The Gary Summers band
Meet Kingston on Thames-born UK Open Mic performer The Gary Summers band:
Hi The Gary Summers band, thanks for joining us! Let’s get into it:
Do you play solo only, or also in a group?
Solo
How old are you?
72
Where were you born?
Kingston on Thames
Where did you grow up?
Kingston on Thames
How did that place influence your music? (if at all!)
My first band at age 11 was called the Thamesiders as my hometown was close to the river. This developed from a love of the Beatles including 60’s music at that time. My own music today is still influenced by those sounds incorporating strong Melodies and harmonies.
Where are you based now, and why?
Cobham. It’s a nice place to live.
What got you into making music in the first place?
A love of listening to music and wanting to copy my musical heroes.
What instrument/s do you play?
Singing
Guitar
Guitar
Bass
Who would be in your top 10 musical influences, and why?
The Beatles. Their music is unsurpassed in its genre and lives on to this day.
Do you write your own songs?
Yes
How many years have you been writing songs for?
30
What process, or processes, do you often find yourself using when you write songs?
Usually a melody comes first which together with the underlying chords I may use as a chorus. This is then followed by a melody for the verse and lastly the lyrics.
How long have you been playing open mic nights?
0
Why did you get into playing them in the first place?
From your email. I am a live performer
What advice would you give new performers who are just starting out playing their first open mics?
Open mics will help you build confidence in your own song-writing and perform g abilities. There are lots of open mic opportunities so get out there and play them. Don’t expect instant results but gain experience. Work out which of your songs works best.
What’s the hardest thing, for you, about playing open mics?
Finding the time to do them
What’s the most bizarre, or fun, open mic, or gig, you’ve ever played, and why?
Playing the O2 academy in Sheffield as bassist with Mick Underwoods Glory Road or as support to ex Whitesnake rockers Snakecharmer in Leamington Spa.
If it’s not already, are you hoping to make music your full-time career?
No
What’s the one truth about you that people often find surprising?
I live in a retirement village.
What’s the most exciting project you’re working on at the moment?
My album of songs now available on all streaming services.
Do you have your own music video, channel or playlist you’d like to share?
Do you have music on streaming? What’s you main streaming channel to send people to?
Where is the main place should people go to find out more about you?
What other sites/profiles should people go to to find out more about you?
https://www.instagram.com/the_gary_summers_band?igsh=MXI0YmsxZnh2a3owaA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
https://www.facebook.com/thegarysummersband
We’re done! Anything else you want to share before we go?
No thanks!