by Jessica Nguyen
I have enjoyed speaking with Freddy Hall, as much as I enjoyed listening to his music. He’s originally from Virginia but currently lives in New York. He told me it was a “simple decision. The majority of music comes from New York. But, in New York, everyone is doing their own thing with music. It’s all kinds of music.”
The first song of Hall’s that I discovered also became my favorite. “Train Wreck”. “It’s about having destructive friend,” Hall explains. “Having a friend who is addicted to a very unhealthy friend and wanting to help that friend, feeling a lot of pressure to get that person back on track and especially when you aren’t really all together yourself.”
Hall got on the right track. Music was always a goal of his. However, in high school when he was in band, a teacher really helped him realize that Hall excelled in music. “The teacher pulled me aside and said ‘your going to school to study music’.” Trusting what she had to say, Hall went to school in Boston as a music major.
Though currently in New York, Hall wants to move to San Francisco when the time is right. So, when is that time? “San Francisco is like a mini New York City. It’s a slower pace, unlike New York which is caffeinated and really fast paced. I am not really ready for a slower pace yet. “
One of Hall’s greatest memories as a musician was getting to work on the American Idiot production on Broadway. He met Billy Joe Armstrong and told Hall “if you need to learn how to play the guitar wrong, I am your guy.” But, being a musician is really inconsistent and with a moment as great as meeting Armstrong, Hall says that “one day you can play a cool show to a packed room. The next day, you’re in a city where no one knows you. It keeps your ego in check.”
Who else would Hall love to play with? “Ben Folds he is sort of my guru,” he says. “I always think of his influence and ask myself what would Ben do? Ben holds a really good live show and it’s worth getting the education you get when you listen to them.” Hall also mentions he is a fan of Dave Grohl. He thinks Grohl has one of the best carriers in music. He achieved fame at an young age and matured with his status. But Hall also thinks Grohl is really down to earth and wants to go to a BBQ with him. (Dave if your reading this by chance email Freddy).
Hall played a show in Manyunk a few weeks ago at the Grape Room and after speaking with him, it sounds like he definitely wants to explore more of Philadelphia soon. Since Freddy calls himself a wandering spirit we can only hope he will wander back to our city soon.
