#MusicalMemories: Arkansas Dave
Arkansas Dave is an artist that is destined to set tongues wagging in 2018. While he is yet to play his full hand, with his debut album scheduled for a 2018 release, he has chosen to introduce himself to the musical world with the finest reworking of Chocolate Jesus you will ever hear. As a result, we knew we had to speak to him and find out more…
What song reminds you most of your childhood?
If we’re talking about my songs, then it has to be Bad Water. That song is a complete metaphor for the small town where I grew up. I’ve always been in love with music, of all genres, so there’s so many songs that are the soundtrack of my childhood that it’s hard to pick just one to define it. I tell you what; I’ll create you a Spotify playlist of songs that take me back the next time we speak….
Which song inspired you to become a musician/singer?
I remember the first time I heard Led Zeppelin, it all made sense to me. In fact, not too long ago, I found a “pledge” that I wrote to myself when I was probably a very young teenager committing my life to music and being a professional musician for my career. I went to college, but it was never for me. I‘ve always worked a series of different jobs just to support my music until my music starting supporting me. I’m a very blessed person to be doing the thing that I love the most – music.
Which song do you wish you had written?
That’s a hard one, but I really love “Song For You” by Leon Russell. It is a masterpiece of a song, reflecting on his life and love for his family and friends. It truly is a gorgeous song that I actually wish to be played at my wake, before the party kicks off! When I’m gone, don’t mourn for me, celebrate my life and our friendship or whatever connection we have…. I want my best friends to all jam and party together. So, “Song For You” is definitely one of those songs.
Which artist/band has been the most inspirational to you?
Without a doubt, Led Zeppelin. While my sound is nowhere near Zeppelin’s, it inspired me as a kid to pursue rock ‘n roll without ever taking my eyes off the prize. They are still to this day my favourite band and are constantly in my playlists.
Which song/album currently dominates your attention?
Well, to be honest, my favourite record of 2017 is DAMN by Kendrick Lamar. It is in constant rotation for me, and I really identify with what Kendrick is singing about. He pours his soul all over that record, and I feet a real connection with his music because of that. He is a very inspiring person to me, and I hope to one day befriend him…or better yet, collaborate with him. I have a lot of respect for Kendrick Lamar as a person and an artist. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that I love the new Queens of the Stone Age album, Villians, as well as Mastodon’s Emperor of Sand. As you can tell, I have a very eclectic taste in music!
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
I would love nothing more than to collaborate with the Rival Sons. They are my absolute favourite rock ‘n roll group today. No one can touch them. Every musician in that band is stellar, and I would love nothing more than to have an opportunity to write, record or perform with them. They’re incredible.
