Sep 5, 2001 - Issue #16

Sorry to be so long, but as most of you know I've been busy lately. I think I did the last Horse's Mouth somewhere in mid June. So. The story picks up with:

Arty Davis: Noted A.T.B.T. Liverpool

Al Trombetta: Yeah, the trouble with doing other people's songs is after you've done yours, you immediately have to change gears into the next artist. Often I had to change guitars and kapos. You really didn't get much time to notice what the audience did on your particular songs. Too busy getting ready for the next one.

Mike C. asks if Mott opened for other bands. Sure, both in America and in England. Let's see: Free, King Crimson, Traffic, Mountain, Quicksilver Messenger Service, B.B. King, Albert King - tons of people.

Jane T.: Don't know about Austin yet, want to though.

T.G. Re: Brooklyn clubs - noted.

Brian Chase: Unfortunately not too great a site when it comes to locating past records.

Jaume gil: Barcelona and the Artful Dodger was all I understood!

Larry Dellerba: We will play a lot of "RANT" on the fall tour.

DonPanter: It's not an autobiography - it's a diary (titled, "Diary of A Rock Star") and it was about a tour we did in the early 70's. Try Helter Skelter on Denmark Street in London.

Alan Sack loves "RANT" and asks if I am as confident a singer as I am a songwriter? I'm getting there.

Rita Coranado: The "Thunderthighs" credit on the Mott album referred to the three girl singers that were used on that album.

Owen Kelly: Congrats! Glad to have been of some assistance!

J.Z. - Miss Silver Dime was OK. It was the rockers I didn't like.

Mark says "RANT" is effin awesome. Good lad; spread it about.

Angel loves "RANT" and says I've grown up and am playing with the big boys. I will never grow up and I've always played with the Big Boys. In the nicest possible sense.

Euron Griffith: Thanks for what you're doing on BBC Radio Cymru. Try 'em on "Purgatory" for me. Thanks.

Hans Holm wants to know if "RANT" will come out in Sweden. Yes, it will. Papillon are in negotiations as we speak.

Jeff Hill tells me KGSR gives a fair amount of airplay to "RANT". "Wash Us Away" in particular in Austin. Nice one.

Vosmo asks what reaction do I get when I play "Ripoff" in England? A great one - they sing along. It's a little hard to digest, but it's honest and it happens to be true. A couple of the guys have said they'd like to poke me, but I'm right. That's as far as it went.

Steven Petrus: Ringo rang me and you had nothing to do with it. Sorry.

Lauren: Nothing in Connecticut. They're too tight with the money at Toads.

Andrew Freedman: I passed it onto Trudi

Rich: I've always liked Les Paul Juniors. They're simple. My mate Rick Tedesco at Guitarhangar.com found me a couple of 1956 ones recently. I A/B's them with the old Fender and the Paul's sounded better. By the way, they are both sun burst - not black. Mark Snyder, my road tech with Ringo has done a great job cleaning them up for me. Did I ever have juniors before I ask, I ask myself. I don't think I did. I had look alikes (Guild had copies). You pick them up - you play them - either you like them or don't. Don't be swayed by brand names. If a guitar feels good to you - play it. Whether it's cheap or expensive doesn't matter. It's what suits you. "Once Bitten Twice Shy" is in open G. "Wash Us Away" is in ordinary tuning. I may have used a kapo.

Terry Camp: Noted.

Colin Powell is in Dubai for a week and can't find "RANT". No distribution in Dubai. My best mate at school was a guy called Colin Powell (from Shrewsbury).

Garrett Lee loves "RANT" and "Artful Dodger". Spread the word.

Karen Stuart: Spread the word - keep spreadin' Kelly Boles: What on earth are you talking about?

Freddie Musgrave: 1) I don't know as of now if we'll be in San Diego - not looking too good. 2) "When My Mind's Gone" was live steam of consciousness. 3) "Ships" was and is personal. Thanks for loving "RANT" Spread it.

Cliff, Patty, Travis & Danielle - I know I'll never "sink to the bottom..." I was just having an off day, that's all.

Mike Gebhardt: Andy doesn't recall your name what do you need from him.

Joe Torlucci: Are you really a Mayor? Wow, that is scary! (But not overly). Best of luck to you.

Paul Coombs: Says Stan Tippins was the unsung hero of Mott the Hoople. I don't know about unsung. We sang his praises to high heaven and still do. Actually Stan and Rtichie are both pretty well off these days. Stan still tour manages SADE and done for years. He also did the Pretenders for a long time. He has a small holding in Herefordshire. I still see Ritchie whenever I'm in the UK and he's still a handsome lad. Less hair becomes him!!! He's still got all his hair (Stan hasn't) but it's short now and I think it looks better.

Judy wants me to play a gig with Jesse. Sure - we'll bring the gear over to your house.

Rick Goward: Guy Stevens turned me onto Escher. I love any challenge to normalcy. Rob B. wants to know what I am referring to in "Soap 'n' Water"? Something I should have addressed earlier.

