By Eileen Tilson
When I asked “Rod” from J Roddy Walston & The Business why a band like them were not living in Nashville, he proudly declared how moving to Baltimore toughened him up. He is much happier in his semi-inherited home in Virginia where he lives with his wife. “You don’t know how great it is to have a running bathroom!” With a year like he has, I cannot imagine the boys being anything but happy. Being noted by Spin Magazine as a “Breaking Out” band, J Roddy Walston & The Business have been touring the country, performing at the likes of Bonnaroo. I chatted with Roddy before their upcoming show at The Earl this Friday as part of our 5GB series.
What is the the first gig you ever went to?
Excluding church? Hmm, it was The Allman Brothers. I went with like four other friends. I think the only reason we got to go out on a school night was because our friend’s mom was a teacher.
Best gig you have ever played/performed at?
Oh man, in the last year we have had some of our best shows ever. One that sticks out particularly though, was playing with The Black Keys at the House of Blues in Orlando….that was pretty awesome.
Best gig you’ve ever been to?
When I was in junior high, there were lots of cool shows that would come through my part of town and play at this little hole in the wall venue. I honestly think it might have been run by a pimp. It was super underground, and I have lots of memories watching these Elephant 6 (Recordings) bands, thinking I had discovered something no one else had, and wanting to be just like that. Besides that, I would have to say My Morning Jacket in Chicago at Lollapalooza. I remember waking up and the sun was coming up and I sat at the back of the stage, and heard MMJ sound checking. I am a big fan of the overall experience of a show.
What is the gig you would most like to play?
We still haven’t played Europe yet, so that is super high on the list. Honestly this is the first time I am getting to tour and write without having a 9-5 day job, so that makes all these gigs pretty great!
If you could put your dream lineup on a gig, who would it be?
There is this musician that I am obsessed with called, Cary Ann Hearst, she sometimes plays with her band Shovel & Rope. So them for sure, maybe some Deertick, and Jonny Corndawg. I would want it to be a festival/modern-day heehaw.
J Roddy Walston & The Business play The Earl This Friday, 9/9/11
