When US indie-rock cult heroes the Refreshments folded in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of two major label albums, a string of hit singles and the theme to the hit animated TV series King Of The Hill; writer, singer and creative force, Roger Clyne must have pondered on the eternal question of ‘where to now?’ The answer was unequivocal; go it alone.
Clyne and Refreshments drummer PH Naffah recruited a guitarist and bass player, formed Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers, and set about making their own mark on the musical landscape without the safety net of record company backing. The result? RCPM became the only independent band to debut in the Top 10 on Billboard’s Internet Sales chart for six consecutive albums, including two number one entries. Firmly entrenched in the independent ethos, RCPM are proof positive that quality music does not have to fit into the framework laid down by the major players to survive, and indeed, thrive.
After ten years of being a successful totally independent band I asked Roger what advice he would give to young bands starting out, would he recommend the go it alone route? "There’s no safety net when you operate as an indie. It’s not for everyone. If you want to test your dedication to the Muse, the art, your band, your team, go indie. Otherwise, don’t."
To be continued in this month's issue of Maverick Magazine. Full article written by John Cotten.
Congrats Roger! It's always good to see you guys getting some recognition.
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