Frank Jewson wants the single "Roll Away The Stone". Anybody?

Keith Braincapers: Don't know. You forgot Cuddles in this equation. Equally as good and gorgeous to boot!

Richy Crewczeck: Thanks for the sentiments

Tibor: As far as I know Donny shipped them and Mick got them. I've got a few of them here so all's well that ends well. I won't stop. Promise.

Jay Sciascia thanks Todd for the new look - and so do we.

Crazy Bob says 99% of all other web sites suck. Congrats to Todd on us being in the top 1%!! Thank you Bob.

Dave Wyngaarden: Spread the word!

Roland: Gerry Weems was a guitarist from Las Vegas who was opening for Mick and I at one point. When Mick went off with Dylan I got Gerry to play on "All American Alien Boy" Classy player.

Mike Sinagora wants CD's of Mad Shadows, Brain Capers, The Hoople, AAAB, Overnight Angels, All of the Good Ones Are Taken" Try ebay. Any suggestions?

Leesa J says Susie Ronson should put darker highlights in my hair as it looks too bleached out. That's not bleach - that's white hair - but I'm glad you still think I'm gorgeous.

Tim Brown: Steve Poppovich was managing the Iron City Houserockers (and he also managed Mick and me). From what I can remember Steve produced them and Mick and I helped out a bit.

Andrew Gawley: Noted. Glad you enjoyed the Astoria.

Ray/Sheila: Too late now! It would have been difficult anyway. Just reading the email now. It was that hectic.

Tony Farinacci: Glad you enjoyed the Hall of Fame gig; remember you all. Regards to your Sister and Mother. Noted.

Richard Mills: What chance of Ringo coming to the UK? Wrong web site old chap - try Ringo's! If he wanted me and if I was available - sure. It was a blast.

Chris Hetherington: Irving Plaza - October 21st! See you there!

Dave Clark: Along with a lot of other older fans was afraid to get "RANT"" because he thought it might not measure up to the old stuff. How wrong Dave was!! Let that be a lesson to all you other old chaps who have stopped believing!!! Spread the word, Dave.

John Shortt wants New York area dates for October and November. They should be on our site right now!

Ron White says "RANT" is outstanding - what taste!

Pete says "Love the new songs - all the best" Thank you Pete.

Eric Lensing: Did we meet at the Horseshoe. I know I met a few people. Hope you got the book signed.

Glenn asks if there's any chance of gigs in Japan. Never say never. Kristen: Give my best to Weird and Gilly.

Tom: Get "RANT".

Stuart Sheaver - I remember the football ground. Very posh.

Anders Hjelmtorp: Try Papillon Records in London.

Howard H: Unfortunately, for you Trudi was on the road with me so I only got this post tour. It was busy and tight, but I enjoyed Tampa. We had a ball. I'll give you a ring when my ears recover. I can't hear much at the moment. The plane and the West Coast did 'em in. Both infected.

Tom asks why no Earl Slick since Overnight Angels? I don't know. You go from one project to the next and you get involved with new people and it keeps it exciting. Earls's a good pal of mine. He has to be - I know his real name!

Bert: Netherlands. Loves "RANT" even traveled to the Astoria a couple of times. Thanks and keep spreading the word.

Merrick Rotenberry: 36 and up to date on everything. Will I play the south? I doubt it Merrick, but watch this site for details of the tour. Sorry about your friend. It happens.

Jeff: I don't know about video clips so I'll pass this to Trudi.

Mike Orr: I think we're doing Philly.

Helene - Hope you enjoy yourself!

Dave Rowe, I don't want to talk about DVD's. Murphy's law and all that - but something's going on.

Graham E went to Liverpool, Newcastle, Dallas and Oklahoma. It's a bugger all this traveling, isn't it?

Jerry O asks if Ringo has heard "RANT" yet. He won't listen to any "outside" music while on tour. But he has it now and also has Tracie's CD.

Joey Bringle: IAN HUNTER was a famous British character actor - no relation. My surname is actually, Patterson. Ian Hunter being my first and middle names respectively.

Dave Clark loved New castle. Says it almost made up for the Mott cancellation at Newcastle City Hall in '74. I remember that. 2,000 of you booed me off!!!

Love God: It's no longer Mouton Cadet. My taste has risen to Sam Adams on tap. See you soon. Regards to the chaps.

Dean R : Appreciated. Get "RANT" Tom Adler asks when am I going to be on the Simpsons? I'd make a great cartoon character. Ring 'em up Tom, I could do with a break over here!! Nick: Hope you enjoyed the Rio.

Nigel Woodall: Hello, Nigel. Was it No. 7? You know, I never did know. I knew it was a terrace, but there your go. Thanks for that.

Karolyn wants the UK version of "RANT" Papillon's the English label.

Scott Trapani wants "All of the Good Ones Are Taken" and has been looking for six years. Sony is the one to have a moan at. The primary motivation behind "Death of a Nation"? The lack of confidence in the British ruling classes.

