Jake Kiszka, lead guitarist of Greta Van Fleet, sits down with Alan Cross and discusses how the band's unique childhood has affected their musical sound.
@@umpygoodness2369 showing yer age there with what yer saying cause we all know how KIDs will say some of the darndest things and at the darndest times... so go back to bed lil buddy we understand how yer felling and mommy will come n change yer diaper soon.... GRETA VAN FLEET are givers of more music from a area that has been proven GREAT and that does not warrant these boy's to be labled thieves .. They have not stolen shit,, thieves are to lazy to come close to where these fellas are today due to naturalness and DAMN GOOD Mommy's n Daddy's ,,,,,,, you have any ? now be Honest Umpy Goodness and please for your own good and everyone sake stop calling names its just breeds bad energies and that there is a sign of a thieve .... you just stolen from me the min's of time taken to call you out on your opinon unless you have a change of heart here then it been my pleasure to help a fella human if not than sure you know your title...... GVF Rocks us all my friend....
My parents (in their 50s now) raised me on Rush, Soundgarden, Ray Charles, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Stevie Wonder, Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Live, Queen, The Beatles, (the) Eagles, Edith Piaf, AC/DC, Def Leppard, Elton John, and a little bit of Pearl Jam (Ten and Yield). For the most part, I like all music now, except for country, but I'm not snobby like some who think that rap isn't real music and that jazz is convoluted. I'd have to say that my favorite band is probably Nothing But Thieves followed by Soundgarden, but I really could never choose a favorite song. I think my parents raised me right.
I don't think there's another kid on the planet that can speak so articulately about music, its roots, and be as humble as this dude. Keeping Rock alive - giving us hope!!!!
It's so great that a young band is influenced by good music.... My son Jason got into older, classic rock, the same stuff as me. By the time he was 14-15, he could play guitar so well that people couldn't believe that he was so good to be so young.. He was killed in a car accident in 2005, at almost 16, and I will always wonder where and how far he might have gone.....
+April B. Can you imagine him wearing hip skinny/slim jeans in his current shape? Let's just be thankful he's dressing according to his weight. But yes, mom jeans are hideous.
It’s a sign of being completely straight I think, not that there’s anything wrong with being gay, but if you are 100% sure you are straight you are not afraid to dress gayly
They grew up in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a place that me and my family visit yearly. One time a couple of years ago my brother noticed two people jamming with guitars on the sidewalk in Frankenmuth. Their singer wasn't there that day so he filled in and sang with them. A few weeks ago I show my brother the video for "Highway Tune" and he goes, "HOLY SHIT! THOSE ARE THE TWO GUYS I PLAYED WITH IN FRANKENMUTH!" So I look up where they're from just to be sure... Frankemuth, Michigan!
Interveiwer: "We're talking 60's British invasion, right?" Jake: "No, I am talking about the British invasion of 1776. We're influenced mostly by a snare drummer and a fife player."
@Jim I was just being a smart ass but technically every band you mentioned was a 60's band. They were all part of what was called the British Invasion in the 1960's . Zeppelin were latecomers, having formed in 68, and by that time the term was a bit passe and not used anymore. My point being, there are really only two things that are referred to as "British Invasion". The original one and the 60's one.
hardly. He has none of the hurt that blues based rock is founded in. He does not come across as the guy that has had his heart broken.Or the guy paying lay-a-way payments on an amp or guitar while driving and living in a van going town to town playing shit ass dive bars, county fairs, and frat parties. Now i do think he is a good hearted guy. But has no age as an artist. Sure there can be great things to come. And I would Love to see and hear that.
@@charlesjenkins1225 You're right, in every regard. But... is there really any soul untouched by pain? Even a pampered prince might silently wish for a change.
