I chatted with Glen Phillips of Toad The Wet Sprocket about their legacy and their new music.
When did you know you wanted to be a musician?
I loved the Arts and always wanted to be involved in the Arts. I grew up in the theater and musicals.
Favorite musical?
Probably “West Side Story.” The music is SO good. Bernstein, what are you gonna do?
Is there a story behind the band name?
We stole it from a Monty Pythons sketch called “Rock Notes” which featured horrible rock band names. So we thought it would be hilarious if we saw Toad The Wet Sprocket in print. It’s worked for us ::laughs::
What do your fans mean to you?
The world. Our fans are the reason we still can do this. We’re lucky that they love the old stuff and lean in on the new material and even enjoy the deep cuts.
Your song “All I Want” has been featured in many shows such as “Dawson’s Creek” and “Doogie Howser.” What is it like being part of pop culture history?
It’s weird. I’m grateful for it and that it means something to people. That song got on the radio when I was 22..I’m 52 now so it’s almost like another life since it first came out.
In your experience, what are some differences of touring in the 90’s and touring now?
Cell phones ::laughs:: When we went on tour, we read a lot of books. We sat around with nothing to distract us. It was difficult to call home and stay connected back then as well. And if you got lost you had to find a pay phone to call someone for directions or pull out a map.
What is your new song “Best Of Me” about?
It’s about my fiancé. It’s about falling in love again. I didn’t expect it would happen to me. She’s pretty awesome. I don’t write a lot of love songs about fictional people so when I do write one, it’s very personal.
Are you excited about your upcoming gig in Annapolis?
It’s going to be a blast! I love getting to walk around that city. We get a day off and we can actually enjoy it. It’s one of my favorite walking towns.
Toad The Wet Sprocket headlines Maryland Hall in Annapolis on Tuesday, June 13th! Buy tix