Simply Six: Gory Bateson

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?

 

The definin’ moment for me happened when I played with Jimi Hendrix at the Spanish Castle in Seattle back in the 60s when I was a teenager. His musicians got sick on a break and I told Jimi I could play, and since he didn’t have anybody to back him up, he let me. That’s where I met Dougie Mac and Dick Diver and we formed The Ethnogs that night. The rest is history, even if some of it ain’t true.

 

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

 

Frank Zappa was my hero. He was a freak, and so am I. For some unknown reason, I really dig Jack Back and Tenacious D too. I’m hopin’ to open for them one day. . . if they’ll return my calls.

 

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

 

Playin’ for that tribe in New Guinea. The Ethnogs were supposed to have a concert in some arena in the capitol there, but the plane lost our luggage and our instruments. So we paid a cab driver to take us to the tundra, and when we got out we heard these kundu drums and started jammin’ with these tribers. I’ll never forget it. I wrote “New Guinea Swamp Blues” based on that night.

 

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

 

Music don’t change the world, it changes how you think of the world. And you can quote me on that.

 

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

 

My recent album ain’t called “Is That Viral Enuf 4 U?” for nothin’. Everybody can hear anybody now. Cuttin’ a record ain’t just for the big boys. Any shmo can record in his basement.

 

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

You’re kiddin’ me right? I’d be a pair of cowboy boots kickin’ your butt for askin’ a question like that.