SIMPLY SIX: Chad Hollister

Chad Hollister is a singer/songwriter from Vermont.


1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they
knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on
the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance
on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

I was 15 years old and living at Ghost ranch in Carrizozo, New Mexico for the summer w/ my parents where my Dad was working. There was a talent show and I sang Neil Young's "Sugar Mountain" and the felt the power of song and knew I wanted to do it a lot more .

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some
of your favorites?

really diggin' Brett Dennen, Spoon, Habib Koite,and  Jason Mraz of late.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on
record or live?

opening for Bob Dylan and Paul Simon and getting the chance to chat for a bit w/ Paul Simon.

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen
to?   How much can music influence current events?

Music can change the world without a doubt. If you are able to affect one person, it can spread in amazing proportions. I know I am doing that now.
Music can also affect current events by attaching a true memory to the event through a song. It is much like taste and memory. A certain taste can take you back to that exact place you were. A song can do the same thing.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology
affected your career as a musician?

Technology has thrown the big record labels off. It has also allowed a lot of musicians to make discs that never thought it was possible. The web has done amazing things for independent musicians . It has allowed us to teach ourselves how to succeed and to communicate with our fans in a way that used to be very expensive--the mail. It is a lot of work but it is possible these days to make a living playing music without giving someone else most of your money.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what
type of shoes would you be?

green Lakai suede lowtops designed by Amir Dia!!