Photo: Courtesy of Joe McGinty Instagram
I first learned about Joe McGinty as the leader of Loser’s Lounge, which has been going for more than 20 years. From there, I learned of his work with the likes of The Ramones, Nada Surf, Spacehog, Ryan Adams and The Psychedelic Furs. Then I learned about his production work and that he owns a recording studio. Then I learned about the McGinty & White. Then I learned about his work as a Music Director in the theater world. And this year, I learned of the bar he opened and co-owns, Sid Gold’s Request Room, where Joe also performs.
All of those titles make Joe a perfect interview subject for the “Really Busy People” column. As he is able to successfully juggle a lot of long-term projects without compromising the quality of success, there is a lot to learn from the guy. Fortunately, he found the time to answer some questions for me.
What do you wish more people knew about Joe McGinty?
Joe McGinty: It’s hard to say. When I played at the Manhattan Inn, they’d bill me as “Joe McGinty of the Psychedelic Furs.” It was a great time, but I haven’t played with them in over 20 years, and I’ve done so many other cool music gigs since then, including the Loser’s Lounge series.
When someone asks what do you for a living, what do you usually say?
J: “Bar Owner, Studio Owner, Composer, Producer, Band Leader” or “Freelance Musician.”
Was there a mentor or especially inspiring person in your life who led you onto your current professional path?
J: I can’t say a specific person. It was more an overall passion for music. But also having great friends to work with.
What are the tools or apps that you regularly utilize to stay productive and on-point?
J: At Sid Gold’s — and now most music gigs — I use a lot of sheet music apps that make life easier; I used to carry around a huge pile of books. For productivity, I use Evernote and Apple Notes. And sometimes Wunderlist. Google Docs also comes in very handy. But I also make a pen and paper “to-do” list every morning.
Of all the projects you work on nowadays, which is the most rewarding?
J: At the moment, The Duchess And The Fox, my project with sultry soul singer Andrea Diaz. It’s “cabaret noir.” We just finished our debut EP and I’m very proud of it. Stay tuned, it will be coming out soon!
Is there an all-time “dream gig” for you?
J: I’ve always felt that I was especially qualified to be a bandleader for a late night TV show. I did that, briefly, for a short lived game show on ABC (My Kind Of Town) and I’ve apparently been in the running for some of these shows, but so far, it hasn’t happened.
Is there a field or kind of work that you’re interested in but have not yet tackled?
J: I’m gradually getting into film scoring. I haven’t scored an entire feature yet, but I’ve done a lot of web series and I just finished composing some original music for a new film with Christopher Walken, When I Live My Life Over Again. I’d love to do more.
You’re originally from Atlantic City and have since been in New York City for many years. What is it that keeps you here in New York?
J: The music scene! I am constantly meeting and getting to work with new people that inspire me.
What is it that you like to do when not working on professional projects?
J: As if I had free time! Watch movies, see theater, ride my bike, hang out with my dog, go to the beach, travel.
Finally, Joe, any last words for the kids?
J: Well, parents with teenage kids who are into music often ask me for advice. The only thing I can tell them is that they have to really love it and be fully committed to it. It may be necessary to have other means of support, and there may be some shitty gigs. You have to keep your expectations realistic. But you also need to have drive, persistence and patience. Basically you need to do it for the right reasons: for the passion and the love. Because it can be incredibly rewarding if you stick with it. Even after 30 years, I’m still constantly inspired.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
