Website: www.richieramone.com

 

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First off, how does it feel to still be touring after over 30 years in the industry?

 

It feels great to know that time has not changed anything and that I can still go out there and put on an aggressive show for everyone to enjoy. The music industry has changed but not my desire to

 

Is it strange to now have an album with just your name on it?

 

It is not strange just to have my name on it, it is strange that it is my first solo record. I never thought I would record my own album, but I'm glad I did. It just happened and was not something I thought about my whole career.

And with the current tour off the back of it, what can we expect from your live shows?

My shows are very intimate and I make everyone feel like they belong there, and are part of the show. I make sure to come out after every show and talk with the fans, take photos and see what is on their

 

You’ve got a few younger bands supporting you around the country, did you have a hand in picking them? 

 

My guitar player Alex knew the bands and we went with them. I love working with the younger bands as they are very energetic and really are excited to be there. The industry has not jaded them yet in any way.

How are fans reacting to the new material when you play it live?
It's always difficult to play songs no one has ever heard because it takes a while for them to sink in. It was great to hear some fans singing the new material with me though, and the people who never heard it have a bounce in their step.

Do you still get a rush from playing live shows?

 

That is the only reason why I write new songs etc.. In fact when I write, I can see in my mind how they will come off live. Everything is orchestrated around the live performance. With a new audience every night, you never know what is going to happen, and that is what makes the rush so special.

The music industry is in a very different place now to how it was in the 80’s, could you feel the changes being a constant part of it?
 

I think you just go with the flow. People don't buy records like they used to and the labels really don't offer you much in the way of support. You need to perform twice as much as before to make a living. Rock and roll has taken a back seat to all the other main stream music out there.

Festivals seem to be an important part of touring these days, can we expect to see you at any in the Summer?

 

We are working on that as we speak. Festivals are at the top of my list for 2015.

Do you keep up to date with new bands coming through? Who do you think is destined for the top?

 

I do a little, but am very careful when listening so that my music is not influenced by anybody. I think Teenage Bottlerocket is going to have a great year. They have something special going on.

Is there a venue or a country that you haven’t played yet that you’d love to play?

 

I really would like to play in Transylvania....

Have you got any plans for 2015 that you can let us in on?
Just more touring and writing. We will definitely put out another EP or album later this year.

Finally, what is your album of the year for 2014?
"Entitled". Funny you would ask that.

 

Brilliant. Thanks very much for taking the time to talk to us and best of luck with everything in the future!