“I write from love, frustration and aggression. Mere happiness would make the record suck,” says Wess Scanlin song writer, guitarist and lead singer of the American band Puddle of Mudd. Known for his spontaneity, wild on-stage delivery and lack of pretence, Scanlin is one of rock’s true greats. Puddle of Mudd are on a five-city tour in India performing at Hard Rock Cafes since September.
“I love rain; we were practicing at the river Missouri once, it was raining continuously and we could experience the floods there, but that did not stop us from continuing the rehearsal. That was the time we named our band as Puddle of Mudd! It is raining in Hyderabad and we love it,” says Wess Scanlin. With already three or four shots at The Hard rock Cafe, Wess shares memories and how he wants to live further in his life in an exclusive chat with MetroPlusThe Hindu .
On your first visit to India, how’s the experience so far?
India is a fantastic place, people here are very nice! My girlfriend and my dad freaked out when I said I was going to India, they asked me if I was crazy. I love the food here, bit spicy though. It reminds me of the restaurant in Los Angeles called ‘Flavors of India’, it’s a lovely place, you order food and you get it within minutes. The crowd in Pune was lovely. I love the way India has received me. People here are just cool! The few who recognize me, sing songs with me, others walk up to me and take a selfies. Hard Rock Café is huge. I shall go back and tell my girl.
Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?
Most of the songs which I’ve written, were based on real life incidents. It’s very difficult for me to sing those songs again. They remind me of my past and are really close to my heart. I’ve lost many friends in this journey of music. Even now, I have tears rolling down answering to the question. I’ve made many friends all over the world, but I miss them, as everybody has to move on.
Do you followlove any artiste or band from India?
Yes, I love few of them. Unfortunately, I forgot their names! In fact my girlfriend likes someone! I forgot his name! I keep asking her the name. I am pretty sure, he is not better than me (smiles).
What are your next projects?
I am going to be a partner in a company called ‘Down To The Earth’, which will look after the children and people who are victims of vandalism. Whatever I’ve earned and my parents dream house has been vandalised. I feel this is the time I need to think about society and people who are victims like me.
