Janey Ellen Todd
Hi Ian. I had a dream about you last night. If you would like I could send you a typed copy. I keep a dream journal. Mostly I’m not allowed to think of you as anything but Trudys husband, so you sneak out in my dreams once in a while.
You have a cameo as Derek Domino in my (self-published) book Rain Two on Amazon. That one’s not that interesting though. I think you’re in rain three, too but that’s not out yet.
You can email me iand let me know if you want a copy of either but I know you’re busy and have many fans. I bought Defiance but haven’t listened to it yet – afraid of the heart crush maybe. No strings, ha and you don’t have to worry about me fixating on you. As you say, “I’m MUCH too proud.”
IH: ‘Defiance’ is relatively heart crush free – so you can listen to it!!
Dave
Hello.
Would it be possible for you to “name check” the musicians you reference in This Ain’t Rock n Roll? I get the factory floor/Horse’s Mouth reference, but I’m guessing for most of the others. Thanks.
Dave
IH: Just look up lyrics on U-Tube – they’re usually there.
Erik Huth
Congrats on Defiance Part 2 – fantastic!!
I noticed a shift on your track listing preference. I thought you used to select a song with a unique upbeat intro to start off an album (Memphis, Golden Age, Once Bitten, just another night, Comfortable, etc) and close with an emotional gut punch of a song (Sea diver, Mother, outsider, etc). But the last few albums have had more uplifting messages on the last song – Life, this is what I’m here for, hope. Is track order important to you? Have you changed your philosophy or am I just overthinking things?
IH: It varies with every set of songs. Part 1 was easier – it pretty much sorted itself out. Part 2 was more difficult.
Mark F
While flying for vacation I read a book “We Had Fun And Nobody Died” about local independent concert promoter Peter Jest.
Had a couple of pages about booking the MTH Class of 74 gig & mentioned that he had booked you as a solo artist at his club.
Any recollection of playing Shank Hall in Milwaukee? If a solo acoustic tour is in the cards, keep him in mind.
IH: Peter sent me a copy – great read. I would always look forward to playing Milwaukee – audiences always appreciative.
Graham:
Hi Ian Hope you are well.
Came across this recent little guitar dissertation of ‘One of the Boys .’ I wonder how on the money you think it may or may not be?
IH: Opinions, opinions – we all have our opinion!
mark Silverstone:
Have you listened to luther Grosvners [Aerial Bender] latest album Another Journey, if so your opinion ?
IH: Did’t know he had one out there. Luther’s capable of beautiful stuff at times.
Steven Carpenter:
Is there a tour on the horizon.
IH: All depends on how far the horizon is….
Dru:
I recently picked up a copy of Overnight Angels on vinyl. No need to rehash everything that you’ve said concerning the final product but I have to say your performance is powerful
IH: Not bad. I’m singing too high – my fault.
Pat M:
Dear I.H. – I know that this is the type of thing you don’t deal with but has there been any talk of releasing “Rant” , ” Shrunken heads” & “Man Overboard” on vinyl? There is definitely an interest these days and they are great albums – I think the Mott reunion overshadowed “Man Overboard” a bit so perhaps a vinyl release might get it to some new ears – take care of yourself & thanks for everything my friend – PM
IH: There has been talk about it. We’ll see.
Randal Dillon:
Thought you may like to know you are now my favourite living songwriter. ( I knew I I was getting over the loss of my late partner Cheryl when I could listen to your records again without falling apart.) Lou Reed held that distinction for forty years. Ian Tyson did so after Reed was gone. Care to share a quip about either of those two rascals?
IH: Who’s up next?
Seth:
I know silver needles was about Sid but why did you write it ? Did you know him, or did you just feel bad? Back to Jaco: how did that come about? Was he the best musician you ever played with? I myself get trance-like every time I watch him. Is there any video of him playing on AAAB?
IH: 1) I just thought the whole thing was stupid. They had a great bass player who also wrote!
2) It was Bobby Columby (Blood Sweat & Tears) who introduced me to Jaco. I went to see him at Bobby’s place over the Tappan Zee Bridge and we got on. He eventually moved in with us and practiced 8 hours a day in our basement. I finished writing AAAB and he became part of that album. Not only playing bass – but a bit of guitar and suggesting stuff to Aynsley Dunbar and co. Good times. You can’t compare musicians – up the top end there are so many great ones for different reasons. Besides – all ‘opinions’. Who really cares?
