Interview with Chris Day
Interview with Chris Day
What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
*At the early age of 5, I picked up my Dad’s Fender Stratocaster and plugged it into his Fender Twin Reverb amp. Then I closed the door, so it was dark, except for the red glowing light on the amp. The Rolling Stones were on the turntable. I had found my calling. I remember that moment with such clarity.I have followed the dream of playing concerts and making records ever since. There was never any question that I would pursue a career in music. If not music, I guess I would have to say Astronaut!
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
*I love nature. Hiking in a forest is my favorite thing to do besides playing. I believe it helps open up my mind. For me, creativity needs space and quiet time. I get an idea, then follow it.
How long has your band been around?
*I am a solo artist who collaborates with other musicians for live performance and recording. I work with many talented people I have met over the years.
Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?
*Born and raised and currently based in Philadelphia. The musical history of this town is legendary. I would say that coming from Philly helped me believe it could be done, because so many famous artists have come out of this area.
How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you?
*There are band names and there are artists names. I just went with my name.
Tell me about your most memorable shows.
*My all time favorite was opening for David Bowie, because he was my musical hero growing up. Another of my most memorable was in Philadelphia, in a packed arena, opening for Bryan Adams. The crowd was going crazy for the hometown band!
What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
*Playing at Ardmore Music Hall is one of my faves. It totally rocks! I love to find venues with a built-in crowd of music lovers. I also really like The Fillmore, which just opened a few years ago. I would love to play there. In dreams, I see myself at the Hollywood Bowl.
If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
*Opening for U2.
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band and some advice that you would give to your younger self?
*Being moved by music to the point that you want to make it your life’s work is the spark. To get the flame going you just keep adding time, work and dedication. Be prepared for ups and downs but enjoy the ride! You can totally do this!
If you could go back in time and give yourselves advice, what would it be?
*Relax! The drive to achieve something can sometimes make you too tense.
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
*I love my song “Consider Yourself Forgiven” for it’s lyrics and the main, swirling, psychedelic riff.
It just makes me happy to know it exists and is recorded.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
*Most requested song is “Way To Love”. It’s one of the first songs I ever wrote. I had the riff for at least a year before I got to the lyrics. It’s easy to like and seems to have made an impact.
What is the creative process for the band, and what inspires you to write your music?
*I work with a riff or a title first. I try to get the parts done then flesh them out with the band. I like to write my own lyrics because I am trying to say something personal and authentic.
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?
*I write about the magic of our existence. I want to say “You’re alright” “You’ll be alright” “You are not alone” “I am feeling what you are feeling” “Let’s live to the max” “Why are we here?”
Do you ever have disagreements in your band, and how do you get past them?
*Conflicts in a band are a drag, but an inescapable part of the process. If we have to compromise to keep it going, it’s worth doing so. As long as I have the final say, lol.
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
*Releasing new music this year! Excited to play as much as possible. Come see the show!
Keep on believing in your dreams.