Interview with John Ginty

Interviewed by Jan Pisek honzik_43@hotmail.com

How did it happen you've appeared on "Let it Come Down" ?

Producer Jim Scott called me, and asked if I would like to come to Chicago to try some organ overdubs on James' record. I was on tour with Jewel at the time doing the first Lilith Fair, and the tour was going to the World Music Amp. in Chicago. The day of the show, I left the hotel at some ungodly hour, and went to James' house. I think we cut "Be strong now" that day, and then we all went to the show and had a blast. It was a fun day, and the track came out great, so I was invited to come back after the tour and record some more.

What was the recording atmosphere like?

Very mellow, low key. It was done in a house, so the normal studio vibe was gone. My Hammond was set up next to the washer and dryer. Really.

How did you participate in the arrangements? Did James have complete ones?

It was all ready to go when I got there. I got the feeling James had spent quite some time getting the songs where he wanted them. As a session guy, I have huge respect for that.

What is Adam Schlesinger like? Any notes on his style of playing?

I don't really know Adam, but I can tell you he and I sound a lot like on piano. I have a hard time telling who's who on the record. I think we both use the lower register with the same style of downbeat, crunchy, rhythm piano.....

Do you still play drums?

Sometimes, mostly on sessions, or demos. I'm a real knucklehead on drums. Just keep the beat, you know?

What was the final impetus, which got you to start playing Hammond?

I bought one. I had no idea how to use it, which was a total blessing. I just started bringing it to the gig, and I think I learned how to play it by experimenting. If I had learned from someone else, I'd sound like someone else. But instead, I sound like me. Hammond organ is the only instrument I can really speak through.

What's the biggest difference working with James, Jewel, Lou Reed?

It's really just about being "the guy" for the job. It's all role playing. Sometimes my job is to show up on time, play what I'm told to play, and split quietly. Other times it's about being part of a band, or being a friend. Ultimately, no matter what, my goal is to play what the artist hears in their head when they go to bed at night. As long as I can do that, the difference in the situations and artists just makes what I do more exciting.

How much has Iha been influenced by Corgan? I mean, the way of playing piano?

I'm not sure. When guys work together for that long, the influence they have on each other is a never ending loop. But, Billy aside, I can say that James has his vision. And, it's the real thing. He definitely hears a sound in his head when he goes to bed at night.