Rock ‘N’ Roll Generosity: Peter Doherty’s Unforgettable Gesture

It’s the kind of story every aspiring musician dreams of: waiting hours to meet your idol, only to walk away with an unforgettable moment that changes everything. For one young artist, meeting Peter Doherty wasn’t just a chance encounter; it was the moment his music found its stage. We are no strangers to Zeny Bux’s music. I reviewed his single “If I Fade” last year, and I am made up to see this rising star experience such an incredible moment.

DANNY CROMPTON shared with permission from Zeny Bux.

Zeny Bux shares that very experience of performing alongside a legend, the songs that matter most to him, and what’s next on his journey below.

How did it feel waiting for hours to meet Peter Doherty? What were you hoping to achieve?
It felt very exciting, of course! I never thought I’d actually get to meet him. I almost felt scared of what he might say, but here we are! I was hoping he’d bring me inside to see him and, possibly, let me be his supporting act on stage. And I must say, dreams really do come true!

What went through your mind when you asked him to play one of your songs?
I considered the size of the crowd I could attract and the feedback I’d receive. I received great feedback from many people; they were amazed by my performance!

PHOTO: MICHAEL BOND shared with permission from Zeny Bux.

What song did you play? Tell me what it’s about.
I played two songs: Better Dreams and If I Fade.

Better Dreams is about taking the weight of the world off your shoulders by sleeping it off and finding a new reality.

If I Fade is about mental health, there’s less awareness in music about mental health and the struggles people go through. It’s not a very safe environment anymore. I believe life back in 2005–2011 was less difficult and easier for people. I may not have seen it, but I can feel it and tell by how great television and music were back in the day!

How did you react when Peter told you you’d perform on stage later? I was blissful… never felt better alive! (No pun intended!)

Can you tell us about your experience performing your songs and sharing the stage with Peter?
Pete is such a solid guy, he even let me use his Gibson J45 to play! Whilst I was performing If I Fade, he hopped on the drums and played along. It was the best experience of my life as a musician. I just never thought it would actually happen!

On an additional note… I got kicked out for selling CD copies of my EP without any “authorisation,” apparently! I had no idea, but it doesn’t bother me either way.

I mean, it’s Rock ’N’ Roll. Of course, you’re gonna start small, put yourself out there, and maybe even get kicked out of places for promoting yourself. Worth it anyway. You only live once!

Has this moment inspired or influenced your goals as an artist in any way?
It most certainly has. Obviously, now, I’ve stepped down as a solo artist to focus on some other projects, one of which is that I will form a three-piece band soon! Nevertheless, it has pushed me to get out of there a lot more.

In an industry where “prima donna” behavior is often criticised, how significant is it to see well-known artists defy such stereotypes and give people a chance?
I think it’s essential for people to embrace it. I believe anyone can do anything, and it doesn’t matter what race, sex, or anything else you were born with. Don’t dream; get out of bed and do it.

Stories like this remind us of music’s power to connect people and transform lives. For this young artist, meeting an idol was not just a moment of excitement; it was a source of validation, inspiration, and a vision of his potential future. For Peter Doherty, I’m sure it will have served as a reminder that small acts of generosity can leave a lasting impact.

This is Rock ‘N’ Roll at its finest: raw, unexpected, and life-changing. Well done, Zeny Bux, and thank you, Pete Doherty.

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