Kelly - when I saw him live I was completely overwelmed, so excited. He made me feel amazing - he has a true talent, one I'm glad wasn't wasted! Never stop.

Angela in Maesteg
True musicians keep going when things get tough. Yes, they switched drummer, but give him credit, he's great. The songwriter always gets the greatest respect from me though :-) Looking forward to lots more great music.

Turbo Tim Green, Bermuda (ex Cardiff)
Loved their music ... seen them at Cardiff a couple of times, and fly the flag out here in Bermuda. JEEP got to be one of the best albums ever written, never get bored of it ... Keep up the good work chaps, you make us smile ...

Malc from London
I love the Stereophonics! So very excited about the 6th album!

April from Barry
Hey - Just wanted to say I'm one of Kelly's biggest fans! I love him more than anyone ... don't know what else to say - LOVE YOU KEL!!!!

Lucy, Maesteg
I just got to say that Kelly and the boys got to be one of the best things to come out of Wales and the music is the best.

lynne lane ....essex
awesome

Jools from Swansea
I could have sworn I saw Kelly busking in the underpass near Orchard Street in Swansea years ago, I did chuck some money in his hat, he looked gorgeous then! Does anyone know if this really was him?

Kirsty from Pontypridd
Well I've loved the Stereophonics since I was 4 years old!! Loving Dakota and Superman!! Also loving Javier Weyler... hottest drummer ever! You guys are doing soooo well. Hope you're around for many more years to come. Good luck for the future and I hope everything goes the way you plan. Love ya loadz guys.

sarah birmingham
i absolutely love stereophonics and wen i sin them last yr it was a dream come true!!!! their albums ave bin fanastic,the albums ave some memories whilst i was listenin 2 them through a rough patch... keep up the good work, kelly u ave amazin voice and u r drop dead gorgeous!!!

Steve C
Well lookin at everyone elses comments, some make sense but to say they're sellouts is really untrue as their music is changing with the times. the latest album is brilliant, with hints of the old tunes.In other words Stereophonics rule!

Kate Lloyd Cwmaman Aberdare
i think the Stereophonics are brilliant and they come from Cwmaman where im from

Amy, Ellesmere port, England
i only heard of the stereophonics when my dad bought the album LSVO. i listened to it one day an thought WOW!!! i especially love Lolita- it rocks. anyway, i became a big fan, an bought some of the other albums too. luvin them aswell!!! xxxxx

dobbsy from the mount
you guys were awesome!!! and unfortunately u went downhill, but now you are back on top form!!!! well done

Dobbsy from mountain ash
the stereophonics were awsome with stuart cable, a lot better than they are now. The new album is a sell-out.their music has changed, not as rocking as the older albums! bring back stuart!!!!

Tyler From Mountain Ash
I Just wanna say you guys rock in concert

jordan from aberdare
the stereophonics were awsome with stuart cable, a lot better than they are now. The new album is a sell-out.their music has changed, not as rocking as the older albums! bring back stuart!!!!

bex merthyr tydfil
the steriofonics are one of my favourate bands but since stuart cable left the music aint as good.

Crag Salmon
I loves 'em I do, I'm landed everytime I hear one of their compact discs. That Kelly, he's from near Aberdare isn't he? I think my mother knows his mother? I'll have to find out. Maybe I can get a free ticket or somthing. Worth a try. I'm not from Aberdare, from Cwmgwrach, near by it is, less of a dive.

hannah c from Brighton
Have seen the stereophonics live twice and they blew me away! Screw all the people that say stereophonics have changed now Stuarts gone! They were amazing then and still are now! They will always be the best in my heart and i hope they soon bring us another fantastic record! Ive got a platinum award disk and Kelly's set list off the stage from Brighton and they are pinned proudly on my wall and im hoping to expand my collection broadly! Love you Stereophonics xxx

Phil Thomas from Blackwood
Since the Manics Welsh Bands have always been a special part of Welshness, don't you think?

loverman from wales
As long as we beat the english we dont care - has to be best phonics song ever and the most honest lyrics they have produced. rumour is they sacked cable because he looked like a dyke with his curly wig and bulging eyes.

dai k sneggy
true music from the valleys! means so much to me. lyrics about small time valley life desperate to escape from the 'goldfish bowl' have grown up wiv me. sums up what a generation was feeling living in a rejected part of wales ripe from the regrowth of 'thatcherism'. rock on!

