Anybody have experience interviewing bands?

[even13flow]

Does anybody here have any experience interviewing bands?

For months now, I've had permissions to have a video press pass at this years Warped Tour in Chicago. Now that it's a few days away, I've been notified by the press management for the Warped Tour that the venue is only allowing interviews, no performances will be allowed to be filmed. Needless to say, I'm really pissed off right now but trying to make the best of a bad situation. I'll make this a glorified meet and greet then, and interview as many freaking bands as I can.

Now, first things first, I've never done an interview before...ever! I've googled some stuff about questions to ask bands when interviewing, but after watching so many Metallica interviews where the questions were "stock" and that are asked over and over again, I want to take it in a different direction. Maybe asking some really unique questions, some funny questions. Can anybody offer me some advice?

PS. It's not guaranteed that I won't be able to film the performances of the 20 bands I got permission for, but I'd say the chances are VERY slim.

[MetDream]

Make it funny Jacob! Find some light, off the wall and zany questions!

[Fadingtoblack]

Damn that sucks mate!


And I know what you mean about 'stock' questions, sometimes I really facepalm and feel for bands when they get asked the same stupid shit over and over again...

BUT

...on the other hand, if these are mostly new-ish bands, they might appreciate the chance to be interviewed at all! And to get their 'message' or goals or what they stand for out on the airwaves. Some stock questions could be good!

Maybe check out some early Metallica interviews or something for ideas?

[Pete-Rock]

It shouldnt be your very first question, but later in the interview ask them about their lyrics and what inspired them to write about whatever they wrote about. Thats a great entry to a more profound talk, like personal experiences or whatever.

[aeiseleusa]

know the bands you interview (names, songs and so on) nothing worse then calling someone with a wrong name. Then have fun !! Are you into any bands on the bill ?

[even13flow]

My main reason for going to this was Parkway Drive, as they are one of my favorites of all time. I was very excited when they granted me permission to film, but this venue ruined everything. Oh well, I'm going to try my best to get a great interview with the guys. I hate the union that runs this venue for this.

I have came up with quite a bit of one-liners that I'm going to use at different times to lighten up the mood and make the interviews (hopefully) fun.

[Duane]

I've been interviewed quite a bit doing press for my book and I think the most important thing for an interviewer to do is to know the subject's work. An informed interviewer appears a lot more professional than some dude just doing the job. If you're a fan of the band it's okay to say that but don't act "in awe" of the band. I think the no-structure structure is a lot better than the rigid interview. Or you can simply ask the band what they'd like to discuss. They must have a lot of funny tour stories to tell...that's always cool to read about.

[even13flow]

Thanks for all the help guys. At first, I thought I would just interview anybody and everybody, but I might want to stick to a handful of bands so that I can tailor the questions better as to not be so generic.

[Duane]

I just did an interview with Modern Caveman Magazine on Friday....here's what they asked. Pretty standard stuff but it translates to most interviews.


Tell us about the book:

Why did you write it?

What was your major influence?

How long did it take?

What was the best part?

What was the worst part?

Who might enjoy this book?

What was the most interesting experience at a castle concert?

How can people buy your book?

Any other books you have written?

Any other books in the hopper for the future?

How about a brief bio on you and your family

[even13flow]

Thanks for all the replies guys, I only did 2 interviews yesterday but was able to spend 25 minutes talking one on one to the lead singer of Parkway Drive, which was like a dream to me. I appreciate everyone's help, I'll post the videos when they are up!