Influences: Some of My Musical Favorites
Jimi Hendrix: The first time I saw Jimi Hendrxi was a music video of Voodoo Child in 1993 or 94. I saw this black man with a moustache in strange ethnic gypsy kind of wear. He was surrounded by these Cats-esque sensual dancers. I never found this video again. He was totally absorbed in his playing. That was the first thing that struck me about him. I had already seen and heard Marty, Steve, Joe, Kirk etc. But after I saw Jimi, my heart said he was the greatest. When he plays the outro with his teeth, its not just showmanship. Its being more than just a guitarist with extra ordinary orthodontic protrusions. It’s more than just forced intimacy. Its something.
Davey Graham: I think we should all be grateful to Mr Graham. Without him World music would probably not be the way it is. Led Zeppelin owe him most of their royalties and critical acclaim.
Listening to Davey Graham was a mind-poppingexperience for me. He’s a real guitar player. I personally think he and Frank Zappa are the two most important guitarists of the 20th century. I adore his organic approach to guitar playing and his amazing inventiveness. He seamlessly blends Jazz Blues Indian Mid eastern music like nobody’s business.
Frank Zappa: I love Frank Zappa. I would pay to listen to him talk. I love his straightforwardness, honesty, and musical integrity. If theres any such thing. His brilliance has already been proven. What I truly love about him is his sense of humour. I think he’s the funniest guy I’ve ever seen. He’s better than professional comedians. Steve Vai owes him everything. I’m very very sad I cant meet Frank.
Ritchie Blackmore: The world thinks he’s an asshole. Some think he’s a genius. I think he’s the creator of modern day metal. His guitar solos are intelligent, innovative, and daring. He’s another guy who I love listening to talk. he has a great sense of humour and is very up front.
Slade: Probably my favourite band. The first time I heard Noddy Holder sing, I thought ‘That’s the most powerful voice I’ve ever heard.” Till a few months back, I had lost all interest in gigging. Listening to one particular Slade song changed that. Which song that is you’ll hear at my next gig. KISS owe them everything.
Queen: I never cared for Queen or Freddie Mercury back in the day when he was still alive. I credit my friend for making me listen to them. I think Queen’s early albums are pure musical fun. The 70s were great and Queen was probably the greatest thing. Freddie’s was just gifted by God. Both his teeth and the resulting voice were sent straight from above. The mark of a great artist I think is their ability to make YOU want to do what they do. Listening to Freddie sing sure makes me wanna sing.
Eazy E: A lot of guys from the world of metal and rock love to hate hip hop. These guys are stupid. Hip Hop is innovative, fun, and powerful. It’s a musical revolution. Of course it’s being exploited to death now but then what hasn’t? If it can be exploited, baby it will.
I used to think Dr Dre, Eminem and the like were great. That’s of course until I heard Eazy E.
NWOBHM: I used to love Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Megadeth until I heard their influences. After I listened to Angel Witch, Diamond Head, Saxon etc, I can’t bear to listen to the 3 M’s anymore. I just cant now. It’s unbearable. I love the influence of Hammer Horror in the songs of Angel Witch. I can identify with their fascination.
Vangelis: I like what he does. There’s a video of him showing off the Yamaha CS80. I think that video sums up his scene completely. I like everything he’s done.
Little Richard: With a voice like a Canon, Little Richard is an instant favourite. My first brush with his genius was during the movie “The Predator”. I remember watching it as a 10 year old and I loved the song playing during the helicopter flight over the South American jungle. I would find out later who it was by. “Having me some fun tonight”