Carly, Essex Age 23
Saw them at Birmingham NIA in September '05'. Managed to get there early enough to get right at the front and druwl all over kelly. Loved them from the start! And will do forever! p.s your looking at the future Mrs Jones! :O)

Arnaud from Paris
The best band of the world!!!!

Anna from Aberdare
Amazing band. i'm 19 and first heard about them when my dad came home with the local paper one day and front page was south wales band signed to richard branson new record label. when first single came out me and my brother Jon(22) went and bought it i was only 9 but was hooked. have bought every album and single since.They've been the soundtrack of my youth. have seen them live many times includin millennium stadium x2, Morfa, cardiff castle, Glastonbury, v festival and isle of white fesival. most recently saw them in the cia on september 24th. There music has been really important to me. a couple of years ago i lost my mum and became quite depressed. their music was always there for me to listen to and make me smile. Thanx guys.(Rich, kelly, javier AND stuart) You rock. thanx anna

Rhian Caerffili
just want to say Kelly's lyrics are always meaningfull. Whilst my dad was in hospital i listened to Stereophonics and they helped me to feel a happy in my self. keep up the good work Kelly, Richard and Javier. Your the best guys in the world of music these days. I love you all. Plus me and my best friend Joanne met Kelly Jones and hes a big stunner and i love him. I will marry you kelly. Bye for now hope to hear your 6th album soon. This id for you three phonics XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

oliver from maesteg
there great seen them in cia few weeks bac and meet the best drummer in the world sturt cable few days ago xxpeace out

Chris from Aberdare
Brilliant 1st album, 2nd so so, since Cable has gone and Kelly has become 'the Rock Star', the Phonics have lost the plot - shame.

jo from bath again
ok, it went sh** for a bit, but i think it's better than ever now! Yes, i like Tom Jones too!

jo from bath
liked the lads and the sounds since beginning,now little bronwyn [18 months] loving them too.

Renee Mendel from Amsterdam
I went to see the stereophonics in the Heineken Music Hall, and they were great! Not one bad tone, and every song was perfectly performed! I've been a fan of the stereophonics ever since my best friend let me hear the song 'rainbows and pots of gold'. I still find that their best song!

Zana Engström from Sweden
So great! I listen to your music everyday, even in school. Keep up with the good work, and good luck in the future! Love Zana

Zana from Sweden
So great! I listen to your music everyday, even in school. Keep up with the good work, and good luck in the future! Love Zana

Jenna from Newcastle
Amazing! Love the 'phonics, excellent lyrics and just overall excellent music.

jessica from norfolk
I just cant get enough of this band ever since i saw them at earls court in december 03 ive been hooked! Went so see them on monday at london hammersmith apollo and they were amazing, they rocked the place, cant wait to see them again! And Kelly is sooo sexy!!!!! Dont stop the good work boys, luv ya!!!!xxx

charlotte
i went to see them last night- awesome. i have all of the albums, been there got the t shirt, and they are one of the best songs to listen to, and look at (kelly)! all the songs i listen to i can connect with a memory- keep it up lads i need a 6th album- quick! xxx

Sam from Solihull
Fantastic. Need I say more? Gr8 on the ear and a bit of eye candy from Kelly! They're a sensorary sensation. Caught them at B'ham NIA 10/9/05, what a gig.

Gem from Notts, England
i totally adore stereophonics. i went to see them last night and they put on the best show ive ever seen. kelly is a brilliant frontman (what a hunk!) n a talented songwriter. i own all their albums and love every single one of them. lets hope they will carry on bringing out the goods, coz no1 can replace them!!

Kelly from Dublin
I love them so much there brilliant i've been a big fan of them since school and will always be a massive one to them kisses and hug xoxoxox.

