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OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH JIMMY!!
July 2011

http://avrillavigneuk.tumblr.com/

JIM MCGORMAN IS A PROFESSIONAL MUSICIAN. SINCE MOVING TO LA HE HAS WORKED WITH A DIVERSE GROUP OF ARTISTS AND MUSICIANS. HE IS A VERSATILE SINGER, SONGWRITER, PRODUCER AND MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST WHO PLAYS PIANO, GUITAR, BASS & DRUMS. JIM HAS A DEGREE IN MUSIC PRODUCTION AND ENGINEERING FROM THE PRESTIGIOUS BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC.

Here’s our exclusive interview with the man himself! thanks for sending in your questionslittle black stars!

What’s the atmosphere like when you’re performing on stage with Avril? Do you enjoy it? - Oliver, UK

Hey Oliver. There is nothing like playing live in front of thousands of people, especially with an amazing artist like Avril. Her songs are very fun to play and sing - and we always have a great time up there. It is the best part of our day - and what makes all the travel worth it.  


When did you discover your love for music - Nik - England

He Nik, I have always loved music. I remeber playing on drums and keyboards in my grandparents basement when I was 6 and 7 years old. I made a band with my two friends in the neighborhood and we would play along to Kiss records, and Hall N Oates and Journey and Foreigner. Obviously, I grew up in the 80’s - and still have a deep love for the music that was created then.


What’s your favourite Avril song to play LIVE ? Sivan, Israel

Hi Sivan,  I don’t really have a favorite. Since Smile is the latest single, I am enjoying that a lot. It has a great guitar part - and the harmony in the chorus is beautiful. 


What’s it like to perform in front of thousands of people? - Sophie, UK  

Well Sophie, I’m not gonna lie. It’s pretty awesome. I have been a pro played for years - and it always feels amazing when a crowd is connecting with what is happening on stage. To be a part of that is a special thing, and I never take it for granted.  


Who are some of your favourite current artists/bands? (aside from Avril of course ;)) from Rachel, UK

Hey Rachel. Many of my influences are from the UK - The Who, Stones, Beatles (obvious) Phil Collins, The Verve, etc. My fave new(ish) bands are Phoenix (I’ve been loving them for years), and Chromeo. I also like some songs from Empire Of The Sun and The Black Keys. The newest Coldplay is cool too - and I think One Republic writes great pop songs.  


What was your first initial impression of Avril? - chloe uk :)

Hi Chloe,  Avril was very sweet and little shy when we first met.


What is your favourite thing about touring with Avril and the other guys? and What do you think of us ‘Little Black Stars’? (tell Avril i said hey!) -Sarah Fletcher - Wales, UK
Whats the best part about touring with avril? - Zack 14, Singapore (saw him play w/avril 2008 and 2011 singapore) -

Hey guys, One of the best things about touring in general is getting to see the world - and travel to places I would normally never get to see. Avril has such a huge worldwide fan base - and we get to literally travel the world and experience new places and people. The support of the Little Balck Star is awesome! It always makes me want to play a great show for all of the fans.


What are the things that Avril changed about his life? I wonder so because she changed all my life and she has become the only reason why I’m breathing. And say happy birthday to him :) From Turkey. :) - Ezgi Saglam

Hey Ezgi, thanks for the birthday wishes. Avril has been a great person to work with - and I am proud that we have kept working together for 5 years. That is very rare in this business.


You tweeted that Avril had given you some “sweet” bday present. Can we know what’s that? And btw cancer rocks! ;) -Jean Cui, Malaysia

Avril knows that I have a sweet tooth - I love cookies and cupcakes. She always hooks me up!


Jimmy will you ever do a solo tour or support Avril with your own music because I honestly love your music and you are talented -  and what inspires you?? @Avrilsparamore

Thanks! I don’t know about that. It is odd when you play for an artist and also try to do your “own thing”. As Avril’s musical director, I take that responsibility seriously - and always want to make sure she has the best show possible. Professionally, it’s usually better to keep those things separate.


Hi Jimmy. Do you know if Avril ever reads our tweets or anything? I also want to say thank you for replying to me on twitter. You rock!

I do know that Avril tweets and is on twitter - but I can’t say how many she reads. She is pretty busy.
Thanks!!!


Jimmy what is your favourite song from Goodbye Lullaby? - Damla. 14. Turkey

Hi Dalma, I honestly love a lot of the songs on this record. My faves at the moment are Smile and I Love You.

Thanks guys!!! Talk soon!

http://jimmcgorman.com/ - Check out Jimmy’s website! Stay tuned because his new single will be coming out very soon!


Link to the article

Interview with Jim - September '11