Ian Lewis loves "RANT" How many songs were recorded and how many made the final cut. "RANT" began in 1998 with "Morons" and finished itself last autumn with "No One." After "No One" everything stopped. Twelve songs written; twelve songs recorded. That was it. Nothing was officially filmed or recorded in England. There has been an offer here, but it's too early to say anything.

Michael W. Smith: Glad to be of service.

Conrad wonders what YUI Orta is. The 3 Stooges old line.

Richard suggest live recordings of Pearl 'n' Roy, Saturday Gigs and Golden Age for the next UK single release. I'll tell them if I can get hold of them. I don't think these tracks were recorded anyway.

Bryan Barberot: New Orleans. No Mott reunion - no - no - no!!! Thinks Mott's live album rates highly. Thanks.

John Rathwell: Stout fellow!!!

Paul Reece loves "RANT" Spread the word, Paul.

Ian Lewis asks how did "Good Samaritan" come about. Ah - you know - some old memory from somewhere.

Jane McKay: His best bet is for you to watch the web site and tell him what's going on. We don't send leaflets, sorry.

Pete Morris - Woffy left Northampton and now lives in the Boston area. That's why you haven't see him. The sax effect was coming from Andy York.

Ian Kell loves "RANT: but totally disagrees with me. We shall see - we shall see. Hope you're right.

Mike W.: Sorry - no news on David Werner. Anybody?

Steve Parsons: Good, wasn't she?

Dave Foucher: I've known Andy for about 18 months, maybe 20. He's been with John Mellencamp for 7 years. It looks like he will tour with me in the fall. Steve Holley will be there as will James Mastro. Tony Shanahan will play bass and Steve's found a keyboard player, George Wood, whom he loves. The tour band in England was Ian Gibbon (keyboards), Paul Cuddeford (Cuddles - on guitar), Andy on guitar, Gus Goad on Bass and Steve on drums. The press were fine with "Ripoff". Hell, it wasn't as if I was saying something they didn't already know. I don't have the play list at hand, but we did 7 or 8 "RANT" songs, a few of the favourties and a couple of the odd ones.

Steve H.: Astute observations. I think Andy and Pags listened to a lot of albums they loved and sort of put me in there. There was a deliberate attempt not to make it sound too good if you know what I mean. It's a fine line and I think they got it. Lovely team. The 3 Musketeers. The feeling was the song's were uppermost in every bodies minds. The songs came first and you can't ask for a bigger compliment. Nobody tried to do it "his way." They just followed the songs and tried to present them in the best possible light. You say that Cuddles seemed more relaxed. Well, he should be. He's fab, and now he's beginning to believe it. It could be, indeed, the dreaded guitar in "Mother". I do it on purpose just to annoy him!

Marc Sutton: Sid Vicious.

Peter suggests a remix of Mott's live album. Buffin's department. You say here I was disappointed with the mix. I remember some stuff about one side they had to put on phony applause because the ambient mikes hadn't kicked in, but the mix was fine as far as I can remember.

Greg Luker: We are playing both Boston and Cleveland. Which gig are you coming to - from Australia!!!

Tim Smith: Another one who was nervous that "RANT" wouldn't match up. Don't worry about "RANT". Worry about the one that has to follow it!

Dan Patrick: When we recorded AAAB Jaco was as fit and as strong as a horse. Bear in mind he was still only 21. Then he went to LA.....

Julian Richards: Julian, why do you have to ask me all these questions when my hand's dropping off? 1) All the songs made the final "RANT" CD. 2) No out takes. 3) Get me a video - I'll buy it. 4) There's always a chance of doing "Laugh At Me" 5) Ringo was just in the States 6) No, I've never thought of just doing a CD or video for fans. I just don't think that way.

Pixx: Says musicians hate computers. Well, I do. Never touch the things. Trudi does all that stuff. Why didn't I do a diary on line when I was in England? No time. Ever try hooking up an American computer in an English hotel? (Trudi has!!) The news pages are fine. Sometimes people can't do them - they're on their holidays, kids sick - maybe they fired. People have lives outside the web. Anyway, who's getting what for doing it? We're not selling anything. Lighten up, sunshine. Glad you like "RANT". "Dead Man Walkin'"? Take a guess.

Marty Petosa loves "RANT" and invites me to a Barbecue at PNC Arts center which was ages ago. Hope you enjoyed it.

Paul Pofahl: Indianapolis. Sorry to hear about Charlie. He was always straight with us.

Viccy: So now there's the two of you!

Ian Lewis was in Tokyo. "RANT" and all the other albums are available over there. He says "RANT" was featured in Virgin and Tower. All I know is they've had one in my local K-Mart now for three months and no one has bought it!

Steve Robinson: Don't know.

Boneman: Coming to Detroit November 3rd.

Richie: I'm back and I'm knackered. Got some good stories.

Peter J.S.: The thing is, I'll be in Canada (Toronto) October 31st, thereby saving you a trip. Enjoy. The English version of "RANT" sounds exactly the same as the American version. It's just the English order that I prefer.

