4REAL

An interview with Steve Lamacq, then of the NME, developed into a passionate argument. Lamacq express concern that the Manics' cartoon image would drag them down. He concluded by saying that "some people might regard you as just not real."

After the interview, Richey asked Steve if he had a minute and they stood talking of the stage. During their conversation Richey picked up a razor-blade and, as he talked, began, slowly and deliberately, to carve something into his arm. Lamacq was dumpfounded. He couldn't believe what he was seeing: the words for 4 REAL appearing in striated red slashes across Richey's skin. 

Afterwards, in the casulty department of Norwich General Hospital, Richey insisted that all the patients with accidental injuries be seen before him, anxious not to waste National Health time on a self-inflicted wound.

The following morning Richey rang up Steve to apologise for any distress he may caused him.

The 4 REAL incident was a clear  demonstration of just how much the Manics in general and Richey in particular, meant what they said. Other bands would just have punched a journalist who disagreed with; Richey had a more effective means of emphasis. In the same way that he felt cutting himself had helped him through his degree, 17 stiches had proved his point.

"All my life I 've felt weak compared to other people. If they want to crush me then they can. But I know that I can do things other people can't."

Select Magazine Scans

"I 've been too honest with myself. I should have lied like everybody else."

Faster

Manic Street Preachers

Richard James Edwards

22.12.1967 - 01.02.1995 (missing)