Ward Hayden, the lead singer of Girls Guns and Glory, once had a regular 9-5 job, but the desire to pursue his and the band’s artistic expression took over. GGG is now an internationally touring band, named Independent Artist of the Year at the French Country Music Awards, and two-time winner of both the Roots Act of Year (Boston Phoenix Awards) and Americana Act of the Year (Boston Music Awards). GGG is also the only band of its genre to ever take home the top honors of Act of the Year (Boston Music Awards) and to win the legendary WBCN Rock ‘n’ Roll Rumble. We recently caught up with Ward Hayden for our 5GB Interview Series! Catch GGG at Eddie’s Attic this Sunday, October 21st!
What’s the first gig you ever attended?
R.E.M. was my first concert. I’d become a big fan of the band thanks to MTV and the videos they used to play. I was only about 10 years old, but my parents were willing to take me and a friend to the show in Boston.
After that I was hooked on live shows. Appreciating the songs on CD was one thing, but feeling the energy of the live show was a whole other, bigger, badder and brighter world.
What is the best gig that you ever played/performed?
Playing The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville earlier this week is actually one of my favorite gigs. I’d always heard great things about the room & a lot of great songwriters I admire have played there many times. Playing there was a little intimidating, but after a few songs things started to feel right at home. Was one of those game changing shows where you permanently feel different after the performance. Like you turned a corner.
What is the best gig you have ever seen?
Dale Watson in Bristol, TN was one of the best shows I’ve had the pleasure of attending. The stage banter was funny, informative & entertaining. And his command of the stage was inspiring.Whether the song went well or if a few mistakes slipped in, he played it off perfectly. Watching his show felt like going to rock school.
What is the gig you would most like to play?
Austin City Limits would be a good one. Get to be on TV, on a well respected stage. Would make all our Momma’s proud.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
My dream gig would be the chance to open for Chuck Berry at The Duck Room in St. Louis. To get to share the stage with Chuck in his hometown would be an incredible experience.His music and style has been a major influence on all of us in Girls Guns & Glory. I’ve heard it’s a let down to meet your idols, but I’d like to open a show for them.
Catch Girls Guns and Glory and Amy Black at Eddie’s Attic Sunday, October 21st! 
