Speakeasy with Otis Gibbs
by Danica Johnson
Is there a defining moment that pinpointed exactly what you wanted to do with your life? About 12 years ago, my alarm clock broke. I thought to myself that I could get a new clock or I could get rid of every reason that I have to get up in the morning. I chose the latter and dropped out. Life has been great ever since.
Otis Gibbs is a local musician and world traveler
I had some second thoughts when the engine blew in the van in Woodstock, Canada ... being stranded at 4 a.m. in the pouring rain makes you rethink a few things.
What has been your favorite aspect of your career? There is something special about playing to a bunch of strangers a thousand miles from home and having them love what you do. It’s a lot different than playing for your friends at home. These folks have no reason to like you other than the strength of your work.
How long have you been involved in music? I played my first bar when I was 5 years old. I started making a conscious effort to live a creative life about 15 years ago.
Do you enjoy life on the road? I love traveling. A couple of weeks ago, I drove over 200 miles out of the way to see the world’s largest ball of twine in Cawker City, Kan.
How much of the average year do you spend touring? I’ve played at least 100 dates a year for most of the last 10 years.
What are some of your favorite places across the country? For scenic beauty it’s hard to beat the Southwest; Colorado, New Hampshire and upper Maine.
What do you have coming up that you’re most excited about? I’m finishing up my next record as we speak. It’s the best collection of material that I’ve ever been a part of. I’m pretty excited about finishing it.
Have you any regrets about the course of your career? Not really. What’s done is done. I have plenty of years to look forward to ... why would I dwell on the past?
