Question and Answer Session - Walter Egan (October 13-26, 1999)
Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! I'd love to complete my Egan Collection but am missing "Fundamental Roll" and "The Last Stroll". Are there any plans to re-release your other solo albums? (Ken Hilts, Norton, Massachusetts, USA)
Thank you for asking! If you find any extras out there, let me know... last November my studio burned down and all my albums perished, however, The Last Stroll and Hi-Fi are available from the Bear Family in Germany. I finally got one copy myself. It's pretty cool. Additionally, I've met some people here in Franklin, TN, who are eager to release either all my albums or a 'Best Of' collection. But due to in-transigence on the part of Sony Legacy, they haven't been able to do it yet. Perhaps friends like you could put some pressure on the label too.
I hear from Marty that you & Rick Vito crossed paths at the post office in regards to this Q&A session. I hope Rick warned you about me. I gotta million of 'em for ya...but just a few at a time. I promise. :-) Well, besides the obvious question of "where have YOU been?", the next question you'll no doubt be swamped with by alot of us is, "When is the REST of your back catalogue of albums (since "Not Shy" is obviously available) going to be released on CD?" (and will YOUR version of "Sisters Of The Moon" be included as a bonus track?) (Steve Denison, Long Beach, California, USA)
Steve, thanks for the interest. Ever since I got out of the witness protection program, I've been trying to get my life back together. But seriously, ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmm, see previous answer as to the status of my other albums, and if I can find a good master copy of Sisters Of The Moon I will be glad to include it.
By the way, how do you know about my version of Sisters? Did you know that I was about to record that as the last track on Not Shy, but Lindsey suggested strongly that I do another song. Guess which song I wrote that night and recorded the next day? Hint: It went on to become my most covered composition.
Next, how many members of your old "Professional Band" are you still working with, if any. After seeing you on four separate occasions (three times at the Roxy in Hollyweird and once at the Golden Bear in Huntington Beach), that band was VERY tight. and seemed to get along very well. What made me think of that was that I saw Skip Edwards playing keyboards with Pete Anderson's band a few yrs ago, in between Dwight Yoakam projects. (SD)
None, but I got a phone call from Annie & Tom last night. They're in Winona, MN and she was rooting for the loser Red Sox! John Selk was selling cars in San Bernardino last time I saw him (ten years ago) and Mike Huey...don't know... however, I saw my buddy Ross and my good friend Bobby Thompson is here in Nashville. Bobby helped me make my new Walternative cd.
Yeah, I spoke to Skip a few years ago and asked him if he had played my version of Maybe Maybe For Dwight before he wrote Fast As You.
"Hot Summer Nights" could be the bio of my teens & twenties, thank you for that song. That Dm, Bb, A pattern is etched in my brain forever!! Looking forward to hearing your new material. And, a big thank you for taking your time to answer our plethora of questions. And no doubt you'll be seeing my name next to a lot of them in the next week or two. (SD)
Yeah, and I'll be charging you royalties for that! By the way, were you there for the John Belushi Jam at the Roxy?
Hello Walter! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions. I've really enjoyed your music over the years and "Fundamental Roll" is my fave album. Now for my question. How did you and Lindsey meet? (Ann, Gordonsville, Tennessee, USA)
You're very welcome, this is a lot of fun. In 1976, after getting approached by United Artists U.K. to do a record, I wanted Brian Wilson or Todd Rundgren or John Fogerty to produce my first record. However, that didn't work out. The engineer with whom I had worked on demos with the Wheels Band, Duane Scott out at Sound City in Van Nuys, CA suggested we get these two guys from Fleetwood Mac. At the time, I thought FM was Bob Welch and the Bermuda Triangle, which was not exactly the direction I wanted to go. But Duane said Bob was gone and there were new people in FM and you should hear this new record as well as their old record called Buckingham Nicks. Of course, hearing that great record I could relate, so Duane set up a get-together with Lindsey at his house just off Pico down from Sheps and then I met Stevie when they did their show at Santa Barbara in the summer of '76.
What was it like working with Lindsey Buckingham? Was he a perfectionist then when he produced Magnet and Steel as he seems to be now?I think he is a complete genius but was he hard to work with? (Karan Ferguson, Scandia, Minnesota, USA)
Hey Karan, working with Lindsey was actually fun in those days, except when Stevie was in the studio (they were kind of at odds at that point). However I think he became more of a perfectionist as he went on, since it only took us about 2 1/2 months to do our record. He got better at perfectionism as he got more practiced at it I guess. Thanks for the question.
Hi Walter, it's really awesome that you're doing this session! My question is, are we ever going to get Fundamental Roll on CD? (Sara, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA)
You know, I ask myself that question, too. Believe me, I'm working on it! Thanks for caring.
Your pal, Walter
My question for Walter Egan is:: What was it like working with members of F.M? Thank you Mr. Egan (Cheryl Hollis, Montgomery, Alabama, USA)
Dear Angel from Montgomery, Mr. Egan was my father. It was a dream come true, a thrill beyond compare. Just goes to show, if you believe in your dreams, many good things will happen. The people from Fleetwood Mac are all such consummate professionals that they made it really easy for me to do well. Thanks for your question. -- Walter
How do you like living in Nashville? I live 50 miles east of the Music City. I may be a bit biased because I was born in Tennessee, but it's my favorite city in the state :-) (Ann, Gordonsville, Tennessee, USA)
Hi y'all. Me and my family have been here for two years now, and I really do like it, except for the lack of an ocean. It's such a pretty place and I really appreciate the lack of incredible stress that we had in L.A. and New York. The amount of talent in Nashville is inspiring and overwhelming at the same time, but it's a great place. And to all those who want to come here: Welcome to Nashville, now go home!
Hi Walter, Thanks for taking the time to do this Q&A session. As a kid I always loved "Magnet & Steel" but it wasn't until years afterwards that I discovered that it was Stevie Nicks doing the "oooh aaah's"!!! Being a huge Stevie fan I had to search out your albums with her on them, both have become favorites, not just because Stevie is on them, they are just great with or without Stevie. Two questions, will "Fundamental Roll" ever be issued on CD (I read that it was at some point but is now long out of print). I love this album!! and my other question is how did you meet Stevie and Lindsey? Of all the session work Stevie has done her "Walter Egan" sessions are my favorite, the songs are more like duets rather than background work. Thanks again!!! (Allen Chapman, Stafford Springs, Connecticut, USA)
Hey Al! Thanks for caring. I'm assuming you're able to read all the other replies, so I won't have to go into how I'm presently trying to get Fundamental re-released. (although you might tell Sony-Legacy that you want it out.) and how Stevie and Lindsey and I met. I'm glad that you like Fundamental Roll and hope you'll like my new Walternative disc.
Do you have a favorite Fleetwood Mac album? (Edna, Boston, Massachusetts, USA)
Hi Edna, of course, the "White Album" will always be special to me because of the songs and the timing of meeting them at that point. But I also like "Rumours" and "Tusk" as well. As to the pre-Stevie & Lindsey albums-- "Bare Trees".
Hello Mr. Egan. It's a great treat to be able to ask you questions directly. Thank you for taking the time to participate in this Q&A. I have all of your previous solo albums and am trying to hunt down your newest with not a lot of luck. Suggestions for the best way to go about it? (Les, San Diego, California, USA)
Thanks, Les! You can get my new c.d. "Walternative" I think via this Q&A stuff. We'll have more info later today.
I have sort of an odd little group of questions for you: 1)It's been a long while since your last solo effort. Why so long? (Les)
Les, it's a crazy business. I've never stopped making music, but sometimes life gets in the way.
2)Did your move to Nashville have anything to do with what seems to be the tremendous narrowing of the market for songwriters in LA? (Les)
Not necessarily just in L.A.. But raising a family and being in proximity to the business have a lot to do with moving to Nashville. Yeah, and they like songwriters here.
3) A question that others may have already asked, so please ignore it if you've already answered -- how did you first meet Lindsey and Stevie? Do you still have much contact with either one? (Les)
Just occasionally.
4) Lindsey once said that he thought you became friends quickly because you had lived almost "parallel lives" in many ways. Did you have tons in common with each other? (Les)
Yes, Les, it was as if we had grown up together on separate coasts. We both liked the Kingston Trio, Brian Wilson, and we always got each others' jokes. We were connected at the "hip" man!
5) What did you think of Matthew Sweet's cover of "Magnet and Steel?" (Les)
I thought Matthew did a great job on it. Too bad Geffen didn't promote it.
I don't want to bombard you with too many questions all at once, so I'll stop now. It's sounds so cliche to say "I'm a big fan," but I am, so I'm saying it. Thanks for your music through the years. (Les)
You're welcome, and they only call it a cliché because it's true, I really appreciate all the interest out there. Take care, Les.
Hello Walter! I have a few questions. Does Lindsey know you are answering our eager questions--how does he feel about it? (Eve)
I don't know.
I like the woodcuts you did for "Out of the Cradle." (Eve)
Cool! Thanks for noticing.
Did you do them specifically for his album? If so, were they inspired by his songs? Thank you. (Eve)
No, they actually had been a Christmas present to Lindsey before he did the package. But I do think his songs were an "inspiration" nonetheless, especially "Don't Look Down" and "Street Of Dreams".
Walter, I have been a fan of yours ever since I heard "Finally Found A Girl Friend". Two questions for you. Will you be releasing Fundemental Roll on cd? I love that album. What's the Walternative album like? And where can I get it? Thanks! (Bill Yoegel, Bel Air, Maryland, USA)
Dear Bill,
I'm doing everything in my power to get Fundamental Roll released on CD. Thanks for caring. Walternative is a continuation and an evolution from my previous five albums. It represents songs that I've written over the last 15 years, and collaborations I've done since moving to Nashville. Bill, I think you'd like it a lot. You can get it by sending $15.00 payable to Walter Egan and some stamps to:
Walternative
P.O. Box 1562
Franklin, TN 37065
and if you act now I'll send you an autographed pic as well. Thanks, Bill.
Throughout the years and the albums you have released I still end up going back to Fundamental Roll. Those songs are some of my favorites. Please tell me about those particular recording sessions. The music scene was so different back then, and Lindsey and Stevie were really just on the brink of superstardom. How were the background vocals recorded? Was the song completed and then Stevie worked out the back-up vocals? Or was anything taped "live", you two singing together? "Feel So Good" has so much energy with Stevie on a bunch of backing tracks...I love that combination of male/female vocals! (Raven, Cold Spring, New York, USA)
I'm happy that you like that album. It was special to me, too. It represented all of the songs I had written up until that point and, of course, the beginning of my recording career. The sessions were recorded at two different times which pretty much corresponds to side 1 and side 2.
As most of my fans know by now, I was offered my first deal in February of 1976 when the band I was in (Wheels with Earl Shackleford and Dave Millard and John Selk and Mike Porter and Roger Swallow) played a Hoot Night at the Troubadour. The deal I was offered was from Andrew Lauder, who was with U.A.U.K. and it was an offer to do 6 songs. With this in hand we went and approached Stevie and Lindsey. The first sessions were pretty much recorded live; bass, drums, guitar and keyboards and then the vocals were discussed and over-dubbed. Generally speaking I had a pretty good idea of how I wanted the songs to sound, but Lindsey had good ideas about how to get that sound on record. In those days, Stevie and Lindsey were not always as close as they might have been, so the sessions where vocals were more important were the ones where Stevie participated moreso.
