Popdose - Latest Comments in The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

GetumEdge — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:54:20 -0000

"Field Day" was a great album and I loved Steve Lillywhite's production.In my opinion, Lillywhite and Don Dixon were the only producers to capture Marshall's live performance sound. I think over the years Marshall has been at a disadvantage because he never used the same producer twice. And even the band. It was a much tighter unit when his brother Robert played drums and Chris Donato played bass. I know many feel Kenny Arnoff is technically a better drummer than his brother. But there is a different vibe when Robert Crenshaw is pounding the skins.. Getting back to 'Field Day" I spoke to Marshall recently after his City Winery 30th Anniversary Show. He said Lillywhite gave him everything he wanted and was proud of the album. I agree... totally. I also know Marshall has recently had lunch with Steve.... the first time they talked in many years. I think Marshall and Steve have some really unfinished business. One could only hope that Marshall and Steve Lillywhite work together again. A bit of redemption. Get his brother on drums and track down Chris Donato where ever he is.. Chris was such an important part of the band in the early days. I think some Steve Lillywhite produced music would be a great way for Marshall to launch his subscription website. Something all his fans would love to hear. And maybe finally putting and end to something that has seems to really brothered Marshall;.
Marshall is truly a great talent....his song writing is incredible. It time for his due... and time for "His Turn".
Hey Marshalll. there are bunch of us out there that simply love your music..
Keep Rockin!!!

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

kjdale — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:02:34 -0000

Great interview of an under appreciated artist. Thanks

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

rob — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 22:14:33 -0000

One of the all-time best interviews. You did a great job, Jon. I've always liked Marshall Crenshaw. Now I like him even more.

A few random things:
• I actually saw Crenshaw headline his own "arena" show. Not quite a full-sized arena, but it was Georgetown University's McDonough Arena in 1985 during my senior year. The biggest highlight was him covering Jackie Wilson's "Reet Petite." Totally amazing.

•I'm among those who have publicly knocked "Field Day." Not so much because it's a criticism of Steve Lillywhite, but because I was so impressed with what Richard Gottehrer did with the first record. "Field Day" has grown on me, particularly in light of Crenshaw's quirky career arc. But I still would probably give my firstborn to hear Gotterher's take on "Whenever You're On My Mind."

•To credit Mr. Lillywhite (who graciously commented on my blog when I did a tribute to him a while back) he was pretty busy in 1983. And I can forgive whatever sins from "Field Day" because of the incredible job he did that same year on Big Country's "The Crossing."

•Crenshaw's recounting of his visit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland brought a smile to my face. Next month, I enter the University of Michigan's School of Information where this ex-journalist will pursue a master's in Archives and Records Management. One of the graduation requirements is that you spend six weeks on a practical internship during the summer – and one of the places that advertises with the S-of-I's career and internship office is the rock hall. No pay, but "FREE PARKING" and discounts on merchandise. I think I'll be going for it.

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

Old_Davy — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 22:21:16 -0000

This was a great read. Always been a big Marshall Crenshaw fan. His version of 2541 from "Miracle of Science" is wonderful. Going to order the new album tonight.

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

WHarrisBullzEye — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:38:18 -0000

Nice work, sir. I've never heard him talk about the WB years in such detail.

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

Edc90 — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 17:12:24 -0000

I never have understood the occaisional criticisms of "Field Day" (usually from fey indie-pop types deathly afraid of amplified sound). I, for one, always champion the now-maligned "eighties sound," which to me means something a bit more substantial than some tinny, compressed, downloaded mess that sounds like it was recorded in a closet. It is important for the kids to remember that back in the day everyone from The Sisters of Mercy to Prince knew that a kick drum went BOOM (+reverb) and nothing like the anemic farts we hear today.

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

DavidMedsker — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:34:19 -0000

Marshall: You guys are nice. This is a lot better than our show in Detroit.
Me: What happened in Detroit?
Marshall: (gives withering glare) I don't want to talk about it.
Me: Sorry.
Marshall: It's okay.
Me: Mental note: don't ever talk to Marshall Crenshaw. Ever.

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

DwDunphy — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:27:09 -0000

Requests of "Play Freebird!" will get that.

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

DavidMedsker — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:42:53 -0000

I personally think "Hold It" is one of the coolest things Crenshaw has ever done, and it is because of Lillywhite's gonzo production in the outro. Field Day rules.

This was a fun read. I've always wanted to interview Marshall, but ever since he shot me a withering glare at a concert, I've been a bit afraid of him.

Re: The Popdose Interview: Marshall Crenshaw

mojo — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 12:08:10 -0000

Great questions, good read--both of you!