My wife and I have a routine. At night, we turn on a show while we eat dinner, and more often than not, I end up falling asleep on the couch before the episode ends. We bounce between half-hour comedies and long, drawn-out dramas that demand your full attention.
I’ve always had one rule when it comes to TV: I won’t start a show unless it’s already finished. No waiting, no cliffhangers, no frustration.
Well, this year, we broke that rule. And I have to say, it’s the worst.
We’ve been watching shows like Your Friends & Neighbors and Shrinking. Shrinking is really good, by the way. And a few weeks ago, we started The Pitt. It’s awesome. The acting is next level, and it features Noah Wyle from ER. Or is that Grey’s Anatomy? I always mix those up.
Anyway, during one of the episodes, I heard a song that immediately caught my attention. I grabbed my phone, opened Shazam, and discovered it was “Better Off Without You” by The Clarks.
The name sounded familiar. They remind me of bands like Better Than Ezra, Gin Blossoms, and Toad the Wet Sprocket. That sent me down a rabbit hole, where I learned the band is actually from Pittsburgh and recently released a new EP, Echoes from the Pitt, featuring that very track.
So I did what I do. I reached out.
They said yes.
A few days later, we were talking about the band, their music, their 40th anniversary celebration, and so much more. It all started with The Pitt, but it turned into one of the most enjoyable interviews I’ve done.
I encourage you to turn on “Better Off Without You” while you read this and enjoy the ride. Forty years is an incredible milestone.
This was a lot of fun for me, and I hope you enjoy it too.
Because it is my pleasure to introduce you to The Clarks.
The Clarks Interview Questions – Answered by Scott Blasey, lead singer.
Can you take me back to how The Clarks got started? Where did it all begin, and how did you all meet?
We met at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1985. It was Rob and Dave’s idea to start a band. Greg joined in 1986.
You now have eleven studio albums under your belt. How would you describe the evolution of your sound over the years?
We started out fast and aggressive. It’s mellowed over the years with some country influences.
What was it like having your song featured on a hit TV show, and are you guys watching The Pitt yourselves?
It was awesome. Huge exposure for the band. Yes, I watch it, and Dave loves it too.
You’ve appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman. What was that experience like?
It was thrilling. Everyone was really nice. We played well, had lots of fans in the audience. Great experience!
Where did the name “The Clarks” come from?
We entered a rock competition in Pittsburgh and needed a name quickly. We settled on The Clarks.
How often do you practice, and what does a typical rehearsal look like for the band?
We rehearse when we’re working on new material, or if we haven’t played in a month or more. We get together at a rehearsal space called LIVEBURGH STUDIO to work on new stuff. We bring in ideas and see what sticks.
Do you have a favorite album or even just a favorite song to perform live?
I love playing “Irene” and “Born Too Late.” “Penny on the Floor” is always fun because the audience loves it and sings along.
I noticed there are not many tour dates currently listed. Any plans to hit the road this summer?
We’ll do some regional outdoor shows this summer, and do a little traveling in the fall – Chicago, Cleveland, and some East Coast dates.
Was “Better Off Without You” being featured on The Pitt something that was planned, or did that come together after the fact?
One of the producers, R. Scott Gemmell, was looking for Pittsburgh bands and found us. He liked “Better Off Without You,” and decided to feature it in the season premiere.
Who are you listening to when you are not working on new music, and who inspires you?
I love Jason Isbell. I listen to everything from old ’70s stuff that I grew up on, to Warren Zeiders and Dua Lipa. I’m a huge Sting fan so I’m always listening to his stuff too.
Echoes from The Pitt has five songs. Why five, and how do you decide between releasing an EP versus a full album?
We wanted to release the re-recorded version of “Better Off Without You” to coincide with the premiere of The Pitt. We already had 2 songs from a few years ago that we’d released as singles. And we went into the studio to record a couple covers.
How do you determine the order of songs on a release?
I listen to them and just get a feel for how they flow together.
For someone who has never seen you live, what can they expect from a Clarks show?
Energy, fun, and rock-n-roll with a little country flavor.
Are you selling merchandise online, and where can fans find it?
Yes, our merch store can be found on our website.
You had a song featured on The Simpsons. How did that opportunity come about?
Our manager Rishon Blumberg made it happen.
Who manages your social media, and how involved are you as a band?
Our management team takes care of it, with help from our road manager John Williams. We help by recording shoutout videos to promote our upcoming shows.
Will Findley be joining you on tour?! How did she become part of the band’s story? SO cute!!!
I’m assuming you mean my French Bulldog Finley. She’s adorable but not part of the band’s story in any way.
Who designs your artwork and album covers, and how much are they influenced by the music?
We have a different designer each time. Greg and our road manager John Williams usually come up with the ideas and we give our input.
Do mistakes ever happen on stage, and how do you handle them in the moment?
Mistakes are part of the deal. We deal with them by not drawing attention to them.
What does your songwriting process look like as a group?
Someone writes a song and everyone works on their part and sometimes will suggest tweaks to rhythm, melody, and lyrics.
Have you ever collaborated with a fan on a track? I’m a writer myself and would love to be considered if you’re open to it.
No.
Tell me about your 40th anniversary celebration at Stage AE in Pittsburgh. What does this milestone mean to you?
It’s a big deal. It’s a celebration of being together for a long time, same four guys plus two newer (19 years) members.
Where was that riverside band photo taken, and how did you choose that location?
It was under the 62nd Street Bridge I believe. The photographer picked it I believe.
Do you have a fan club or mailing list fans can subscribe to?
The Clarks do have a mailing list, and fans can subscribe to it through our website.
Do you perform any cover songs live, or is it all original material?
We’ve been playing the James Gang song “Walk Away” and “Wouldn’t It Be Good” by Nik Kershaw.
Is there anything we have not touched on that you would like to share?
No, that’s a lot of good stuff!
Where is the best place for fans to learn more about The Clarks and stay up to date?
Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram, subscribe to our mailing list, and check out our website. Tickets for our upcoming 40th Anniversary show on June 13th at Stage AE in Pittsburgh can also be found on our website!
Thanks for doing this, Scott. That was fun! In all of the interviews I do, I always give the artist the last word. Go.
Thanks for getting the word out. It’s never too late to discover your new favorite band.
For more information about The Clarks, go to:
Website | Facebook | X | YouTube | Instagram | Pandora | Spotify
