The Civil Wars (John Paul White)
What's on your rider?Whiskey, wine, coconut water, Clif bars, granola . . . you know, the essentials.
What would be on your fantasy rider?I'm not sure that's printable.
How do you get to the gig – limo, taxi, walking?We've been lucky enough to start doing the tour bus thing lately, so we park at or near the venue.
What is the worst gig you've played?I once played on a stage built in a man's office. He sat at his desk while I rocked. It was humiliating.
Who is the most famous person to have shown up at one of your gigs?Taylor Swift. She surprised us by showing up at our Nashville show this year. Total sweetheart.
Most embarrassing on-stage moment?My fly was down. Someone tweeted about it, and that's how I found out.
What's the most you've ever paid for a gig ticket?I've never paid more than $30. That was for Gillian Welch, but I wasn't even able to go. Gave the tickets away.
Chatting between songs – good or bad?Depends, but when you're in a little duo like us, it makes sense to communicate with the audience in every way you can.
Groupies – would you?Would you what? See how many can fit in the trunk of a car? Yes.
How many roadies does it take to change your lightbulbs (ie, how big is your entourage)?Back home, we travel with a photographer/videographer, a tour manager, and merch seller. Our posse is pretty small.
Have you a special stage wardrobe?I wear nothing but Billy Reid black suits with a bow tie.
Do you like to meet and greet fans after the gig?Love it. Do it every night.
Any useful stage tips?Bar towels. And don't be afraid to be as quiet as you can.
What's the worst thing ever thrown at you?I have had the proverbial panties thrown at me (not with the Civil Wars). I left them there.
If you could be in any other band, which one?The Band. Worship those guys.
In conversation with
TONY CLAYTON-LEA
. The Civil Wars play The Sugar Club, Dublin on Thursday