I don't think any lead vocals were done simultaneously because of separating tracks for control in the mix, but I might be wrong. I'm glad you like "feel so good" that's one of my favorites, too.
A fact that's often overlooked is that Dean Torrence of Jan & Dean helped me with "She's so tough" and that's the only track on Fundamental Roll that Lindsey didn't really participate in.
Ok, in response to your questions to me: I wasn't at the Roxy for the Belushi Jam, (on second thought, maybe I was, but you know what they say about that stuff affecting memory...not to mention the pre-show partying next door at the Rainbow Bar & Grill), but it seemed like every time I saw you, either Lindsey & Stevie were there (and joined you during your encores) and another time Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, & Lindsey were there and played with you. Was that "Belushi Night"? I seem to recall your encores lasting nearly as long as your set! HAHAHA!!
Regarding how I knew about "Sisters Of The Moon": One of the nights at the Roxy, I was at the table right at your feet...Stevie was there in the back of the audience and you started playing "Sisters" during your encore. If my blue-grey cloudy memory serves me, I think that was JUST before "Tusk" was released, but I'd read in some magazine articles about some of the titles of their tunes for their upcoming album and that was one of them. SO, to make a long story MORE boring, when I heard YOU sing "Sisters" I KNEW it was Stevie's (at the time) new tune. I thought she was going to twirl out on stage with you, but you & Annie nailed the tune yourselves!! It was GREAT!!!!
Well, since the only tune of yours that I have a cover version of is "Hot Summer Nights" (by "NIGHT"? Chris Thompson, Robbie McIntosh, Jerry Marotta & can't think of the rest of that band...I think that was their only album. But wasn't "H.S.N." somewhat of a hit for them too?)
Sorry to hear about the your studio fire. Its awful to lose your treasures that way. So if "they" WERE to release any of your catalogue they'd have to use 2nd or 3rd generation takes?? Or are they just "gone for good"?
Oh, just thought of another question that will probably be asked by the time my e-mail gets to you...
Is the version of "Magnet & Steel" on the Boogie Nights soundtrack the original or did you rerecord it for the movie? Told you I "had a million of 'em"! (Steve Denison, Long Beach, California)
Dear Steve in Long Beach,
Glad that you remember so much about that night at the Roxy. All I remember is that Belush did "Jailhouse Rock" and not to be outdone I broke into 'Back in the USA" to end the encore session.
Interesting development on the re-issue front: Yesterday, I spoke with Sony and Renaissance Records and it looks like it's a go for an early-2000 release of "the Best of Me" which should include tracks from all my prior to "Walternative" albums. Maybe it would be a good thing at this point to solicit from all my faithful fans who are reading this their favorite tracks, since they asked me to submit my own "best of" list on Monday the 18th. So, as they say in Chicago "Vote early and often".
As far as I know, they still have first-generation masters at Sony, so it should sound great. Regarding the version of "Magnet & Steel" on Boogie Nights: Yes, that was the original.
This is great you are doing this for us! A very big THANKS from me!
I have quite a few questions for you, but I'll try to be as brief as I can.
First, I must say I really love the FUNDAMENTAL ROLL album - It's an overlooked masterpiece! I really think it would've done much much better (commercially) had it gotten promoted better...I firmly believe that if 'Won't You Say You Will' had been released as the single instead of 'Only The Lucky' and 'When I Get My Wheels', it would've been a very huge hit - I'm convinced.
That song is incredible, and remains to this day one of my favorites! You wouldn't believe how many times I've played that song! Stevie is so into it and you can feel the intensity and her energy on that track, especially towards the end (where I always crank it up as it's fading out). I love that whole album, but that song just reaches out and grabs me. I was wondering if you had Stevie in mind when you wrote it or did it just sort of evolve as you were recording it with her?
I've written to Razor & Tie (Sony Music) several times over the past two years, BEGGING for them to reissue that album on CD. I've mentioned that song a number of times in the newsgroups on Usenet and often include it as one of my all-time favorites of Stevie's songs in the Music Polls.
I really think that album would get the appreciation it truly deserves if it gets a second chance on CD. Did you ever feel like you were a member of Fleetwood Mac (since you worked with Stevie, Lindsey, Mick & Chris)? I know I've had people ask me before, whenever they hear me playing one of your songs, "Wasn't he in Fleetwood Mac?"
I also LOVE Night's (Stevie Lange & co.) cover of 'Hot Summer Nights'. I had bought that single when it was released in '79 - Love your original version as well. How did it happen that they recorded your song? Were they just a fan of the song or did the record company have something to do with it or do you know any of the members of Night personally?
I know that the attention is much more on Stevie Nicks, but I'm also a fan of Annie McLoone, and I think I hear her voice more on 'Magnet And Steel' than I hear Stevie's. I especially love the song, 'Ooo-Eee' (that she wrote), which was recorded by the late Nicolette Larson (with Linda Ronstadt). How did it happen that she became your back-up singer?
And Finally, I've seen you in Lindsey's 'Trouble' music video, and MTV used to show a video clip for 'Magnet And Steel' quite a bit in the early '80s. Have you done any other music videos? I've asked this question before in one of the newsgroups. Someone responded, saying they've seen a video for 'The Blond In The Blue T-Bird'. Is it true there is a video for that song? Thanks for reading this! I'm looking forward to hearing your latest album! Wish You The Best And Hope It Does Well For You! Take Care! (Brian, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA)
Dear Brian in Pittsburgh,
I am a magnet and you are the steeler...
ha ha
ha
ha
just kidding
I agree the promotion could have been better on Fundamental Roll. Thank you for calling it a "masterpiece". As far as "Won't you say you will" goes, it was originally written during the struggling days in 1970 when my band, Sageworth, was just starting out in Washington, DC. It was written about a bar owner named Bill O'Brien who owned a club called Tamany Hall a few blocks from the White House. During that summer he kept our band working and fed when we really needed it. Originally the chorus went like this; "you will be my friend" and it was called "Obie's Tune".
Additionally, it was the first song of mine to have the word shit in it, which at that time seemed like a big deal for us young revolutionaries. If I had known it would lead to Rap Music I might have thought differently.
but, yeah, Stevie did a great job on that track.
Brian, I would love it if they would release all my albums as they were originally meant to be heard, but hey I gotta be happy with the prospect of this "best of" coming out soon.
Yeah, I do feel somewhat like a member of Fleetwood Mac, at least I did at that time. And, in fact, I've always regretted that they didn't ask me to be Lindsey's replacement. Whadaryagonnado?
Night's version of "Hot Summer Nights" had something to do with a publicity agent named Peter Starr getting it to them, or to Richard Perry. I thought they did a pretty good job on the song, although I've always eschewed the modulation in the instrumental section. I had never met Richard Perry until 2 years ago, when I was introduced to him by his brother Fred whom I had met through completely random circumstances in New York.
It is Fred with whom I am currently engaged in a project called "The Brooklyn Cowboys". It's an Alt-, or should I say Walt-Country Rock band in the great traditions of the Burritos, Rockpile, the Dead, Gram Parsons & Emmylou Harris, and the cd titled "Doin' Time on Planet Earth" is now available (for you Gram Parsons fans, this cd features my version of "Hearts on Fire" which I wrote for him, and the last song he ever wrote "Carolina Calypso" which I wrote the music to) Check it out.
Anyway, no, I've never met any member of Night, except Nicky Hopkins, who also played on my "Wild Exhibitions" album.
I have music video for "Only the Lucky", "When I Get My Wheels", "Tunnel o' Love", " Magnet", "I Want It", "Blonde in the Blue T Bird" ( and yes, it features Stevie as the blonde in question , now that was an interesting shoot, with her driving down Hollywood Blvd. sideswiping cars because she wanted to drive without her glasses.) "You're the One", "Hi-Fi Love", "Like You Do" (these last 3 shot by Chuck Staedtler, famous for the Devo videos) and, of course, "Fool Moon Fire" featuring my beautiful wife, Tammy, without whose talented fingers I couldn't be answering all of these questions.
Thanks for the mention of Annie McLoone. I'm sure she would appreciate being remembered. Annie and I met in 1968 at Georgetown University when she became the lead singer for my band, Sageworth and Drums. We gigged from then until '72 when I went to L.A. and she stayed in Boston to record her solo record on RCA "Fast Annie". Now there's a record you should try to find.
Anyway, keep up the good listenin' - Gotta get to these other letters now. Thanks.
Hi again, this isn't a question, but a "Walter Egan misheard lyric". As I mentioned in my previous question, I always loved you "Magnet & Steel" the funny thing is, that as a kid, I thought the lyric was "For you are a maggot and I am veal..." Sorry, but as an eight year old kid I thought it was cool to hear a song about a maggot on the radio!!! Seriously though, I do love those albums and am really glad to see that everyone it seems wants "Fundamental Roll" to be re-issued on CD. Thanks again! (Allen Chapman, Stafford Springs, Connecticut)
I've never heard that one before, at least the veal part. Do you remember the show Square Pegs? It was on in the mid-80s. One episode had Bill Murray as a substitute teacher or something and his big line "for you are the magnet and I am the refrigerator" I always liked that one the best.
Thanks for getting the lyrics right finally.
What do you think of your song "Magnet and Steel" used in Boogie Nights movie and some people see you as a one hit wonder what is your opinion on this subject? (Anonymous)
I'm happy that it's in Boogie Nights and it's at a great place in the movie. Have you seen Overnight Delivery? Check it out.
As far as being a one-hit-wonder, of course I feel I'm much more than that, but I'd rather be that than forgotten.
Did Lindsey and his girlfriend really have a baby last year? Thank you. (Chris)
Yeah, they did. I think his name is Will. Of course, probably taken from my song "Won't you say you Will". Thanks, Bye for now.
Hello there!!! Thank you for answering these questions for us:) Anyway--I know the questions about Fleetwood Mac get old--but alot of us are actually Fleetwood Mac fans who got to know your music through them..and became fans of you. I love your music...I dont have whole albums just alot of tracks I got from friends and I cant say which is my favorite--cause every one I have I love. All right ( did I make you blush a little?:) ..now to the question. I'm really curious about the remark you made earlier..about how when Stevie and Lindsey were in the studio with you together..that they were at odds. Were those sessions really tension filled and awkard constantly..or were there just moments? Didn't Lindsey meet his girlfriend Carol Ann Harris through you at those sessions? Also..you and Lindsey had a good friendship..but it seems many people have strayed from him ( or maybe he from everyone) ...do the two of you still speak to each other to this day on a steady basis? Will the two of you work together again? So many questions..I apologize! Thank you and have a good day! (Janet, Palmyra, New Jersey, USA)
Dear Janet from the planet Palmyra,
Does the Gypsy Liver -- I mean Gypsy Lover [taken from her email address] - refer to the Gene Clark song? If so, you might be interested to know that I will be on the Tribute to Gene Clark to be released next year on Not Lame Records. I recorded "The Reason Why" and I think I did a good job on that.
While it wasn't open hostility between Stevie & Lindsey, they were going through an awkward time and still manage to work together. So, considering that I think they did a pretty good job of managing the project with me. Of course, I sort of felt in the middle of it all, trying to be friends with both at the same time.
