Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones has revealed he politely declined an invitation to watch a tribute band fronted by a singer hilariously nicknamed “Belly Jones” — despite calling fan covers an “honour and privilege”.
Kelly Jones turns down tribute show over Easter
The 50-year-old Welsh rocker spent Easter with family in his hometown — but skipped a night at the local working men’s club where a Stereophonics tribute act was playing.
Appearing on Absolute Radio’s Dave Berry Breakfast Show on Wednesday 29 April 2025, Jones explained:
“I wake up on Sunday mornings to clips from weddings and pubs where people are singing our songs. This Easter, my cousin said, ‘Wanna come see a Stereophonics tribute band at the working men’s club?’ I asked, ‘Why?’ She said, ‘The singer’s called Belly Jones.’ I said, ‘No.’”
Who is Belly Jones?
The tribute band’s frontman — affectionately known as “Belly Jones” due to his larger-than-life persona — failed to tempt Kelly out for the evening, despite his partner’s best efforts. “My missus was like, ‘C’mon, let’s go. Take the kids. It’ll be fun.’”
Kelly reflects on his own covers band days
While he skipped the show, Jones says he deeply respects anyone who covers Stereophonics’ songs.
“Jokes aside, it’s always an honour and a privilege to see people doing something with our music. We started in covers bands too. If it means something to people, that’s what matters.”
New Stereophonics album out now
The band recently dropped their 13th studio album, titled Make ’Em Laugh, Make ’Em Cry, Make ’Em Wait — continuing a legacy that’s spanned nearly three decades.
30th anniversary of ‘Word Gets Around’ coming in 2027
With their debut album Word Gets Around turning 30 in August 2027, fans might expect a big celebration. But Jones says they’ll likely keep it low-key:
“I’m not sure we’ll make a big deal of it. It feels like there’s an anniversary every two years! I’ve always tried to move forward.”
Despite the band’s longevity, Jones remains focused on the present — and grateful.
“I’m proud of what Word Gets Around is. I’m lucky I still write songs. We’ve made 13 albums and I’ve got 180 songs to choose from every night.”
