rickyleepotts …an opinionated realist

I first met this man on Twitter, so it is fitting that when I took some time to sit down with him that it be on the social networking site itself. I have, since first chatting with him, gotten to know a little bit more about what makes this guy tick. I had the chance, not long after we sat down on Twitter, to meet this guy in person at an event held at Scotty’s Brewhouse up on the north side of Indianapolis. He is a true gentleman and a guy that I think you should take the time to get to know. With his efforts online to his efforts from 9-5, he is a perfect example of a man that “get it” when speaking on social media. So sit back, relax, and take some time to get to know the man that is Robby Slaughter.

(For those of you that do not know how Twitter works, messages that start with @robbyslaughter are messages from me to the artist.  Messages that start with @rickyleepotts are his responses.  I have set a limit to 140 characters for this interview and all questions and answers must fit in 1 single tweet.  All of the messages you see have not been edited and are exactly as I received them.)

So tell me @robbyslaughter, what is that you actually do for a living?

@rickyleepotts I help people. That’s what we all do for a living. My primary interest is in bottom-up workflow and productivity.

@robbyslaughter Can you help me?  I have been sick for the last three days.  Any words of advice on how to keep focused?

@rickyleepotts First: ask coworkers to give you a day without interruptions to catch up.

@rickyleepotts Second: Go through and reply to every email you received with: “I’ve been out sick, but I WILL reply within 48 hrs.”

@rickyleepotts And finally, make sure you leave on time the first day back! No use making yourself relapse.

@robbyslaughter That is some good advice.  Thank you.  So where did you go to college to learn how to help people like myself?

@rickyleepotts One of the big challenges of workflow and productivity is people feel like it’s too academic or too complicated to …

@rickyleepotts work smarter, because of tools or obscure terms. But the reality is that more important than a college degree is a new

@rickyleepotts perspective on work.

@robbyslaughter U are cheating u know. U are only supposed to be allowed 140 characters to respond. But that’s OK. I like it! Pepsi or Coke?

@rickyleepotts I didn’t know about the 140 character limit! I like Pespi better.

@robbyslaughter I will take the blame for not explaining the rules to you.  Don’t worry, @paulpoteet cheated too. You a Colts fan?

@rickyleepotts Yes, Go #colts! You can’t live in Indy and not be a Colts fan.

@robbyslaughter I beg to differ.  I HATE the Colts.  (Notice how I did NOT use a #?) According to Twitter you are a trouble maker?

@rickyleepotts If you’re not making trouble, what are you doing? Progress requires thinking differently.

@robbyslaughter You are very well spoken.  I like that.  Any reason why you follow more people on Twitter than follow you?

@rickyleepotts I don’t pay attention to follower/following counts. I just try to take part in the community, and numbers emerge.

@robbyslaughter I think you should write @HALLMARKPR cards.  What is on your Christmas list this year?

@rickyleepotts Thanks, I think. Xmas list: World peace. I don’t really have anything that I’m excited about.

@robbyslaughter How many people work for @slaughterdev?

@rickyleepotts Three plus myself.

@robbyslaughter So are you an @iPhone user?

@rickyleepotts I am, and user is the right word. There is use, there is addiction, and not really any grander benefit.

@robbyslaughter Is this your first time being interviewed on Twitter?

@rickyleepotts Yes, it’s my first time for a TwitterView.

@robbyslaughter Well in all of my interviews I let the artist (you are an artist in my mind) get the last word. So with that being said, GO!

@rickyleepotts Thanks for the TwitterView. I hope it was fun for all who listened in! Check us out at http://www.slaughterdevelopment.com/

When you first see what this band looks like you cannot help but wonder what they sound like. Giving you an almost Enya sort of feel from their website/MySpace design and their photography you assume you will get hit with a soft ambient sort of sound. But you will get pretty much the exact opposite. This band that I am sitting with today takes a sound like what you expect from Evanescence, tosses in some almost techno beats, and then dishes out some polished and educated lyrics to produce a sound that is hard to replicate. When I first introduced myself to these guys I couldn’t help but want to get to know them better. It is rare to find a duo like this and even more rare to see a duo perform at such a high skill level. These two actually met over the Internet (seems to be a popular way to meet people these days) and their passion for music goes simply unmatched So take a few minutes, sit back with me today and get to know the group that is Lorelei.

Where did you come up with that name?

(Chris) Shannon and I both read a book called, “The Dogs of Babel” by Carolyn Parkhurst. It’s about a man and his dog, which was the only witness to his wife’s death. The dog’s name was Lorelei, which is fitting since Shannon has some dog features.