You may or may not know that for a short time at the end of 1976 Stevie and I were, how you say....together, and the story of "Magnet & Steel" is somewhat contained therein. On the night that Stevie recorded the background vocals, or should I say wailing, for my song, "Tunnel of Love", I was moved. As I drove home in the dawning new day, I noticed a late model Lincoln Continental painted metallic purple with a diamond in the back window...you get the picture...classic pimp mobile. I glanced at the license plate and there were the words "Not Shy". For whatever reason this seemed like a sign, and when I got home I wrote "Magnet & Steel". So it was kinda life imitating art imitating life...writing a song about Stevie and then having her sing on it, and then of course it becoming the major cultural even that it has over the years. If I introduced Lindsey to Carol I don't remember it. Seems to me that he met her through her sister who worked at The Mastering Lab and it might have been during my mastering sessions. But you can't blame me for that one.
My relationship with Lindsey has improved over the last year, since we were incomunicado for awhile. But he does tend to isolate, and if you're not working with him or Stevie for that matter you probably won't see them very much. At least that's how it used to be. I would love to work with him again.
Hi again. I've read that besides your music, you also sculpt and have worked as a multimedia artist, among other things. May I ask what sort of work you create in those different media? Do you find that different media allow you to express things that music can't, or is the expression just different? I recall reading an old interview with Lindsey where he said that some of his other artistic expressions through photography and painting inspired feelings of confidence in him that he felt helped him combat some of his anxiety when he worked on his main artistic love -- music. Do you experience different levels of anxiety, or confidence, or feeling from one form of artistic expression that you can carry over into another? I'm just really interested the artistic process, so I hope you don't mind the questions. Thank you again. (Les, San Diego, California, USA)
Hi again to you, Les!
It's tough to generalize what type of work I create in different media, but I guess generally different media suits different expression. Last year I was able to use the skills that I had acquired in college for metal sculpture, which is what I really love to do in making a piece depicting two angels intertwined. It stands about 6' tall with about a 10' wingspan and is now on display at an "architectural digest" type home in Brentwood, TN.
A few years ago I wrote a song called "RnRIP" (Rock & Roll Rest in Peace) recounting the sad ends of the rock & roll martyrs and later decided to complement that song with corresponding pieces. These pieces were silkscreen prints, and constructed paintings/collages, and you can find some of them on the liner notes to "Walternative". I guess basically I like to break down the barriers between painting and sculpture to create new media. I guess all forms of creative expression feed the other ways that you have to do that. Personally, I consider myself something of a renaissance man; not only doing music and art, but also I have written a book called "Top Ten" (as yet unpublished) and am now making the rounds with my screenplay "College Radio '68". The creative person should use every tool at his or her command.
Thanks for the question. See you at the zoo!
Hey! I'm a young guitarist, and I really enjoyed the songs of yours I have heard. Best of luck to you with WALTERNATIVE and other projects. I'm writing actually as a once and future Nashvillian to give you a belated welcome to the city. My family is still there, and I am in and out of town a lot- so I was wondering if you had any plans to play any shows in town? Again, thank you for your time. (Beau, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA)
Hi Beau of Chapel Hill,
Good luck with the hurricane and, yes I am playing quite frequently in Nashville. My next gigs are at the Exit Inn October 26 and 27.
Hi Walter!! My question is(if it hasn't already been asked by now)...I was wondering if you new anything about Lindsey's new album tentativley scheduled for a realease date sometime during my lifetime...and if you might be participating in some capacity?? P.S.-We'd love to see you down here in southern New Mexico, any plans for a tour? and any date known for your "best of" yet? Thanks a bunch!!!! (Joshua, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA)
Joshua,
Last I spoke to Lindsey about his album was in February this year, and I thought it was close to being released, but then again I've been through that before with version 1, version 2, and version 3 of "Out of the Cradle". I hope it comes out soon, and we're both around to hear it by then.
No plans yet to tour New Mexico, but I would love to and ya never know. The time frame they're talking about for a "Best Of" album is early next millenium, or January or February... whichever comes first.
Hi again, one more question. Reading all these questions and answers about "Fundamental Roll" made me have to dig the album out. In the liner notes to the album you thank Stevie for the Benz. Is that her car on the cover? It just seems so funny to picture Stevie driving down the road. You say you have videos for several songs, will there ever be a compilation home video made? (Allen Chapman, Stafford Springs, Connecticut, USA)
Yeah, that is her car on the cover, and the picture was taken near Mulholland, off Beverly Glen Blvd. by photographer Moishe Brakha who had just done a spread for Rolling Stone called High School USA whence he had met the two cheerleaders who really weren't cheerleaders, but they were 14 years old each. As far as the videos go, I think it would be a great idea to put out a package with the best of and I'll be talking to Renaissance Records about that.
Hi Walter. My favorite musicians are Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, and Gram Parsons (and his disciples such as Jayhawks). You've bridged quite a connection to two of them; any dealings with Steely Dan??
I have to admit I only have a 45" of yours (Magnet & Steel/Tunnel Of Love), but am always on the lookout for stuff related to my favorites (The Egan name caught my eye in the record shop recently, but it was some guy named Bob!) , and so I am very interested in your Brooklyn Cowboys CD. Any distribution up here in Canada?
Ever toured in Canada? Here in Edmonton we have an amazing outdoor summer "folk" festival, renowned for artists enjoyment, esp. since they can play WITH each other! Emmylou Harris, Elvis Costello, Richard Thompson, and many other big names have headlined along with a wide range of smaller acts in all genres. The festival solicits opinions on who they should try to book each year, and I would like to suggest you. Interested? I could email/mail you more info, or get you a contact to the organizers if you'd like. The Penguin should have my email address. Hope to hear you soon, Walter! (Scott, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada)
Dear Scott from Edmonton,
What! You mean you're not into the Guess Who?
Only dealings I've had with Steely Dan are doing Skunk Baxter's syndicated radio show. As to this Bob Egan guy, how dare he use my name? And what about that Joe Egan from Steeler's Wheel, and of course Richard Egan who was in "Love me Tender", but no relations.
You can get the Brooklyn Cowboys cd through The Penguin.
Never really toured Canada but I played in Toronto a couple of times at the El Macambo Club in 1979 and some other club in the suburbs of Toronto when I was playing bass with Spirit in the mid-80's. I almost moved to Canada back in the 60's to get out of the draft. As far as that festival goes, I would love to do it. Please send me any information you have. Hope to be heard soon.
Hi Walter,
Here some questions from a fan from a small country in Europe named by Holland (The Netherlands). Since I was a young guy a was a great fan of your albums. I have 2 questions about you.
At the innersleeve from the album "Wild Exhibitions" you see a lot of drawings made by you. What is the main reason that you want to use these drawings, Is it a hobby or couldn't you find pictures with the same issue ?
Did you ever perform a concert in the Netherlands ? If yes, do you still know where it was ?
I read in the answer of a question from Bill Yoegel that he can get the album "Walternative" together with a signed photo. Is it for me also possible to get one ? This because I couldn't find the album yet here. (Ruud Sprong, Vlissingen, Zeeland, Holland)
Dear Ruud from Holland,
Great to hear from you! I did perform in the Netherlands, but it was a t.v. show, and I spent the day at the headquarters of the broadcasting system doing a radio interview and taping the t.v. show. What I remember about the show was that I was in a set that looked like a big pinball machine. It was wild. The rest of the band got to go to Amsterdam, but I had to stay at the station all day. All I got to see was the beautiful countryside, lots of tulips, windmills, wooden shoes, dykes on bikes, just kidding, I meant dikes and bikes.
The pictures in the inner sleeve of Wild Exhibitions were put there because they were my interpretation of the songs in a visual way, but seriously, I like to do all kinds of creative things and thought it would be a great idea.
You can get "Walternative" and an autographed picture either by sending $15 American payable to me, Walter Egan, at
Walternative cd
P.O. Box 1562
Franklin, TN 37065
or by means of the Penguin website.
Thanks for listening. Watch out for the high tide!
Hi- What songs did Lindsey play on on your Hi-Fi, Last Stroll, and Wild Exhibitions albums? I have all three and the Penguin discography says he's on them and Christine is on WE, i think, but there's no mention on the albums I have....also- was Sisters of the Moon a promo single for you? I have a version that someone recorded from the radio- When did that come out?..... thanks. (Laura, Richmond, Virginia, USA)
I don't think Lindsey is on HiFi, least as not I can remember; likewise, Last Stroll. However, he makes his return on Wild Exhibitions, with vocals and a wild guitar on "Animal Lover" and vocals on "Star of My Heart". Christine is there vocally on "Such a Shame". Lindsey is also on the Malibooz Rule lp on Rhino on my song, "I Won't be too Young".
"Sisters" was never formally recorded and any version you have was no doubt bootlegged in 1978 from some live gig I did. In fact, maybe you could send me a copy.
Hello. Could you tell us a little more about "Out of the Cradle" version 1, version 2, and version 3? Were those versions vastly different from the final? What goes on during a typical Lindsey delay process? His very patient fans want to know. Thanks :-) (Eve)
Here's what it's all about. Well, I guess Lindsey should be the one to answer this. I just know as a casual observer and a fan myself that I really liked it each time it seemed almost done, but Lindsey works in his own very deliberate way and perhaps there were things that would have been revealed in concentrated listenings that weren't on the chance listening. It would be hard to remember or describe ways that the versions differed from the final release, but I'm sure Lindsey had his reasons for scrapping earlier versions.
I think part of the process was his being involved with the Mac as they reformed, toured, recorded...These factors perhaps contributed to his distance from the earlier incarnations of "Cradle".
I know Carol Harris appeared with you on the back cover of Not Shy album, What was your impression of her ? (Kris, Los Angeles, California, USA)
Carol was a very nice girl.
Hi. You had stated earlier that Stevie was in the video for "Blonde In The Blue T-bird".Was it ever actually release and is there any chance us fans will ever see it? Thanks. (Cindy, New York, USA)
Thanks for askin'. The video was shown once on network t.v. on Midnight Special, I believe, (although I may be imagining that). However, I was just at Renaissance Records today, discussing my "Best Of" project (which now is being considered a 2-cd set, yippee!) and when I told them about the videos they seemed very excited about it. So you never know.
Hi Walter, first let me say thanks for answering everyone's questions! Okay, obviously everyone that has asked questions so far is much more familiar with your albums than I am. In fact, I'll admit that I don't have any of your albums - please forgive me! It's not due to lack of interest on my part, I can tell you that - I would love to own them! Maybe I'll get a chance to get your "Best of" when it comes out! Anyway, on to my questions which will most likely make my ignorance completely obvious, buy hey, I'm not proud! Okay, I do have the "Magnet and Steel" single, so my questions are mostly about that. First, the lyrics - in the chorus, I'm fairly sure the first line is "With you I'm not shy" which I always thought was repeated as the 3rd line. Upon closer listening, it sounds like the 3rd line is actually "With you I might try" - is that correct? Also, the harmony vocals - it sounds like it is Lindsey doing the lowest part, with Stevie doing the middle and also the high harmonies - is that right? Okay, I know Lindsey contributed some guitar on the album, and I'm curious about the solo in "Magnet and Steel." I'm assuming it was you who played the solo in the song, and not Lindsey. Is that correct? When I listen to the solo, it reminds me so much of Duane Eddy's guitar playing - were you at all influenced by him, and was his type of playing the flavor you were going for (especially since the song has such an old-time rock and roll feel to it, almost doo-wop like)? One more question - that "tinkling" sound in the song - is that a glockenspiel (sp)? Whose idea was it to use that instrument (whatever it may be) in the song? It adds a really neat texture to the whole thing. Well, I hope my questions weren't TOO clueless - I imagine this is info that a lot of other people already know, but I've just been dying to find out! Oh, one more thing - do you ever run into Bob Welch since you both are now Nashvillians? Take care and thank you so very much! (Lori Aimino, Indiana, Pennsylvania, USA)
Thanks for asking. You're right: the third line is "with you I might try my secrets to reveal" The harmony stacking you got right, too! Well, almost. Lindsey low, Annie McLoone middle, and Stevie high. Yes I played the solo as a subtle Duane Eddy allusion. The tinkling is a SchoenHut toy piano, played by Steven Hague (who had gone on to produce OMD, Pet Shop Boys, Jane Wiedlen, Dusty Springfield...) It was probably Lindsey's idea to use it.