Johan:
I’m reading Suzi Ronson’s book, very interesting and good reading. She writes the following:
‘ When I walk into MainMain, Tony Defries is at his desk talking to Mott the Hoople’s lead singer, Ian Hunter, and his wife, Trudi.
The atmosphere is decidedly unpleasant. Trudi’s face is like thunder.
Tony sighs as they walk out the door. ‘
I didn’t quite understand this. What was it about?
IH: Tony wasn’t my cup of tea and he definitely wasn’t Trudi’s. Suzi’s s book is good – read it in one go.
Rick Kiba:
Hi Ian,
Harkening back to the days of MTH first American tour, did you often/ever play “ you really got me” or was “RnR Queen “ considered the erstwhile 11 o’clock number? I’m asking because I attended the June ‘70 show at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY and The Kinks shared the bill, ( along with Grand Funk RR for the curious Horses Mouth reader). I recall being a bit disappointed that you guys omitted the tune that night but given the circumstances it seemed rather obvious Did the Davies Bros treat you reasonably well?
Speaking of 11 o’clock numbers, has anything in the back catalogue ever been solicited for a Broadway juke box musical?
Thanks much,
Rick
IH: Nah – we played it on tour with the Kinks. Maybe on a 3 band bill we did a shorter set and didn’t include it. W support them at the Philly Spectrum and they tried to give us 3 feet of stage! Larry Magid came to us and said not to put up with it as we’d sold thousands of the ticket that night. We ended up with 8 feet. Bowie was the same, actually – he was worse. Openers got 45% lights and 45% sound. That’s why we never opened for him. Usually management bullshit.
Scott:
Do you hang out with any locals or neighbors or do you pretty much keep to yourself? Love all the “new” stuff coming out like the new Short Back and Sides and Schizophrenic. Always great to buy Ian Hunter and remember the days !!!!
IH: Rick and Steff; Andy and Liz; Xavier & Kathy are pretty close. Lots of visits from family and friends coming up,
Tony Accorsino:
Hello Ian, Happy September to you. Long time fan of your music and have seen you many times, including your last performance at the City Winery in Manhattan ,during your 80th
birthday bash. I am also a big fan of John Mayall who recently passed. I was wondering if you ever followed his career or was in any way influenced by him? Thanks Tony.
IH: Boy was he fit! I wasn’t a blues guy – I was a Rock guy, but look at what he achieved and who he discovered and played with!! Great career.
Paul Brolan:
I suggested “England Rocks” as a possible link up for the Euros a while back but so glad it didn’t in a way after the majority of performances. It might have ruined your reputation hahaha. Maybe Lee Carsley can get them playing in a way that would do justice this great song. Talk on here of tours and more music from you . You’re not a machine. You’ve done more than most so Just think and look after yourself and the rest will come.
Be lucky, healthy and massive thanks for everything, Paul
IH: Thank you!
KMei21:
Three artists who most influenced your songwriting ?
Three favorite guitarists who never played for Mott the Hoople ? Thanks for all the great music !
KMei21
IH: 1) Dylan
2) Beck
Kevin Riddett:
Hello Ian , I remember reading back in the day that you moved to America as it offered more inspiration for your songwriting . As many of your musical heroes were American this was totally believable . Also I feel the distance has offered you honest reflection on your homeland . I feel that your relocation enriched and embellished your writing . The scope of a wider viewpoint actually added a glorious focus . Your words continue to find me and their journey from your life to mine is always such a wonderful adventure . Thank you for all you have done and for all you will do .
IH: Yeah – but the government taking 89% of my earnings had a lot to do with that. Sometimes the left get a little too silly. All of my heroes were American – and I wind up doing a couple of records on ‘Sun’ !! FUN!!!
Paul Brolan:
One of your many fantastic songs which I’m forever grateful for is “Roll Away The Stone”. It should be compulsory for celebration during Easter Sunday masses as it matches the occasion in my humble opinion.
Having been excommunicated from the Church for whistling it the last time I attended, my excuse that I was only being guided by the Holy Spirit fell on stoney ground. Keep the faith!
IH: Same here.
MICHAEL BOYLE:
Hi Ian,
Love Defiance Part 2 one of your best, great lyrics, all your guest musicians added something to your music in a very tasteful way, it was still you though !
Three questions firstly was the lyric on PRECIOUS coming from the same incident that became 23A SWAN HILL or is it a general observation on the education system ? PRECIOUS is a truly brilliant song, POP HEAVEN !
