The following questions were culled from vintage Teen Beat interviews, circa mid-1980s. Xpress poses them to local music stars.
Mountain Xpress: How did you get into music?
Bob Butcher, bassist with rock bands Unit 50 and A Few Brave Souls: I can hardly remember a time when I didn’t want to be a musician. I started with piano lessons when I was five or so, then took up cornet for school band, and then in high school I got my first bass, a red Epiphone hollow body. My older brother left several albums from 1960s greats home one year from school, and I played those albums until they practically wore out. Beatles, Byrds, Stones, Cream. From that point on, playing and singing for an appreciative audience (coffeehouse, bar, arena, stadium: No matter) was my life’s dream.
Q: If you weren’t a musician, what would you want to be?
A: An astronaut, but not one who drives cross country in a diaper to abduct my love rival.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
A: Better practice ethic.
Q: Tell us about your car.
A: It’s a gold Acura TL, a cozy ride, good for my other career: Sales. If I ever land that big record deal, I’ll get a Porsche Boxster.
Q: Are you going to play a show in Tulsa?
A: Sure, but let’s wait until their ice goes away, okay?
Q: Who do you consider to be very cool?
A: Patrick Simmons of The Doobie Brothers: very talented, understated, a rock and roll legend. John Hiatt: incredible stage presence, a fine storyteller. Jimi Hendrix: just flat out amazing.
Q: Do you have a crush on anyone?
A: Liz Phair.
Q: What was the most perfect gift you ever received?
A: My daughter, now 22 and in graduate school. She’s amazing.
Q: What was the nicest thing you’ve ever done for your mom on Mother’s Day?
A: Drove 800 miles overnight to surprise her with a visit.
Q: What are some of your hobbies?
A: Motorcycling, home recording.
Q: Describe your perfect day.
A: Sleep in, wake to savour a great pot of coffee, ride my motorcycle most of the afternoon, and play a gig that night.
Q: What’s something you refuse to eat?
A: Brussel sprouts and raw oysters.
Q: If you had to choose one word to describe your life, what would that word be?
A: Serendipitous.
Q: Do you have any messages for all your loyal fans?
A: Support local music: Come out and rock the house with your favorite local bands!
—Alli Marshall, A&E reporter
