Say Hi Interview: SXSW 2010

Posted on Mar 16th 2010 3:15PM by Nick Scott
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Say Hi – formerly Say Hi to Your Mom – is the one-man band of Eric Elbogen. While he has friends playing with him while on tour, the albums are all of his own creation. Where his earlier projects used science fiction and zombies as metaphors, his recent work -- post name change -- is much more focused in its lyrical content. Spinner recently caught up with Elbogen in cyberspace where we discussed being a Boy Scout and his plans for his upcoming SXSW appearance.

How did you start making music?

I bought a guitar in the '80s.

When did the band form?

2002.

How did you come up with your name?

A dream.

What precipitated the name change?

Boredom.

Who are your musical influences?

The Beatles and the Stones.

What are your musical guilty pleasures?

Spank Rock.

How would you describe your sound?

83% awesome.

Do you prefer being out on the road or being back home working on new music?

Both have their highlights.

Any especially crazy or memorable moments from a previous tour?

Say Hi is a pretty tame touring band. If I'm in bed by 12AM, I'm happy.

What is your biggest vice?

I'm a Boy Scout.

So the fourth album featured a lot of vampires. What is your favorite vampire story?

Don't have any of my own; do you want me to bite one from someone else?

Have you played SXSW before, if so how many times?

Yes, seven times.

Any big plans for your festival appearance this year?

Giant fireworks.

Any acts you are looking forward to seeing?

Too many to tell.

What would we find in your festival survival kit?

My own hotel room.

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