Ben Nichols of Lucero (@benlucero74) is on the show for this Part 2 of interviews from Winnetka Music Festival, a local Chicago fest, which took place June 19-20!!
Ben and I reflect on his many reasons for celebration these days including his new solo album entitled “In the Heart of the Mountain,” his first stand-alone effort since 2009, recently turning the ripe old age of 51, and all of this as Lucero quickly approaches their 30th year as a band.
Ben's a super affable guy -- refreshingly self-aware with a keen wit and a great sense of humor -- and he talks to me about the origins of Lucero and his own musical background influenced by the DIY scene in Little Rock. We also discuss the deep Memphis roots of the band, the influence of the South in Ben’s writing, and how raising a daughter as a touring artist has made all these landmarks that much more special.
This is a terrific interview, and we shared tons of laughs. You’re going to love this one!!
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00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg
04:25 - Introduction and Ben Nichols' recent performances
04:48 - The story behind Nichols' solo album "In the Heart of the Mountain"
05:44 - The role of collaboration with musicians like Morgan Eve Swain and Corey Brann
07:01 - Exploring different sonic textures outside of Lucero
07:47 - The emotional tone of the solo project: somber, pensive, and dark
09:01 - How solo work influences band dynamics and cohesion
10:10 - The appeal of melancholy and sad songs in music
11:15 - The musical elements that evoke deep feelings in songwriting
12:05 - Voice, vocal timbre, and the natural growl of Nichols' singing style
12:36 - Balancing the fun of rock and roll with somber, introspective tones
13:25 - The story of how Nichols became a singer and guitarist in his band
14:15 - The physicality and modern sound of Lucero's music
14:44 - Genre-bending nature of Lucero's albums and the band's resilience
15:37 - Nichols' Arkansas origins and their influence on his songwriting
16:39 - The nostalgic connection to Arkansas' landscapes and history
18:14 - Literary influences: Blood Meridian, Southern Gothic traditions, and Frank Stanford
19:44 - The history and cultural depth of Arkansas, including civil rights and Native American stories
21:16 - The beauty and darkness in Arkansas and Memphis environments
21:45 - The DIY punk scene in Little Rock and its influence on Nichols
24:38 - The impact of historical events like Little Rock Central High School desegregation
27:55 - Life as a father, blending family and artistic pursuits
29:46 - Memphis' musical legacy, Sun Studio, and influence on Lucero
32:30 - Recording locations and production choices shaping Lucero’s sound
35:46 - Why "Among the Ghosts" remains Nichols' favorite album
36:49 - The evolution of songwriting and how life milestones impact inspiration
39:06 - The band's upcoming projects and the future of Lucero
42:01 - Reflection on a nearly 30-year career, industry changes, and ongoing passion
44:02 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg
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Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer
