Matty Spindel

Ricktopia Interviews Originally Seen on www.ricktopia.com

Matty made it possible for Rick Springfield fans to get the most enjoyment out of a concert experience. Matty was the man responsible for MAKING IT LOUD!!!
He's the guy who mixed and switched the sound that rang through our ears at an RS show! Without Matty's efforts, being at an RS concert would have been like watching your television with the mute button on! Here's some really "informative stuff" about Matty the jokester (from the mouth of Matty)!

What do you do for fun when you aren't working?

I'm an assistant clown for Ringling Brothers'... God I love that little clown car.

How did you become a part of the Karma Tour?

I lost a bet in my previous life.

How did you get into sound engineering?

Oh shit! I must have lost two bets.

What was the last CD you bought?

Zamfir...."Rockin' Across America". He really is a hell of a pan flute player.

Are there any unique challenges about mixing Rick and the band?

I usually try to catch some shut eye when I'm "mixing" a show. But with this Rick guy I have to keep awake.

What other musicians have you worked with in the business?

Too many to mention. Let's see: Motley Crue, Scorpions, Santana, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Nicks, Soul II Soul, Sheena Easton, Tom Petty, Don Henley, All 4 One. I can't think. Too many years, too many clients.

What is the most interesting event/thing that you have witnessed on the Karma Tour?

That great big Goodyear tire in Detroit.

Professionally, what has been your greatest challenge?

Ducking from the flying underwear at a Springfield show.

What is an average work day like for "Matty" on the Karma Tour?

Let's see: I fly, I sleep, I twist some knobs, I dance, I sleep. Next.

Overall, do you feel that the Karma Tour is getting the fan support and feedback that you guy's expected at the beginning of the tour?

I really didn't expect anything.

How long have you been working in the music industry?

All my life, I've never had a real job.

What are your plans for after the Karma Tour?

I'm going to take Ronnie on a tour of the old folks homes. See which one he likes.

What equipment do you use?

Just as long as the consoles have buttons on them, I'll make it work.

What is the best/worst thing about your job?

I love music, I hate music, I love music, I hate music...I'm so confused.

This tour has been long and played many different types/size venues. How is it different to run sound in a club vs. a theater vs. a large venue?

It's not different at all. I just make it LOUD.

Who are your favorite artists/musicians?

Tiny Tim and The Partridge Family.

In one or two words, describe each member of the Karma Tour.

Rick: He pays me I have to say something nice.
Jack: Tall
Derek: His hair is longer than mine, I hate him.
Lance: Bald
Dave: Bald
Ronnie: Ssshhhh, don't tell anyone his hair is a wig.
George: Very handy

What computer experience do you have? Do you use computers to record/mixmusic?

My computer experience is very limited. Yes computers are a big part of my job.

What is your favorite city that you have visited (on this tour or anytime)?

Paris!

Who would you like to work with in the future?

Englebert Humperdink!

Do you play any instruments yourself?

I'm a drummer.

If you could choose any "other" career than the one you have now, what would it be?

Underwater basket weaver.

What made you want to be involved in a musical career?

I can't do anything else.

What do you think of the music today versus the music of yesteryears?

Music has always been great.

Where do you see yourself in the next 10-20 years?

Older.