How to Interview a Rock Star
The idea of meeting and talking to a rock star is exciting and somewhat intimidating to the average fan. Aspiring and professional journalists need to curb these natural and understandable tendencies and conduct themselves in a friendly but professional manner to get a revealing, publishable interview with a rock star.
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Instructions
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Do your research. Know at least two or three little-known facts about the star, gleaned from sites like allmusicguide.com. This will help them to let their guard down and distinguish you from ill-prepared, run-of-the-mill reporters. Google all the information you can on the artist, but double-check it for accuracy.
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Jot down more questions than you'll need. Since you have no way of knowing what mood the rock star will be in when you meet them, compile a list of at least 20 questions. Even include ones you don't think will yield interesting answers. Sometimes your interviewee will surprise you with their response.
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Maintain a balance of musical, personal and general questions. Ask questions about their latest tour, CD or video, but include more general queries about their childhood, non-musical interests and life philosophy. By mixing up the questions, you'll get a picture of the rock star as a person, not just a performer. Readers relate to this type of interview more than the typical "Let's talk about the CD" article.
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Develop a rapport with your subject. Some musicians prove tougher interviews than others, but if you approach the subject like an interesting person you've just met at a dinner party the encounter will run much more smoothly. Don't feel too comfortable with them and cross boundaries, fawn or become stiff and intimidated.
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Lose the agenda. Many rock journalists have a preconceived notion of the interviewee's personality and responses. Go into the interview with an open mind, and let the conversation flow naturally. If the rock star wants to complain about their opening band, let them get it off their chest.
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Call or email the artist's publicist to thank them for setting up the interview. Include a projected publication or posting date for the interview, and be sure to send a copy to the publicist.
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Tips & Warnings
Check your recorder every few minutes when taping an interview. Remember to put in fresh batteries before meeting the interviewee or making the phone call.
