southernfriedmagazine.com - Interview of J.D. Steagall

J.D. is one of the most down to earth people I have ever met. He loves what he does and not for the fame or the stardom. We all know music can soothe the soul and that is exactly what J.D. is about. Among his many accomplishments as a songwriter and musician. J.D. supports our troops by playing for them and has given thousands of CDs away to them. He has a generous heart and a kind soul. He wants his fans to leave his shows feeling good about the music and relating to it.

After a phone conversation with J.D., I learned so much more about the man. He is the real deal. He’s honest and has love and passion for what he does. He takes care of his family and that is his number ONE priority. Seems to me he fits right in with our Down South Jukin’ Family. He has played with many famous artists but doesn’t want to throw names out and make the readers think he is boasting about these entertainers. J.D. loves that one on one with his fans. He knows that they are why he is what he is today. He turns no one away for a chat or autograph.

I was sent three of his CDs and love them all. His music is a lot of Southern Rock with a bit of Country and mixed with a little Blues, too. He writes his own music with heart and passion. There is absolutely a song on his CD’s for everyone. If you listen to this CD and don=t find at least 5 songs that hit your between the eyes, it would surprise me. He has emotion and feelings in his music and writes of real life happenings. If you get the chance to see him perform...GO, I promise you won't be disappointed.

SF: Where were you born and raised?
San Diego, CA.

SF: At what age did you pick up your first instrument?
I young about 7 or 8

SF: Ho w many instruments do you play?
Bass, Piano, Mandolin, Slide Guitar, Lap Steele Harp, Drums.

SF: When did you figure out that music is where it was at for you?
The first time I saw Jimi Hendrix play...WOW!

SF: Have you taken lessons or has it come natural?
I had a few Accordian Lessons. I got kicked out for being ahead of the class...Go Figure.

SF: You're a family man. Who is at home waiting for you when you home from a gig?
My lady and baby (my dog) that thinks she is a person. Two girls (Sarah and Michelle) and John, we won=t go there.

SF: I understand you have played with some pretty impressive folks. Can you name a few for us?
Ray Wylie Hubbard, DAC, Bobby Whitlock, Townes Van Zandt, Dickie Betts, Warren Haynes.

SF: Where is it you want to go with your band and your music?
I really want to go to Europe and all over, really.

SF: How important are the fans to you?
Without the fans there would be NO J.D. Steagall.

SF: When you play a gig, what is it that you want the fans to leave with a feeling of?

Feeling Good and wanting to see me again.

SF: What does becoming a Rock Star mean to you?
What's a Rock Star?

SF: What is it you want for the future of this band?
Success and adventure with harmony.

SF: Do you have a favorite venue to play?
The Cain's Ballroom.

SF: If you could choose anyone to perform with, dead or living who would you choose and why?
Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Winter, Johnny Cash, Cozy Powell, and Sheryl Crow. This would be the ultimate band to play with. Some sexy ladies and some bad ass players...Top that?

SF: You live in New York, how well known are you there for your music?
I never asked anyone but every time we play, the place is packed.

SF: You write your own music, who sits at the table when you do this?
Me and my dog. No really, I play all the new songs to Baby, if she wags her tail then I continue with the song. If no response, then I can it. I know your laughing right now but its true.

SF: Who influences your music?
All artists, Country, Blues, Rock and a little Jazz.

SF: Who would you like to thank for giving you your start?
My mom and grandma. They bought me my first amp and guitar.

SF: At home, what is in your CD player right now?
Some songs Bob Burns gave me that no one has heard real rough cuts of Ronnie and the Boyz.

SF: You have played with and are friends with Bob Burns, the original Drummer for Lynyrd Skynyrd. How did you two meet?
Well, that was a surprise. My Buddy, Kerry Creasy told Bob we were playing in Memphis and Bob and his wife Marsha came to see me play. I put them up for two days and after that show, me, Bob and Marsha went to eat breakfast. We have been friends ever since.

SF: Is there anything you personally would like to tell the readers that I may not have covered?
Yes! The world is a messed up place these days. People and music take me and I hope you too, to a place of Peace and Harmony. When I play, it=s the only time I feel free. And please SUPPORT OUR TROOPS.

Check out J.D. Steagall on his myspace
http://www.myspace.com/busterchopzband