Lori, your questions weren't clueless at all. In fact, they were downright clue-ful!! No. I've not yet run into Bob here in Music City.
Hi Walter! Thanks to both you and Cyberpenguin for this unique opportunity. Before I ask my questions, I just thought you might be interested in knowing that I got tired of waiting for the reissue of Fundamental Roll, so last weekend I spent four hours ripping and editing wav files from my Fundamental Roll and Not Shy albums in order to burn my own disc. I had enough room for all but one song, so I left off Magnet and Steel since I already have a remastered version of that on the Boogie Nights soundtrack. You have the distinct honor of being the first artist whose works I have burned onto an audio disc!! After listening to the results, I was so excited that I ran outside to play the disc in my car, and then next door to tell my neighbors (who sit in their garage drinking beer and listening to the radio every weekend). My neighbor Bob couldn't get over the sound quality, and was equally impressed by the music, which he had never heard before (in fact, none of them had). We played the whole CD and everyone was really into it, and I was excited not only because I could hear FR and Not Shy anywhere now, but because my best friends were now Walter fans! Your music is still relevant and sounds brilliant over two decades after it was recorded: a remarkable achievement. Since I burned the disc, I have listened to it nonstop and it will definitely be travelling with me on vacation in two weeks! I was very sorry to hear about your studio burning down and the loss of your record collection. I have many records and cannot imagine how I would feel if I were to lose them, as most are irreplaceable. I have an extra copy of Fundamental Roll in excellent condition if you need it--just let me know!
Most of my questions have already been answered, but I would still like to know the following:
1) I read somewhere that you had done some work with a later incarnation of the Byrds. Since the Byrds are one of my favorite bands of all time, I was wondering if you could tell me the tracks on which you worked and the members who were involved with those sessions. Also, did you know Clarence White? (One of my favorite guitarists).
2) What is the deal with the "Madman" patch you're wearing on the sleeve of your shirt on the Fundamental Roll album cover? I think it's really cool!
3) Who is the girl with you in the T-bird on the back cover of Not Shy?
Well, that's all for now. I think you're a fantastic guitarist and songwriter and intend to get your new cd. Good luck in Nashville! (Stosh Pesack, Winter Haven, Florida, USA)
Wow! That's so cool. I would love to get a "burned" Fundamental Roll more than the lp at this point. Thanks for the compliments and for propagating the music for me.
My Byrds connection is oblique at best. I knew Gram Parsons and he recorded my song "Hearts on Fire". Later he sent me lyrics that I did the music to and recorded this year ("Carolina Calypso" on Doin' Time on Planet Earth - the new Brooklyn Cowboys cd...you can get that cd through here. Otherwise, I have a track on a forthcoming Gene Clark Tribute (Not Lame Records) to be released in Jan. 2000, called "The Reason Why" and I spoke to Roger McGuinn a few weeks ago at a show he did here in Nashville. (He sends his regards!) Didn't know Clarence, but I share your opinion of him.
For the record, I played bass for Spirit in the mid-eighties and played lead and sang some for Randy & the Rainbows ("Denise) earlier this decade. And I'm also in two current bands as well as my Walternative group. They are: The Brooklyn Cowboys and The Malibooz (look for our t.v. Christmas show hosted by Carmen Elektra, no lie!)
The "Madman" thing was the brand of the shirt. But I thought it would be cool. The girl on Not Shy was Carol Harris, Lindsey's then girlfriend (I was unattached at the time)
I'll trade my new cd for a cd of Fundamental Roll if you want.
I know there are many great moments you've had-- but what would you say is the best musical moment you've had throughout your career. (Sara Smith, Great Falls, Montana, USA)
Thanks for the question. It's a tough one, though here are four:
•
Sept '78 - CBS Records convention when I played for the convened and at the moment the highest ranking record for the company
•
Gram Parsons recording and playing my song "Hearts on Fire"
•
Working with and getting to know Stevie, Lindsey, Christine, Mick & John
•
Hearing my first single "Only the Lucky" on the radio for the first time while waiting at the drive thru at McDonalds. It was back-announced as "Only the Lonely" the great Roy Orbison song.
Between your three musical situations, The Walternative band, the Brooklyn Cowboys, and The Malibooz, are there any other members, besides yourself, of course, that are members of the other situations? Or are they three totally separate casts of characters? (Steve Denison, Long Beach, California, USA)
Hey Steve,
Long time, no hear. Hey, before I start, perhaps you and the other friends out there would be interested to know that the October 23 - 29 issue of TV Guide features yours truly as an answer to question 5 across in the crossword puzzle. Check it out!
The three bands are pretty much discreet, with only one overlap of members: The Walternative band (which may change its name to the Waltoids, curiously strong) consists of bass player, Ed Cain; drummer, Rick Schell (or drummer Tim Politte) and Brian Waldschlagger on guitar and vocals (by the way, Brian is a great singer/writer in his own right and was famous in Knoxville as a member of Shinola). Now Brian is also a member of the Brooklyn Cowboys. The rest of the members are Supe Granda of the Ozark Mountain Daredevils on bass; Buddy Cage of the New Riders on pedal steel; Joylynn White on vocals and acoustic guitar; Michael Webb on keyboards; and Fredro Perry on drums (Fredro has a brother you may have heard of named Richard Perry who has produced countless hit records) and on the c.d. we have guest artists: Vassar Clements on fiddle and Redd Volkaert who plays with Merle Haggard doing some great lead guitar.
The Malibooz, which by the way was my high school band, has John Zambetti on guitar and vocals; Scott Monahan, with whom I played in Spirit, on keyboards; Dave Chamberlain on bass; Janice on vocals and some keyboards; and right now we are replacing Ted Zambetti on drums.
So, as you see, there are three separate casts of characters unified by ME! Thanks, Steve! Now go out there and take on the day --- next caller.
Thanks for the information on FM and L&S as you worked so close with each of them ! My question...Lindsey has a guitar tech...Ray Lindsey......who keeps him going...can you tell us about this guy ? Thanks and good luck with the Best of....we'll look for it to put beside our NOT SHY record with you and the T-bird and Carol Ann ! She also was a singer as well as a model, right ? Well, good luck with all your projects...Shalom !!!...CAM and the family !... (Charlotte Ann, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA)
Thanks for the question. Boy, Ray Lindsey is a great guy, that's for sure. Maybe he could get on Q&A. I'm sure he'd have lots of juicy info. As far as Carol Harris being a singer, I guess the only time I ever heard her sing was on the Geraldo show about battering. Sorry about that. Anyway, thanks for the good wishes.
Shalom to you as well and g'zay g'zunt or however you spell that.
Hey Walter and the Magical Tammy! I just wanted you guys to know I haven't lost you again- I'm just bad, bad, bad. I guess the extent of my freaky-ness is now showing since I found you here. Hope you guys are well and my question is: When you come to New York? Oh and I do have one more- Warren Zevon? Did you ever do any work with him Walter? I'm going to see him at Irving Plaza on Nov. 2. Hey, that would be a good place for you to play wouldn't it? (my third question now) I have a copy of Fund. Roll for you too. I told Tammy a while back I had it and I never sent it and I still have so I will send it on. I will, I swear...Tell Nashville I says, "Hey." (Mandy W., Bronxville, New York, USA)
Mandy!
Mandy, you came and you gave without taking,
and you left us your chairs,
oh Mandy
Hey! Great to hear from you over there! I don't know when I get to come to New York, but I'll send Tammy for me. Never met Warren Zevon, but admire his work. And you're right, I would love to play Irving Plaza. See if you can get me in.
Keep up the freaky-ness. It's a dirty job, but someone's gotta.... Nashville misses you, John M. has never been the same since you left.
Love,
Walter and magical Tam
Hi Walter! It's an honor getting the opportunity to speak with you like this (special thanks to The Penguin.) I used to work with your old childhood buddy, Peter B. Knowing of my appreciation for Fleetwood Mac and your music as well, he gave me one of your demos from a few years back-"Walter Egan & Wild Ponies" (with Julianne Ausum), which had a lovely country feel. I became curious as to how your musical style had evolved over the years into your involvement with country music...who your influences were, and what your dreams are for the future. Also: I'm an artist, and I admired your woodcuts on "Out of The Cradle". Do you work mainly in woodcut, or do you work in other media as well, and would you ever consider mounting a show of your artwork? Thanks and good luck with your new album! (Gabriella, Westchester, New York, USA)
Which Peter B. is that? Is it the one from the Long Island Banana Yanks or the one from Georgetown? Or is it Peter from the DC'vers? I gotta know. Glad you liked Wild Ponies. I wonder how Julianne is doing?
My musical style first waded into country music when I had mono in 1968 and watched The Hank Williams Story, the movie starring George Hamilton. Then, when the Byrds did the Sweetheart of the Rodeo album I was very much bitten by the bug, which went by the name Gram Parsons. My early country leanings can most certainly be pinned on his career and his music. When I met Gram in '71 I asked him who should I listen to to get into country music. He advised George Jones, Merle Haggard, Buck Owens and Charlie Pride. These have pretty much been my guidelines, although I don't have much "Pride" as I used to.
My dreams for the future are: a career in music or the arts...now as far as my graphic arts go I work a lot in wood or lino cut, and have through the years, but I do work in an amalgam of painting, sculpture, collage, construction...multi-media guy. In fact I did mount a show in November '94 in Soho (New York City) with the theme "RnRIP" (rock & roll rest in peace) which depicted the martyrs of Rock & Roll. It was well received and I would love to do it again. You can see some of the RnRIP collection on the booklet for Walternative.
Thanks and keep up the art work.
Thanks for answering my questions from earlier, Walter! When you mentioned that you had played bass for Spirit in the mid-80's, it reminded me that John Locke (who I think is an ace keyboard player) had toured with Nazareth (another one of my favorite bands) in the early eighties--in fact, he's featured on their live 'Snaz album--and I was just wondering if you have ever run into him in your travels.
Also, I would love to take you up on your offer to trade my home-burned disc for your new album. Just let me know which address to send it to and consider it done. Furthermore, I am going to send you my extra copy of Fundamental Roll because I don't know too many people who still own turntables and also there is a certain poetic justice in seeing this fine work returned to its originator.
I look forward to hearing from you! (Stosh Pesack, Winter Haven, Florida, USA)
Stosh,
Where would I be without you?
Never ran into John Locke, though I have crossed paths with Mark Andes a number of times.
Lets do do the disc trade. Send it to:
P.O. Box 1562
Franklin, TN 37065
and enclose your return address and watch the mailbox.
As to your extra copy of Fundamental Roll --- I like your stylus...I mean, your style!
Hi Walter. Thanks to you and the Penguin for doing this! You said earlier that Lindsey strongly discouraged you from recording "Sisters of the Moon." I'm curious as to why. I love that song, and play it often myself. I also really like it when other people record Stevie's songs. Thanks! (Bob Goodman, Pacific Palisades, California, USA)
Not related to Mark Goodman, are you?