Bob, Wales
Kelly Jones is a legend!! Coming from a small welsh village i can really relate to his lyrics. Prefered it when stuart was in the band and its a shame that 20 years of friendship had to end as it did. Hope they make it up. really looking forward to seeing them in cardiff in september!!!

Aaron from Gilfach Goch
I hate it when bands get slated after a successful first album. The first album was awsome, and they were obviously writing about what they knew. Then things change with success and bands change, they weren't in the goldfish bowl any more!

Cwmaman Girl
Stuart should get back in the band, it don't seem the same without Stuart.

Becki from Nottingham, England
Stereophonics are one hell of a good band! My mum is a massive fan so I've basically grown up listing to them! I love word gets around and Language, sex, violence, other are by far the best albums! I'd love to see them live but considerin I'm 14 I'm sure I'll be going soon! Keep up the good work Kelly, Rich and Javier (great drummer!)

Renae, Perth Australia
I saw them play live on Wednesday night 22nd June. What a fantastic gig! The atmoshpere was unbelievable, they really put on an awesome show! I will be a fan for life!! WELL DONE!!! :0)

Rob, Adelaide, Australia
Luv em, being an ex valley boy, the songs really get to me! Going to see them in Melbourne in June. PS What happened to Adelaide?

Carolyn , Fairfax ,Virginia USA
Heard the Stereophonics on a street stage at the 2005 HFestival, Baltimore Maryland. Was impressed and caught them a few weeks later at the 930 Club in Washington D.C. May 05. The club was packed and no one left disappointed. Bought the new CD, got the shirt. Impressive vocals from Kelly. Amazing energy from the drummer. Rock on!

Agent M, Scotland
well if the one i love doesn't marry me as he's promised, i will marry Kelly Jones ... yum

Vicente Poveda, Brighton and Hove
Hey stereophoncs, I'm Vicente From spain!! I love your music, I would like see in concert in Brighton. You are my favortite group..

Rachel from Bristol, England (sorry!)
Oh my goodness, i love Phonics so much. I remember when i was 10 and i heard an the radio a song with an awesome beggining...*Just Looking*, which i fell in love with...still the best song ever!!yeah, i love kelly (who doesn't), but rich and javier are so cool too. Now 15, and my bro got me "You Gotta Go there to come back" signed!Thanku honeys!

'Mione, London
Can't remember when I started liking them, but they defined my youth and I'm still only 18. legendary live and stunning songs, every album is laced with classics even if you think they have deteriorated overall. There is no denying the instant classicness of Dakota, Nothing Precious at All and Vegas Two Times. All albums worth keeping, all gigs worth going to. Stereophonics...my life long love in music.

emma from ipswich
i luv the stereophonics, own every album and most of the singles, keep going from strength to strength, specially loving dakota!!!

Candice from Perth, Australia
Great band, just wish they tour Australia - not just go to Melbourne for one PRIVATE show, like last year! Come on guys, there are fans here that want to see you.

Lynsey Aberare
I loved the stereophonics when Stuart Cable was in the band. He used to work for our primary school and used to deliver our dinners. When he used to come to the school all the kids used to call him "Curly Sue" and he was really nice and it never bothered him. Since those days though, my sister got married and held her reception in Cwmaman Institue and he was up there and he was great, he bought drinks for people he didnt know and posed for photos. What a gent!I liked thier first album, Word Gets Around. I think that is the best of them all.

Joe Bloggs from Merthyr Tydfil
The 'Stereophonics' are dad rock. And bad dad rock at that.

Andrew Hammond Brisbane AUS
Have you any plans to tour Australia!

Jemma from Wales
They are class. I've been to see one of their concerts and it was brilliant. I think Kelly is stunning. Go Stereophonics! Oh and I know the drummer coz he's my aunty's friend.

Leigh from Bridgend
The first album was a jumping screamer, the second a bit mellower and a bit bland for me, and the third a bit deeper with more meaningful lyrics. Superb. Proud to be Welsh.