Tim Gallagher: Why should the liner notes match. I had alternatives so I used 'em. Blightly means England. War term. Thanks for being "bowled over" - love all these reactions to "RANT".

Scott Smith: We've already covered Andy's involvement.

Keith Geddes: My - we 're in a snit. Can't say I blame you though.

Tim Hughes: The song you're referring to is called "Give Me Back My Wings" and it only appears on a BBC album which was recorded in London around 1989/90. The album's very good if you can find it. I was going to put it on "YUI ORTA" but we never had time. I have a demo of the song with Robbie Altar on it which is magnificent.

JFAZZ: It's not as easy as all that, you know.

Lynn Harding: I only just got this email so I'm running very late, but here is No. 43. Happy Birthday Simmy!!!! (that's how you spelling his name.)

Andrew Field: Thank you Andrew!

Pete (or Bloodwyn as he's known by the band) was the chortler in question.

Rick Graves: Yes, I'll be in the Midwest on the fall tour. Check this site. Why was I upset in Indianapolis in '89? Don't know. It's a long time ago.

Kelly Turner prefers me to Bon Jovi!! A slight adjustment of the old glasses is imminent I fear, Kelly.

John White asks if AAAB would have been a big hit, would my subsequent career have gone a different path. ala Neil Young. Did I blame CBS? Yes. Did I blame my manager? Yes. Was there a grave lack of imagination in the promotion of that record? Yes. Did they get what I was doing? No. They just put it out and left it and it died. Am I pissed? No. You've heard it - you love it. I survived and I'm not hard up. Why worry about stuff that happened long ago. Can't do anything about it. Glad you like AAAB. It was Mick's favourite Ian record and Mick didn't even play on it. Glad you enjoyed the Astoria.

Karen and Murray Smail love "RANT" and think it's nearly as good as AAAB!!!! Give it time.

Bob Kleb: My shades are Cazal (German). Hard to find.

Eric Vegas: Nothing personal Eric, but I find producing extremely boring. You get none of the credit if the band makes it and all of the credit if they don't. Best of luck with the band. Now, go find yourselves a proper producer. Glad you like "RANT".

Bernie McSherry enjoys "RANT". We'll be in Jersey soon.

Adam McIntyre: Loves "RANT" and is spreading the word.

Paul Stirk: Dates are here. How do you get lost in Nantwich?

Linda Johnson: Hope you enjoyed it. Did you get through?

Steve Andrews: Dead Man Walkin' - Once Bitten.

Pee Jay: NO! Fred and Karen Morrow said that Chester was the best concert ever!!

Steven Perkins: Says "RANT" is as good as anything I've done (it's actually better, Steven); and he says England is still good. I never said it wasn't - it's the buggers that are running it and ruining it that I have a problem with.

Mike Duford: Loves the web site. Are Mott the Hoople reuniting? No. I am coming to Detroit on November 3rd.

John Horvath thinks "RANT" is fantastic - what taste!

Victoria B.: Interesting. Says she knows Bob Dylan is a big influence, but our music's poles apart. Is it more spiritual than musical? Could be Vickie, but check out "God" on All American Alien Boy. Loves the site; says it's trendy - oops.

Greg Naugle: No one knows my email address. Elaborate, here.

Mitch remembers a gig at the Ford Auditorium that Mott did with Captain Beefheart and Flo and Eddite. I don't, sorry.

Richard Tofa: As I've told others, I haven't a clue where to get these albums. I don't keep track and I don't have a lot of them myself. Try e-bay.

Steve Sizemore: Don't ever remember playing Kentucky, although I'm told "RANT" is selling well in Louisville. Looks like Cleveland or Minneapolis might suit you. Check the news page for fall dates.

Chris Cruz saw me with Ringo - loved "Dudes". 20 years old and "just discovering this music". Keep digging kid.

JFazz saw the "Today" show. My guitar was off in the first song. Still who knows at that time in the morning. We got in from the casino in Connecticut at 3 AM and I was awoke by a sadistic tour manager at 4:30 AM. Sound check was at 6 AM. It's OK if you're watching it in bed, but it's murder doing it!

Andy Morgan's girlfriend is a convert!!! Loved the Manchester gig. Nice one.

James Herbert loved Jones Beach. Says he was up even though he was on crutches. Good for you mate.

Chuck Baehr says there is a great little article in the Chicago Tribune.

Bill Henderson: Are we doing San Diego in the fall? Not as yet. but we're still working on it.

Andy Ellis loves "RANT". No Ringo's tour didn't go to Baltimore, but I think my tour does. Check the front page for details.

Frank Campagna says "ageism" sucks ('re: evening news piece), and of course I agree (would I have done so 25 years ago?) one of life's little hypocrisies! Frank's going to Billy Bob's in Dallas in a couple of weeks which means he probably went. We had a great time. It's Ringo's favourite gig, but Sheila didn't like it. Not because of the gig, but because of the lights. The ceiling was so low she probably lost 14 pounds that night.