Did you know that I was a fill-in veejay (for Martha Quinn) on MTV in June of '84 for a whole week?
I think Lindsey's reaction to Sisters of the Moon had more to do with personal things between he & Stevie than the merits of the song musically. But I did perform the song in my live set during '77 & '78 and Stevie once told me that it was only because I did it that Fleetwood Mac eventually recorded it. So you can thank me for that one.
Also, I have located a demo I did of the song and the people I'm dealing with at Renaissance Records about the "Best of" release heard it and like it a lot. Maybe it will wind up on that set. Stay tuned.
Hi Walter!! I discovered your music when I was trying to get everything Lindsey,Christine and Stevie appeared on.I must say I added you to my favorites list the day I found Not Shy in a used vinyl shop in '86,"Magnet and Steel" is a classic!!! I'm one of many who would love to see Fundamental Roll on CD. My four questions for you are 1) What was it like working with Christine McVie on "Such a Shame"? 2) What is your favorite song off "Fundamental Roll"? 3) John Stewart mentioned in an article,what was John like? 4) Will you ever work with Lindsey again? It's been great talking to you Walter!!! Take care and Happy Holidays to you and your family. (Christa, West Haven, Connecticut, USA)
Dear Christa,
Thanks for the questions.
First, working with Christine on "Such a Shame" was a totally professional and enjoyable encounter. She in many ways was a rock of stability in that band during their crazy times. Did you know that she and I share the same birth date? Not the same year, though.
Question two: Picking a favorite song from Fundamental Roll isn't easy. I mean, "Only the Lucky" has lots of meaning for me, since it was the first song I wrote when I moved to California and it was my first single; "Won't You Say You Will" was a song I had been carrying since 1970 and reminded me of the good old days of Sageworth in D.C.; "Feel So Good" I think is unusually good, but I guess my two favorites would have to be "Yes I Guess I Am" and "Tunnel of Love". Don't ask me why.
Question three: Your question doesn't say what John Stewart mentioned in the article, but here's my John Stewart story in a nutshell.
As every child in America must know by now, I learned how to play guitar from a Kingston Trio song book, so I've always had a warm spot for those guys. So, one day I'm standing in line at the Musician's Union 47 in L.A. this guy comes up to me and says "Walter Egan! I love your record. 'Hot Summer Nights' is my favorite song. I told the president of my label (Al Khoury) that this is what I want my record to sound like...by the way I'm John Stewart from the Kingston Trio"
From there, he asked who my drummer was (Mike Huey) and could I introduce him to Lindsey? The rest, as they say, is his story...
John was a nice guy. As nice as a legend can be.
Question quatro: Will I ever work with Lindsey again? I guess you'd have to ask him that, but I would love to work with him.
Happy Holidays to you, too, and don't be a stranger now.
Your pal,
Mr. Magnet & Steel
I made a cd of FUNDAMENTAL ROLL also .5" disc. Your LPs were among the best that weren't forthcoming from the record companys. So now I finally have the best of everything I ever wanted. Unfortunately I am now an old man and will soon be dead. Imagine having these toys when I was 18 or 20! So after I get done transfering the LPs to CD, they have invented a new CD, superior to the CDs we have now.They incorporate the surround technology that DVDs have. Will I need yet more copies of Fleetwood Mac and your catalog? UGH! Obsessed fans pay dearly.
When I found copies of your records it was so great. Keeping up with Fleetwood Mac and all of the side projects in the 70s and 80s almost drove me mad. It cost my marriage in part, some of it was other things, though. Now what's left of my hair is grey. But hey...Do you know Todd Sharp? He married into my mom's side of the family. God Bless.... (Timothy Kee, North Huntington, Pennsylvania, USA)
Dear Timothy,
Sorry to hear about your aged condition, but it happens to the best of us. It sounds like your obsession is getting the best of you. But hey, what's a marriage? I hope things go well for you.
Yes, I do know Todd. In fact, our sons are best friends. So I guess that makes me kind of related to your mother's side of the family. Why don't you ever invite me to Thanksgiving dinner?
So, have a good life.
Your buddy,
Walter
Hi Walter. I have a few questions...I was wondering if there is any way to get a response from Lindsey? I have written him many letters, but never got anything back. Do you know if he replies or even reads his fan mail? I have heard someone say something about a Lindsey import called Still Going Insane. Is this just a rumour or is there really an import called that? Thanks. What is your favorite Lindsey solo album and why? If you had to describe Lindsey's personality, how would you describe it and what is he like? Does Lindsey really have a room with a tree growing through the roof or is that just a made up story? Thanks. I really appreciate your time and comments. (Jessica, Ballwin, Missouri, USA)
Dear Jessica,
If you can figure out how to get a response from Lindsey, let me know. Just kidding, but yes he is notorious for his incommunicado-ness, if that's a word. I really don't know if he reads or replies to his fan mail.
As far as Lindsey still going insane, I can't confirm or deny that rumour. My favorite Lindsey solo album is "Out of the Cradle", although I do have a soft spot for the video "Trouble" because I appear in it.
Lindsey has been a good friend to me and I've always found him to be pleasant and friendly. And yes, he really does have a room with a tree going through the roof. In fact, that room used to have artificial rain on the glass roof at the flick of a switch.
Did you know my middle name is Lindsay?
Yours,
Walter Lindsay Egan
Hi Walter, Thanks for taking time out to do this for us. One question, Is Lindsey married ??? Thanks. (Ellie, Los Angeles, California, USA)
I would have answered your question sooner, but I was down at the cee-ment pond with Jethro.
Okay, sorry about that, I'm getting a little punchy with all these questions.
And now to yours: Is it true Lindsey is married? Can't be sure about that, but last I heard he is a father. Sorry, but I do better with questions about myself. Thanks, though!
How did you're relationship begin with Stevie and how did Lindsey feel about that. Is Stevie really as mystical as she seems? What is the fondest memory you have of Stevie? Did Stevie know that "Magnet and Steel" was written about her? And do you think Stevie and Lindsey will ever get back together? (Melissa, Hemet, California, USA)
I was attracted to Stevie and I made the move. It went as far as it went, and I don't know how Lindsey feels about that. This was 23 years ago.
I'm not sure if Stevie is as "mystical" as she seems, but she certainly is mystifying. My fondest memory of her? Gosh, there are just so many, really. I guess I'd have to say just being able to hang around with her in the early days playing music and laughing and laughing and laughing and laughing and...
Yeah, Stevie knew that the song was about her, but she might have forgotten by now.
I really don't know whether Stevie and Lindsey will ever get back together, but I tend to doubt it. It would be nice if they did a "Buckingham Nicks II" wouldn't it?
Thanks, Melissa
When you are a songwriter and you want to have your songs done by someone what is the best way to approach a record label, who do you see etc. I do not have the voice to do the songs, but they are good songs, but only if someone else performs them. Also i have the melody and basic music, do i need to have this more completed? Thanks. (Kim Wilson, Newnan, Georgia, USA)
If you love writing songs, I encourage you to keep writing them every day. As far as getting them done by someone else you need to either know the artist personally or have an in with their producer or have a song plugger working for you, often this is the job of a publishing company. So, I guess you need to go somewhere you can hang out with the artists and have the copy of your song to give to them, or start approaching publishing companies with your material. I see you're in Georgia. I guess your best bet would be Nashville. There sure are plenty of publishers here. If you believe in yourself, it just takes perserverance and one lucky break. Good luck!
Do you have memories of anything really striking or cool about Lindsey and Stevie's relationship? I always wonder how they were together and how they worked with each other. I like your music too. (Sonia, New York City, USA)
When Stevie and Lindsey's relationship was working well, they seemed to compensate for each others' weaknesses and add to each others' strengths. There's no way I can generalize an answer as to how they were together and how they worked with each other. Sorry. Glad to hear you like my music, too.
Hey Walter! Thanks for doing this... I was wondering, Do you feel your bringing together Stevie, Lindsey, Christine, and even Mick together during those shaky late 1970's contributed in any way to helping their closeness?? in other words, do you think it helped them to get along during a very "emotionally drained" period??? (Brian Larsen, Laurel, Maryland, USA)
There's no way I could really know whether I was a positive influence in keeping those wacky mac-ers together during those shaky late '70s and it would be immodest of me to speculate further as to my influence on the history of their band. But I do think that I offered Stevie & Lindsey an outlet for their talent that was at first not available to them in the band.
Hi Walter! I'm currently one of those struggling young musicians here in Nashville. I think your music is great! I grew up listening to you cause your music was always a family favorite! My question to you ~ what kind of advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in the music business? What would be the best way to get your music and demos heard? Sorry, that was two questions. Anyway, thanks for answering! (Dave Irwin, Brentwood, Tennessee, USA)
P.S. I don't know if you remember me, but I was the guy working in the music department at the Barnes and Noble here in Franklin who was a little bit over-enthusiastic about getting your autograph last time you came in the store!
Hey Dave!
How's things in Cool Springs?
I'm pleased by your enthusiasm. I didn't know you were one of us, that is, the struggling artist community. Welcome, brother.
My best advice for someone starting out in the music business: Go back to school, get a degree in computers, we've got too many songwriters already.
Well, I can see by the fact that you're still reading this that you won't give up. Good. That's the first lesson. Love your music and don't be swayed by what anyone else says. Perserverance is the key, but you've gotta love just doing it by yourself in your room... by yourself in a club... and you need a thick skin in this business so you'd better be your own best fan.
As far as getting your music and demos heard. See the answer above for Kim in Georgia.
See ya around town!
Howdy!!...I wish I could say I was a big fan...but I know very little if anything about your work...but considering the company you kept with Stevie and Linds...well...I think your alright Mister..haa ha..Umm anyway...just wanted to say I enjoyed your comment about "Welcome to Nasvhille,now go home! Seems we have a problem with people visiting...then deciding to stay=) East Tennessee is actually much more beautiful than Middle and West Tennessee..but then again..Im am a bit biased...Ok Im rambling...One question..is there anything you would like to share about your experience with Stevie all around as a musician..friend...ect. You know what was she like..would you work with her again..her talent...Did she really side swipe some cars?...those kinds of things...I also realize your wife is typing for you...Much thanks to her...and also all these questions about Stevie=) (LauraTN, Morristown, Tennessee, USA)
Hey Laura,
That's okay, I know nothing of your work so we're kind of even.
As far as Stevie goes; of course, I'd happily work with Stevie again. I have the highest regard for her talent and accomplishments. The Stevie I knew in '76 was a bit different than today's model. She was a lot more insecure and vulnerable. I'll share this just as an illustration.
When I first visited her at her apartment on Olympic Blvd. in L.A. I had just been getting my first exposure to her singing and writing from the Buckingham-Nicks and the White f/m album. I told her I thought she was a great, "amazing" talent. She seemed genuinely pleased and embarassed by my adulation, replying "do you really think so?".
She also commented more than once about how much I reminded her of Lindsey in my playing and my demeanor.
Yes, she did side-swipe cars that night when she did me a huge favor by taking all the stupid time out that it takes to make a video.
1) YAY!! Ok, here's MY 'request' list of tunes for the "Best of"...I'm doing this from my desk at work without the aid of having your albums in front of me (or refering to the Penguin's discography) So there'll no doubt be a "revised list" on its way in a couple of days... ;-)
Only The Lucky
I'd Rather Have Fun
Tunnel Of Love
When I Get My Wheels
Sweet South Breeze
Magnet & Steel (duh!)
The Blonde In The Blue T-Bird
Star In The Dust
Hot Summer Nights (duh!)
