TeenFX.com Interview with Blue October: Ryan (Violin), Jeremy (Drums), Justin (Vocals), Matt (Bass)

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Blue October: Ryan (Violin), Jeremy (Drums), Justin (Vocals), Matt (Bass)

AUDIO: | RealPlayer

Describe how you came to realize that making music was your "calling"?

RYAN – I have been playing all my life so it sort of called me instead.

JEREMY– It was an accident. I haven’t been playing drums long at all. I was just hangin’ out at my brother’s band rehearsal. There were drums but no drummer. Justin was like “Man you’ve got rhythm. Try playing the drums” Why not? I gave it a shot. It just came to me. A few more rehearsals and Justin said “That’s it, we have a drummer now”. The rest is history. It’s great.

JUSTIN – When I hit rock bottom music was the only, I mean ONLY thing to make me feel OK, and less crazy.

MATT– As an adolescent, I was torn between passions for visual art, theatre and music. As a teenager though, music just seemed to take over my life as my personal means of expression. When I have an intangible thought, music is the only way I really know how to explain that feeling.

What was your dream before you became a member of the group (if any). Any other big plans before your musical career?

RYAN – [I] wanted to be a neurologist, conductor. I would like to one day build robots.

JEREMY– At that time I wasn’t really sure what I was going to do. I was waiting tables and doing electric work at the same time. Gotta pay the bills. Before music, I tried college for a while. College and I didn’t mix very well.

JUSTIN – To be a writer of some sort. But I guessed I’ve accomplished that.

MATT – Music has always been my dream, but I actually attended college with the intention of getting involved with filmmaking, then changed to elementary education (working with kids has been a big influence as well).

What do you think about our new President?

RYAN – I haven’t thought about it much but I have faith he’ll do fine.

JEREMY – He’s obviously got some balls, with his quick attack on Iraq. But I don’t think that’s what I look for in a President. I don’t know what to think about him. I’ve been unsure from the start of the campaign. He seems kind of sly to me.

JUSTIN – He won, so I pray he’s patient and rational.

MATT – George W. Bush scares me to no end. I’m appalled that he was actually voted in, so we’ve got 4 years of Republican mistakes to look forward to:)

What do you do that most appeals to teens?

RYAN – Hopefully teens will look to what I have done with violin and apply their hobbies & dreams to everyday life.

JEREMY – I like to do a lot out doorsey types of things. Camping, canoeing, climbing, biking. I like to be outside. Still there’s always something in the CD player.

JUSTIN - Write songs that they can relate to.

MATT – I enjoy many activities that appeal to teens (concerts, films, painting, etc.)

What is wrong with teens today (in relation to your occupation)? and what do you suggest should change?

RYAN – I would like to do a duet with Joe Satriani, or play on a Sinead O’Connor, or Peter Gabriel CD.

JEREMY – Josh Freese (A Perfect Circle) – “What a Drummer. Amazing!”, Macy Gray – “Such Groove”, Matt Cameron (Sound Garden)

JUSTIN – Fionna Apple and Peter Gabriel

MATT – I would love to play some shows with Jeremy Enigk and Sunny Day Real Estate, but it’s always been a funny little dream of mine to coerce Sly Stone out of seclusion to write and record some spacey music. His positivity and soulfulness are a big factor in the way I appreciate music today.

What 5 CDs are in your car, or your CD player at home right now?

RYAN– 1. The Lincolns 2. Dido 3. Lift 4. Alice in Chains 5. Depeche Mode.

JEREMY – 1. Cold Play 2. RadioHead (Kid A) 3. A Perfect Circle 4. STP (No. 4), 5. Dave Matthews Band (Everyday)

JUSTIN – 1. Idaho 2. The Smiths 3. Deftones 4. RadioHead 5. Cold Play

MATT – 1. Fishbone (Truth and Soul) 2. Miles Davis (Greatest Hits) 3. Jeremy Enigk (Return of the Frog Queen) 4. Rocket from the Crypt (Scream Dracula Scream) 5. Sly and the Family Stone (Stand)

How do you feel about Napster?