Jonesy wants to know if "hey you - you with the glasses" was directed at him and his girlfriend at the Old Waldorf in San Fran all those years ago. I do actually remember that place, but no, it's a line I've used for years - sorry.

Kouri: Noted

Phil Gatz: Thanks!

Chuck Cameron wants a gig in Orlando. So do I mate, so do I. Loves "RANT". So do I; so do I.

Pete Lewis: Loved the Astoria. Yes I am coming back next year (I think). Dale Turner: Re: "RANT's" "Death of A Nation". That was written a semi tone down in open G tuning. Don't ask me what the second middle section is. I just twiddled my finger until I found what I wanted.

Tom Sutherland: Disc Record Convention? No - it's gone. I remember in stores with Mick. One in Cleveland where we got keys to the city. Whatever happened to the radio in that town?

Alex Roberts: My that was a long letter! Wants to see me in the Hall of Fame. Hey - who gives a sh_t, but thanks anyway.

Karen Rice says "RANT" is great, but (more importantly) what should she call her rescued bulldog. Bentley - without a doubt. (Winston's the popular one.)

Scott: "RANT" again. Thanks.

Mike Constanza: "RANT" again. No, I never will be invited to the palace for tea, but then again, would I go if I were invited?

Phil is raving on about technology giving us web sights and a chance to converse etc. Progress sometimes does beget progress.

Something's gone funny here on my web sheet. So I pick up again on an email from:

Jeff Halsey: I don't know Joe Droukas, but you say Genya Raven recorded his song, so maybe it was "Junkman" which Genya and I recorded together a few years back.

Ernie Meditz: The song you refer to at the Jones Beah gig was "Irene Wilde" off "All American Alien Boy"

Kevin Baggot: I'm coming to Toronto on October 31st. Check this site for details.

Eric Mullens says he thinks "this would make a great Multi tour band in 2002". Unfortunately, the bands he names are not here. Try again Eric!

Charlie Hyneman says his mate thought MTH were avant garde. I've heard 'em called a lot of names, but not that!

Bob C. loves "RANT". Loves "Diary" Moving form Chicago to Maidstone. Bit of a schlepp that, Bob. See you in 2002.

Phil loves the web site and wishes Leslie West "would get a decent web sight". If I see him, I'll tell him. I still talk to Corky once in a while. Leslie, however, marches to his own drum and more power to him It's that "RANT" again.

Web site honours and thanks to Todd Delong with a little help from our friend, Justin Purington.

Paul Alvarez asks where he can buy BBC live in concert? Don't know mate. We just play them, we don't sell them. It's worth getting though. It's good. Steve Holley plays great on it.

Rick Goward: Some of the dates (the confirmed ones) should already be on the web site. I'm not announcing the band yet, but I know who they are and I'm happy. Freddie Fingers Lee still plays up the north of England. When I was in Newcastle the promoter gave me a message from him with a phone number. I tried the number several times, but it didn't work. So if anybody knows Fred - tell him I did try.

Larry lee Swieca - another "Rant" ophile!

Rete Mac is off to get "RANT" after the gig at Rama. I think that's the first Ringo gig.

Tommy Green loved Jones Beach. Well, Brooklyn's ON Long Island - right?

Steve Mahun: Noted.

Steve, be patient. It's been incredibly busy and continues to be so. Say hello to the lads!

Eric Mullens: Noted. Passed on.

Hugh saw the Ringo tour in Holmdel. Check fall dates on this site. Irving Plaza is the New York date on October 21st.

Craig Larson saw three Ringo shows and man they were hot !! Yes, the fall dates will be posted on this site.

Simon Goffe: I remember Victoria Hall in Stoke. Very echoey. I usually play England in the spring.

Greg Naugle: I appreciate your interest but life is not as easy as all that, now is it?

DMJ: only got half of your message which refers to Sheila E being mighty easy on the eyes. She's mighty easy on the heart too!! An absolute pleasure to work with.

Bob Barnes enjoyed Portsmouth with Ringo. Flew in from England. Praises everybody (especially me, of course). Will Ringo tour Europe. Who knows. He had a great time and was tremendous fun to be with. We bonded! It was so eclectic we had to! A lot of you are saying I was fab and you don't talk much about the other chaps (and the lady!). This makes me a trifle uneasy. What are they saying on Roger's site or Greg's or Sheila's or Howard's, Ringo's or Mark's????? I enjoyed everybody equally - I really did. To me it was a band; a band that worked and I'm all the happier and wiser for it. Ringo was a gas and obviously he's the guy that puts most of the bodies in the seats enabling us to strut our stuff. It was an experience I wouldn't have missed for the world and that includes "Yellow Submarine". It's a good pop song. I like anything that's good. I don't like things that are bad. The word "cool" has become a little trite to me over the past few years. Too many people don't know the meaning of it.