Secondly did you ever meet John Fiddler, he has just released a brilliant new record called HEARTLAND using the MEDICINE HEAD name. Seen him interviewed on YOU TUBE came across as a really sweet guy.
What did you think of British Lions ? I Saw them live a few times, great live, thought the first album by them was great.
Best wishes to you.
IH: 1) Re: “Precious” was an accident. I like the beginning and the end – no brainer for Brian. 2) Met Mr. Fiddler one time with Ray Major and accused him of nicking my band! 3) Got up with them – fine band.
Chris:
Hi Ian.
Have enjoyed very much both Defiance records. Terrific songs and a good punchy production. I’ve recorded some cover songs lately and I’ve got to say that you are hard to sing! Do you consider yourself a tenor or a baritone with a high range? The only way I could do Central Park N West is to change the key to from D to G#. Here’s the youtube of it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNqc94b-eSY
Cheers, Chris
IH: I usually sing the song in the key I hear in my head. I never used to, but I do now.
Josiah p wedgewood:
Re-reading ‘diary’ on KIndle (£9!) even though I have the paperback. Eyes/age……….It really is as good as I recalled. As good a s ‘Blue Highways’ in fact.
So, for the 1000th time being asked, why no more literature?
IH: Never felt the need.
Ailu Müller:
Hi Ian!
I remember once I read here you like Monty Python.
Which one of their shows or films is your favorite?
I like so much the short Crimson Permanent Assurance, so evocative humor style. Have a nice day
IH: The ‘Dead Parrott’ sketch – the first time I saw it – killer!!
Philip Tremayne:
Hi Ian. I’m amazed but delighted by your longevity and evolution musically. As a MTH fan from day one, I’ve followed your career throughout right up to the present day. What puzzles me is the following you’ve picked up along the way, and that’s clear fro HM questions/comments etc. do you think your more recently acquired fanbase dip back to the late ‘60’s material, or just move forward with as your evolution continues. I’d love an opportunity to see you ‘live’ again, but appreciate it’s maybe not that straightforward. In any event, please keep the music coming.
IH: I’ve no idea.
Steve Karmazin:
When you get an inspiration for a song, or a first line for a song, or perhaps a bit of a melody…and you want to preserve it so you can revisit it later…how do you save it? Notepad, voice recorder, Microsoft Word, scribble on a napkin, sing or hum it onto your mobile phone etc??
IH: When things ‘arrive’ you’ve got to get them down as soon as possible. Note books all over the place and getting up out of a dream and into a basement at all hours because the tempo’s pivotal. I always think “Oh, that’s strong – I won’t forget that” – but bitter experience will prove me wrong!
Martin Reynolds:
Just to let you know what ronnos home city are doing next year
A trail of Rat sculptures I memory of micks local band The Rats will be placed on a trail across the city and then put up for sale for charity
IH: Yeah – I heard all about this. I think it’s fantastic.
Seth:
Ian, How much will the new “Your Never Alone with a Schizophrenic “weigh? Will it be the good 180 gram stuff? I cant seem to find out HELP!
IH: No idea.
Gary Walden:
What have been some of your favorite songwriters over the years? And, why?
IH: I don’t really listen – I just do what I do. Dylan got me started and I went from there.
Gerry Gerber:
Hello ian,
😀 Hope you’re doin’ OK. Here’s myself Jammin’ along w/ “I Hate Hate from Defiance Part 1. Well, not exactly jammin’ – I mean that’s how it started cause I just play at home nowadays but then the parts started taking on more definition in my mind so I decided to work out a couple of sections and record them in my Roland VS-1880.
Honestly, I don’t mind if you don’t post this in “The Horses Mouth”, I really just wanted you to hear it .
I sent a couple messages a while back, so I figured this is probably best. It’s just me playing along with the track from the CD (which I bought from Amazon!)
link to track from my Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pr8GV2x8geWVBYbGtMhi6_3zYA_coLeN/view?usp=sharing
In a perfect world I’d be in a studio w/ all tracks available to mix, so the overall sound is, uh… well you’ll see
Feel free to drop me a note (you got my e-mail)
Thank you for all the great music, and Best Regards,
Gerry
IH: Every time I try to get one of these marathon addresses on my computer it inevitably fails. I don’t have the patience to keep trying.
