MIKE LEPOND
Symphony X Facebook: www.facebook.com/symphonyx
Mike Lepond Facebook: www.facebook.com/mike.lepond
*Interview was done in March-April 2014
- And what you feel now?
"These days I don't get nervous anymore, but I still feel the same excitement, love, and passion for my music".
- Tell me something about your near plans, please.
"I have a lot going on right now. I'm writing lyrics for Symphony X. We are looking to record a new CD this year. I am also going to release my very first solo album very soon this year".
- What inspires you? I mean inspiration not only for the music but for the life you live. What helps you to move forward?
"Well I am inspired by all types of music of course, but I also get inspiration from amazing people from history, and the modern age. Just walking the forest can inspire me to great things as well".
- What do you feel when fans says to you how they admire you?
"I am flattered and humbled by their kindness. I thank God for my life and I never take my fans for granted. They are the only reason I can live my dreams and I love them always".
- Do you remember the feeling when you understood that your only way is music?
"Yes, my dad had taken me to a “KISS” concert when I was 13. That show changed my life forever. That was the day I knew I had to be a metal musician for the rest of my life".
- And when you decided to be a professional musician, what made you disappointed?
"My parents had always kept me away from dark side of life growing up, so when I got into the music business, I assumed everyone was like me. To my dismay, I met many people who tried steal money from us, I met drug abusers, and other shady people like this whom I had to stay away from".
- What would you say to those who have to make a choice between family and their dream?
"My father bought me my first bass and supported me in the beginning, until he saw that I wanted to make it my profession. He then tried to discourage me because there is not enough money to be made. Always follow your dreams, if your family truly loves you, then you will have their support".
- Do you afraid that someday people can forget you?
"Yes, I am always afraid of that, so I try to keep myself relevant and fresh as much as possible".
- What is the most important for you in this life?
"Faith, family, friends, and country".
- What friendship means to you? And if people betray you, will you able to forgive them and give another chance?
"Friendship is very important to me. I count on my friends for love and support throughout my life. If someone betrays me, I can forgive them, but I will never forget".
- What you do when you feel lonely?
"I very rarely feel lonely, but when I do, I bury myself in my music".
- What is the most hard for you in the life of musician? And what makes you happy in such life?
"Well my dad was right, there is no money to be made in music, so it's a struggle to get the bills paid. But honestly, the feeling of playing on stage and writing a good song makes it all worth it".
- What music means to the world? In your opinion.
"Music gives magic to the world. It can take you away from your problems, It can make you cry, it can make you, laugh, fall in love, etc......Music is life".
- Just imagine that you're creating a new world. What fundamental rules you'd be chosen for your Universe?
"One rule: No mean people allowed".
- And some simple questions in the end. Your first thought when you wake up?
"Time to practice".
- If you had a power, what it would be? And why?
"I would want the power to read minds. It would end some embarrassing situations".
- Your life credo.
"No matter bad you feel, there are always people who are worse off, so feel blessed for what you have".
- And a few words for your fans and people who will read this interview!
" To my friends and fans, thank you for your eternal support. I love you and will see you soon!"
- Already many years you're on stage. But do you remember what you felt before the very first show in front of people?
"Yes I do. I was 16 years old in my first band called “Visions”. We played at local venue and did our favorite heavy metal covers. I was very nervous and made many mistakes, but at the time it was the most exciting day of my life".