Andrew Field: OK, OK. Here we go again! 1) The story of "Drive in Saturday". Did we cover it or rehearse it? To the best of my recollection I had this arrangement worked out in my head and wanted to do it. I said to Tony Defries that I wanted Mott to do it, but he said NO. The way DB tells it - he offered it to us and we turned it down. The only thing I can think of is Tony was telling me one story and David another. 2) At Christmas time in either 72 or 73 I got a call from David. I was shattered after a U.S. tour and jet lag. David asked me to go down to London on the morrow to discuss Mott ideas of which he said "were important". I duly ruined our Noel by plodding off down to Hadden Hall with Trudi. By the time I arrived Fred was already there and David did play peekaboo - only it wasn't with me. Fred went to Hampstead Heath and we all went out somewhere. The important Mott ideas. Who knows. Silly bugger. Angie was a lot of fun - uncontrollable though. 3) I haven't got the time at the moment. 4) Don't like doing this kind of stuff.

Clyde Miles - Get "RANT"

Dave Simpson - Thanks for your support and glad you like the Leeds gig. "A diamond in a sea of plastic" well, it was vinyl actually. I'll be back!

Ivy: Now you tell me! We were both out; and have just got back. Got your number now anyway. Love, I & T

Michael Battiste: Thanks.

Robin Bryson: Again, I think the web's messing up or perhaps it's the printer. This guy saw us in Atlantic City, but I turned the page and you come from Pinner, UK. Well, this is for both of you. 1) The Atlantic City guy asks who my favourite authors are: Graham Greene, Ian Mc Ewan, George Orwell and Dylan. 2) No, I don't generally change my opinions on anything. I feel the same now, basically, as I did when I was 11. Some songs stand up - some don't. 3) Any info on the autumn tour is on this site. Then we jump to Pinnar! Apparently I said there would be guns in schools in "Diary". I didn't know that; thanks for telling me. Thanks for the rest of your email too. Get "RANT".

Steve Walker saw the hand in Rock Circus in London and loves "RANT". Nice one.

Don Krider: Editor of Power Pop News and he loves "RANT". Thanks. Keep spreading the word.

Klaus asks is it true I'm doing an acoustic gig in Cardiff October? No - but I wouldn't mind sometime. Fuel 2000 recently released "Death of a Nation" here as a single. The "B" side is live versions of "Dudes" and "Wash Us Away". I think at the moment they've only gone to radio. The live versions are from the Craig Kilborn (American late night TV) show which I did a couple of months ago.

Willie Robinson: No, I don't have the Maltese Cross. Some guy in England has it.

Peter Hornberg: You've just posted it. I just saw it and now I'm answering it. OK?

David Steiger: This fall we'll be in the New York area. Watch this web site for the dates.

Dave Hall: What happened in Tampa was I was with Len Fico right up until I went on and forgot where I was. Thanks for noticing!!!

Rick Graves: No, I never did think I'd be singing "my brother's back at home with his Beatles and his Stones". In fact, I never even realized until they started cheering that line on the tour. There you go! Incidentally, Ringo loves the song. That's why he put it where he did.

Charlie Warman: I get the Shrews, but who's the Shrimpers?

Hope loves "RANT". Will we make it to the West Coast in November. As of now I truthfully don't know, but if we don't you can put the blame squarely on lousy LA radio. I don't know if you'll see me on Drew's show in the fall, but he got up in LA and emailed me it was one of the best nights of his life. Lovely bloke.

Jeff loves "RANT" The gig in New Jersey will be sometime in late October - I think it's the 26th.

Tommy Green: Again, the printer or something is messing up and I only got half of your message. Who is BDS?

Matt Rowe loves "RANT" - again the LA question. It's not my fault if I can't tour there. Blame LA radio.

Dan Kiernan: Yes, I hear from Luther now and again. Last I heard he was doing well; lives in England. WATTA BLOKE!!!

JFazz says great reading Ringotour.com to hear of all the new fans I'm getting plus an enemy or two along the way!! hey - as long as Ringo ain't one of them - who cares. Hey, Deli manager at $5 rise is OK.. There's been times when I'd have taken it.

Charlie: Little Richard was a dishwasher in Macon, Georgia. So there -- you got an answer - and a true one at that.

Frank Campagna: On Billy Bobs - yes, it as mobbed. I was watching the rodeo kids outside the dressing room door. Amazing experience. I don't know if many of them knew me, but I felt right at home y'all.

Sweet says it's a disappointment tot see gigs already being advertised in the fall without seeing them here first. We don't want to put them up until everything's signed and confirmed.

Michael Corbett thinks "RANT" is awesome. Who is "Boy" about? Well, I don't really know myself. That was at a time I was writing what was hitting me. It just came. I see different people in it.

Usil wants to know what a slag is. It's a lady(?) who puts it about. Bryan McGowan absolutely loves "RANT". (bloody hell, how am I gonna follow this one.) Spread the word.

Tony Martin says Jeb Wright at ClassicRockRevisited.com posted a review on his web site. He hopes it does "RANT" justice. Everything helps, Tony. Thanks.