Sisters Of The Moon
I Can't Wait
Love At Last
Bad News T.F.
Bad Attitude
Y Me? (The Last Stroll)
Tuesday Weld
Fool Moon Fire
Animal Lover
Tammy Ann (of COURSE!!)
And a Malibooz track or two, like "Honeydew (we cantaloupe)", "Surfer Ghost" or so.
Hmmmmm, maybe if there are enough votes for enough tunes, they might swing for a DOUBLE CD?? (and then EVENTUALLY, "the entire catalogue"!!)
2) Did you ever record any of your shows for a possible live album??
3) AWWW...You beat me to it, I was going to mention Annie's "Fast Annie" album! She does a VERY nice version of Christine McVie's "Spare Me A Little" and Derek & The Dominoes' "Keep On Growing"...which after hearing again made me do alot of comparisons between what Annie did back then, and Sheryl Crow's sound now. Annie was, in some ways, "ahead of her time". (ok, now keep up with the stream of consciousness here! HAHAHA!) Do you know if Annie is working on, or have plans to do another album? Seems like with what she did on the "Fast Annie" album, with you & the Professional Band, and with the current grand popularity of Sheryl Crow and all the "Lillith Girls", she'd do really well! There seems to be alot of "Annie McLoone" influence in Sheryl's music...TOO much for "coincidence" (cue Twilight Zone theme here)
Thanks again for taking the time to put up with us. "Talk" to ya again soon. If Marty lets me, that is! :-) (Steve Denison, Long Beach, California)
Yo! Steve!
Thanks for the contribution and you must be prescient about this thing, because almost all of the songs you suggested is already on the table, including the Malibooz and my two non-lp B-sides "Johnny Z Is A Real Cool Guy" ("Baby Let's Run Away") and "Joyce" B-side of "Fool Moon Fire".
During this process of assembling tracks for the "Best Of" you and all my fans will be interested to know I did happen upon a studio version which I had forgotten of "Sisters of the Moon" and they like it at Renaissance, so...
There are a few live shows extant somewhere from Dallas and Cleveland, just to name two that I remember, and we're looking into those as well as the album that I started in 1984 and never quite finished. This was actually quite a good record and it features Christine and Lindsey, as well as Jackson Browne, and my old friend Chris Darrow plahing and singing on it. We affectionately refer to it around here (almost palindromically) as the "Goddam Maddog album" named for the studio, Mad Dog, where I recorded it in Venice, CA
I agree with you about Annie McLoone's influence on modern female singers. For the record, I think she edges out Cheryl, but of course I'm kind of biased.
So, yeah, now they are talking about a double-cd. I guess if I keep on pushin' maybe they'll just give in and release all the lp's themselves.
Keep on rockin'
In the mid-80's, I recall reading an article that stated you had appeared on a game show. IS THIS TRUE? If so, what was the show called, and did you win anything?! Also, is there any way for the public to get your music videos on VHS??? I've never seen them, and I'm probably not the only one interested! Thanks. (Elonna, Ithaca, New York, USA)
Thanks for the query Elonna,
Yes it is true. I put my Georgetown University liberal arts degree to use (I guess) on not one, but two gameshows: the first was a short-lived one hosted by Art James called "Catch Phrase". I almost "ran the table" as they say. If I had made it one more day I'd have gotten the grand prize. This was in 1985.
My second appearance (did you know that you're only allowed to appear on 3 game shows in your lifetime? It's true!) was with Chuck Woolery and his wonderful watch on a show called "Scrabble". I had some success on this one...not as much. I've always aspired to be on "Jeopardy" and now with "Rock & Roll Jeopardy" who knows...
(by the way, did you know that I am the answer to five across in the Oct. 23 - 29 T.V. Guide crossword puzzle? But don't tell anyone I gave you the answer)
My game show period was a time when I was piecing together a career in show biz in many ways. For example, I was an extra in the film "Eight Million Ways to Die" with Jeff Bridges and Roseanna Arquette. I played a photographer in a CBS Movie of the Week "A Different Affair" with Anne Archer and Tony Roberts. I was also a maitre'd in an episode of "The Trials of Rosie O'Neil" starring Sharon Gless.
I won some money and lots of household gadgets and way overpriced watches and things (contestants pay the tax, of course) and we're still eating Rice A Roni around here.
I'm working on getting the videos released in conjunction with my pending release on Renaissance Records. Stay tuned after a message from these sponsors.
Hey Walter, I got yet another question. Some time ago someone gave me a tape with Stevie Nicks songs done by other artists. Your "Sisters Of The Moon" was on there. I always assumed that it was an album cut. But having read all these questions I see that it wasn't even released. The question of bootlegs has caused some very hot discussions among Stevie Nicks fans. My question for you is, how do you feel about bootlegs? Also, I have gotten several "Anthology" titles put together by the people at Renaissance Records and they do a fantastic job with these lost treasures!!! Thanks again! (Allen Chapman, Stafford Springs, Connecticut, USA)
Dear Allen,
Glad to hear Renaissance Records does a good job. As far as bootlegs go, I am of two minds: The fan in me loves them and the artist in me doesn't. I would be interested to get a copy of the tape you referred to with "Sisters of the" on it. I wonder how they got it? Is it live? If you can, dub one to me and send it to me if you could.
Thanks,
Walter
How many Malibooz albums are there? I spent a couple of years in the 80s literally trying to find the first one. I never did.Is it possible to find them anywhere now? Are they on CD? Also, I would like to know what you really like listening to at the moment.Is there an artist that you can't get enough of? Thanks. (Timothy Kee, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, USA)
Timothy,
There are three Malibooz albums:
1st one came out in '81 on Rhino Records called "Malibooz Rule" 2nd one came out in '92 on Iloki Records called "Malibu Kind of Christmas, Malibooz Yule" and the 3rd one is only available on the Malibooz website, called "Living Water". In fact, all three are available on the website and are on cd. Check it out: www.malibooz.com
Artists I can't get enough of: hmmmmmm, well I'm not sure if "getting enough" of them is the question, but I'm very fond of "Mock Tudor" by Richard Thompson and in fact most of his stuff, which I've collected from various albums; can't go wrong listening to the first 3 or 4 Dylan albums; of the new stuff out I like Garbage a lot and of course the Brittany Spears videos, but I guess what I've been listening to most is the Rhino compilation "Loud, Fast and Out of Control" which is the hard-edge 50's stuff. Oh yeah, and I've also been listening to a lot of old Fairport Convention and Gene Pitney.
Thanks for the questions, Tim.
Hi- I have a question about a previous answer someone asked about magnet and steel and you said: "the third line is "with you I might try my secrets to reveal" The harmony stacking you got right, too! Well, almost. Lindsey low, Annie McLoone middle, and Stevie high". I have the cd and it doesn't list Lindsey as singing on Magnet & Steel (it says John something I think?)...don't have it in front of me right now- anyway- which is correct?? I'm also the person who mentioned having Sisters recording off the radio earlier- the reason I assumed it was taped from the radio was because you come on in the beginning and introduce yourself and the radio station... I've also just recently acquired all your albums and am going to send them away to be converted to cd and to get any lp hiss out of them ... thanks for the great music. (Laura, Richmond, Virginia, USA)
Hello Laura,
Long time no read.
This new question of yours has of course thrown me into a tizzy, so I consulted a couple of people who were there also, that is Tom Moncrieff and Annie McLoone, and while you're right, the cd does list John Selk as the singer, I'm sure that it's Lindsey, Annie's sure that it's Lindsey, and Tom is sure that it's Lindsey. I went back and listened to the solo section where each voice is on its own and I swear it's Lindsey. So, whatever. What station do I say that it is on the recording of "Sisters of the Moon"? Anyway, I'm glad you got my records and thanks for your appreciation.
Your pal in Tennessee,
Walter
Is Fleetwood Mac going to get back together again and with whom? The same as the 1997 reunion tour or different? (Becky Thompson, Oshkosh, Wisconscin, USA
Dear Becky,
I don't know.
Love,
You know...I might have known at one point what Lindsey's middle name is, but right now I really can't remember. Thanks for asking, though.
Hello again, Walter! I had another question. When you wrote "Magnet and Steel", did it have an influence over any other songs??? I've heard that it did, and I would like for you to clear this up for me. Also, I would like to know if you had the "Kingston Trio" as a major influence as a teen. I have heard that you did. Finally, I would like to know if your relationship with Stevie was ever really strong... Thanks a lot! (Brian Larsen, Laurel, Maryland, USA)
Well Bri
Other than "Fooled Around and Fell in Love" I'm not sure what effect "Magnet" had on the music industry as a whole; however, allow me to digress without being at all didactic or facetious in any way:
Of course, by now we all know of the kinship between "Hot Summer Nights" and John Stewart's "Gold", but there's more! How about "Maybe Maybe" and Dwight Yoakam's "Fast As You" and from the same album "Stay All Night" and Lionel Richie's "All Night Long". Mere coincidence? I think not!
Not to mention my video for "Fool Moon Fire" which was fleshed out at ten times the budget by Mr. Michael "Jacko" Jackson and while I'm at it --- of course there's "Full Moon Fever" by that guy whose label I was on. And speaking of titles I think I had "Tunnel of Love" first, Mr. Bossman! Oh, yeah and what about Matthew Sweet's "Girlfriend"
HELLO!
disregarding "finally" finding this title I guess he might have listened to "Where's the Party" once or twice and of course What about this Tuesday Weld on the cover? We all know who had that song first.
(Is everyone enjoying this little sour grapes session I'm getting into? I hope so.)
At any rate, it's plain to see the music business would be a much different place if it hadn't been for ...
Now, onto the rest, Brian...Not only were the Kingston Trio an influence on me as a teen, but the way I learned to play guitar was by reading the chords from their songbook. So there you go.
Finally, I guess the relationship was strong enough to write that song. Okay?
Have a bitchin' summer and stay cool.
Ok...so how much damage did she do to the cars she side-swipped?!!?...It's actually very funny! Oh and the only "work" that I have ever done is here on The Penguin in the photo gallery...a couple of the pictures are actually published. Anyway...knowing Stevie and Lindsey...what are their strongest and weakest points? Did you know Robin Anderson as well? (LauraTN, Morristown, Tennessee, USA)
Yeah, a little damage was done to the side-swiped cars.
Good luck on getting more work.
I knew Robin Anderson. She was a very sweet person. As far as the Stevie & Lindsey question goes, I'd rather not.
Hi! My question is regarding Stevie's writing and performing. What do you think it is about Stevie that has touched so many people who continue to support her after all these years? And, what do you like most about Stevie's writing and perfomances? Lastly, what is it like to be able to hear her wonderful voice all day? Thanks, Jason! (Jason, Indianola, MS, USA)
The thing about Stevie is she has an ability to tap into her deepest feelings in her writing and I think this is what touches people. And, of course, I guess that's what I like about her writing and performance too.
You could probably just listen to her all day and understand what it's like to just listen to her all day.
Does anyone else think these questions are getting a bit silly? I know I do.
But thanks anyway, Jason.
