Louie Mcneal

About Me

I have been playing for about 30 years give or take. There is very little I haven't played as far as genres go. Mostly guitar based music is all I really know so I can't really give much of an informed opinion on other stuff. I write a lot of songs and I play constantly as a solo artist, as part of a duo, a trio and have a full band depending upon the venue's budget but I still make time to play for the fun and joy of it. Really looking to get with some collaborators who have access to recording software and can send tracks via email so I can easily dump it into my software to create recordings that are a step beyond what I am comfortable with. Keep it interesting. Make sure it shines.

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What is music to you? What does it give you?

Music has always been a big part of my life. I was raised on the classics and fortunate enough to learn an instrument that requires very little technology (that came later). I spent 20 years as an employee in a recording studio learning every trick in the book when it came to analog recording and transitioned into digital phase fairly easily. I started writing lyrics for other people before learning the guitar myself and I've written literally hundreds of songs. I've had some mild success in the publishing end as well. Now I just play 4-5 nights a week either as a solo artist, as part of a duo and a trio and also a full on 4 piece band so I am never left wanting for a vehicle to push my music. It has become my life.

What is your music dream?

Living it now. I make a decent living performing and recording music regionally and just famous enough to get an occasional wave or free drink but not famous enough to have to have security people around me.

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

I don't see a need to change anything. Most would want world peace or an end to suffering but I would argue that this would lead to a very boring and sterile existence. How would you even know pleasure if you've never experienced any pain?

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

Satisfaction by the Rolling Stones. The distorted guitar just jumped out and grabbed me and I've been hooked since.

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

All the British invasion and classic rock bands are my favorite but I also love to hear good new music as well. No neo-country pop or formulaic music though.

What inspires you to make music?

Mostly things that evoke strong emotions.

What is the message you want to send with your music?

Music either hits you above the neck or below the belt. Avoid any music that punches you in the gut too hard.

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

Alive

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

File sharing really killed it as far as being able to profit off of what you write. The only way to make a living at it is to perform whenever you can.

What do you think of Drooble?

Don't know yet, Just got here. So far so good.

What frustrates you most as a musician?

Short attention spans

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

I try, but I honestly do not have the opportunity to get out and see any bands. I am always playing when they are lol.

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

Persistence and the willingness to take criticism without taking it personally.

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

Tyler Childers