DATE:  01/12/08

NAME: Ruby Dee & The Snakehandlers

INSTRUMENT(s):
Ruby Dee - Vocals

WEBSITE: www.rubydeemusic.com

1. Biggest Influence(s)?
Actually, since there are two of us heading this act, I'll have to answer for both. For Jorge, he'll say his biggest influences are the Clash, many punk bands from the late 70's, The Stray Cats, and Buck Owens. Go figure. For me, it's even weirder! Judy Garland, Joan Baez, Patsy Cline, Blondie, The Pretenders, Maria Muldaur, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Gram Parsons, Tom Waits, X, Alejandro, and more... a nice mix of great singers and songwriters.

2. Favourite records/tracks old or new?
That's tough to answer, as what I prefer changes from season to season. Right now, I'm listening to Alejandro Escovedo, The Derailers, early Bowie, Sun Studios recordings of various gal singers, Emmie Lou Harris duets with a variety of folks, and The Carter Family.

3. What would you be if not a musician?
Restaurant owner- it's what I used to be. Jorge does graphic design too, so he'd probably be an artist of some kind too.

4. Career high point so far?
Playing at the Five Spot in Nashville with our pals Hillbilly Casino, Porterhall Tennessee, and Gin Palace Jesters- that was one of my favorite nights on stage. Though I suppose you could count higher profile folks we've played with as more 'career'-wise... that would be playing with Wanda Jackson a few times, and Candye Cane. We played a largish music festival at the gateway to Yellowstone National Park last year, and that was pretty incredible too. We do enjoy playing music festivals to enormous crowds, but honestly, small clubs with a roomful of faces we can see, every bit as much.  

5. Perfect night off?   
Dancing with friends down at the local honky tonk, OR curled up by a fire with a glass of good wine, great home cooked meal, and watching a movie. That's if it's cold. If hot, hanging on the back porch dinking around on the guitar with friends.

6. Most recent CD in your CD player?  
Miles From Home - our latest.

7. Favourite book/film?
Book: honestly, too many to love equally, no favorites.
Movie: Bladerunner, Utu, Willie Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (#1)
and A Christmas Story- it's a four-way tie.

8. Whiskey - Jack or Jim?
Oh Jack, of course. Or actually, Mark- Maker's, that is.