Steve Bumblis was at Ringo's gig in Chicago and has pictures. Actually, Steve, that gig was recorded and should come out on DVD sometime in January.

Donald Mease was at the Chicago show too. Says drop "Cleveland Rocks" and replace it with "Memphis" or "Once Bitten" Bit too late for that now. I'm done!

Andy Gowley's wife loves, "Knees of My Heart". Good one. Hope you got to Las Vegas. I did but I didn't particularly like it.

Doug - Never did live in London, Ont.

Richard says "RANT's" amazing! Great - spread the word. We'll be there.

Kenny Belanger: Don't know where I'll be - that's part of the fun. But it's Marsha Vlasic at MVO that you want. She books the gigs - I just play 'em if I'm in the neighborhood.

Ole: Keep late January open in Oslo - I may surprise you Norwegian chaps.

Rita McConnachie: It's not that we're not interested. We're overrun with work at the moment. Hold onto it until things quiet en down a bit. Less Boucher - Get "RANT" Joan McHugh can't get "RANT" out of her CD player. Spread the word! Like I said, no airplay on the West Coast. LA is bought and sold. I just keep battling as does Fuel 2000. It's hard to gig without airplay. We haven't given up yet, but it doesn't look good for gigs.

Richard Lloyd: The album you are referring to is called "All of the Good Ones Are Taken" and was distributed by SONY. Try EBay.

Tony Adams: I'm hearing lots of good things about Kentucky. We are getting airplay in Louisville and it translates into sales. We'd love to come and we are working on it with Fuel 2000. Thanks to your record shop for turning the kids onto "RANT" - it's much appreciated.

Patrick asks us to consider Toads place. They've got to up their price.

Rush Evans: Austin is another place I'd love to play, but I'm light all around it so it's an expensive run. We're working on it. Austin, Texas is playin' "RANT" and I appreciate it. Yes, Sheila and I did discuss Alejandro Escovedo and she knew "I Wish I was Your Mother". He never turned up at a Ringo show, but her brother and her father played with us and that was quite a thrill. Sheila was fantastic, buy playing with the family that night was memorable.

John: Only got half the email, but we are doing Irving Plaza on October 21st. Check this site for other local venues.

Craig loves the web site. Wants gigs in California. I can't believe how many people are requesting West Coast gigs. Nag your local radio stations - they won't touch us. A lot of people in California don't know "RANT" is even out. Fuel are very frustrated with the LA radio stations in particular. Bought and sold.

Ken Hottmann: Glad you love "RANT" The cops had me over for drinking outside the club!! They knew me too! Bastards!!

J. O. Reinhard: All the best with "Shake em all Down" Watch out for "RANT" I think it will be out on "Road Runner when Universal finish the take over.

James Wesley Young: Who I think wanted to meet me Concord, but it's too late now. Sorry about that James.

David Leonard: I don't know what you are talking about so I'll pass this onto Trudi. Keith Zola: Thanks for the interest, but I'm really busy. Maybe we can do it in Cleveland.

John O'Rourke loves "RANT" too. Continue spreading the word!!!

Roland P. We'll try. It's up to promoters basically. Glad you like Tracie's stuff. Join the club.

Russ Reynolds: Thanks for battling on my behalf and trying to get your station to add a "RANT" song. The policy at a lot of Classic Rock stations is to play the old songs and never the new ones. The directive comes from some consultant who tells up to 1400 stations what to play. It's frustrating for the PD's and the Jocks, but its the industry that's caused this mess.

Steve R. loves "RANT" Say it again!

Simon Barnett: Noted and passed on. P.S. The English label is Papillon and the UK agent is Emma Banks (Helter Skelter Agency). Robert Holmes sent me an email, but I didn't get it - just the signature.

John G. Cartwright asks what triggered "Letter to Brittania". Same thing that triggered "RANT" 25 years later.

Kenneth Mihalik: Hey Ken - life's one constant audition and we're all in the middle of it. All the luck in the world.

Michael Murray: The short answer at this point is that we don't know. But yes, it would be November.

Steve Lemco: It's up to the promoters. It's in the hands of the gods!!!

Catherine digs "RANT". Thanks for the photo; still got it. It's one of the few that survived the tour.

Ines asks when does Ian Hunter play in Germany? When he doesn't get ripped off and messed about by people like George Young.

Scottish Graham says the name of the Toronto club is GUVERNMENT not GOVERNMENT. OK See you there.

Barry was at the Seattle gig. How do I like the Gibson amp? I LOVE the Gibson amp. Mark Snyder, my brilliant guitar tech on the Ringo tour told me about it and it "appeared" the next day. I like it so much Mark is arranging to have my name put on it. Teenage, but cute. Aspreys of London (the Queens jeweller) are making it up as we speak! Mark Snyder - quite a guy. Hope it's not too loud for the clubs.

Steve Craiter: Now you know as well as I do that drummers have to keep drumming. Anyway, Steve Holley is my drummer and has been for awhile now. He's brilliant. All I can say is keep pushing. Keep pushing.

