Stephen Richards, Vocalist and Guitarist for Alternative Rock band Taproot Interviewed on April 2, 2012
Stephen Richards Interview
1. Could you tell me about the recording of the new album The Episodes?
We recorded The Episodes with Tim Patalan at The Loft in Saline, MI as we’d done for our previous 2 records. It was a very cool and fun approach to try and capture the essence of this more “concept” style of a record and nice to see the material evolve from the original ideas conceived many years ago.
2. Where did most of the writing for the album The Episodes happen on the road or at home?
The writing of The Episodes took place in my basement about 6 years ago. Mike (guitarist) and I were beginning the writing process for our fourth studio album Our Long Road Home after parting ways with Atlantic records, when he had the idea of just writing a song a day for 10 days, while stressing not over thinking it (as we’d always tended to do) and decided to do the lyrics first. It was different and exciting and leaned itself more towards being a flowing story, so we kinda treated it more like a movie script and then wrote the music more to accompany it like a score.
3. What are your current endorsements?
Haha, I’m not exactly even sure at the moment… Mike & I do have an ESP guitar endorsement, and loving them! I believe we still have an artist deal with Mesa Boogie amps. Phil (bassist) has an endorsement with an amazing up & coming custom bass maker from Indiana named Jeremy Thompson. I think Nick (drums) is looking into some new possibilities..I’m still working on BMW ; )
4. What’s your vision on Social Media as a tool to promote and get your music out to the masses?
My view of social media in general is tainted personally, but obviously it’s a useful and necessary tool for sure. (I’ve had way too many people pretend to be me and mess with my life, so I stay away and usually just stick to official pages and youtube to keep up with my interests) I don’t partake in any of the Facebook/Twitters of the world, but know that they are streamlined into the homes of many of our fans, and the other guys in the band do an amazing job staying in touch with them and keeping them in the loop and updated.
5. How is the current Music Scene in your area?
When not on tour, I’m basically just a Mr. Mom so, I haven’t really had a chance to get out and do anything in Las Vegas yet (moved there a year ago)…I do recommend the Blue Man Group though! But back in Michigan, I know of 2 great rock bands: Pistol Day Parade and Shockwave.. keep your ears open!
6. What could we find interesting in your Music collection in 2012?
Aside from getting familiar with The Episodes, Ive just been listening to the new EMMURE and some Skrillex/Kill the Noise/dubstep stuff while driving around.
7. Could you describe what goes on in a day in your life as a musician?
Wake up hungover. Rush to drive the remaining hours in a van to the next show. Hope we don’t have to do any acoustic performances. Sit around the venue until soundcheck. Sit around the venue after soundcheck. Talk to the wife on the phone. Then a hour before show time, change clothes, drink/cure the hangover and ROCK! Then continue curing the hangover/while beginning a new one. Begin driving the first couple of hours to the next venue around 2am. Get into hotel if lucky around 5 am. Repeat
8. Are there any more products or projects we will see from you in the future?
Nothing official or invested, but Ive enjoyed doing some guest guitars and vocals on some songs that Tim’s been producing for the previously mentioned Michigan bands.
9. Any advice for musicians that are starting in the music industry?
If you enjoy doing it, then you’re doing it for the right reason and if you’re doing it for money or fame, good luck!
Thank you!- Stephen Steele Richards/Taproot
Check out Stephen Richards Online with Taproot http://www.taprootmusic.com/