Jon Dee Graham Interview: SXSW 2010

Posted on Mar 9th 2010 7:44AM by Wendy Gould
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Jon Dee Graham, a legend on the Austin, Texas music scene, has a knack has for creating raw, gutsy music that's easy to relate to. The 51-year-old musician has released six albums and has been inducted into the Austin Music Hall of Fame as a solo artist three separate times. He describes his sound as "overblown bombastic rock," as well as "sentimental," "thoughtless," and "brutal." With the personality of a wise soul mixed neatly with the spirit of a rebel cowboy, Graham seems to make friends every where he wanders, in life and at SXSW.

Describe the sound of your music in your own words.

Describing music with words simply can't be done, but i'll play along. My sound is grown-up music which talks about stuff not everyone wants to talk about. It ranges from small scary songs to overblown bombastic rock; tender, tough, careful/careless, sentimental, brutal and thoughtless and carefully considered set to beautiful and ugly guitars.

When did you decide to start making music?

At 12 years-old. I see now that it was a poor decision, but, you know, what the hell. I was 12. It's the decision of a 12 year old.

What music were you inspired by growing up?

My parents met at a Bob Wills and the Texas playboys dance. I grew up on the Mexican border and the only radio we recieved clearly and consistently was a 70s hard rock station from San Antonio. So, I'd say pure country, tear-jerking tejano rancheros and AC/DC.

Who are some of your favorite musicians today?

Are you trying to get me in more trouble than I'm already in? It's either a very long list or a very short list, and no matter which it is, someone's feelings will be hurt or someone will be mad at me. I'll just say that I love everyone.

What other musical groups have you been a part of?

I was a member of The Skunks (seminal Texas punk rock), The True Believers (seminal Americana), John Doe (of seminal LA punk pioneers X) and a solo project. Okay, I'll stop using the word 'seminal.' Other groups include Michelle Shocked, Alejandro Escovedo, Kelly Willis. You know, like that. I've been around.

How does it feel to be a member of the Austin music hall of fame?

It's like getting a gold watch at a retirement party. Like, 'Here, thanks for your contribution. How will we ever get along without you? Now please stop it and go home." And I've been inducted three times so they must really want to get rid of me. No, no, no...seriously -- it's a tremendous honor. I mean, look at the roster. I'm in there with Doug Sahm and Roky Erikson. I am very, very proud of it.

What is the best part of performing?

There is no "best part." Every single part of performing is like Christmas morning, combined with having sex, combined with saving a baby from a burning building. It's all the best part and I've found that nothing comes close.

What has been the highlight of your career, thus far?

Don't know yet. I have a show tonight. Something might happen...

Where do you see yourself, musically speaking, five years from now?

Let's not get ahead of ourselves, alright? Next week should be pretty good.

Wendy Gould is a contributor from Seed.com. Learn how you can contribute here.