Brian Cottrill: Thanks for the accolade! We'll do a lot of "RANT" in the fall, but I don't know about "Morons". Too many words. Too many chords and I've forgot most of them.

Richard Terzieff - all that came through were your numbers - no message - just the numbers. Please try again.

Roy: Sorry, all the positions are filled at the moment, but thanks. Glad you loved the MR Memorial record.

Matthew Ganz: "RANT" lover. Still can't get "Artful Dodger" Any suggestion? Hi to the kids at Cherokee High!

Kevin Belfast: Sorry for your loss, mate. Time passes too quickly, but sometimes it's a blessing. Hurt gets less. I knew Rory to talk to and we got on well together in the early days. He was just a nice, quiet, shy guy who loved to play guitar.

Jon p: Congratulations on Michelle! How's the wife - well, I hope. See you soon.

John Wilkinson: Noted with thanks.

Jim Aguilar: I know I have a lot of fans in Claifornia, but the radio won't play me and therefore the promoters won't book me. What am I supposed to do? I know I've got fans on the West Coast, but "the business" doesn't.

Richard Terzieff: Your "rabid fan base" doesn't seem to be enough for local promoters to put in a bid. It's a pisser, but there it is. Keep the flag flying!!

Tommy Green: Again! Wants Artful Dodger out in the U.S. So do we, Tommy. We'll see what happens. It's not over by a long shot.

Freddie Musgrave: Hope you enjoyed San Diego. It was a sweet final gig.

Kathy: How are you doing! Yes, Jimmy did get a little "odd". So, Irving Plaza!! See you soon.

Graham Shorthouse wants me to settle an argument with his friend. Her tail.

Mika: There are tentative plans for Norway in January. More of that later. Talked to Michael Monroe the other day. Lovely bloke; lives in Finland.

John Corridan: See you in Boston.

Steven Wood: Glad you liked San Diego. Wish I was 19 or do I?

Kitty: We'll be at Irving Plaza in New York and in Toronto.

Doron M. Tisser: Steve Holley is my drummer - and a great one too!

Chip and Patty: Trudi should be there, and we hope to see you both on the day.

Boffo: Hilly Michaels was the drummer. Yes, Mick was in the band. I'm not sure about the others it's too far back.

Finn Bjelke: Get in touch with Bjorn or Peter at Universal Records in Oslo. John wants to know why I stopped doing "Still Loves Rock 'n' Roll" and started doing "Irene Wilde". That part of the set wasn't working for me - too eclectic - so I suggested "Irene Wilde". Ringo and the band liked the song (they heard it at Jones Beach) and it was easy to learn. In fact, we only sound checked it twice through before doing it live. It was just a question of speeds at that point in the set. I've got to tell you, it was scary doing "Still Love Rock 'n' Roll" with the Beatle's drummer. I had to get over it! What an experience. Wouldn't have missed it for the world. My hat's off to the whole thing. Ringo - band - crew - organization. Had a little glow everyday.

Steve Taylor: "RANT" great record. Spread the word,. Steve.

Joe Natiello: Noted and forwarded to Fuel 2000.

To Mark Rivera's guests at San Diego (Laurie, Benjamin and Jeremy): The email you sent cut off you email address and names. Please get back to us.

Ryan Bell: I don't know if I will be meeting you! Your family's dangerous! I am not unapproachable though, so if you see me - give it a shot. Ryan, by the way is 19. The more new kids the better.

Birney Brown: Don't know 'til the day kid. You know how it is.

Well that's it for now. Seven hours yesterday, four hours today. I'm done; free at last!! If I wasn't as amusing as usual it's because I've got infections in both ears and a tad of fever. Went to the doctor to get fixed up. Drops and antibiotics etc. I was OK until Denver and then it started. Howard got it too. Up and down in a plane daily isn't good for the ears either -no matter how lovely the plane (which it was). Now I'm in the middle of sorting the "RANT" u.S. tour out - or rather Trudi is. This West Coast thing really bugs me. We seem to have so many fans there but radio and promoters either ignore us or don't offer enough for it to be fiscally viable. It's great to see you all loving "RANT" as I do. Like I say keep spreading the word. Fuel 2000 continue to push non stop, but what can you do when radio says no. It's not that radio doesn't like it. A lot of them love it but they can do nothing about it s decisions from above won't allow them to play it. It's purely a money issue. That's the sad thing. It's either money or I "don't fit the image of the station." In other words, I'm an old fart. Ageism. The problem with the music industry today is so few of them know anything about music. They know about money and image , but not enough about music. Please don't think it bothers me - it's beyond my control, so I don't even think about it until I see all this email and people missing out because I can't get to play near them. Rolling Stone had an issue out recently on the demise of radio in the U.S. and guess who was on the cover - NSYNC. Irony!!!! So, I just went through three pens and my hand's killing me. All this and "RANT" too!! You lucky people!!!

IH