Growing up, Kevin and Michael Bacon both had a passion for music, but chose to take different career paths. Kevin pursued a career in acting, becoming one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actors (Footloose, Apollo 13, The Following), while older other Michael was becoming known for his numerous award-winning film and TV scores.
With their collective desire for music, the two came together in 1995 and formed, The Bacon Brothers, with a very unique and authentic sound. Both others can be seen on vocals and guitar, but Michael also plays the cello while Kevin can be seen on percussion. In September 2014, the others released their seventh album, 36 cents.
Check out their newest single, “Driver,” here.
The Bacon Brothers will be performing at Rams Head On Stage Saturday, September 24th, 6:30 p.m & 9:30 p.m , and Sunday, September 25th, 5:30 p.m & 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $49.50 and the event is 21 and over. This show has been rescheduled from June 3rd & 4th, all tickets will be honored.
What's it like being in a band with your other? Is there a lot of disagreement or is it easier to work with a sibling? Is there ever a big other, little other argument?
Michael: I think the statute of limitations for battling others has passed. Nothing ever goes beyond mild irritation with each other.
Kevin: We have respect for each other opinions and work through what the few disagreements we have.
While you are each accomplished in a particular field, Michael in music and Kevin with acting, at what point did you two decide to put together a band?
K: We were writing songs that we were hoping would be covered by other artists and not having much luck; a friend heard a demo and suggested we play them ourselves as The Bacon Brothers
M: Timing is everything—we were both at the point in our careers when we both asked “why not?”
Kevin, what's the biggest difference between acting and playing music? What is it about these two things that you love the most?
K: I’m a performer. It’s what I do. And I do what I love. The biggest difference is that with acting, I get to be another person.
Michael, you are best known for your film and television scores. How do you differentiate between the music you create for scores and the music you create for the band?
M: Composition of instrumental music is a gift that my parents instilled in me at a very early age. It’s a tap I can turn off and on at will. Writing songs is illusive and comes like a dripping faucet.
How do you guys balance time between the band and doing your own thing?
K: It’s tough. But life is a juggling act.
M: So far we’ve been lucky. Over the last 20 years the careers have interfaced pretty well.
How have you gotten your name, The Bacon Brothers, out there and achieved recognition since your both known big in other ways?
K: Ha! That's why we are talking to you.
M: The band has always stayed pretty small and under the radar. Perhaps that’s what we’re supposed to be.
What has been your most memorable moment performing with your other and why?
K: We opened for The Band at Carnegie Hall.
M: Playing “Hand Jive” with The Band on stage at Carnegie during their encore.
Tell me a little more about your newest single, “Driver.” Where did you draw the inspiration for this song? Why the decision to make the video give that old movie type of feel?
K: It’s a memory song. It’s about summer love. It’s about having strong woman in your life and letting them take the wheel.
M: Check out our grandmother’s home movies, from 1925, in our “Driver” Video.
What's the best concert you've attended recently as an audience member and not a performer?
K: We were on the road and had a night off. The whole band saw James Taylor. He was great.
M: It’s still in the future—Catharine Russell at Dizzy’s NYC.
How has the music industry changed for you recently in terms of producing your music and distributing it?
M: I started in the music business in 1969. I’ve listened to people speak with authority about the music business. They didn’t know anything then and they still don’t. Make the best music you can, constantly dream of new ways to get it in front of the public, don’t rely on anybody else, treat your singing voice as an athletic endeavor.
Has the next generation (your children) influenced your musical direction?
K: For sure. I’m always interested in what they’re playing and listening to. And those influences will find their way into my writing, etc.
M: Neil and I wrote our first song together this summer.
What's next for the Bacon Brothers? Anything we should be watching out for?
M: Vinyl 7-inch record of “Driver” and “36 Cents” in early October, “Driver” video, “Boys in Bars” video.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a band with their sibling?
K: Try to blend.
M: Go for it!
