Interview by: Kristal Solis
I’m currently reading your book “I’m in the Band” and I’m learning so many new things not only about you and White Zombie but also about what the music industry was like in the 90’s. As I’m reading the book I’m simply amazed that White Zombie succeeded, the endless work you put into building that band is truly incredible. I know you stated several times in your book that money and fame was never an objective for you or Rob but at the end of the day there was a possibility of music turning into a career. Personally, do you think that any musician/band(s) have that same opportunity today if they put in the amount of work likewise to yourself in White Zombie?
I don’t want to sound negative, but no! I think with the loss of income for labels, not being able to sell records anymore, basically, there are probably none that would take the time and the money to develop a band like labels did back in the day, especially ones like Geffen. We got incredibly
lucky twice: our first label in NYC was Caroline, that had the vision to sign us along with Smashing Pumpkins, Samhain, and Hole. Then Geffen - very artist - friendly; very cool. We did work really hard, but without that infrastructure of a supportive label, and pre-internet days when people HAD to go out to connect with other like-minded people - I just don’t see it working well for bands today.
A few months ago I saw a photo of you, John Tempesta and J. Yuenger and it was really cool to see all three of you together having a good time. Even though John is playing with the Cult, J. is producing albums, and you’re still playing music and doing designs for accessories, would you think a White Zombie reunion tour could happen if Rob agreed? Or do you think it would be an uncomfortable situation situation since it’s been so many years?
Rob is the only one that would make it uncomfortable. If he wanted to, and came to us as a friend, I’m sure the rest of us would all be willing to do it - but that will never happen! Which is fine with me because I was physically a wreck back then, I’m in much better shape now. I have a herniated disc from childhood scoliosis, and my back would be killing me nightly back then. I’m much happier now! Also I have to state: I hate when bands get together for the money. None of us need it. We would have to actually all be friends again and be having fun - which Rob has said himself, will never happen!
If I’m correct you’re currently playing bass in Rock City Morgue, Star & Dagger and Famous Monsters? Your latest music release was Tomorrowland Blues with Star & Dagger in 2013. How does it feel to be at a point in your life where musically, you’re free to do whatever you want with whoever you want?
Famous Monsters is no longer, but yes to the other two. One of my favorite things about the success of White Zombie is that it did allow me to do whatever I want. I love playing with different people, and I also would like to start working solo on scoring movies. It’s also given me the freedom to return to my photography, which has been my focus as of late.
Since 2006, you’ve been running your own design company, “Yseult Designs” while simultaneously returning to photography. Your designs have been placed on home decor items,scarves, and other accessories. Your designs are sold in several boutiques and showrooms, when you began turning your sketches into designs did you feel like you had to prove yourself all over again but this time in a different industry? What was that experience like for you?
Yes - the design world seemed to have no parallels with rock’n’roll - I actually thought my past might hinder me! I had great response fairly quickly though, so that was reassuring. As far as being in the design world, I am a horrible sales person and I rather crawl under a rock than show off what I have done, so I found it very difficult. A huge part of being a designer is sales, it turns out, haha! The only route that helped me was having showrooms in NYC, LA and London.
Lastly, I promised it’d be a short interview but like I previously mentioned I’m reading your book, and it really is awesome. Being a female musician myself, it’s important for myself and other young girls to have someone they can identify with onstage. Nowadays it’s so much more common and acceptable to see a girl in a band, is there any advice you could offer to maybe any female musicians who want to be in a band and be taken seriously for their musicianship?
Like I say to everyone: do your thing. I think it’s finally not an issue if someone is a female or male musician/performer. It’s only an issue if you make it one. Treat yourself as equal and hopefully others will follow suit. And don’t let the assholes get you down!
Purchase the book here: Amazon.com
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