Sebastian and RMcGuinn

continued

McGuinn and Sebastian have known each other for decades. "Roger and I have a friendship that goes all the way back to '63-'64, when we were single musicians," says Sebastian. "John and I used to play together in the Village," McGuinn explains, "and we still work together a lot. We never know who's going to open and who's going to close — though John likes to open." Sebastian laughs and concurs: "I do enjoy getting 'em fresh when I can."

McGuinn came to the Lord long ago, but he didn't give up rock 'n' roll: "Jesus says if you're a fisherman, stay a fisherman. And I don't preach from the stage. Some people feel led to do that, but I never got the memo."

Asked how he wrote so many great songs in such a short time, Sebastian replies, "Part of it was the audience. Once you're connected and you feel the tug, it's incredibly energizing. Part of it was the era. It was such a beautifully competitive time. When you've had success and you knew [Motown hitmakers] Holland-Dozier-Holland were breathing down your neck, well, it really motivated you."

[Review published August 2008]