From Creem to the Stage: Dusty Wright's Music Stories

In this episode of Gig Gab, you join Dusty Wright, the former editor of Creem magazine, as he shares stories from his vibrant career in music journalism and live performance. You’ll hear about his encounters with rock legends like Robert Plant and Prince, plus insights on how your influences shape your sound. Dusty also emphasizes the importance of listening and adjusting your setup for each venue, whether it’s a NYC club or a suburban spot. Remember, as you navigate the unpredictability of live art, always be performing. Dusty dives into his latest album, “Dusted Off,” which features covers that shaped his musical journey. He discusses the thrill of giving Pearl Jam their first cover and reflects on the necessity of adapting your volume and energy for the gig. With new projects on the horizon, including a collaboration with Dana Fuchs, Dusty encourages you to enjoy music with your family. Tune in and get inspired to keep the music alive in your world! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 448 – Monday, September 23rd, 2024 September 23rd: National Great American Pot Pie Day 00:01:05 Guest Co-host: Dusty Wright The Ultimate Tweener 00:03:42 Former Editor of Creem…The Bastard Son of the Music Press covering bands like: Kiss Rush Lester Bangs Grand Funk Railroad 00:08:12 Shaping Your Influences…As They Shape You Garage Rock, Jazz Working at William Morris Agency 00:11:12 Journalism as a career for a musician First: Cover Magazine from The East Village, then New York Review of Records Labels would underwrite the coverage of magazines 00:13:40 Storytime from Glastonbury: Robert Plant’s the nicest rock-and-roller I’ve ever met. King Arthur and Tolkien stories. Leaving a message for Jerry Miller with Robert Plant 00:17:41 Working with The Artist Formerly Known As…Prince! A trip to Paisley Park Prince used (affordable!) Max Factor cosmetics! A limo-driven visit to First Avenue, Prince’s (then) club to see Michael Bland 00:25:08 An invitation to publish Prince’s New Power Magazine 00:26:52 PODCAST: 1001 Album Complaints. Do you read every inch of the available liner notes and still shake a fist at the clouds yelling for more? If so, 1001 Album Complaints is the podcast for you. 00:29:03 Gigging in New York City Packing drums into a cab More and more NYC clubs are now providing backlines The Shrine in Harlem – Great vibe, good backline, GREAT sound guy The Rodeo Bar NYC – Americana Roots Artists… you’d bring your own backline because you have the stage for the night 00:33:55 The importance of listening for — and adjusting — your sound in EACH room 00:38:49 Nikki, the 15-year old English Setter says hello 00:38:55 Comparing Gig Experiences at NYC Venues vs. Suburg Venues 00:40:18 The Unpredictability of Live Art Sometimes you have to follow the the (lost!) leader Managing the weather…without getting electrocuted! 00:47:16 Dusty’s 11th album “Dusted Off”, full of covers that informed Dusty as a youth Dusty’s cover of (I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone A reference to Faithful, Todd Rundgren’s Cover Album 00:53:46 Playing with Big Ears Playing appropriate volume for the gig! You only need to play one note to get everyone’s attention 00:58:17 Dusty was NOT at the Big Star conference, but he gave Pearl Jam their first cover! Complete with a “Thank You” letter from Mike Mcready’s mother. Temple of the Dog Madison Square Garden Setlist 01:02:51 New project from Dusty Wright and Dana Fuchs … coming soon “Dusty and Dana” 01:06:30 Enjoy Music With Your Kids and Your Family 01:09:28 Gig Gab 448 Outtro Follow Dusty Wright Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Creem to the Stage: Dusty Wright’s Music Stories – Gig Gab 448 appeared first on Gig Gab.