@@charlesjenkins1225 Seems as if you don't really know their history. They blew up fast, but they were not an overnight success. He's young, yes. But these guys have been driving around in a van playing every dive bar and hole in the wall in Michigan for many years. They've paid some dues. As for painful souls....well, who can really know. But personally, I love the joy that is consistently a genuine part of who they are, what they write, and how much they love to play live. Keep The Joy, Greta Van Fleet! 😄👍💖
Dunno if I heard that right, but it sounded like the real founder of the band was Jake. He wanted to start a band so he recruited a drummer, got one brother to come sing, and convinced his other brother to literally learn an instrument to play with them.
You’re right. Jake is the one that started the band. He’s the boss , it’s not Josh haha I think Josh is actually more into film and acting than being a musician imo; he said so in an interview.
Will someone tell me how there can be 22 dislikes to this interview? Jake knows what's he's talking about. He's humble, grateful, and sincere. Rock on!
I was looking for the "Led Zep" credit. Ha Joan Baez and Arlo Guthrie as Influence??? I believe that is why. I Dig them and think that'll come out later as it adds to the tension to the haters. If they Hate It, People will talk about it,That gives attention. Thus the Buzz. Hate um or Love um. Any Publicity is Good publicity.
Jake is thoughtful and articulate as well as a kick-ass guitar player. Alan Cross does what is perhaps the best interview I have seen with any of GVF. Cross is honestly curious about how they developed. Smart man.
parkviewmo exactly,its amazing the longer the interveiws are with each individual member or as a group it's easy to see these guys are not only great musicians..extremely educated smart men . Best band I've witnessed in decades .
@parkviewmo - you took the words right outta my mouth... a fantastic interview. This kid is very intelligent and well spoken and is obviously well educated musically. I'm looking forward to more from Greta Van Fleet.... and kudos to Alan Cross.
I’m 17 ONLY listen to 70-90s rock and getting tired of the same songs.... once I heard this band my actual soul evaporated into some delightful mist... they’re amazing
I loved how the had an educated conversation about music. Most of today's pop artists just talk about money and getting high. These guys actually seem to really care about what they're doing and they really seem genuine. Keep up the great work it show in your music.
As someone their age, 23, who wants to play this type of music and be where they are, they’ve given me hope that is possible for other musicians who want to just play killer rock and roll music in an era where it’s not the most popular genre. I’m a fan and I’m so proud of what these guys have achieved and seriously look forward to these boys bright future.
Corey Connor, Yes Corey, with other young bands as good as GVF , hopefully the youth of today will start listening to REAL music instead of the garbage they're listening to now !!
It will always survive though. And will always remain popular. Especially once the young get a little older and grow a few brain cells and stop listening to rap.
"... and oldsters will notice it (about their similarity to Zeppelin), but I think young people, who were born many years after Zeppelin broke up, find you guys as fresh as old people found Zeppelin in 1968". This statement speaks volumes, because I'm one of those young people today who grew up way way later after Zeppelin broke up. I know and listen to a few of their songs, but I never seen them live, I never grew up with them and I never got heavily into their music. THAT's why I find Greta refreshing among other rock bands that release songs TODAY, because they sound different (and I'm not talking about the past, I'm talking about the situation with music today). Yes, there are Rival Sons and Wolfmother, who were accused of ripping off Zeppelin as well, and I love and listen to those bands as well, but Greta van Fleet has more old classic rock vibes to them compared to Rival Sons and Wolfmother. Josh, Jake, Sam and Danny are really talented and smart guys and I can only wish them all the best
Elizabeth P agreed!!! I grew up listening to Classic rock. 60 to the 80s. And I love it but never got to experience first hand. Never got to see them live and it’s all just history. But GVR is present, it’s live, and they’re bringing back music I grew up listening too. I just saw them live last week, waited hours to get a spot up front, and it was first rock concert I’ve ever been too in my life. And it’s easily the best experience in my entire life where my dream came true where I get to experience a real rock show.
