|
Since their inception in 1982, the multi-platinum hard rock quartet -Dokken has suffered through its share of set backs and seen many band line-up changes. But even with all the adversity, band leader Don Dokken has managed to keep Dokken alive through his perseverance, dedication and talent. The latest incarnation of Dokken has proven to be one of the strongest yet. The band currently consists of Don Dokken-vocals, Mick Brown-drums, Barry Sparks-bass, and Jon Levin-guitar. This line-up’s first release “Hell To Pay” was one of the most innovative hard rock CD’s of 2004.
And 2005 is turning out to be just as productive for Don Dokken. He is currently recording a solo CD and touring as part of the “VH1 Metal Mania Stripped” acoustic tour, which also features Kip Winger, Jani Lane, Stephen Pearcy and Firehouse. In addition, the band Dokken plans on releasing a new CD next year.
With all this activity going down in the Dokken camp, I decided to get a hold of Don and find out first hand about his many upcoming projects. He what he had to say.
Don, first of all congratulations on being part of the “VH1 Metal Mania Stripped” tour. When does the tour start and how long does it run? 
It starts October 18 and runs for three weeks.
Will you be playing guitar on this tour?
I am playing guitar. I think Reb Beach might also be accompanying me. He is playing with Kip Winger on the tour, and he has played in Dokken in the past.
What guitar are you bringing on the road with you?
My six string Takamine.
What songs will you be performing?
We will be doing Dokken songs and some new songs from my new solo album.
Now before the VH1 tour, you were scheduled to go out on the “ Acoustic Outcasts Tour,” What happened?
Nothing to talk about, really. The booking agent who booked the tour was stuck in New Orleans, and we didn’t hear from him in ten days. So I had to cancel.
I see. How do you think the last Dokken release “Hell To Pay" compares to previous Dokken releases?
I liked it. Our new album is going to be even better. You just have to write what you feel. I don't want to write the same record over and over again. These days are much harder to get promotion. Everybody downloads, and it is a whole new world. Record companies don't work like they use to. Now the internet is taking control.
Will the new Dokken album “Lightning Strikes Again” be as heavy a release?
It will be a very heavy progressive record. Just some cool songs, some dark songs, some medium tempo. Some of the best work that I have done in years.
Any release date?
In the spring.
All of the fans are really interested in your solo album. Do you know what the title is going to be?
I haven't figured out a title yet. I have eight songs finished, and two or three to go. That's it. I should finish it in the next couple of weeks. Then I will start working on the artwork and all that stuff. Hopefully that will also come out in the spring. I will have two albums out by the first of the year.
Dokken has survived so many obstacles through out the years. What keeps you going and inspires you to write great music?
I am an artist. This is what I do. What else can I do? You write because it is what you like to do.
What is the secret to Dokken's longevity?
The loyalty of the fans.
What are you most proud of?
It has all been a highlight. Every day when you have a record contract, every show is a highlight.
Will Dokken tour the end of the year? What are your future tour plans?
We leave November 30 - December 31. We are going out to the Northwest for twenty shows.
What are some of your hobbies, when you are not performing? Do you still race-car drive?
No, I just work on my antique cars now. I bought an Old Rolls Royce, and I am re-storing it.
What about the new DVD and greatest hits album? Will that be out soon?
We are working on that. We have to wait till we finish up these two records. I am a little busy doing these records. It should be out sometime next year. I don't know when. We filmed footage of the European Tour. We are filming recording of the record, and it will be a DVD accompanying the “Greatest Hits” album.
Don, Is there anything else that you would like to say to your fans at Glam-metal?
Yeah! Come out to the show. It is going to be fun.
www.dondokken.com
|
