In this interview we chat with The Texas Governor, but first, some history.
Perhaps most notorious for his work with the early 90’s Cult-Trio/Pranksters – The Elevator Drops, Goolkasian, along with bandmates Garvy J (DEVO) & The Man In Orange Suit, created a deranged form of Rock & Roll. Strange onstage – robotic movements – theatrical face paint – expressions that never came close to addressing the audience. The shows were always excellent, you left feeling like you’d stumbled into this bizarre, secret universe. The Elevator Drops inherent songwriting ability (Beautiful Junky – Be a Lemonhead, Elevator To Heaven), spawned a unique and dynamic pop sound which earned the Boston-based trio critical acclaim and opening slots on tour with (Garbage, Pulp, The Rentals, Echo & The Bunnymen, The Damnbuilders).
Fast forward to genesis of The Texas Governor.
Texas is big and looking around I too felt GIANT and capable of anything. Driving home across country, it seemed the further I got from Texas, the smaller and more incapable I felt. When I finally returned home, I felt puny and hopeless. Nonetheless I was determined to build a studio and make a record. In my dreams, the studio was grandiose. In my apartment, it was all lopsided wood, old blankets and used cardboard. The ceiling was low that I needed to crouch down rather uncomfortably to sing. In order to avoid passing out I used one hand to keep the cardboard “studio door” open to keep from feeling sick. You see, the discarded blankets which I used for sound proofing, had grown moldy. Despite all of this, I am happy. I just close my eyes and try to remember that BIG feeling I had felt in Texas.”
Introduce yourself to our readers and describe the style of music you create.
The Texas Governor’s music is simple – yet hard to describe. The influences are all over the map: a little bit country? a little new wave? a little…??? Goolkasian’s voice brings it together – gives it that emotional kick which makes it feel like the real thing. Perhaps Goolkasian describes the sound best:
The Texas Governor is a carbonated soft drink – a concentrate of filtered water and sweeteners.”
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing styles?
Modern Life, Ads, TV, HERO’s Dylan, Beatles, Coca-Cola.
Also, what motivates you to keep creating?
Lack of entertainment left to watch on Netflix.
What was the last song you listened to?
Sunset Highways – The Texas Governor
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
Great question. Writing & Recording Music is a very time consuming intense process. Promoting it too…NOOOOOOO
Do you gig, tour or perform through any live streaming services?
I play live when I feel like it.
Where can music lovers see you perform?
Catch me if you can!
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Thanks to a world of great Talented Musical friends: The Future Islands, Fellow Elevator Drops (Devo).
