Ever wondered what it's like to navigate the chaotic world of a touring musician? Urthboy, also known as Tim Levinson, from The Herd, gives us a raw, unfiltered glimpse into his life on the road as the band celebrates the 20th anniversary of their iconic album, The Sun Never Sets. Get ready for some unexpected insights and a few laughs along the way!
So, what's the secret weapon for surviving the whirlwind of touring? Urthboy credits a simple yet effective tip he picked up early on: clean socks after every gig. It's a small detail, but it speaks volumes about the importance of self-care and finding comfort amidst the chaos.
Given The Herd's history of politically charged music, it's no surprise that we delve into their favorite protest anthems. Urthboy highlights Rage Against the Machine's "Killing in the Name" as a prime example. He marvels at its ability to resonate with a wide audience, even those with differing viewpoints. But here's where it gets controversial: he acknowledges the potential for misinterpretation, where some listeners might twist the song's message to fit their own narratives. What do you think about this? Does it diminish the song's power, or is it a sign of its widespread impact?
When asked about his spirit animal, Urthboy shares a heartwarming, yet practical, comparison to sea otters. These creatures hold hands while they sleep to avoid drifting apart. It's not just cute; it's about survival. A beautiful symbol of connection and mutual support.
Looking back on his career, Urthboy reflects on a valuable lesson learned from Kenny (Traksewt) from The Herd: choose your battles. He shares a story about a confrontational situation with another group, where Kenny's calm approach of offering them their masters and letting them go, taught him a different way of problem-solving. This was a turning point for Urthboy, who, coming from a hip-hop background, was used to resolving conflicts through direct confrontation.
Now, let's talk about the most unforgettable moments. When asked about the most chaotic gig, Urthboy recalls a 4ZZZ benefit in Brisbane. The stage was outdoors, and the rain started pouring. The show went on, despite the growing risk of electrocution. He humorously admits that there were many instances during their touring days, especially in the 2000s, where the band was just happy to have survived.
As for the album he always returns to, Urthboy chooses A Tribe Called Quest's Low End Theory. He describes it as a record that has resonated with him throughout his life, offering a jazzy, welcoming vibe while still maintaining a streetwise edge. And this is the part most people miss: He emphasizes the incredible chemistry between the artists, noting that it's not simply pop rap. It's a record he wishes he could have made.
Next, Urthboy shares his most controversial pop culture opinion: a new Gremlins film should be directed by an arthouse director, such as Bong Joon Ho or Julia Ducournau. He believes that Gizmo should take on a more prominent role, potentially leading the Gremlins instead of betraying them.
When asked about his most cringeworthy celebrity encounter, Urthboy recounts a moment on the "Cannot Buy My Soul" tour. He awkwardly asked Paul Kelly how he writes songs in front of a room full of Australian music legends. It's a relatable moment that reminds us that even the most talented people can feel starstruck.
Finally, Urthboy discusses his favorite writer, Kae Tempest, and the impact they've had on his songwriting. He admires Tempest's ability to create vivid imagery with words. He then shares his admiration for the Brisbane-based rapper Kayeonwun (formerly Khi'leb), whom he considers the most underrated rapper in Australia right now. He sees immense potential in Kayeonwun and believes he's on the cusp of a breakthrough moment.
What do you think? Do you agree with Urthboy's opinions? Share your thoughts on the comments below!
The Herd: The Sun Never Sets 20th anniversary is touring interstate and regionally through February.
