An inspiration to a generation of R&B artists, Charlie Wilson tells Matthew Jenkin what it takes to be a musical legend.

WHILE most songs which kick-start a dance craze are so irritating, only the synchronised repetitive moves of an entire nation can distract you from the musical assault on your ears, The GAP Band’s 1979 funky anthem Oops Upside You Head is an underrated classic.

Marred by the bizarre ‘rowing boat’ line dance, the song is now more likely to be heard at wedding receptions and Christmas parties.

However, this legacy has done little to dent the reputation of the band’s former frontman Charlie Wilson.

From hits in the 80s to 2010’s Grammy Award nominated album Uncle Charlie, as a solo artist Wilson has sold millions of records and cemented his status as a musical icon.

Wilson, who is in Greenwich next month to play The O2’s IndigO2 venue, says the secret to surviving 40 years in the business is a love affair with music.

“I love performing live, I love the energy and I love seeing the crowd have a great time,” he says.

“I am blessed because my voice fit back in the day when I was in The GAP Band and it’s still relevant now.

“I have also lasted this long because my fans have stayed with me through my ups and downs.”

Indeed, Wilson has struggled with alcohol and drug addiction, homelessness and prostate cancer.

However, his music resonated with generations of musicians, many of whom clamoured to recreate his vocals and collaborate with him.

“I’m fortunate to have had so many artists tell me I inspired them,” says a modest Wilson, who both R Kelly and Aaron Hall have named as their muse.

Now, with his third solo album Just Charlie, Wilson is on a mission to inspire a whole new generation with his songs teaching how to respect, treat and speak to women.

“I hear young ladies being called disrespectful things so often and it doesn’t even seem to bother them. But it bothers me,” he explains.

“My wife, Mahin, suggested I have this album to let women know how special they are.

“I hope men can understand the importance of elevating the women in their life.”

Charlie Wilson will perform at the IndigO2 on September 16. For tickets, visit theo2.co.uk