From Creem to the Stage: Dusty Wright's Music Stories

Gig Gab - The Working Musician's Podcast

In this episode of Gig Gab, you join Dusty Wright, the former editor of Creem magazine, as he shares stories from his vibrant career in music journalism and live performance. You’ll hear about his encounters with rock legends like Robert Plant and Prince, plus insights on how your influences shape your sound. Dusty also emphasizes the importance of listening and adjusting your setup for each venue, whether it’s a NYC club or a suburban spot. Remember, as you navigate the unpredictability of live art, always be performing.

Dusty dives into his latest album, “Dusted Off,” which features covers that shaped his musical journey. He discusses the thrill of giving Pearl Jam their first cover and reflects on the necessity of adapting your volume and energy for the gig. With new projects on the horizon, including a collaboration with Dana Fuchs, Dusty encourages you to enjoy music with your family. Tune in and get inspired to keep the music alive in your world!

• 00:00:00 Gig Gab 448 – Monday, September 23rd, 2024
  • September 23rd: National Great American Pot Pie Day
• 00:01:05 Guest Co-host: Dusty Wright
  • The Ultimate Tweener
• 00:03:42 Former Editor of Creem…The Bastard Son of the Music Press covering bands like:
  • Kiss
  • Rush
  • Lester Bangs
  • Grand Funk Railroad
• 00:08:12 Shaping Your Influences…As They Shape You
  • Garage Rock, Jazz
  • Working at William Morris Agency
• 00:11:12 Journalism as a career for a musician
  • First: Cover Magazine from The East Village, then New York Review of Records
  • Labels would underwrite the coverage of magazines
• 00:13:40 Storytime from Glastonbury: Robert Plant’s the nicest rock-and-roller I’ve ever met. King Arthur and Tolkien stories.
  • Leaving a message for Jerry Miller with Robert Plant
• 00:17:41 Working with The Artist Formerly Known As…Prince!
  • A trip to Paisley Park
  • Prince used (affordable!) Max Factor cosmetics!
  • A limo-driven visit to First Avenue, Prince’s (then) club to see Michael Bland
• 00:25:08 An invitation to publish Prince’s New Power Magazine
• 00:26:52 PODCAST: 1001 Album Complaints. Do you read every inch of the available liner notes and still shake a fist at the clouds yelling for more? If so, 1001 Album Complaints is the podcast for you.
• 00:29:03 Gigging in New York City
  • Packing drums into a cab
  • More and more NYC clubs are now providing backlines
  • The Shrine in Harlem – Great vibe, good backline, GREAT sound guy
  • The Rodeo Bar NYC – Americana Roots Artists… you’d bring your own backline because you have the stage for the night
• 00:33:55 The importance of listening for — and adjusting — your sound in EACH room
• 00:38:49 Nikki, the 15-year old English Setter says hello
• 00:38:55 Comparing Gig Experiences at NYC Venues vs. Suburg Venues
• 00:40:18 The Unpredictability of Live Art
  • Sometimes you have to follow the the (lost!) leader
  • Managing the weather…without getting electrocuted!
• 00:47:16 Dusty’s 11th album “Dusted Off”, full of covers that informed Dusty as a youth
  • Dusty’s cover of (I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone
  • A reference to Faithful, Todd Rundgren’s Cover Album
• 00:53:46 Playing with Big Ears
  • Playing appropriate volume for the gig!
  • You only need to play one note to get everyone’s attention
• 00:58:17 Dusty was NOT at the Big Star conference, but he gave Pearl Jam their first cover!
  • Complete with a “Thank You” letter from Mike Mcready’s mother.
  • Temple of the Dog Madison Square Garden Setlist
• 01:02:51 New project from Dusty Wright and Dana Fuchs … coming soon “Dusty and Dana”
• 01:06:30 Enjoy Music With Your Kids and Your Family
• 01:09:28 Gig Gab 448 Outtro
  • Follow Dusty Wright
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