I'm 26 and I mostly grew up listening to early 90s grunge and a lot of sublime and stuff because I grew up in Orange County in Southern California. But I got into Led Zeppelin around 14 or 15 heavy because of a friend who Jam guitar and I still find these dudes refreshing having known all the Led Zeppelin albums and even the rare songs and live performances. People bitch about maybe him imitating Robert Plant but here's the deal. It's hard as fuck to sing like Robert Plant and I feel like the only way you can sing like him is if that's the only way you can sing!! So I feel that dude is just working with what he's got even though it may be reminiscent of Robert Plant I think it's credible none-the-less because that's his Genuine Voice.
@@barreldreamz7852 I agreed with your statement. If it's the way it should be presented then why not? If GVF made the whole presentation a whole different with modern sound it'll be sound so much like Guns N' Roses and people will still keep on complaining. To be honest you will be in trouble to find the true meaning of originality in music since in the western music system we only have 12 notes and the music itself will going back circles. If they want to find originality then they should listen to Avant-Garde music genre instead of rock. When I was still studying in college my major was music and in my study of jazz we tend to imitate some licks from all the greats while continue to find our style. Yes, Zack sound like Robert Plant but I could see he's been influenced also by Geddy Lee, Janis Joplin and other vocalists from 70s rock, that meant he are not an exact copycat like most people claimed of. Jake doesn't sound exactly like Jimmy Paige, he didn't do JP's mystical rainsong chords and progressions. GVF didn't have that kind of song in their music catalog so what's so Led Zeppelin about them besides Zack's vocal and a normal I - IV blues rock music structure. Believe me if my English was not limited I'm very good at debating those haters because I knew exactly what I'm talking of, been there before (hating in everything) and give facts not just by feeling. And guess what, I stalked some of the complainers account (mostly on Instagram) they tend to be a mediocre middle-aged rocker guy that have band playing a similar style with Led Zeppelin 😂 It's so embarrassing really to hate on such a naive young band that just want to have some fun. They will keep on hating and complaint from A to Z. Why Metallica didn't sound like they used to be? Why GVF so popular because they are just a generic copycat of LZ? Why EDM music so popular? Why rap? Why Taylor Swift is in every goddamn radio? Why there's no more guitar heroes anymore? Why and why and why all they can do instead of focusing on their own career 😁 *not that people can't have an opinion but it's just their opinions on sucks 😁
he speaks so eloquently and passionately, i could listen all day. so proud of how far they’ve come, even since this interview. they are truly deserving of all good things🖤🗡️
I like this interviewer. Smart, personable, good instincts, and well prepared. Helps that it's one on one as well. Hard to interview the whole band together, I imagine. All that energy pre- or post-show is hard to focus in a short interview.
Alan Cross is great. You should check his podcast out. He has studied the history of music for a long time and has some great stories. edge.ca/show/the-ongoing-history-of-new-music/
AvalonDreaming I know right! I love when his stage presence. You can tell he loves what he does. I just love this band so much. Each and every one of them.
I hate some of the comments about these guys. Yes they do have a Led Zeppelin sound sometimes but they have their own sound. It's refreshing to hear good ol music instead of the crap you hear out there now. I think its an honor that they got compared to Zep. They were raised right. You can tell they're respectful. I really like them
@Kjc Ile Agreed. I hear a little Led Zep in Josh' voice sometimes. But they also channel Jon Anderson's Yes, a little AC/DC, even some of Alvin/Ric Lee's Ten Years After. And Jake's inherited the spirited dance , at the mic , of David LaFlamme, It's a Beautiful Day ! But MAINLY, and Most Importantly, they are defintely THEM. Like no others, -- Merry Pranster/ Gypsies, F***in Enjoying their talents , Joyfully making music for all. Such a lovely gift from above. We'll all lighten up now , honor them, and let them share their Magic.
Such a phenomenal guitar player and such a phenomenal band. Jake doesn’t know this yet but he’s already a guitar hero. As a guitar player I could listen to him for days on end.
I was really expecting to dislike these guys, as I thought they were a wanna-be, manufactured Zeppelin. Saw them live this weekend at the Austin City Limits music festival, and they were amazing. One of the most powerful bands of the weekend. The drummer is a monster. The guitarist was awesome. The singer, while he could work on his stage presence, has a crazy set of pipes. Huge crowd. Looking forward to seeing them again whenever I next get the chance.
