The guy that is with me today is a voice that you cannot afford not to listen to. A guy that matches unparalleled vocals with near genius from the heart lyrics with a skill set on the guitar that makes him fit with the best in the business, he deserves to be anywhere this industry takes him. Mixing hard work and a drive to succeed, he radiates pure talent. I am proud to introduce you to Trevor Hall.
What is your first memory of the guitar?
My first memory of playing the guitar was when I was in 4th or 5th grade. There was a music store close to my house and I would always bike there with my friend. We would pretend we knew how to play.
How long have you been playing?
I’ve been playing for maybe 7 or 8 years.
Where do you get inspiration for new songs?
I get my inspiration from everything. Inspiration has no limits.
I saw you open for Matisyahu a couple of years back. What is it like sharing the stage with him?
Sharing the stage with Matisyahu is a great blessing. He is like my big brother. He has done so much for me. Whenever we are on stage together it is like electricity. It is pure joy.
What is your favorite venue to play?
I don’t really have a favorite venue to play, but I love small tight rooms where the crowd is really close to you. It makes it more intimate.
What is the largest crowd you have played for?
I was fortunate enough to do some shows with Stevie Nicks. We would play for a few thousand each night.
The smallest?
One time we did a tour through the south and played for about 2 to 10 people a night. Every club was totally empty.
I like the new hair cut. Do you prefer it long or short?
Long.
Any tattoos?
I have 10 tattoos.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?
I one time was on tour with Los Lobos. We had just finished a show with Los Lonely Boys. When I was thanking everyone, I accidentally thanked Los Lonely Boys instead of Los Lobos. The whole crowd booed at me. It was not fun.
Who would win in a pillow fight? Keaton Simons or Tyrone Wells?
(Thinks) They are both so nice, I couldn’t imagine them fighting or competing. 🙂
Tell me why every time I see you perform you never wear shoes.
I never where shoes because one, it is more comfortable. Two, the stage is a place of worship with me; kind of like a temple. We take our shoes off before going into a holy space.
What are your thoughts on MySpace?
MySpace is a great way for musicians to spread their music. It has been good to me.
Where are you originally from?
I am from South Carolina.
If you could live anywhere else in the world where would you go?
India.
Let’s say that you are offered a record deal for $250,000 but it is someone else’s lyrics and it is a rap album. Do you do it?
No.
Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?
I am a vegetarian so lots of veggies; but no garlic, onions, or olives.
Your lyrics are truly a collection of 3-minute stories. Tell me a story right now.
One time I dreamt that I was playing in a smokey room in Kentucky but then found out it wasn’t a dream. You can check it out at: http://www. youtube. com/watch?v=ez49laxC8ns.
Where will I be able to get a copy of that album?
I just recently recorded a new record in January of 2009. I recorded it with producer Marshall Altman. It was a wonderful experience and I was fortunate enough to have had a lot of people come and sing on it, such as Matisyahu, Colbie Caillat, and Krishna Das. It should be out around summer time and will be available in stores and on iTunes.
How old are you?
I have spent 22 years in this body.
Tell me what it is like working with Geffen Records.
I don’t work with Geffen Records anymore. I am now a Vanguard recording artist.
Who is the most memorable person you have shared the stage with?
Matisyahu.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
The Bauls of Bengal, Bob Marley, Matisyahu, and Neem Karoli Baba.
What was it like having a track in Shrek the Third?
It was wonderful to have a song in a big movie like Shrek the Third, although it was the last song of the credits! It was funny though; I got a lot of emails and message that said something like, “Hi my name is so and so and I am a janitor in the movie theater and I heard your song as I was cleaning up the theater.”
What are you drinking on stage?
Water.
What was it like filming the video for Liquor Store?
Filming the Liquor Store video was amazing. That was actually a photo shoot. I called my friend to have him just film the event and he made it into a video. It was really a spiritual experience to have and elephant paint me. I can’t really describe it.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
By God’s Grace, I see myself still playing music.
What do you want to be remembered for when this is said and done?
That is up to the people.
I always let the artist get the last word. Go.
Love Everyone, Serve Everyone, and tell the Truth.
