We were lucky to catch up with Billy Kohout recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Billy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?
Who said rock ‘n’ roll is dead? Those words haven’t been spoken by the fans of Grimm Jack — or the members of this Americana styled Rock Band. Music fans want to hear great music and that’s what this band gives them. The music will be the legacy of this band. “It’s been a crazy ride. When we went out there [back in the mid ’80’s] we forged this family. We hold the fans very dear to our hearts. To have that kind of loyalty and that kind of love not only for the music, but for the band members, is great.
That’s why we continue to release music that exemplifies the band’s melodic, classic rock sound.”
Grimm Jack is..
Billy Kohout – Lead Vocalist
Jimmie Mack – Guitars
Joey Masters – Guitars
GG Zen-Garten – Bass
Rich Yaniro – Drums
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
”We are going to go out there like Grimm Jack always does, and we are going to play in front of audiences like we have the world riding on it. We give you a 150% all the time.”
In addition, “We advertise Grimm Jack’s music with the slogan “Quality Rock ‘n Roll.” When you’re committed to your craft and discipline, you create something that fans appreciate. Music is a big part of everyone’s life. It creates moods and energy. It can comfort you and it radiates all kinds of feelings in your mind and heart. We want our fans to go through the journey of each song. It takes time, patience and a brotherly bond between Grimm Jack’s members, to create the music. Each one of us brings a variety of influences into the musical mix. This includes different genres of music and teachers. Seeing live concerts as a youth, was also a major impact on my life. The crowds singing and screaming in unison was incredible. That’s all I had to hear. My eyes were wide open and my interest was peeked! I want to see people singing and dancing to our songs. Nothing thrills a musician more.”
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is…Never give up on your dreams. Not to sound too philosophical but “we all exist for a purpose.” Making music for others to appreciate is a goal and dream. You need to give it 100%, even with the stresses of everyday life. There have been many times in my life that I’ve been down. Music has always been a part of my life…and it’s always helped me. If it can help me, then I can help others. ”
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Stay committed to your goals. Never give into the pressures of doing what others want. Surround yourself with like-minded people. That can be a very challenging concept in the music industry. Grimm Jack is fortunate enough to have 5 members that are like-minded. We’ve built a reputation with a retro old school feel and will continue to do so.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://grimmjack.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grimmjacknyc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrimmJackNY/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grimm-jack-b3143372/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrimmJackNYC
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GrimmJackNYC
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@grimmjacknyc
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=139289141
Image Credits
Alan Rand
Steven Messina