I am sitting here today with one of the most talented voices, guitar players, and performer that I have ever met. Hailing from the far west coast Keaton Simons has made a name for himself atop some of the biggest names in the industry. Having been signed recently by CBS Records and touring the country in support of his latest album Can You Hear Me, Keaton has taken time out of his incredibly busy schedule to speak with you all today.
You had quite a busy year last year. Tell me a little bit about getting picked up by CBS Records. I love CBS Records!
They really believe in me and support me.
How does living in L.A. effect your music?
It’s hard to say because I’ve lived in L.A. my whole life.
Where do you write when you are hit with inspiration for a song?
Wherever I am when inspiration strikes.
What is the biggest crowd you have ever played for?
I’ve played on TV and radio shows to millions of people. My largest live audience is probably around 10 thousand.
The smallest?
I’ve played private concerts for as few as 1 person.
What was it like playing on the Craig Ferguson Show?
It was so much fun! It was right at the end of a nice long tour so we were all really warmed up for it.
Was that Trey Lockerbie behind you on guitar?
Yes it was! Trey is one of my best friends and an extremely talented singer / songwriter.
You recently toured with Pete Francis. What was that like?
Super fun! I love Pete and the whole crew.
What is your most embarrassing moment you have experienced on stage?
I was making fun of my friend for slipping on the ice outside of the venue. Which would’ve been fine if someone else hadn’t (unbeknownst to me) slipped and had to be rushed to the hospital with serious injuries that same evening. I felt horrible when I found out after the show.
Tell me what it is like on the Rock Boat.
The rock boat for me is all about music and community.
If you could only play one song for the rest of your career, what would it be?
Probably CURRENTLY but that is one of the hardest questions I’ve ever been asked.
What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Health food hippie cereal with almond milk.
What are you doing on a typical Friday night?
If I’m not performing then I’m usually at home writing or just watching TV and hangin’ with my dogs.
How many tattoos do you have?
I have 7 tattoos and plan on getting lots more.
When did you know that music was going to be your career?
I was quite positive by the time I was about 14 years old.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
That is way too hard to pin down. I find inspiration all over the place.
What is on your iPod right now?
Way too many things to list!
What are you drinking on stage?
Always water.
If you could live anywhere else outside of L.A. where would it be?
Probably somewhere tropical like Tahiti or Hawaii.
What would you be doing if it were not music?
Something artistic or scientific.
What toppings are on your pizza?
I don’t really eat dairy so I only have pizza at vegan restaurants. So, usually soy cheese, veggie sausage, bell peppers and spinach.
Let’s play word association. Give me the first thing that comes to your mind when you read these three words.
Heroes: Lennon
Volleyball: Spike
Tanning Bed: Cancer
What is the one thing you want to be remembered for when you are gone?
I want to be remembered for my love of and contribution to music.
MySpace. Good or bad?
Definitely good.
Who is a better dancer? You, Todd Carey, or Curtis Peoples?
Definitely not me! (Laughs)
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
On the road playing sold out shows for huge crowds.
I always let the artist get the last word. Go.
Just want to thank everyone who makes it possible for me to continue to do what I love more than anything in the world.
