Jeff Lescher has been putting out records since 1984. His band, Green, is one of my all-time faves. He's a unique talent with an eclectic group of influences - The Kinks, 40's/50's/60's pop songs, Big Star, The Beatles and more. If you haven't heard them before, maybe start with Green's 1987 album, Elaine MacKenzie. We talked with Jeff about his long career, a few of his regrets and his recent solo records. Of course, we also talked about his long history with the Chicago music scene.
Time Stamps:
3: When did you first become enamored by music?
8:34: When did you decide that you wanted to make your own music?
13:30: Did you think people would come around to your music or you just explored what you wanted?
16: You got critical acclaim eventually.
17: At what point did you think Green coalesced into what you wanted?
25: Elaine Mackenzie is quite varied, it's impressive.
30: Did you aspire to be a rock star?
39:45: You got to open for Husker Du at their final Chicago gig. How did that come together?
43:10: Looking back, do you feel like you wish you'd done something differently, or do you not regret any of it?
48:50: Why did europeans respond so favorably to the band?
51:40: You weren't following trends, you were just doing your thing.
53:30: What do you attribute the gap in Green releases to?
59:20: Do you want to continue to make music regardless as to whether or not it helps make a living for you?
60:50: Is there a reason you put out solo music instead of as Green?
65: There is a resurgence of power pop, does that surprise you?
67:14: Thick or thin crust pizza?
69: Where is your favorite place to play shows?
72:22: What makes Chicago unique?
80: What is your go to cheap drink?
81:29: Jeff is working on a podcast!
87:30: When is the next time we can see Green play?