Dean from Cardiff
Word Gets Around and Performance and Cocktails were the best albums to come out of Wales since The Holy Bible. Unfortunately the next two have failed to give me the musical high that was once there. To make it worse they sack Stuart and turn into some cabaret act. They have lost their direction. They should go back to Cwmaman get their hands dirty and sing about something we all relate to, cause that was the beauty of them in the first place.

Rebecca Wright in Essex
Love 'em there fab

Rachael Padley from Berkshire
They are, in my opinion, the best music to listen to, whatever my mood! The songs are so well written and Kelly's voice compliments the music so brilliantly. I ask everyone that I meet if they like them, because I think that everybody should own at least one album! I enjoy listening to all of the albums, and I have seen them live in concert twice, and cannot wait to see them again. Have a nice day!

Natasha from Rhyl, North Wales
I first heard Stereophonics when they were publicised on S4C back in the day when they were a little known Welsh band trying to make it big. Still a devoted fan - I still listen to all the old stuff as well as the new. Can't wait till the next tour and new album. Mae nhw'n cadw o'n wir!

Burge
Why is it that every Welsh band that make it big insist on starting at the top and gradually get worse? 'Phonics being prime examples, they started off as an amazing band with everything going for them, singing about things that really mater in everyday Welsh life and then.... well you can tell that fame got the better of them from JEEP onwards, Catatonia another example. Even the Mancis seemed to be on the edge of sellin out. The whole 'Cool Cymry' thing has died a death. I just hope the local band scene that is emerging in south Wales can generate some more talent that should be recognised.

Melanie Pare from Canada
I have no idea who they are or what they sound like. But my friend Krissy Hughes says they rock and I believer her. One day I'll have to take the time to listen to them with her so I can hear her talk about the lead singer for five hours after that. He looks pretty hot to me. Keep the music comin' boys - you make my friend happy!!! Cheers...

Christine from Scotland
I remember when I first heard them - I was in school and was blown away by their lyrics, rifts and Kelly's voice. I have all their albums, and altho nothin fully compares to the first album, the rest is still rockin. Altho they ain't as upbeat as all the crap in the charts 2day, that's the genius of them. Was a bit miffed over wif Stuart's departure, but they are still cool. Well done and thanks for helping me through most of school and uni. 'More Life in a Tramps Vest' still gets me goin, and 'Last of the Big Time Drinkers' always makes me feel good even when i'm hungover! Ta boys x

Sian Gill from Hertfordshire
By far and away the best band around! 4 fantastic albums under their belt and still no sign of stopping, thank god! The live shows always rock and I always come away with the satisfaction that not only have I seen one of THE best bands in the world but also in the presence of the best looking guy, with the sexiest voice in the world! Continue rocking Kelly and crew, we love y'all!

Flip, Newport
When The 'Phonics were a local band for local people, they had some pretty precious things in the shop. The songs about life in the Valleys were like good Welsh poetry – funny and moving. But since Kelly has decided he's a rock star – only smaller like – his writing has gone to pot. That one about the movie star is repetitious, clichéd drivel. Musical differences? Commitment? He didn't like Cable's hair! He just isn't 'keeping it real', mun.

Angela Griffiths from Kent
The Phonics are amazing, I adore Kelly's voice, it's so adaptable from hard rock anthems to chilled ballads. They're fantastic playing live, once you've seen them, you're gagging for more! Kelly is gorgeous and so talented, they all are. I hope they're around for years to come and I cannot wait for a new album next year.

Celi from Llangefni
Its so good to see Welsh musicians doing so well on such a grand scale. Keep up the good work lads. See you at Manchester in a few weeks. Stereophonics am byth.

Shez from Cwmbran
I've seen these guys twice in 1999 and once last year. they never fail 2 impress me. they are by far 1 of my fave bands...(close 2 Vegas check them out in local bands :0) The 'go there 2 come back' album is more mellower compared to 'word gets around'...but it shows Kelly can do both with his fantastic voice!