Yours in Mac,
Hello Walter..."Mr. Magnet & Steel"...I think it's so great to get to talk to you again!!!Thanks so much for answering my first batch of questions.I wasn't very clear on my John Stewart question,I guess I was just so excited about getting to talk to you,I just lost my train of thought for a moment!!The John Stewart article was something I'd heard or read several years back,John mentioned running into you,told you he loved your Not Shy album and he asked you what it was like working with Lindsey...I just wanted to know what your impression of John was and you answered that for me,thanks! Won't You Say You Will is my favorite from Fundamental Roll,I hope it's included on your best of CD. What musicians do you listen to and is their any musician(s) that you would like to work with in the future? Bob Welch redid Sentimental Lady,would you ever redo one of your songs? If so,which one and why? I've been reading a bit on this Q&A that you've done a Stevie song, would you ever cover a Lindsey song and if so which one? How did you come up the titles for your albums? Did you go to any of the Mac reunion concerts in '97 ? There was a movie a few years back that featured Matthew Sweet's version of Magnet and Steel on the ending credits before the Sabrina soundtrack,and what I also remembered too,is that your version was in the beginning of the movie,do you remember this movie? As you can tell I'm on a roll but I'll make these my last two questions of the moment,Who or what was Unloved written about? You were born in New York,did you ever come to Connecticut to visit or did you ever tour here with your band? It has been a pleasure talking to you, Walter!!!! Take Care and Thanks again for everything!!!! Your Fan in Ct. Christa........ :) (Christa, Westhaven, Connecticut, USA)
Well, I've always hankered to work with Paul McCartney, Brian Wilson (although I'm not that sure of that anymore) and of course Brittany Spears. Hey is there anyone out there who knows her?
I guess I would re-do my songs if I needed to, or whatever, but since "Magnet & Steel" I have about 800 songs so I have a bit of catching up to do. Actually, I did re-record "M&S" and "Fool Moon Fire" about 2 or 3 years ago for some company in New Jersey. They flew me to Nashville, this was before I had moved here, and had me sing over what essentially were karaoke tracks or something. The good part was that the guitar player on the session was gracious enough to let me play my lead parts, so at least that was alright. I've never been able to get a copy of this. Apparently it was a compilation album and I did mine sandwiched between (if you'll excuse the image) Donna Fargo and Brewer & Shipley. They work fast here in Nashville.
So if anyone stumbles across a copy of this master work I would appreciate their sending it to me.
Yeah, here's another fact I forgot to mention as far as covering Stevie's songs --- I actually recorded one more than "Sisters", a song called "The Dealer" don't ask me where the master of this is...might have burned up in the ol' shed fire of '98.
There is one song of Lindsey's that I always thought would be good to cover from a very early demo they did called "Up on the Road" but alas my casette of that song has disappeared or went up in smoke.
The title of "Fundamental Roll" came from a variation on basic rock. It also implied my first time out, had the word fun, the word mental, and of course the word dame (there is nothing like a) in it, so it seemed like a good idea.
"Not Shy"...what can I say?
"Hi-Fi" ...what can I say? Another title for the ages.
However, "The Last Stroll" was meant to allude back to the first lp and also expressed the fact that I wanted to get off of Columbia Records as opposed to get off on Columbia Records. And, of course, we all know that "M&S" (everybody now!) was a stroll.
"Wild Exhibitions" while playing on my initials intimated the artistic part of me which was evidenced by my drawings on the liner and also...well, originally I wanted it to be a triple fold-out album cover of a raincoat that you could open, but that idea was just a "flash" in the pan.
"Walternative" Well, you figure it out.
Now, it was 2 days after my family moved to Nashville that my very lovely wife, Brittan, I mean, TAMMY, and I went to the Mac's show here. As we walked in they were just beginning "The Chain" and it sent goosebumps down our respective spines. It was great! But I'm sure you know that already. Thanks to Ray Lindsay, we were able to breach the incredible security surrounding the group. We waited in a reception area with the other lucky Nashvillians and as each member of the group proceeded down the line shaking hands, exchanging pleasantries, in turn I greeted each of them. Funniest, of course, was when Stevie came up giving a perfunctory smile and "so nice to see you" I said "Stevie, hey, who loves ya babe!" she did a double/triple take and screamed as only she can "WALTER!". It was a poot, I mean a hoot!
Oh, Christa! Yes I do remember that movie. It was called "Overnight Delivery" but do you remember a few years before that, a movie with Matthew Broderick called "The Night We Never Met"? Well, if you rent that, you'll be treated to "M&S" as re-recorded by the immortal Jeffrey Gaines.
"Unloved" ?... hmmmm let me think
I'm sure it was written about being rejected by somebody or other, but mainly it was written as a clever exercise in negativity with an eye toward a 7-up commercial, the un-cola, remember?
As to the Connecticut question: Of course, I've been there many times and have many relatives scattered about the "nutmeg state". As to playing there, before I became famous, I used to play there quite a bit with my band Sageworth at a place called the Shabu Inn...not sure where that was, but I know it was in CT. I think I might have played Hartford on one of my tours as me.
It's been a pleasure for me too, Christa, but we can't go on meeting like this.
Take care
Mr. Egan, thank you for your time. I have a couple of questions for you:
1. You mentioned that Magnet & Steel was covered by many artists. Who else covered the song? I have only heard Matthew Sweet's version with Lindsey on guitar. I love it. I also wonder if you have any input in remaking of this song by Mr. Sweet?
2. You also mentioned that you were hoping that Mac would choose you to replace Lindsey in 1987. I certainly think you're far better as a writer and singer than the two LA cowboys selected by the Mac. I wonder if you had expressed your interest in the vacant position to the Mac members in 1987?
3. How different is Lindsey's approach in the studio compared to other producers that you have worked with?
4. Did you have a chance to listen to some of tracks on Lindsey's new CD? If so, would you please give us a preview of the new album? (Drew, Westbury, NY, USA)
Dear Drew,
As far as I know "Magnet & Steel" has been covered by Jeffrey Gaines, Matthew Sweet, and a reggae guy named Dean Frasier (this is available on Shanachie Records 48003 "Greensleevesl sampler 2") My only input to Mr. Sweet's version was to send a copy of the lyrics to him.
As to question 2, I think I let them know I was available. Despite losing out to Rick and Billy, I hold them in the highest esteem.
and question 3, I've only worked with a couple of other producers and Lindsey's approach is probably the most inspiring.
question 4, Nope, haven't heard Lindsey's new cd yet. Looking forward to it, though.
Thanks, Drew
Hi Walter-- I have been a huge fan since your first LP, and have followed your career ever since (even when it was hard to find you). I really love your new "Walternative" CD, Its great. I have 2 questions, first can you tell us a little bit about some of the songs especially "The Truth" with Joy Lynn White. She is great as always. And second I want to know how you would feel about a web page devoted solely to you and your records...I have been toying around with the idea. Also if you need any of your LP's burned to CD I have done it for all 5 and would be happy to send copies along. Thanks for all the years of great music...I don't know how I would have gotten through my teens in the late 70s without your LPs in the cassette player of my car on Friday nites cruising all nite!! (Keith Mueller, Naugatuck, Connecticut, USA)
Dear Keith,
Thanks a lot! It's people like you who make it all worthwhile.
Joy Lynn was one of the first people I met when I came to Nashville. In many ways she reminds me of Annie Mcloone with her personality and of course they are both great singers in their own right.
The first song I wrote with Joy Lynn was a little ditty called "The Big Breakup" which had to do with a certain guitar player she had been seeing and the line about the truth kind of came out of that. After spending about 5 hours on the first song, "The Truth" was written very quickly - about an hour. It's obviously an homage to the great Otis Redding, as well as being, pardon my french, domage to the guitarist. I'm glad you like it. I think she is a misunderstood and neglected artist.
I would love to talk to you about the web page. I think it's a good idea and also the idea of the lps on cd sounds great, too! I'll be in touch.
Before closing, since I'm feeling so shameless tonight, I thought I'd throw in some plugs: If you're anywhere near Middle Tennessee this week I'll be playing on Monday backing up Brian Waldschlagger at Daniel Tashen's "12 at 12th" at 12th & Porter; Tuesday I'll be doing 2 songs at Billy Block's Western Beat Revival at the Exit Inn. You should get there by seven. I'll probably be on around 7:30. But best of all, on Wednesday at 8:30 at the same Exit Inn I'll be doing a full hour with my Walternative band, featuring songs from the past and songs from the present.
Don't forget this week's t.v. guide crossword puzzle and the upcoming issue of Mojo (a great english rock magazine) which will feature an article on Walternative. So, keep on rockin'
Yours,
Since it seems that my pesky (when it comes to pelting you with questions) new husband has just plain pooped himself out, I thought I'd step up and pinch-hit for him: Said husband recently received (from someone who evidently loves him VERY much) a custom-made Rick Turner 1-C Jr., and the difference in tone compared to his other guitars is phenomenal. My questions are: Is there one model that you find yourself returning to, time after time? Were any special instruments or equipment destroyed in The Inferno? Since I've learned from Steve that musicians trade, sell and otherwise move fairly effortlessly from one instrument to another, has there been one guitar that you no longer own that you kick youself for getting rid of? (Although I suppose if EC can say good-bye to Blackie, anything's possible...).
I've become familiar with ALL (believe me when I say "ALL") of your music over the past weeks and am so glad that Steve introduced me to it...along with a running commentary and historical perspective/timeline. Quite a little journey he took me on...and now I want ALL of your albums on cd...and a convertible!
Thanks for your patience and for your unfailing good humor in the face of some silliness. (Susan Denison, Orange, California, USA)
Dear Susan,
I've always preferred the strat. I have one that's a '62 with a '64 neck, so I guess that would be the one. Luckily, my instruments were in the house during the fire so were spared, but I did lose an amplifier.
As far as an axe that I'm sorry I don't still have, yeah there are a few. I had an SG with the original body style where the neck and the body were the same width, which I had had banjo inlay applied to that I miss now and then. Of course I traded that for a VW bus back in 1970, and then turned around and traded the bus for a Rickenbacker 12-string. I guess I also miss my original '64 strat which I bought new.
Yeah, I'd like a convertible too.
Take care and take care of your new husband
Walter
Hi Walter--
To refresh your memory and help out Christa a little....You appeared in Connecticut several times. Right around the time of the release of "Not Shy" at the Shaboo Inn in Wilimantic. You might remember that show...it was a small crowd but there was 1 table right up front with about 6 very loud college kids...hate to admit that was me and my friends...you even dedicated "Magnet and Steel" to my old friend Cathy...what a hoot I'll never forget her face!!! she was mad for you back then. The second time I know of was later the same year you opened the show for Heart at the New Haven Coliseum..another excellent performance I might add.
I do have a question...I want to know how hard it was recording your new CD "Walternative" considering you wrote, produced, and played all the instruments? I love all the songs, "The Truth" I already asked about. How about a little background info on the tracks: "Vergin' on Tears" (love the background vocals by Brian Waldschlager) and "Waitin' On Fred" (thats kind of a wacky one!). Thanks a lot Walter. (Keith Mueller, Naugatuck, Connecticut, USA)
Dear Keith,
Thanks for remembering about the Shabu and the other CT gigs.
Actually, the recording process for Walternative was more like one of those baseball fantasy camps and I enjoyed just about every minute of it. The situation of recording it was helped greatly by my old buddy, Bobby Thompson who was on my road crew back in '78 and now has a place called Soundcheck here in Nashville. Additionally, the studio which is ensconced in his facility is partly owned by Felix Cavaliere. But it was pretty much free of stress because I could do whatever I wanted and was able to experiment trying new things, discarding others. The hardest part was cutting down the 30-some songs to the 15 that made the cd.
"Vergin' on Tears" was written when we lived in Burbank a few years ago and was mostly about dealing with the frustration of wanting to do something and not being able to. I'll tell Brian that you dug his vocals.
