Bobaflex Interview with Marty McCoy. Bobaflex is known as one of the hardest working bands in the country. Renowned for their high energy, live shows and relentless touring the band was formed in 1998 by brothers Shaun and Marty McCoy. The brothers are known for their ancestral ties to the most infamous family feud in American history between the Hatfield and McCoy.
Bobaflex Interview
– What’s new in the world of Bobaflex?
Just finished up a 3 week tour with The Veer Union. We do some headlining shows then head out as support for Ill Nino in May for 45 shows. It’s gonna be a busy couple months.
– How was it recording your album Anything That Moves?
It was a total blast. The most fun we have had doing a record to date. Everybody was sober, happy, and full of energy. This was the first album we’ve written with Jymmy and Dave. They brought a new feel to the songs.
– How do you build a song up from nothing to become something?
That’s a good question. Everyone in the band is a song writer. The process is never the same twice. Sometimes song can be brought to the table completely finished. Other times it can start with a riff of vocal line. Once it’s decided we are gonna move forward with it then we all turn our attention one the song until it’s finished. Each song has to pass through everybody’s hands before it goes on the album.
– How many shows do you play per year on average, and how crazy does the schedule get?
On average about 200/250. The Schedule is always full. That’s how you stay relevant in today’s music industry. The way people purchase music is ever changing. The one constant is the live concert. It you kickass live, you will survive.
– How is the music scene in your area these days? Are clubs still popular?
Yes!!! The scene is thriving with tons of talent. Clubs are still packing out and so are the festivals. I’m spoiled. I live 5 minutes from the soccer stadium that hosts Rock in the Range in Columbus Ohio. We also have a great radio station (99.7 The Blitz) that plays new stuff that you don’t hear on other rock station.
Influences, Spotify and more
– Could you describe some of your earliest influences in life and in music?
First album I ever purchased was the Miami Vice soundtrack. It had a song called ” Smugglers Blues” by the late, great Glenn Frey. That’s when I knew I wanted to play guitar. After that I discovered Metallica and Guns N’ Roses. The rest is history.
– Is the band fans of Spotify and similar streaming services? What are your thoughts on this?
Spotify is the future. I don’t love the royalty payouts, but if you don’t adapt you will be hurled into obscurity. Nobody wants that. Technology has always changed the music industry. It leveled the playing field a bit for independent artists. I’m always cool with that.
– How important are music videos in the industry today? How do they compare to videos from 20 years ago?
Audio visual consumption of music is where it’s at. YouTube has proven that people don’t wanna just follow the bouncing ball anymore. We are a world of short attention spans. Videos help keep the fans engaged. I love directing videos and being in them. It’s another creative outlet for us. As far as 20 years ago, Technology has once again made it possible and affordable for the Indie artist to compete with quality looking videos for a fraction of the cost. All you need is a decent camera, editing software, and an imagination.
– Any words of wisdom to share with aspiring artists?
Yes!!! Rehearsal is key. Tool didn’t get to where they are by showing up to band practice once every two weeks. If you wanna play on the big stage you have to be as insanely dedicated as your heroes. Forget everything else. It’s music 24/7 or this isn’t the right business for you.
Check out Bobaflex online http://www.theofficialbobaflex.com/