(Shannon) Funny, Chris! The story was very beautiful and we were both inspired by it. Then we discovered that Lorelei comes from a German myth. She’s a young maiden who haunts the Rhine River and lures in sailors with her song.  I used to be in an all-female a capella group in college, the USC Sirens.  Lorelei is the German equivalent of a Siren. We both liked the idea of a female seductress enticing men to their doom.

Actually, speaking of the name; how do you pronounce that?

Lore – uh – lie.

Where are you originally from?

(Chris) I grew up in Port Orchard, a suburb south of Seattle. Same stomping grounds as many of the famous Seattle musicians, like Kurt Cobian for example.

(Shannon) I grew up in Gig Harbor.  We realized that our childhood homes were only a few miles a part from each other! 

How did you meet?

(Chris) I posted an ad on Craigslist, believe it or not. I had been searching for months for the perfect singer, and Shannon responded. The rest is history!

(Shannon) Yep, I had just moved from LA to Seattle and was looking for some creative outlets to get involved with in addition to my solo project.  I saw his ad and emailed him. He listened to my music and he contacted me.  He sent me some songs that he had recorded with a previous singer who didn’t work out.  Chris was obviously very talented. We met up, started collaborating really well together…and here we are!

What are your thoughts on MySpace?

(Chris) MySpace is a great network for artists/bands who may never get heard outside of their home town. It’s a nice place to create a following and be able to communicate directly with fans. There have been many artists who have found success from MySpace popularity, like the Arctic Monkeys.

(Shannon) Honestly, I’m not a big fan of MySpace, but I do feel we should have a page, since most bands do.  It has gotten so filled with spam lately and it’s hard to weed out the real fans from the ones trying to promote themselves.  But it’s still a great tool for promoting our music and connecting with fans.  I’m more of a Facebook gal.

Are you on Twitter?

(Chris) I think so…Shannon, are we on Twitter?

(Shannon)  I have a Twitter account.  It’s: shanrockeileen. Hit me up!

Who are some of your biggest influences?

(Chris) I have always have been heavily influenced by UK music, and musicians.  Radiohead, Keene, and David Gray for example. I grew up in a musical family and I was exposed to a lot of blues and bluegrass music. Daryl Hall from Hall & Oats shagged my mom on one of their tours, so that is where a lot of my talent came from.  Eric Clapton is one of my biggest guitar influences. I started playing guitar while listening to a lot of Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath.

(Shannon) One of my biggest influences as a singer and songwriter is Sade. She crosses all genres. Her music is soothing, soulful and timeless. Other vocal influences are jazz and soul singers, like Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Dusty Springfield and Eva Cassidy.

Do you guys have a favorite venue?

(Chris) Not really any favorites. I like venues where you are up close and personal with your audience. I also really love playing outdoor venues as well. It’s my dream to play at The Gorge in Eastern Washington someday

(Shannon) One day, Chris! My dream venue would be the Hollywood Bowl.

Do you ever tour outside of Washington?

(Chris) We played a showcase at the Viper Room in Hollywood last year.

(Shannon) And we’re planning a northwest tour in 2010, which will include Seattle, Portland and San Francisco.

Who is the ringleader of the band?

(Chris) Shannon and I work equally on Lorelei. Decisions, direction, and ideas.

(Shannon) Yeah, we’re both the ringleaders.  We write the songs and record them.  The rest of our band mates just perform with us.

Who writes all of the lyrics?

(Chris) A few of the tunes on the album I wrote with a co-writer that I had been writing with for years. However, Shannon changed and re-wrote a lot of those.  All the other songs Shannon had lyric duty.

(Shannon) I’ve always felt it was important that I write the lyrics I sing.  With the exception of covers, it’s hard for me to really get into a song that someone else writes.  I think it comes across better emotionally, both on the recording and while performing live.

Where do you get inspiration for a new track?

(Chris) I’ll send Shannon music tracks that I feel great about, and she’ll work with the songs that inspire her.  Once she gets a melody and lyrics down, we’ll work out the final arrangements together.  It’s a great way to write songs actually.

(Shannon) Yeah, it works really well for us. Sometimes we’ll discuss the type of sound and vibe we want based on a certain song we’ve been listening to at the moment.  But it usually ends up turning out completely different from the original idea.  That’s why I love songwriting.  The songs take on a life of their own.

If you could be any cartoon character, whom would you be and why?

(Chris) Being Shaggy from Scooby Doo would be cool. He is the 70’s version of Ghost Hunters. Plus he has a pet dog that talks.

(Shannon) You kind of look like Shaggy!  For me, it’d be Wonder Woman. Because she kicks some butt and I already have her costume.

What is the biggest crowd that you have ever played for?

(Chris) My old band, Dead of Winter, opened for Stone Temple Pilots at the OK Hotel in Seattle. It was packed! That was a great show.

