Interview with Chris Timbers
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Interview with Chris Timbers
East coasters might remember him as the lead singer of the popular band, 'Less Traveled'. An accomplished singer and songwriter, Chris Timbers draws inspiration from soul music, contemporary jazz, blues, rock, and country. His performances combine many of the best-loved radio classics of all time with his acclaimed originals.
What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
I started singing in the church choir when I was really young. My father was also a traveling gospel singer at the time. My mom also loved to sing and sang in the church choir. Music was just a bit of a staple in my family. If I wasn't playing music I'd probably be a Veterinarian. That's what I was studying in college before I left to pursue music.
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
I love riding my Harley. It's like meditation for me. Other than that, just writing and practicing guitar.
How long has music been your career?
About 20 years
Where are you based and how did that influence your music?
I'm from western Loudoun County in northern Virginia. Growing up in the country had its influence I suppose. Growing up around bluegrass players. Every once in a while you'll hear a tinge of that in my songs. Like "When In Rome" or "Don't Mind The Rain".
Tell me about the best and worst shows you have played.
It's always nice when you get to play with or open for a band or musicians you're a fan of. So sharing stage with Agent's of Good Roots, Merl Saunders, Tim Reynolds, Gary Grainger, Paul Reed Smith. They are all highlights. The worst show we were playing in Philly at the club one night was obviously not our kind of place and they shut us down after the first set.
Tell me about your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
I'm not sure I have a favorite venue. I like a bunch of different ones here in VA for different reasons. B Chord Brewing for their awesome outside side and love for original acts. Farm Brew Live has a great stage and sound. Jammin Java with a Lounge atmosphere. The State Theatre also has a great stage and great engineers.
I want to play Red Rocks.
If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
Chris Timbers Band, Big Head Todd and the Monster, John Mayer, Dave Matthews, and Al Green.
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into music?
That it takes strength and talent. If you lack either, Work on them, It's a tough business. But not impossible to navigate. Do it for the love of music FIRST.
If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be?
Chris this is a business. Treat it like it.
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
That's a tough question. But I'm going to have to say my most political one. "War" "Wake Me Up" and "Why Can't We", because they touch on the state of our environment in this country.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
'Medicine', 'Gotta Get on", "Keep Moving" and 'Blood Moon'.
What is the creative process for you, and what inspires you to write your music?
I'm inspired most by personal life experience. Sometimes I'm hit over the head with something really moving me to write. Most of the time I will sit down with my guitar, play some chords that sound great together, and go from there.
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?
The only message as far as I'm concerned is love and fairness.
Do you ever have disagreements when collaborating and how do you get past them?
Well, that's easy, NO because I haven't collaborated.
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
My plan is to keep moving and making music. Success to me is being happy doing something I love doing. But also, being able to live a comfortable life. HAVE MY SONGS WORK FOR ME. I have a couple things coming up. First, December 29th I start a residency with my band and run an Artist Appreciation Night. Showcasing a new artist each week..Also, we will be playing at SXSW in Austin, Texas in March. Really looking forward to that.
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