Melanie Gough from Cardiff.
Without a doubt the best band around. Kelly's voice and endless talented lyrics make the band what they are. I never have and never will be tired of listening to his amazing, rustic voice. Although we all miss Stuart really badly, the show must go on and they must keep making the music to brighten my world. I love you loads, you rock...x

LB South East
The Phonics are without doubt a great band. It is sad that Stu has left, but people's lives and commitments change. Kelly will continue with Rich and I look forward to hearing the next album. Kelly is an artist that reflects the world through his work. Live they have the whole crowd jumping and partying - before you know it the show is over and the crowd want more. They have experimented and taken criticism for it from music writers, yet their fan base speaks volumes. Best live band I have seen.

Josephine Campbell from Dublin
I love the Stereophonics!! They are my favourite band and I can relate to their music as I come from a small town in Dublin. Kelly's the best with his sexy, husky voice that always lulls me to comfort when I hear him, and he's gorgeous too!!!! I hope they keep the band going after Stuart and continue to inspire others.

Krissy Hughes from canada
I was just introduced to Sterephonics in London. On with David Bowie. In the beginning I wasn't too interested in the opener until I heard them. I have to agree with everyone else that Kelly's voice is hypnotic and they kick major ass live. Needless to say, a week and a half later I was driving to New York to see them again with some friends. The crowd there was lame but the show was fantastic of course. Keep up the great work boys and I'll keep spreading the band's sounds around. You guys ROCK.......and Kelly,you are absolutely BEAUTIFUL.xoxox...peace....

Charlie from Birmingham
Their music is really inspirational and Kelly's songwriting is excellent - plus the fact he's drop dead gorgeous! Richard is very talented too. I haven't seen them in concert and can't wait till they come back to birmingham. Keep going lads please - otherwise music won't be worth while any more!

Kim Holden From Cannock Staffordshire
Stereophonics are a GREAT example of what normal working class lads can achieve. Their music is inspirational and many people can relate to the lyrics in many of the songs. They themselves have obviously had tough times and have turned to music to help them. They play fantastic live and are great role models for small bands such as mine. Hope to hear soooooooooo much more great music. And Kelly Jones continues to look as gorgeous as ever. :)

Charlotte from Somerset
I love the stereophonics - always have and always will. I love them so much, as have so much family background there and relatives in Cwmaman. An auntie used to live just a couple doors down from Lelly Jones and used to be friends with Kelly's nan. She's dead now - but I still have lots of relatives there.

Shana from London
I have only started to get into the band and I think they are just great. Kelly has this wonderful voice (and face) that will just keep them going 4eva.

Gemma Shaw from Harpenden, Herts
With or without Stu, you can't take that away from them. They just get better and better! Kelly has an amazing way with words and his voice is magical. Rich is also very talented. I hope they don't stop making good music for a long time yet.

Charlotte from Caerwedros, Ceredigion
They are the best band. I find their lyrics inspirational - they help me design and sometimes when I feel down they cheer me up. I saw them last week in Manchester - they were excellent. I would give anything to meet them, a bit sad really considering I am 20. I sound like a love struck teenager!

Selma from Ommen, Holland
Stereophonics was, is, and will be the best band ever! With or without Stuart. I'm a big fan since their first album came out and I'm still not bored by Kelly's incredible voice and the beautiful lyrics! Stereophonics forever!

Lloyd Griffiths from Baglan
I'm only 15, but I've loved their music since my dad said 'hey look at this new band that has signed a record deal from the Valleys!' I listened and I haven't stopped. Kelly's raspy, wispy and unique voice is the perfect ingredient to my favourite band. Even better live. I'm sure many can remember Morfa, 31/7/99. What a day! I was only 11 but I can remember the tension and the agonsing wait for them to come on stage...it was worth it. The best day of my life, bar none.

Louisa from Stevenston, Scotland
I just want to say that despite what people say I think they are brilliant. I started listening to them during a hard time in my life. Kelly's lyrics are meaningful and whilst listening to them helped me through that sticky patch. I still use a couple of their tracks during my 'down days'.....Well done guys - keep up the goods Kelly, and thanks...

Aberdare Life

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