With only seven more shows to go on their “Ball” tour, the legendary jam band Widespread Panic is eagerly awaiting a much-deserved break from the road.
The band will complete their tour in the Big Apple at Madison Square Garden Halloween night. Friday, the band will perform at the Mid-South Coliseum in Memphis.
A Reflector reporter caught up with bassist George McConnell and asked him a few questions.
Kit: Where are you right now?
McConnell: The Backyard in Austin, Texas, where we will play the next three nights with D.J. Logic, Gov’t Mule, Mofro and Jerry Joseph and The Jackmormons.
Kit: Do you feel more comfortable onstage than you felt at first?
McConnell: Much more comfortable now because I have had the time to build up musical communication with the group.
Kit: Who influenced you as a musician?
McConnell: I am a huge fan of Duane Allman and Keith Richards.
Kit: Growing up in Yazoo City, how is country life different from all the big cities you travel to night after night?
McConnell: Mississippi is always home to me. I can feel it when I am at home.
Kit: Favorite football team?
McConnell: The Saints-Deuce McAllister.
Kit: Are you excited about the Memphis show?
McConnell: Memphis is my second home. I practically grew up there and my family and friends will be at the show. I can’t wait to eat some good old southern barbecue.
Kit: What are your expectations about NYC Halloween?
McConnell: It will probably be one of the craziest things in my life.
Kit: Relationship with Kudzu Kings-have things changed between you guys?
McConnell? Those guys and I burned many roads down. We all played and toured together for awhile. After playing with them I took a break and opened a guitar shop in Oxford, Miss. My shop Djanjos was open for about six years.
Kit: Favorite venue you have played at so far?
McConnell: Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colo.
Kit: How do you attribute Widespread’s success without VH1, MTV, etc.?
McConnell: Guys sticking with their guns and playing good music. Just being ourselves. We are honest in the music we present.
Kit: What advice would you give young musicians out there trying to make their big break?
McConnell: Do not follow trends. Be true to your heart and play what you think is good music.
Kit: Favorite song you play?
McConnell: Thin Air.
Kit: What CDs are you listening to right now?
McConnell: Jeff Buckley-Live at the Sin-E Club in New York and Bud Powell-a well known pianist.
Kit: Future plans for you and the band?
McConnell: We are taking a much-needed vacation.
Kit: You do plan on continuing playing together right?
McConnell: Yes, definitely.
Kit: How did the name Widespread Panic come about?
McConnell: All I can say is it has to do with Mikey’s nickname.
Tune in to 91.1 WMSV for more Widespread Panic.