Yes I'd love to see some more Showmanship from the singer, that right now consists of flashing that beautiful smile of his and dressing up. Both of which I must say I'm charmed by. I mean Robert Plant learned to move around the stage but had that rock god pose going on.
Just saw them last night and I must say Josh is gaining in confidence, but looks like the road is taking its toll on the boys. They need a vacation, go chase some girls, have some fun, then come back, bigger and better than ever.
I love watching GVF interviews bc the journalists/interviewers are always like "I've seen a loooot of well-known rock bands but YOU are something else". GVF is bringing something new and they do it humbly 👍
Maybe there is hope for the world after all when this quite brilliant young guitarist can talk with erudition and wisdom that is way beyond his years. May Greta Van Fleet continue to thrive .
I love that they’re not only musically talented but incredibly intelligent as well you made A super fan out of this old lady can’t get enough of their music and Really enjoy their interviews you’re going for young men very far
Just went to my 1st GVF concert....holy Batman!! Cool to see 8 yr olds up to 76 year olds at this concert rocking the house DOWN!! Sooooo proud of these young men doing their passion for us fans to love!!
Blues, early American music, what is commonly known as rock and roll! Are you kidding me?! I am head over heels for these amazing young musicians. God bless them. ♡
Their parents did a GREAT job!!! Jake is so genuine and such a cool dude; I want to adopt these boys! Dying for that single and full album!!! Argggg....can't wait!!!♡♡♡
JUST RAN ACROSS THIS BAND A COUPLE MONTHS AGO THERE ARE ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC, FREE SPIRITED, BELTING SINGER IS SO GREAT AND FEELINGS, WITH HIS HEART, MY GOD THESE GUYS GOT IT GOING ON THERE FUTURE IS VERY BRIGHT. KEEP ON ROCKING.
I think they're the best .Imagine. A smile that results in my whole soul being Happy i felt grateful. And totally impressed that they had the Kahoonas to let out the sounds they do,that alot of bands don't even try to go there ,to a level that mite feel uncomfortable awkward, ect... But look what resulted. .. Wowwa.This young band found their sound when the singer tried screaming over the band and that voice was discovered.The haters are jealous, I absolutely Love this band. They made me feel hopeful for ROCK n ROll 💖❤❤❤💖❤❤❤💖❤💖❤💖
So awesome to listen to an intelligent person talk to another intelligent person. An adult conversation. What all of America and the World should emulate daily. Awesome 👍 thank you so much! 🤗
The thing with these kids sounding like Zeppelin and getting a lot if hate about it is annoying. To me they do sound a lot like early Zeppelin. So what? You can tell by listening to them however that their sound is not contrived. Its bery organic. It's just how they sound and it is great in my opinion.
Tom Faron Well the reasons you don't know what the hell you're talking about are twofold. First off Gibson straight into a Marshall. That's his tone. Besides what's in his fingers. Same with the Bass rig. Fender into an old Ampeg. Anybody would have the same tone if they hooked up to the same stuff aside from what theyre born with. Secondly, The sound is NOT a trademark. If that were the case Then there would have been no more rock bands after Led Zeppelin. Because to some degree they all take from those guys.
Tom Faron if you think they sound exactly like early Zeppelin then you're not using your ear or you're tone deaf. They're just kids starting out. Similar? Sure. Same style? Definitely. But they sound like themselves.
...and no, they are not as good as Zeppelin were to start. Nor were any of these kids established studio musicians to begin with. They are damn good for their age and experience.
Shain Rochester Sounds like you have been triggered. Maybe they should admit it and get it over with? Any comparison to the Almighty Gods of rock would be a compliment............... No? Although personally it's all been done before and they couldn't lick the sweet of Zeppelins Balls. 😝
People have been on them about sounding too much like Zeppelin. My view is this. There's a definite Zeppelin influence going on here. However, they are writing their own songs with good hooks. He is coming up with his own guitar riffs that are catchy and strong. They are talking that influence and creating good old Rock music. The glorious time in the early 70's when Rock was at its creative peak, and doing their own thing with it. God bless them, I wish them all the best!