RYAN – I don’t like it

JUSTIN – Free Publicity, No Money

MATT – Napster really doesn’t matter much to me. There’s a part of me that appreciates the concept, actually. Plus I think it’s amusing to watch the “angry vein” pop up in Lars Ulrich’s forehead (No disrespect to Metallica).

Are teens today different from when you were a teen?

RYAN - Yes, but every generation is different.

JUSTIN – Not exactly, they have a different outer shell, different self expression, but the same meaning.

MATT – Yes and No. The obvious social trends are always changing, and that can effect behavior to a degree. But I think that deep down teenagers are the same with the same growing experiences, problems, etc.

What message do you have to give to teens today? What would you say (in a few words/sentences) to a group of graduates at a High School Graduation?

RYAN – Live your life. Don’t sell yourself short. Don’t set the bar too high, but don’t settle for second best. FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS!!

JUSTIN – No one knows the real you as hard as they try, so surprise them with never giving in.

MATT – Stay positive and follow your dreams. I’ve met way too many people who are miserable because they did what everyone else expected them to or told them to do. Find your own voice and work with it – whatever it may be because “life is too short to be in a whole so bust into your funkiest stroll.”

Post a Comment
	Sarah	01-25-09

Read it. Very inspirational. Love you guys, you rock blue october!


	xxmarshyxx	12-25-06

didnt actually read it. just wanted to say i INTO THE OCEAN.


	Meredith	09-07-04

I absolutely LOVE the song "Calling You". It's so sweet, and it totally describes a relationship I was in. I heard about Blue October from my sister, and I think they are amazing!!! Keep up the great work guys. COME TO OHIO.


	xXxAlexXx	03-07-04

I saw them and a bunch of other bands at Lickfest in Little Rock


	Cathy	01-02-04

I saw Blue October in a small place in Houston (ENGINE ROOM) I thought they rocked..The lyrics are so awsome to listen to I haven't put the C.D. down yet! KEEP IT UP GUYS..and girl


	Erik	08-23-03

You guys rock my socks, keep up the good work.


	Amy	02-15-03

This is interview inspired me to buy your new CD. I didn't think that it was all that it was hyped up to be. I probably won't be buying your next album.


	tracy	01-28-03

Another guy band that I have never heard of. Did these guys make it that far?


	Mariah	08-15-01

You guys are awesome! Keep up the good work!( I also play the violin, and i hope to be as good as ryan!)


	jake	07-26-01

I bought your album after reading this interview. You guys are awsome


	Leslie	06-27-01

This is awesome. I'm the best friend Andrea was talking about. I remember you guys. You played awesome when you opened for the Elms at EKU but I had a b/f and he was gettin jealous so I couldn't hang with Ryan as much I wanted to. I guess you guys are all big now & aren't coming back to do any more little shows but if you do keep in touch. For the people who haven't heard, Blue October is an awesome, unique band. C-ya. irish_creme84@yahoo.com


	Andrea	06-26-01

Oh, my gosh! Ok, is this the same Blue October that played at Eastern Kentucky University a few years ago ????? If so Ryan hit on my best friend... If not... Sorry?


	SaRaH	05-08-01

never heard of you guys


	jonathan	05-04-01

I think you guys are great! I love the music clip in the Interview. If anyone can't play the music go to RealPlayer.com to download the RealPlayer8. It's free, and then you can hear the music.


	TIM	04-25-01

How can I hear your music or get a cD? R u on amazon?


	Kerri	03-30-01

I have your CD, and I think that you guys Kick ASS!! I love it alot, and I also think that you guys are pretty hott too!!


	Mike	03-23-01

Right On!


	staci	03-20-01

My brother has your cd and i take it from him all the time. I love listening to your music. My favorite song is balance beam. I think you guys are really cool and good luck w/ everything. -staci


	Star	03-17-01

I'm pretty sure I've heard of you guys though I'm not sure what your music sound like. But you seem like a really awesome band!! I agree with the advice about following your dreams! oh, an i think its kewl that u included the violin in your music. Thats style!


	Erin	03-14-01

Interesting CD cover. I really thought it was land.


	jake	03-13-01

I want to hear your songs!