"Waitin' for Fred" well, that's about Fred Perry, my partner in the Brooklyn Cowboys and it was written while I was waiting for him one day.
Thanks for the interest.
Hi... Im sure you're getting sick of hearing this, but I love what I've heard of your music... Ok Ok so I've only heard two songs ("Magnet and Steel" and "Blonde in the Blue T Bird")... but I love them!
Ok enough of that stuff, now to my question. You've spoken about your new album (which I will have to get from you as soon as I get my paycheck) and about the apparent possibility for a Best Of collection. Do you plan to write and record any new songs for this compilation? (Victoria Ogawa, Vacaville, California, USA)
Dear Victoria,
Thanks for the compliments! I have no plans to write any new songs for the compilation; however I do have approximately 20 songs that didn't make "Walternative" plus an album that was never completed in 1985 as well as some other b-sides, etc. that could show up on the "Best of" package.
Thanks for the interest.
Ok, this seems to be my last opportunity since Marty's shutting this Q&A thing with you down tomorrow. I don't have access to a computer over the weekend, so I gave you a break for a couple of days! HAHAHA!!
Going for some technical info now. (and maybe a simple product review from you, for good measure)
Of all the times I've seen you in concert and seeing photos of you live, you're always playing either a Strat (98%) or a Tele (2%). Being that you've worked with Lindsey, have you played that Turner Model -1 of his? If so, what are/were your thoughts of it. Have you ever wanted to get one yourself?
What are you currently using for amplification & effects? (Do I sound like a Guitar Player Magazine interviewer, yet?) (if not, then) How about brand of strings & what gauge?
Have you used "Walternate" tunings? (You DO drop the low "E" to "D" on Hot Summer Nights, right?)
Thanks again for answering our sometimes intelligent, sometimes inane, often repetetive, questions! Best of luck and all the success in the world and hope to see you if/when you get to SoCal on tour. Not to mention, anxious to hear ALL your new material (and catch up on the ones that I've missed!)
And remember, if it ever gets down to where you & I are the only guitar players left alive, gimme a call. (or send me an e-mail) (Steve Denison, Long Beach, California, USA)
Hi Ho Steverino!
As I told your very lovely wife not too long ago, I really do favor the strat and occasionally the tele and of course we all know that I played the solo for "M&S" on a nice fat old black Les Paul that I owned for awhile, but you know, I love the strat...what can I tell you.
Yeah, I tried Lindsey's Turner and it's a beautiful axe, but I keep coming back to the strat.
I have a Korg tone board that I use. It has fifty pre-sets and sixteen can be used at any one time. So that works pretty well. I recently bought one of these little Danelectro nifty-fifty's and I love the tone on that and it's really fun to play with and easy to carry around. I also have a Peavey Delta Blues with one fifteen inch speaker. When I tried it out I thought it was really cool, but on the job I've been less than satisfied with it. My favorite amp of all time is the Fender Super Reverb or Concert with four tens. I use GHS boomers .010 and have for 20 years.
As far as the tunings go, I've fooled around with them a little bit but none have made it to the recordings. And the dropped low E on "HSN" was Lindsey's lead. When I play it live I use standard tuning.
Look forward to seeing you when on tour out in So Cal...whenever that will be and would love to jam down at the Queen Mary.
See ya later.
Hi Walter!
Thanks so much for sharing your insights on your work and your experiences with Fleetwood Mac. It's been a wonderful read and really interesting. I have a bunch of questions:
1. When you were recording the albums many of us are familiar with (and love) -- Not Shy, Hi Fi, Fundamental Roll etc., there seemed to be a lot more guest/session work by big name artists like Fleetwood Mac than we see now with today's dominating pop artists -- what do you make of that, and how much of that would you attribute to the changes in the music industry (and what are your thoughts on how the music industry has changed in the last 20+ years)?
2. We've all enjoyed the Fleetwood Mac session work on your albums -- what session work of yours do you most enjoy and how do you like doing session work?
3. This is a bit silly, but, on reading your stories about working with Stevie and Lindsey, I have to ask. Did you then or do you now think, you know, with the relationship with Stevie and writing about her while Lindsey was also there, that you were sucked into the whole drama that seems to follow Fleetwood Mac everywhere (oh no! I'm in the FM Zone!)?
4. What did you think of punk and new wave music in the early 80s? Did you find it inspiring (as Lindsey presumably did with Tusk) or were you not too impressed?
Thanks so much for taking the time to do this, and best of luck in the future. I can't wait to buy and hear Walternative! (Anusha, New York, New York, USA)
Anusha, Hi
You ask questions that are not easy to answer.
I'm not sure if the business is any different now as far as name artists guesting with other artists, see Santana and that guy from Matchbox 20. But I think the industry has certainly changed in the fact that something like five companies have control now. I think this is good for the indie part of the industry and it's there that I think the most exciting music is being made.
I like doing session work, but there's a long, long line in Nashville. As far as session work on my own that I enjoy, I did an album that Don Henley produced back in 1980 or something where I got to play with Don Felder. The name of the artist was Glena or Glenda Somethingorother.
As far as the "FM Zone" goes, I think I pretty much stayed on the periphery of it, although I did enjoy a few of the parties.
I enjoyed a lot of the new wave and punk, feeling a certain kinship with it. Believe it or not, when I heard the Ramones they reminded me of the early Malibooz, and to get myself ready to go on stage I would play "Never Mind the Bollocks" Sex Pistols. This is still one of my favorite albums.
Thank you Anusha,
Make sure to move your car --- alternate side of the street parking, you know.
I have read many times that Stevie has a really good sense of humor. I was wondering if this was true and what made her so funny. Do you have a favorite Stevie song? How long did you two date? Who broke it off and was Stevie touched by the fact you wrote Magnet and Steel about her and do you remember her reaction when she found out it was about her. And finally what was the funniest or most special moment you had with Stevie? Thanks for putting up with my personal questions. (Melissa, Hemet, California, USA)
Dear Melissa,
I guess Stevie did have a good sense of humor in a general way, but in my dealing with her it was her sense of humanity more than humor that struck me. I'm not sure what made her so funny. My favorite song of hers of all time is "Silver Spring", the original version. In fact, when that came out as the flip side of "Go Your Own Way" on the 12" disc I made a tape with nothing but "Silver Spring" on it, so I could just listen to that.
I'm not sure if you could actually say Stevie and I "dated". We were close for about 3 weeks and I always felt like it was of her just allowing me to be with her than a date. I guess you'd have to say Stevie broke it off and she seemed very pleased when I told her that "M&S" was about her.
The most special moment I had with Stevie, I guess was doing the video for "Blonde in the new T-Bird".
Hi Walt:
Just wanted to know how you feel about having a wife that's just about the greatest damned thing to ever hit Mother Earth? And what about those kids? One a computer expert--and the other a beautiful little blond-haired, blue-eyed girl, who happens to give hugs to cry for. Your whole family is very special to me--even you--because you've share all of them with us. We love you guys.
Your friend (of Bill),
Tammy (and Sally and Katie and Haley) (Tammy Bennett, Franklin, Tennessee, USA)
Hi Tammy,
Thanks for the question.
No, seriously, I do. Thanks for the question.
Hang in there, Tam!
Howdy, Walter! I don't have a question. I just wanted to thank you so much for answering our questions the past two weeks. It's been informative and interesting. Take it easy and keep on rockin'! Your Tennessee friend, Ann :-) (Ann, Gordonsville, Tennessee, USA)
Dear Ann,
Thanks for the good wishes. Glad you enjoyed it. YOU take it easy and hope to see you at a gig some time in Tennessee
Hi Walter, One more question from me: THE LAST STROLL... Is this album available anywhere? Thank you once again. (Timothy Kee, North Huntington, Pennsylvania, USA)
Hey Tim!
Yes, Timothy, by the way your cd is on its way. "The Last Stroll" is available through the Bear Family in Germany on a cd that features "HiFi" as well. I was able to find it through Goldmine.
You mentioned recording a demo of "The Dealer"--well, there are several bootleg versions of Stevie singing this song; it's also referred to as "Mistress of My Faith" and "Mistress of My Fate." Do you recall Stevie herself ever calling this song anything but "The Dealer?" (Strange question I know but there has been a lot of heated discussion among Stevie fans to know what the true title of this song is.) Thanks! (Maria, New Mexico, USA)
Maria,
I'd be interested to hear Stevie's version of "The Dealer". This is the only name I ever knew it by.
Hello once again, Walter! I have a final two questions, I promise! First of all, when you did sculpting, did you ever sell any, and, what kind of sculptures did you make??? Second, your third song on Fundamental Roll, waitin'; what is that all about (and please dont say "waitin'"!) Thanks so much. (Brian Larsen, Laurel, Maryland, USA)
Hi Brian again,
I did sell a few pieces of my sculpture and as to what kind I make, it's kind of hard to generalize. My main work was in metal sculpture though, incorporating found objects into the pieces.
The song "Waitin'" on Fundamental Roll is pretty self explanatory. It had to do with a short-lived dalliance that I had at the time with a girl who was a girlfriend of a friend of mine. It was her idea, though, not mine! Thus the confusion expressed so well in the lyrics.
Thanks Bri
Bye
What was it like to work with Mick, Stevie and Lindsey on the album "Not Shy"? Will you work with them in the future? (Thomas Kirby, Roswell, New Mexico, USA)
Dear Tom,
It was really great to work with Mick, Stevie & Lindsey on "Not Shy". After having done the first album together (except for Mick) by the time of the second album we were like old friends instead of new acquaintances, which made it that much more fun to do, and of course by this time "Rumours" had exploded, so there was a whole surreal element of big-time show-biz going on, which was kinda fun. As I've said before, I would love to work with them again in the future.
I just had a closing comment rather than a question. Last night I was reading through an old BAM Magazine interview you gave in 1978. In it, as you were discussing your opportunity to work with Gram Parsons, you said:
"You absorb things from what others have done, but those people you are being affected by are rarely aware of the impact they are having. . . . Every artist has an ideal of what it is he's trying to put across in his art. What people pick up on is often very different than what is intended. Gram, for one, never knew how much his music meant to so many people."
I thought that was one of the truest things I've heard anyone say about dedicated artists generally and how their music affects audiences, whether that audience is other musicians, or musically untalented people like myself. To thank you again for having taken the time to participate in this Q&A with patience and humor, I just wanted to tell you that your music has meant a lot to me (and many others), and has been absorbed, and has provided energy for all sorts of life's endeavors -- some of which you may have intended, but others of which you never could have imagined. I wanted to say that just so you DO know, perhaps unlike Gram, how much your music and songwriting have meant and do inspire.
I have ordered your new solo album and I'm really looking forward to hearing it. Best wishes to you and your family. (Les, San Diego, California, USA) [Note from MEA: Just want to point out that Les wrote the fantastic biography on Walter that appears here on The Penguin! Thank you Les.]
Dear Les,
Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment and I very much appreciate knowing there are people like you out there. Makes what I do worthwhile. Best wishes to you and your family, too.
Closing Statement from Walter Egan:
As closing comments I would like to say that it's been really neat connecting with the folks out there and stirring up the old memories. I really appreciate the fact that there are people who care and thanks for the opportunity to connect personally.
Go Back
Walter
W.E.
W.E.
Walter
See ya at the Music Fair
Walter
Walter
On this day ... (on this day) I consider myself (I consider myself)
To be the luckiest man (to be the luckiest man)
On the face of the earth (on the face of the earth)!