(Shannon) Mine was when I was flown out to perform a holiday concert for US troops and civilians in Guantanamo Bay. I felt like a celebrity there. That was an experience I’ll never forget.

The smallest?

(Chris) We set up a show opening for Alice In Chains, and only forty people showed up. A majority of the people were our friends and family. It was a big venue and it looked even emptier.

(Shannon) I got you beat. My smallest show was for five people. One of who was a drunken old man with a floor-length white beard swaying off beat. Granted, I didn’t promote the show, and it was technically just for practice.  But for morale purposes, I still had to be reminded multiple times that night that every band has to start somewhere!

If you could tour with any band out there right now who would you chose?

(Chris) U2 would be a great band to tour with, as they have such a huge fan base. Also, the Fray would be great. For “awe” purposes, I would love to do a song with Eric Clapton.

(Shannon) I think I’d choose Radiohead.  Or No Doubt.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would you live?

(Chris) Well, I must say Seattle is one of the best places to live in the world.  So I’m happy where I’m at. My second choice would be on my own vineyard in France or Italy, living peacefully making wine and music!

(Shannon) Yes, I’d live right where I am.  I want to travel all over the world and always come home to Seattle.

How long have you guys been performing together?

(Chris) Almost two years?

(Shannon) Yeah, just about two years now.

What is the last movie you saw?

(Chris) I saw the Hangover.

(Shannon) “Up In The Air” with George Clooney.

Did you like it?

(Chris) Yes, I thought it was a very funny movie. I would recommend seeing it, but not with children around!

(Shannon) I loved it.  I was tearing up throughout.

What would you be doing if you were not performing?

(Chris) I can’t imagine not performing music. That is a hard one, because I can’t really picture myself doing anything else. I think music keeps me out of trouble!  Perhaps I would paint oil paintings.

(Shannon) I’d probably be a visual artist and blogger. I recently started my own inspiration and design blog about things that make me happy.

What are your thoughts on the passing of Michael Jackson last year?

(Chris) I always loved MJ’s music. He was such a great pop songwriter. His influence is everywhere in modern music.  I believe he had a hard life and was greatly misunderstood.

(Shannon) I was pretty distraught.  I grew up with Michael in the 80’s and would create dance routines to his songs as a child.  I’d be lying if I said he didn’t influence me musically.  I was always a supporter of him throughout the sketchy years.

What is the last album you bought?

(Chris) I haven’t bought an album in a long time! I buy and download individual songs, but haven’t bought a full length CD in awhile. I haven’t felt there has been a full album that I must have.

(Shannon) Yeah, I feel the same way. But I’ve bought entire albums off of iTunes before.  The last one I purchased like that was Adele’s album, 19.

What are you drinking on stage?

(Chris) Bud Light and goat’s blood!

(Shannon) Yuck. Water.

Pepsi or Coke?

(Chris) Coke.  I like Coke better than Pepsi any day, especially Coke in a glass bottle.

(Shannon) I’m right there with you.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

(Chris) With a few Lorelei records under our belts, a large fan base and great tours. I will be satisfied knowing that we are sharing our music with the world.

(Shannon) Lorelei will have multiple #1 hits.  Perhaps we will have a Grammy nomination or two. Dream big!

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

(Chris) I’d like to be remembered as a creative guitarist /songwriter.  I’d like to make some kind of impact in the music world.

(Shannon) The reason why I sing and write songs is to be able to inspire others.  If I can touch other people’s lives in a meaningful way, impact them, uplift them, I will be happy and will know that my purpose on this earth has been fulfilled.

I always let the artist get the last word.  Go.

(Chris) 2010 is the breakout year for Lorelei!  We will put out our full length CD, shoot a video, and complete a west coast tour.  We are planning many big things for the band and we want our friends and fans to stay tuned!  I believe that all creative people out there should stick to what they believe in and stay confident in their art.  Even when it gets tough, it will pay off in the end.  Love and persistence is the key.

(Shannon) Thank you so much for interviewing us, Ricky!  Everyone, please come listen to our tunes on MySpace sign up for our mailing list.  Fans are our top priority and we always respond to genuine emails and comments.  Big things are happening and we’d love to have you along for the ride!

The guy that I am sitting with today was first introduced to me by a coworker. I received an email from Ryan Mull, managing partner at IMAVEX, and he said that the two of us should meet. He was copied on the email and Ryan also made mention that I was doing interviews with artists all over the world. The interviews are done either in person, via email, or over Twitter and he decided that Twitter seemed like the more appropriate solution. (The in person interviews tend to get a little out of control. Sure, I can type as fast as someone speaks but it is hard keeping up when trying to have a conversation as well as capture every moment that I can while chatting.) So, we connected on Twitter and quickly realized that we needed more than 140 characters to get our thoughts across. So we moved from Twitter to email. Both collections of questions and answers are here in this blog. So sit back, relax, and get to know Kristian Andersen.

