MOJO writer Johnny Black, in his review of “Empire” recently said that “The spirit of Woody Guthrie rocks on in daddy Ringenberg’s boy.”

And that is the odd thing about this guy: he’s been compared to many greats, both from rock and country. Get to know his music and you quickly see that he defies genre. He can drift in and out of punk, to traditional country, and even to pop (if he wanted).

He is Jason Ringenberg.

And he came back once again- this time to visit the garage with us.

1.What was your first gig- the first time you got up in front of bunch of folks and did your thing?

My first gig was playing for my college dorm cafeteria at Western Illinois University in March 1978. I received 30.00.

2.How do you approach songwriting (what inspires you, and how do you go about writing tunes)?

Normally I write when there is a reason to do it, i.e., a new CD or project of some sort. Deadlines… etc., tend to spur the creative juices.

3.What musical instruments do you play? Favorite gear?

I use Takamine acoustic guitar because they are unbelievable tough.

4.Your favorite song from the vast Jason discography to do live? Why?

These days frankly I love singing stuff from the new CD EMPIRE BUILDERS. There is something about those songs that resonate with me.

5.What do you say to the kids in the garage?

Get a good space heater. Don't freeze to death for rock-n-roll.

Ye Olde Optional Cheesy Bonus Question: if VH1 made a Jason biopic, who would you pick to play yourself?

Jimmy Stewart

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Thanks again, Jason! We’ll look forward to “Mr. Ringenberg goes to Nashville” (Jimmy Stewart reference lost on younger audience).

To HEAR the track “Rebel Flag in Germany” from Empire Builders, visit Jason’s site: http://www.jasonringenberg.com

Scorcher’s era stuff: http://www.jasonandthescorchers.com/

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