Andrew Combs is a songwriter, guitarist, and singer who lives in Nashville. Originally from Dallas, Combs is inspired by the great tradition of Texas songwriting exemplified by Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, and Mickey Newbury. Equal parts rough-and-ready Chicago blues, Planet Waves-era Dylan, and vintage Nashville folk, Combs’ live show has often been described as Merle Haggard’s stripped-down country rock meets the tightly wound garage punk of Detroit’s The MC5. In short, they call it “country soul swag,” and you should too. He also happens to be kind, which in a world of hipsters is not always an easy find. He joined us for a little Q&A before his show at The Earl, and although he is clearly a man of a few words here, here certainly has a talent for writing.
What is the strangest thing a fan has done for you? or at your show?
Someone once asked me if I knew any Lifehouse songs. Does that count?
What is the funniest moment you have had as an artist/band so far?
Playing the same venue as an amateur MMA fight. Their green room was my green room. Awkward, to say the least.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Two beers and some stretching.
If you could describe your music in one word, what would it be?
Honest
How do you connect with a crowd?
A little eye contact and a few jokes.
What is the best way to write music?
With coffee and a good title.
