The sun is out people and just to make things even better, Groovy Uncle is on board with the 20 Questions. Larry from Funky16Corners is currently doing the honours over at The Right Side Of Funky so be sure to check that out when you are done here. Groovy Uncle writes songs at an insane rate. I regularly check up on him in stealth mode on the off chance of finding a half baked idea but have found nothing but gems. A nicer and wiser man you couldn’t hope to engage in ‘cyber’ conversation, as well as an accomplished musician with credits that include the mighty Kravin A’s (amongst others but that’s more than enough for me, if you’re intrigued about the others then step into his world -he’ll be happy to tell you all about it, he’s that kind of guy)!. To quote the man himself he ‘used to be in bands but got better’! This was in danger of being the longest introduction to a Q&A in history as he’s truely incomparable! If you didn’t know Groovy Uncle before this then thank your lucky stars you do now. A sincerely heartfelt thanks to Glenn for his time.
1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?
I write 3-minute pop songs and instrumentals mostly. I don’t have a band or play live so I just record and play all the instruments myself.
2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?
I’d say it’s more of a full time hobby than a career. I don’t think i would enjoy it as much if it ever became a job.
3. Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?
“There’s A Place” by The Beatles. “There’s a place where I can go…….and it’s my mind” I have always identified with that song even as a kid.
4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?
Musically it was always the Beatles. The Kinks and The Small Faces after that and anyone who can write a good tune really. People seem to be a little embarrassed about simply writing a good melody and straightforward lyrics these days. Everything has to be “cool” (yawn!). The man who taught me to play guitar, Steve Cooper, was a big influence too. Sadly, no longer with us, he was brilliant. He wasn’t famous but you don’t have to be famous to be a star.
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5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?
YES! I love a lot of old time singers and songwriters. Sammy Cahn, Jule Styne, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter, Hoagy Carmichael etc. Now THEY weren’t afraid to write a good tune! I love Sammy Davis Jr. I was in a band called The Kravin’ A’s and I wrote a song called “You Know It Is”. I haven’t told anyone this before but the middle section of the verse is a nick from a Sammy Davis song called “Be-Bom”. It’s not obvious maybe but I can hear it in there. I love Al Jolson too. What a performer he was. My Dad was a Jolson impersonator in the 50’s. Don’t look at me like that- I’m serious!
6. What are you most proud of?
Just being able to do what I do.
7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?
Yes. Lots of embarrassing and/or inappropriate gigs. I’ll say no more.
8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?
”Play something we know!”
9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?
The same as marriage-marry someone you like rather than someone you just fancy. Have I said too much?
10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?
Any Beatles Track obviously. But then it wouldn’t have been as good with me on it and that just wouldn’t do! And I wish I’d written “Windmills Of Your Mind” by Michel Legrend
11. How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?
It’s been a part of my life for so long I don’t notice any difficulty. I have been married for a long time but don’t have any kids so that helps I suppose.
12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?
There are god and bad things about it I suppose. Things change but I don’t like the “throwaway” aspect of it all these days. Once your fed up with a track you just “delete”. Everything is so disposable now.
In the olden days you stashed away your vinyl and rediscovered it when you got older.
13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have a preset gameplan for your music/the band?
I am successful every time I finish a recording and am happy with it. I’ll keep on keeping on until I write a decent song.
14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?
As Morrissey sang, “Hang The DJ”. Only joking! They do their thing, I do mine. There is room.
15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?
Most gigs on the Continent have been memorable for all the right reasons. Most gigs in the U.K have been memorable for all the wrong ones.
16. How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?
I don’t get “scared” nervous really. Not a problem.
17. When did you last write something?
Last night.
18. Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?
Every day. But then I get a little melody in my head and……..
19. What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instuments during recording?
Not really my cup of tea but each to their own.
20. Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?
It has been a pleasure. I am more than happy to talk to anyone about music-be it mine or anyone else’s. Drop me a line and I always answer y’know.
Glenn Prangnell