The point about the truthfulness, soulfulness and uniqueness of whatever they're doing and whatever has been done in regard to rnr, folk/ traditional music is a big takeaway from this.. Wish them all the best
What a very well spoken young man ! Good Interview! They're definitely going places , and I'm so happy for them , their hard work and natural talent is playing off!!!
Have you ever noticed how many musicians come from Michigan? Here are a few off the top of my head: Greta Van Fleet, Jack and Meg White, Bob Seger, MC5, Iggy Pop, Ted Nugent, Eminem, Kid Rock, Alice Cooper, Madonna, and Kiss. I am sure there are more.
Motown, Aretha Franklin, Glenn Frey, Marshall Crenshaw, The Romantics, Rare Earth, Grand Funk Railroad, Insane Clown Posse, Anita Baker, Anthony Kiedis, Sonny Bono, Ray Parker, Jr., Jackie Wilson, DeBarge, Bill Haley, Brownsville Station, Tommy James and the Shondells, Suzie Quattro, Uncle Kracker, and on and on....
Can't forget Del Shannon, Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels, Paul Stookey from Peter, Paul & Mary, ? Mark & the Mysterians, Little Carl Carleton, Commander Cody & The Lost Planet Airmen.
It was a swell Sunday night at Rebel in Toronto. Lots of Zeppelin t-shirts, Rush t-shirts, and even some Black Crowes t-shirts walking around. GVF played great.
I love that they're keeping that old rock vibe for three new generation. For folks that are mad sorry. Unfortunately, this type of music isn't around anymore and it is a beautiful thing for another generation to carry on.
They're really great. I listened to their albums and just assumed they were in their 20's or early 30's, with some prior band experience. But theyre little kids. The fact they came up with songs of this quality and playing of such high caliber at that age is insane.
I love Alan's question at 10:31 about the rennaisance of our younger generations and especially Jake's response - about the truth in music, pure emotion. That's exactly what I dig about this band and their music! It's just PURE and natural: primal!
we provided the same musical influence in our grandchildren, my granddaughter is 13 now and she plays the guitar....bass, ukielale and electric...she's awesome....
Just saw them on Fallon and came directly to youtube! I love Zepplin and this is a new era to bring that type of music back. Love this band and I am 55!
Hubby and I watched them last night on SNL. We were blow away. At first confused by their clothing, but we are older in 40's. They are very talented. We went to you tube and loved their videos. Rock on
I am always so impressed with how intelligent Jake is when speaking about his music and upbringing. Listening to how they organically sort of became what they are now and continue to change is really awesome!
Not only an exceptional guitarist and musician , but a well grounded and lets be honest, a top dude! great interview, straight talk, no crap, just great conversation and interesting background. GFV are a great band and deserve to go far, keep it up lads you have the gift so please keep sharing it :)
I absolutely love this band, I've just started listening to them recently, and now I look for interviews like this to find out what makes them tick. One thing I do know is their performances hit me between the eyes and in the heart, very dynamic and big impact
Tim G Drums I agree!! Normally they seem rushed or bored. But this guy seemed to put him at ease & he obliged. Love watching behind the scenes about GVF!
He sure can. There is an audio on YT of just his guitar tracks for a couple of songs. As amazing as he sounds in the songs, hearing them isolated gave me even deeper respect for his abilities. Blown away, always, and so sweet.
I was brought up in a household with lots of vinyls all around and there was nothing more entertaining for me as a 90’s child than grabbing my fav records- Zeppelin included- and dropping the needle slowly onto it. My generation sucks at music we didn’t really fabricate anything memorable, classic, but at least these boys are here to change history and I couldn’t be happier for being a young woman and understanding and knowing all their references
