Drew Jacobs – Thanks for Asking!

Drew Jacobs – Thanks for Asking! – by Liam Sweeny.

RRX: Every artist’s first song is a milestone. But so is the latest song. Describe the first song/album you recorded, and also the latest song/album you recorded; what are the differences?

DJ: As a teen (14-16). I had a stereo with an eight track recorder and an eight track player (I’m talking about the cartridges, popular in the ‘70s). I would record a guitar, play it back on the player and put the mic next to the speaker to add the next layer (vocal, guitar etc). I thank god those tapes are long gone! My latest song (The Greatest Superpower of Mine) is a pop country track I recorded with studio musicians in Nashville. That’s a bucket list item for me. It is definitely my most commercial sounding recording.

RRX: Music genres are difficult for some artists. Some strictly adhere; others not so much. What is your perspective on the genre you play, or the genres you hover around?

DJ: My genre is comedy music. I’ve had success within the genre (airplay on comedy websites, Dr. Demento, etc). But it’s tough as a performer to get gigs with either music acts, or comedy acts. I’m in no man’s land! (No women here either!) In the 70’s, I saw plenty of comedy song artists opening for either straight music acts or comedians.

RRX: It’s a lot of fun living in the present, but we all collect memories and give birth to dreams. We’re talking dreams here. Where you see yourself next year? In the next five years?

DJ: Next year I am looking to break into the sync market, potentially placing my music in TV or movies. Additionally, I want to continue to play out more. I am developing a set list that includes not only my originals, but funny songs by other artists.

RRX: Artists, musicians, we immortalize. We set it in stone. Is there anyone who has passed that you feel you have immortalized in your work? If so, can you tell us a little about them?”

DJ: Steve Goodman was primarily known as a songwriter (City of New Orleans). However, he also wrote and performed some very clever songs. He was a great picker, showman and singer. He did two Austin City Limits shows which I have on DVD. His biographer heard my first CD (Easy Listening ForThe Hard of Hearing) and compared it favorably to Goodman’s oeuvre.

RRX: We have to play somewhere, and sometimes those places have more going for them than a stage and a power outlet. What is a memorable place you played, and bonus points if it’s not a well-known place.

DJ: In 2019, my wife and I spent four days in Liverpool, England. On the last night, I played an open mic at The Cavern Pub, across the alley from the Cavern Club where the Beatles played. Musicians from all over the world had to play originals, no covers. I had a great set with great response, and I gave away CDs. I told the audience I could go home and tell people I have European Distribution.

RRX: Sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Or so they say. Whether you’re off the wagon, on it, or never been, there’s something you got a thirst for. What are some of your basically harmless vices?

DJ: Usually after a show, I will stop at my local Stewarts and pick up either Hostess Cup Cakes, or Drakes Devil Dogs and chocolate milk. If it’s a long way home, I’ll eat them on the road. If I’m close, I’ll wait until I get home!

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