One of my favorite things about seeing live shows (well, after the music) are the crazy comments that you hear along the way. Here are a few choice selections from Winter and Spring 2015.
I went to a college called USC, otherwise known as University of Spoiled Children. I got a scholarship. Tracy Bonham
This song is on the new record, it was on the first record and it will probably be on the fifth record. Until America gets it right. Joe Fletcher introducing “I Never”
I’m very much aware that it is a demanding sing along. Joe Fletcher, referring to the same song and perhaps recognizing why America still hasn’t got the song right
I wasn’t gonna go. Mike Farris, on attending the Grammys after receiving his first nomination. He won.
You walk off stage and they take the friggin’ Grammy from you. They all go to Beyonce. Or Kanye comes and takes it from you. Mike Farris on his recent experience winning a Grammy
As a person I feel bad about it but as a songwriter you’re like that’s cool, let’s write about it. Dan Wilson, on co-writing “I’m Not Ready to Make Nice” with the Dixie Chicks.
Do I have to forgive everybody?
Well yes.
Nope.
Dan Wilson, recounting his exchange with Natalie Maines prior to writing “I’m Not Ready to Make Nice”
Thanks for pretending to be excited to see us. Christopher Chaisson of the Young Leaves, whose band was opening for Dinosaur Jr and the Replacements.
I just checked the set list. This one’s good. Ian of the Diamond Rugs
If I can remember the lyrics I’ll do it. I mean I’ll do it and we’ll see if I can remember the lyrics. Dan Wilson responding to a fan request (for Semisonic’s “Temptation”).
I took our guitar tech there for 20 minutes yesterday and he cried. Turner, describing a visit to Atlanta’s famed Clermont Lounge
Why would I come to Austria if you’ll just come here? Noel Gallagher responding to a sign requesting an Austria tour stop that was held up during Atlanta’s Shaky Knees Festival. He realized a few minutes later that he would be visiting Austria later in the year.
I got my driver’s license, my first girlfriend and the Twins won the World Series. Craig Finn reflecting on one of his finest years (1987)
That’s one we’ve been working on for a few days. Mike Gent after playing the Who’s “Can’t Explain”
That’s one I’ve been working on since I was 14. Bill Janovitz’s response
If the bass sounds out of tune, turn it down because you’re too loud. Aimee Mann quoting a music instruction book
I’m sorry to ruin the set by being in tune. Kevin Salem to Matthew Ryan after taking a bit too long to tune between songs
This song, like many others, deserves to be in tune. Ian McFeron
This one’s alright. My mom likes it. Archie Powell introducing “Tattoo on my Brain”
I was doing a songwriting session with Carrie Underwood and I said, “What can we do in the third verse?” She said, “We could always kill somebody.” Dan Wilson
Love song or murder ballad? Same thing. Love Love asking the audience their preference for the next song selection
Murder ballads, they’re all upbeat. (pause) What the hell are you talking about, you just killed somebody dude. Mike Farris
I’ve learned in this business that you need to sell out early and often. Christopher Porterfield of the Field Report
Why do I always get the least applause? I’m the one who sits in Dublin writing the hits. Pugwash singer Thomas Walsh after introducing the band
It’s always the cable. Or Jim. Ry Cavanaugh of Session Americana contemplating the crackle that was coming from the speakers. Jim Fitting is the band’s harmonica player.
This is a sad drinking song with an optimistic twist. Willie Mason
Mr camera man there, why are you dressed like the Unabomber? (pause) He’s not even listening to me. Noel Gallagher
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.