Malcolm Lay:
With Aerosmith announcing that they are not gigging any more do you have any memories to share when they opened for Mott in the 70,s???
IH: At first I thought they were a Stones copy band, but they turned into an adjacent band. Steve’s an amazing front man and the band itself worked to the top of the heap. Still see them now and again; always great for a chat. Worked their asses off for years – deserved all the credit they got. Hats off!!
Scott:
Is TalkShopLive for real about the delays in issuing your autographed Defiance 2 or am I being scammed? This may be beyond your reach as I realize that you just “make the tunes”…..thank God!!!
IH: ‘Talk Ship’ is for real – didn’t know there was a problem. I know the post is slow. Let us know next month if you still didn’t get it and I’ll investigate.
Dennis Yates:
If you could re-record any of your songs to fix what you thought was an issue, which song would it be?
IH: Mott the Hoople always thought the ‘Dudes’ album needed a remix, but we don’t know where the tapes are. Nobody knows.
I wanted. To take the 2nd verse out of ‘Fiction’ on Defiance 2, but Andy wouldn’t have it. There’s always something…but it’s done.
Bill C:
Hello Sir, Hope you had a nice summer. Your Defiance work is the sound track of my summer.
I am planning a picture video of my summer adventures and trying to find a song of yours to use in the background. It made me hyper focus on how you write as a story teller but also how long your songs run. Most notably, IMHO , Womans intuation Is great song ,but runs to long.
Do you ever discuss song length when planning an album or do you just let it go where it goes.?
Since you whined about it , I noticed kiss and make up after the second listen. That song seams to run too short . If only we had made Puerto Rico a State.
IH: I mentioned all the states in what – 3 minutes – and nobody even noticed! Yeah it is a bit short.
Tom Lamoreaux:
Hi I’m from Washington State USA and when i was 15 I fell in love with a girl i later married to the album we loved Overnight Angels…which was hard as fuck to get in the US in 1979…. I know every song… her favorite was Broadway…I liked them all but little star i could relate to growing up with several natives from nearby Yakima Reservation but later Justice of the peace rang a bell cause i got that girl knocked up when i was 16…the marriage didn’t last but the music stayed with me me…I read somewhere sometime that the reason that album was so hard to get and wasn’t released in the US was you didn’t like it….is that true….but I’m still covering a few of those songs and I’m now 62…..saw you in Portland when i was 15 u were great anyway thanks for the years of tunes
IH: I fired my manager. – which is not the greatest thing to do on the eve of a record release. So, Columbia sat on it because record companies talk to managers – NOT to artists – in most cases. ‘Broadway’ is a really good song, but I didn’t get the hook. The hook is not as good as the build up – frustrating.
Tom McGarry:
You’ve consistently been my go to artist since the 1970s and while I recognise that full touring can’t go on for ever I’m hoping that if and when you hit the road with possibly “an evening with….” You’ll find your way to Scotland again. What’s the greatest downer with touring for you? It can’t all be fun!
IH: Airports. The rest of it was fine because the Rant Band all have great humor – along with their obvious abilities. If I do go out at any point, I’d love to visit ‘Equis’ again in Hamilton. Ate there when I waa 2.
Peter Jordan:
Where does doing this ‘Job’ on your own terms rank in your list of professional achievements?
When do you think that happened and was it a result of a conscious long struggle or something that just happened?
IH: Sorry, Peter – I don’t get this qusstion.
Bob Kleb:
Enjoying ” Fiction ” what a phenomenal back to back releases haven’t witnessed that since the “70’s “. Ian do you ever do any shows in S.W. Florida the last ” Ian ” that was here was the unforgettable hurricane since moving here from N
J. I haven’t had the honor of seeing you play always would travel to see you in Philadelphia area or Asbury Park……need my fix. Wanted to touch base again on Clarences contributions on ATGOAT was he only on the one song or others and did you think the song would really takeoff
the way it did, thought video was really funny & clever…..take care Mr. Hunter hope to see you in the Sarasota area.
IH: ATGOAT is an example of why you have to get out of bed and go down to the basement and get the right groove down. It came into my head (the hook) and I thought – that’s strong – I won’t forget it. I didn’t forget the hook line, but I DID forget the groove. I recorded two versions – one fast and one slow – neither were the right groove. Columbia loved the faster version – hence the video. Years later, I got the groove right on an Orchestral gig in Oslo.
That’s all for now, folks!!!
IH
The Horse’s Mouth