“You can’t really stand apart when you write something like everybody else.”
Welcome Phil Vassar:
We’re joined on the Starline by an artist with 10 #1 singles, 27 Top 40 hits and 25 years of love and success “On the 25 Years of Paradise” tour right now, we welcome Phil Vassar.
Phil, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You started off writing hits for others, “Little Red Rodeo”, “Right on the Money” among countless hits, then you signed your record deal in 1998. How has writing and performing music all these years change you?
When people see you on tour, what do you want people to feel?
Your set list changes nightly how do you put one together?
Is there one that you love and people say, “C’mon Phil, give it a day off”.
You have written songs in under 20 minutes, but they have your signature of crafting a story that people can relate to. How has the way you write music changed from the 90’s to today?
The Rockin’ 8:
It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.
1. Favorite place to hold a concert?
2. Which song of yours didn’t get the love you thought it should have?
3. What’s the one comfort item you have to have when heading on tour?
4. How do you drink your morning coffee?
5. First piano you ever bought was what and do you still have it?
6. Nearsighted or farsighted?
7. Your grandfather died in World War 2. What does freedom mean to you?
8. Best thing about being a girl dad and what one lesson you want your daughters to take from your life?
The Back Half:
You’ve been mentoring emerging songwriters. What’s the biggest thing new songwriters struggle with?
Why is mentoring songwriters important to you?
Who was the one person that helped you and guided you along your musical career the most?
Everyone talks about their dream show, playing the Grand Ole Opry, or a big arena tour. But was there ever a show where you played for less than 50 people and how do you change the way you perform in an intimate setting?
“You can’t really stand apart when you write something like everybody else.”
Last show you went to not to play but to watch?
You said “If a song sparks a reaction, that’s all you’re looking for”.
What do you want people to remember from your incredible career in music?
Who impresses you in music right now?
Why has music touched your soul?
One Big Question:
You suffered a heart attack in 2023 and your outlook on life completely changed. How has your love of every single moment, sunrise, sunset, hug of family members been enhanced?
The Wrap:
He misses Dobie Gray, drinks his coffee with Coconut milk and wants you see the “On the 25 Years of Paradise” tour. Phil Vassar thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.
And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.
Check out Phil Vassar at his website here.
Listen to other Beyond the Mic conversations with musical artists here.
