How many coffees a day is too many?

I generally start the day with two black coffees. It just snowballs from there. Generally, if it's about 3am and I'm wide awake listening to the BBC World Service and reading some trashy book, then it dawns on me that I shouldn't have had that last cup of coffee.

One Sports track you cannot bear listening to? Why is this?

The music doesn't cause me much grief, but some of the album cover artwork and most of the film clips are a bit tragic. For example, the back cover of the Don't Throw Stones album - this dreadful photograph was later re-shot by Weddings Parties Anything in the Sports covers record, further compounding its awfulness.

Have you a poker face or is the truth hard to conceal?

I have a poker face from plying the low trade of rock 'n' roll for a number of years. No one wants to hear the truth; it's much too horrible.

Last time you laughed so hard you thought you might die?

SBS ran a special on The Mammas and The Papas. It was all rather enticing. My girlfriend and I were getting caught up in the whole Californian saga. Then, at the moment Mama Cass's death was upon us - it seemed such a ridiculous way to die, choking on a ham sandwich - we looked at one another and burst out laughing...in between weeping.

How much soap are you watching at the moment?

Somehow I've got drawn into Beverly Hills 90210, though I have been told that Melrose Place is better because there is more sex.

Three young Melbourne bands worth a second look?

The Underground Lovers, Charlie Marshall's Body Electric, The Underground Lovers.

Was the greatest hits idea yours or theirs?

Mine. Unguided Tour failed to sell as many records as I thought it warranted. So I made a decision: I will just repackage my past work till it starts selling.

Did you like what you found when you went through your back catalogue?

Liking didn't come into it. I had a job to do. There is no place for morbid personal reflection in the new Stephen Cummings.

Have you ever been asked to pose nude?

No.

In which country would you most like a number one hit? Why?

Italy or Vietnam: good food, colours, weather, attitude to daily life.

Your favourite Countdown moment?

Meeting Divine. He was incredibly charming. Other observation would be how cruel or scary the young audience could be if they didn't want to see you.

Which of the following are better than sex: fine food/big laughs/an evening of cabaret with Barry Manilow? Why?

(Blank space)

Most distasteful aspect of living in Victoria?

Government cuts to education; the weather; general smugness; etc.

Which Stephen Cummings composition would you like to hear covered by which band?

Hell sung by Bobby Bland and When Love Comes Back To Haunt You by Richard Thompson.

Have you ever asked for an autograph? Who?

Never have.