Simply SIx: Glen Foster

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?

My defining moment was hearing Walk Don't Run by the Ventures at the fall fair played really loud on a great record player. That changed my life as I just had to play guitar.
    

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

your favorites?

I'm from the guitar school of Clapton, Hendrix, Beck, Page so I draw inspiration from them. Chet Atkins also is a big influence and I still listen to and practice that style. I enjoy listening to Dylan, Neil Young and the folkie songwriters. My other love is vocal groups like the Beach Boys and Four Seasons. There are a number of great Canadian Bands like The Odds, Streetheart, Trooper, Guess Who, that I dig.
To keep up with new music I listen to the radio in my car and internet radio at home.

 

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

or live?

I just finished recording some new tunes in the studio and did a few 'live off the floor' including solos. That's a very satisfying feeling and quite a thrill. But anytime you're up in front of an appreciative audience and the whole band is just playing great it's a huge payoff.   

 

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something   to  listen   to?

How much can music influence current events?

Music has already changed the world in the way that we entertain ourselves. The two elements that most influence change are rhythm and rhyme. Music styles influence people en mass and change is constant, so we're always on the lookout waiting for the latest craze! Lyric can be a strong influence when the message gets to the people. The problem is getting it there and that's a matter of marketing. 

 

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected

your career as a musician?

I try to not get too hung up on technology. I still favour old Fender amps and Boss pedals, and use an older PA system that's reliable. But the studio is a different thing. Recording, mixing, editing, and mastering are now digital and computerized which has Pros and Cons. A lot of it is easier, faster, cheaper and can make an average musician sound great. But there's always sacrifices and we tend to lose authenticity, realism, enthusiasm and sometimes inspiration. Then there's Digital Releases, which has dramatically changed the entire music world. Bring it on, it's great, don't look back.

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

shoes would you be?

When I saw Jeff Beck Group play around 1973 JB was wearing some high top black leather boots. I bought a pair of handmade boots just like them in Montreal right after that and I still wear them today. They're solid, rugged, durable and when I play in them I feel the same way, well grounded and on a firm foundation. That's the type of shoes I would be.