Interview: Marc Ford
4 min read
Marc Ford has enjoyed success over the last 25+ years years through many creative outlets including conquering a solo career and as lead guitarist of The Black Crowes for many years. He has also fronted several bands of his own including Burning Tree, Marc Ford & The Neptune Blues Club and Jefferson Steelflex.
Marc has recently released his latest solo studio album, Holy Ghost, and we managed to steal some time away from the music veteran to talk abut the release and his plans for 2014. Here is what Marc had to tell us:
Brendon Veevers: How are you doing today Marc and where in the world are you sitting down with our Q&A today?
Marc Ford: I’m good thanks. Today I’m in Holland.
BV: You released a brand new studio album this month titled Holy Ghost. For those yet to hear the record, can you tell us a little bit about the album to give them an idea of what to expect?
MF: It’s an album of love songs.
BV: Is there any one favourite track for you on the record or is that like asking you to choose your favourite child?
MF: It is hard to say but if I was to pick one I suppose it would be Call Me Faithful.
BV: Where would you say you drew the most inspiration from when you sat down to write and record Holy Ghost?
MF: It has been a process, a couple of songs had been around for a while and the rest came from a change of understanding about life. It’s not about me anymore. It’s about my family and friends and anyone who may need a little help.
BV: Are you a perfectionist in the recording studio or do you tend to take more of a spontaneous/improvised approach to putting tracks down?
MF: I have learned to focus and deliver. So, I am allowed to be in the moment and go with the flow. Music will tell you what it wants to do.
BV: You have been a part of a number of hugely successful projects over the years, playing with Ben Harper and Govt. Mule, creating your own side projects as well as being the lead guitarist for the Black Crowes for a number of years. What do you regard as being your biggest career accomplishment?
MF: It’s all been great. I truly am very happy with this new record. I believe it to be my best.
BV: Having been part of a number of bands, your own and others, would it be something you would go back to now that you have launched your solo career or is a career as a solo artist something that you are hoping to stick with?
MF: I like being a sideman and I need to do my thing every now and then.
BV: What do you enjoy the most about being a solo artist as opposed to working within a band?
MF: I’m still working with a band. It’s an amazing band. The difference is that I’m to blame when it doesn’t work when I’m the leader.
BV: Music has evolved quite significantly over the past few decades with the increase in digital over the physical format or releases and the decline in major labels etc. What are your thoughts on the overall direction of the music industy?
MF: I don’t know about the music industry. I’m not concerned for music. It’s the oldest form of communication we have. It’s older than people. Music doesn’t need us, we need music.
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BV: What is the best piece of advice you would offer someone wanting to pursue a career as a recording and touring musician?
MF: Learn to listen. Keep your ego out of the way and remember this is a long game.
BV: What do you think is the secret to longevity in such an ever-changing music industry?
MF: Do not panic!
BV: Are there any plans to tour the record throughout 2014? Any summer festival dates to look out for?
MF: I’m doing it now, we’re on the road. There some festival dates booked. You can keep up to date on my website. marcfordmusic.com
BV: What else do you have planned for 2014 that fans can look forward to?
MF: I’m just gonna see how things pan out.
Marc Ford’s new album Holy Ghost is out now.
::: RenownedForSound.com’s Editor and Founder –
Interviewing and reviewing the best in new music and globally recognized artists is his passion.
Over the years he has been lucky enough to review thousands of music releases and concerts and interview artists ranging from top selling superstars like 27-time Grammy Award winner Alison Krauss, Boyz II Men, Roxette, Cyndi Lauper, Lisa Loeb and iconic Eagles front man/songwriter, Glenn Frey through to more recent successes including Newton Faulkner, Janelle Monae and Caro Emerald.
Brendon manages and coordinates the amazing team of writers on RenownedForSound.com who are based in the UK, the U.S and Australia.
