Tommy Keene Interview: SXSW 2010

Tommy Keene has been around longer than many of the bands at this year's SXSW have been alive. From his 1984 debut EP -- which first gained him the critical praise that he has carried throughout his career -- to 2009's 'In the Late Bright,' the musician's contribution to the musical landscape of the past 30 years is undeniable. His influence is felt in the music of respected bands like R.E.M. and The Replacements, and he continues to create new -- and influential -- music. Spinner recently spoke with Keene about his musical beginnings, his thoughts on the music industry today, and plans for his upcoming two-disc retrospective album 'You Hear Me.'

Describe your sound in your own words:

[Laughs] It's hopefully a contemporary spin on a classic pop rock 'n' roll sound.

How did you get started in music?

Just being a young kid taking music lessons, being influenced by the great stuff I was hearing on the radio. And I started playing in bands when I was probably 11 or 12, and playing in cover bands -- Beatles and Stones, mostly stuff like that. I got older and started meeting people who wrote their own songs, and I started writing my own songs too...

How do you view the music industry today versus 25 or so years ago?

Well, it's kind of confusing. I am out of that whole major label world, and have been for quite some time. I've been on indie labels in the '90s and the '00s, and I don't know if it's the same for young kids starting out. When I was growing up, the holy grail was getting a major label deal...And it was this machine that would just chew you up and spit you out. I think that musicians now have more of an advantage in that they don't have to take that route. There's many more options...

How has digital technology impacted the way you create your music?

I have a little studio...and I'm definitely not technically proficient. Everything's pretty much still analog. But the good thing about it is that people don't have to spend a lot of money. Before, there was no option...So for musicians, it's gotten a lot easier and reasonable, cost-wise...You can make your own record on your laptop, and that's awesome.

What are you looking forward to most at this year's SXSW?

I generally don't like these kinds of festivals/ battles of the bands/ gathering of know-it-alls. [Laughs] I remember playing this new music seminar in 1984, which was basically the show that got me my Geffen Records deal, after a year or so of talking -- that was the thing that did it for me, finally. It's a big mess -- we're doing three shows -- and I just hope it's not a complete cluster...

I'm just looking to have a good time, and see friends, and hang out. Hopefully, do the best shows I can.

Are there any other bands are you are looking forward to seeing during SXSW?

I want to see Cheap Trick and Big Star.

You've worked with a lot of musicians over the years. Who is a musician you haven't worked with that you would like to?

Too numerous to mention. I've always been, since age 21, a solo artist. But I've always enjoyed playing with other people and being a sideman. I can step into that role pretty easily. Basically, anyone whose music I like...Obvious, top tier-level people: Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney.

Beatles or Stones?

Beatles, obviously.

Other than SXSW, what do you have planned for 2010?

I'm putting out a "best of Tommy Keene" retrospective. Two discs, 1983 to 2009...and we're going to do some shows later this summer. And then, I'll probably start working on another new record.


David A. Cobb is a contributor from Seed.com. Learn how you can contribute here.