Tony Spinner interviewed

By Sophie Borgers

How did you end up with a Dutch drummer and bassplayer?

My band from the U.S. was not able to stay away from their day jobs long enough to tour properly so I held auditions and found 2 great players in The Netherlands.

What do you seek in your bandmembers, what qualities are they supposed to have?

First of all they must be NORMAL!! No egos and no drugs! Also very important is the ability to improvise. I rarely play a song the same way twice and I like to see what happens when we all are improvising.

What qualities do you have that make you a real musician?

A love for music and a need to express myself.

What is the most important thing you have learned by playing in a band? (instead of playing alone)

Listen to each other and look for the GROOVE!

Are Dutch crowds any different from f.e American crowds?

Yes, they seem to listen while we are playing instead of talking to each other. I think the Dutch crowds have a better understanding of what we are trying to do musically and Americans seem to only be interested in fashion.

Do you prefer playing in big halls or in a little pub or cafe?

I like them both. The clubs have a very intimate appeal and I try to get the same thing across to the larger audiences as well. We are there to play for the people, not to force it down their throat.

Doesn't it ever get boring playing the same songs all the time?

Yes, that is why I don't use a set list or play the same songs every night. That keeps things fresh.

What makes a song a good song to you?

A song that makes my feet move or that moves my soul with a REAL feeling or great lyric.

Are lyrics more important than the music?

It depends on what you prefer. I like both but sometimes a great groove says it all without speaking a word.

How do young people find your music?

I notice the feet are moving and the faces are smiling so I would say that they understand.

Do you think there is a future for Blues and Rock 'n Roll music?

As long as there are people with hearts and ears.... ABSOLUTELY!

Are there any recent bands that you enjoy? Which ones?

I LOVE the "SEATSNIFFERS" from Belguim. They ROCK!

Any Dutch bands that you like?

I haven't had a chance to see that many but I do like the "Blue Shades" and "Captain Heartbeat!"