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Ask the Artist: Sevendust (2005)

If you think you knew Sevendust, think again. On their latest album Next, the newly independent alt-metal quintet behind hits like "Seasons" and "My Ruin" are taking their unmistakable brand of melodic heavy rock to new heights, playing at "a level that no one has heard us at before," in the words of lead singer Lajon Witherspoon. With the addition of former Snot guitarist Sonny Mayo, Sevendust are rocking harder than ever -- and with the launch of their own label, 7 Bros, they're giving more bands the opportunity to inject some passion and soul into the hard rock scene.

We invited ARTISTdirect users to pose a few questions to the Sevendust guys as they hit the road to promote Next. Here's what the band had to say.

1. Arick Voigt from Jacksonville, FL asked:
What was it like working with Sonny in the band? Did he already have that "Sevendust style" in him?

Lajon: Yes, it was a very easy, natural transition because he was already family with us.

2. Stacey from Flagstaff asked:
Your last album sounded very personal and full of pain; where did you get the inspiration for that album?

Lajon: Things that have happened in my life (our lives).

3. Jeffrey Wallen from Philadelphia asked:
First of all, you guys rule. I'm a long time fan and like to know what other groups do you like to listen to at home or on the road?

Lajon: I like everything from country, rap, soul and r&b, rock. I love music!

4. Jimmy from Sydney, Australia asked:
Hey guys! I just wanna know what personal items or fun things you take on the road, when you are on tour? And further, what are some interesting things you guys have picked up and taken home with you while touring? Thanks, and I hope to catch you guys in Sydney again sometime!

Sonny: I gotta have my G4 powerbook with me on the road. We were presented with etched, personalized 7D glasses by a fan in Northern Cali - that was a cool one of a kind item!

5. Kris Lamb from Guelph, Ontario, Canada asked:
Boxers or briefs? Or even commando?

Yes, yes, and yes - you have to guess who is who.

6. Matt Sizemore from Midwest City, OK asked:
Would you guys ever consider working with Seasons producer Butch Walker on any future projects?

Morgan: Absolutely - now that we have 7 Bros Records and will be signing bands, we will have a lot to keep him busy.

7. William Gawron from Bronx, NY asked:
Hey what's up guys? I have heard on some of your songs some double bass beats goin on. Does Morgan use a double bass pedal? 'Cause I swear I seen him do double beats with one foot. That's talent man!!

Morgan: I do use a double bass pedal, but anything that I can do with one foot, I use the right. Double bass pedals tend to feel uneven at times. I have been thinking about going back to two kick drums...but my tech wont let me!! Go Yanks ! ! ! !

8. Chris Roderique from Dunwoody, GA asked:
Hey Witherspoon, I was just wondering about you being an African American in the rock scene, because I myself am African American and I listen to a lot of rock. Did it in any way affect you positively or negatively?

Lajon: I never look at it that way as much as other people do. I'm just a brother with soul that likes to rock, like you, I'm sure. Keep it up and never let anyone tell you different. Music is freedom.

11. Kat from Wahpeton, ND asked:
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?

Morgan: My dog Buckley, because he is the happiest creature on earth. He eats, sleeps and plays - that's all he needs.