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LIVESAY is a prime example of a band that has flown under the proverbial radar and has self-sustained five incredible albums - Livesay - S/T (1996), Darkest Hour (2000), Awaken the Giant (2010), Frozen Hell (2016), Chronicles (2019). LIVESAY is not a novice to the big stage and has opened for a multitude of hard rock premier acts such as Ronnie James Dio, Steve Morse, Y&T, Dokken, Lynch Mob, Ratt, Stryper, Widow Maker, Angel, Dio’s Diciples, Bullet Boys, Tyketto, Leslie West, Pat Travers, Bonham, House of Lords, Autograph, Thin Lizzy, Vince Neil, Sebastian Bach, Quiet Riot, Michael Schenker, UFO, Fates Warning and many others. In addition to appearing at the 'Rock N' Skull' Festival 2 years in a row, they have headlines many times as well. With very little major backing, it's been a willingness and belief that has driven this band. Gregg Livesay had this to say. "It has always been about all the members of this band, not just me." "I would have nothing without them and their dedication to delivering a top-notch product to the fans."
LIVESAY's sound is not easily classified; musical diversity is what powers these guys. It can best be described as neo-classical, melodic, hard rock meshed with progressive elements that combined, deliver a sonic, dream symphony. The band draws influences & inspiration from the likes of Yngwie Malmsteen, classic Deep Purple, Racer X, early Dream Theater and early Fates Warning. With a magnitude of melodic, catchy hooks and vocal harmonies to the dark, mystical, heavy, technical progression, there is something for every rock genre to latch onto.
-Interview- (7/19/23)
1. How did you get started with music and how did you develop your sound? Who thought of the name "Livesay" and is there any meaning behind it?
I started at a very young age first as a horn player then switching to guitar at the age of 13. Our sound is based off of classical and progressive influences always keeping an eye on melodic structure. The bands name is simply my last name which was settled on for a lack of being able to come up with anything else at the band’s inception.
2. What do you want people to take away from your music?
That there is a balance between all the instruments and vocals. Some of the music can be heavier in certain songs than other pieces but I don’t think they ever overshadow the vocals or the importance of that. If you listen to all our records over the years it’s very obvious the bands overall sound has evolved. We like to be technical and slightly prog at times, heavy solos but it all comes back to the singing.
3. How would you describe your sound to the average listener?
I’ve read many descriptions of us describing a “Europe meets Rising Force meets White Snake type of style. We are a melodic metal band I would say.
4. Who are three bands you’d like to tour with?
DGM would be one because they are phenomenal and really nice guys.
5. How has Covid affected what you do?
Well that was a long year and a half of not being able to do much except write, practice ant home and pray it would end. One particular show we did with DOKKEN during mask mandated and vaccination mandated events and even still, many people got sick as a result from that nite. We were lined up for a mini tour as well for support which was also cancelled. Very difficult times indeed.
6. What’s your take on the current state of Metal?
It’s alive in the states but as almost an underground genre now not mainstream at all. I went through the 80’s and it’s obviously nothing like that anymore. I believe it’s still very healthy in Europe and elsewhere though. Adding to that I think the touring Tribute Bands/Cover Bands thing is absolutely ridiculous and sad. Complete over-saturation on a level I cannot remember ever seeing in my lifetime.
7. What's the current music scene like there in New York?
Nationals are still coming through but I know a lot of bands are struggling with the cost of touring and it’s becoming harder and harder to do. As I said previously, Tribute Bands have spread like an out of control wild fire and I’m stunned that this is what people are settling for. I think it’s sad to be honest.
8. What’s your take on the royalties that streaming services pay out to artists?
I think the obvious answer to that is I’m not impressed at all and I don’t believe anyone is. There are so many horror stories of huge streaming numbers on songs that are paying virtually nothing to the Artist. The industry has completely flipped where the concern for the Artist/Creator and the control of the work has disappeared and now rests with the consumer. Technology and multiple choices of distribution has completely changed the landscape. It’s become consumer friendly but to the detriment of the Artist/ Creator. I suppose we are all trying to embrace this “new world” so to speak and not look at it as the enemy but rather see how we can utilize it for good. It’s a work in progress for sure.
9. What's next for Livesay?
We are about to release our latest record which is actually an EP called “SCARS”. We are looking for a new label at the moment as well. We have been signed several times over the years and like anyone else we’re always looking to improve on that each time we decide to go with a new label.
10. Any shoutouts?
All our fans who have been supporting us over the years and continue to do so. Thank you all!
