Interview with Bodenbender
Bodenbender is a Garage Pop band.
Why did you want to do music professionally?
When you're young, everything is exciting. The future is full of the dreams that we have and the things we want to accomplish. We are all filled with hope. As life grinds on us and we get older, dreams are lost or given up on. People settle for "good enough". Very few stick.
True musicians are a funny bunch. Unless famous, we are mostly looked at as being the dregs of society. I mean seriously, who really respects a musician who isn't famous, other than other musicians? I believe it is the most romantic thing in the world to never give up on your dreams and to always push forward no matter what the odds. True musicians share the "never die mentality"
Why did I choose to do music professionally? It wasn't a choice. I just never stopped playing.
What inspires your music?
The emotions I feel inspire me, and my music. Sometimes I feel so sad or angry, and I want to just leap out of my skin. I instead plug in an electric guitar and turn it up to 10.
What things get you in the mood to write songs or do lyrics come spontaneously?
I learned early on you can't force a song. You have to just let the melodies come.
How do you want your music to affect people?
I want our music to help the world. I want it to help people let out their frustrations, I want our music to help people cope with their sorrows. I want our music to make you move!
Do you test out your songs before releasing them? How do you do this?
A song never makes it to the recording stage if I don't deem it worthy. So no testing beyond that is required.
How do you prepare for a gig?
I wake up, eat a good breakfast. It's the most important meal of the day you know.I then play a little guitar. Not a lot, just enough to get my fingers loose. I then pack up my gear and proceed to the ROCK show, where BODENBENDER will then proceed to ROCK!
What is your favorite song that you've written?
I love playing "She was Married" live. It gets the band moving.
Has there been a reaction to one of your songs that you've been surprised by?
I'm just happy that people are listening.
What are some ways that you promote yourself?
Playing shows is the best form of promotion. Real contact with real people.
What would you say has been the biggest challenge of your career?
Staying Positive.
Are there advantages to being an independent musician?
Yeah, you do what you want.