(For those of you that do not know how Twitter works, messages that start with @kristianindy are messages from me to the artist.  Messages that start with @rickyleepotts are his responses.  I have set a limit to 140 characters for this interview and all questions and answers must fit in 1 single tweet.  All of the messages you see have not been edited and are exactly as I received them. Also note that #RLPTV was an attempt to create a trending topic on Twitter with this interview. It also allows for users to search and find my content.)

Let’s start this interview with @kristianindy! Tell me, @kristianindy, what is it that you actually do for a living? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts My team and I work with our clients to help them develop their brand, product, and business strategies. We call it BXD.

@kristianindy How many people are on your team? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts We have 7 full time employees (including myself) and a couple of part-timers – http://bit.ly/7CPOIz #RLPTV

@kristianindy I LOVE that you just used a bit link. How concerned are you with traffic on your link shares? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts How concerned am I? Um…I guess not very. Should I be? #RLPTV

@kristianindy In my opinion VERY. I obsess over traffic to my link shares. Same as my analytics report. So are you a #Colts fan?

@rickyleepotts Yeah – my primary analytics report is my monthly P&L statement. Season ticket holder for 10+ years. #RLPTV

@kristianindy No kidding? That is awesome. Do you like the new stadium?

@rickyleepotts The new stadium is great in most regards –1 of the best in the NFL. Better than that strip club the Cowboys call home.

@kristianindy I do not even watch football to be honest. You appear to be an educated man! Where did you go to college? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts It sounds like your a golf guy. I graduated with a degree in Design from Anderson University, in Anderson, IN. #RLPTV

@kristianindy I am in fact a golf guy. Are you? I can see you on the course! So what is this I hear about you living in Arkansas?  #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts What did Mark Twain say about golf again? – http://bit.ly/86vwJi . I split time between my homes in Arkansas and Indy. #RLPTV

@kristianindy I enjoy some MT but I really like those bit links! & I want to have multiple homes! So, what is your favorite “brand”? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts This short-form interview format is tricky isn’t it? #RLPTV

@kristianindy I like it though! It makes you think about your response. I would be more than happy to do an email interview if you rather?

@rickyleepotts No way. This is interesting. Keep ‘em coming. #RLPTV

@kristianindy That’s the spirit! You have worked with some pretty impressive clients. Who is your favorite? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts We’re really proud of our affiliation with all of our clients. We try 2 only work w/ clients where there is a mutual respect.

@rickyleepotts Currently we’re really excited about @FormSpring @exacttarget and @rewardsnap

@kristianindy What is one thing every brand has in common? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts The fact that, in spite of what they might like to believe, they are not (exclusively) in control of their brands. #RLPTV

@kristianindy No no, I know but just in your experience with brands. Think Apple, McDonald’s, Target. What do they have in common? #RLPTV?

@rickyleepotts You mean great/successful brands. Successful brands all have a simple, differentiated, and focused value proposition. #RLPTV

@kristianindy No no no, you did quite well! I always let the bands that I interview get the last word. So, you too! GO! #RLPTV

(*This is where the interview went from Twitter to being handled via email.)

I see that you have worked with Smaller Indiana. The logo on their website does not link. That bothers me as a designer and as someone who wants websites that I visit to be user friendly. However, every time that I try to contact someone from there I am NEVER replied to. I am handling it in a very professional manner. It is honestly leaving a very sour taste in my mouth. What are your thoughts on a website that has a logo that does not link to the home page?

I’m sorry to hear that you are not getting a response from the gang over at Smaller Indiana. They are an amazing group and have done an enormous service for the Indy business community. With that being said, I’m obviously a proponent of adhering to best practices when designing for the web.

Where do you see the Internet in ten years?

I don’t think we will see it. In ten years it (the Internet) will be so ingrained and embedded in our lives that it will become invisible. The end game is truly ubiquitous networking.

What is your biggest challenge working with brand management?

I think it’s getting clients to understand that you can’t control a brand via brute force. It’s like raising a teenager. If you just lock them in their room and try to exert total control, they will rebel and you’ll end up with the opposite of what you intended. Conversely, if you just let them go and provide no supervision or support the outcome could, and often will, be equally bad. Managing brands is about finding the right balance between control and chaos.

Your team, based on what I see on the website anyway, looks more like fashion models than brand experts. Do you encourage that atmosphere in the office?

(Laughs) We just have a great photographer. But I will say that often times really great designers tend to have refined aesthetic sensibilities that transcend their professional life and manifest in lots of other ways…including fashion. We definitely take image seriously, it’s a profound part of our business. I don’t want to take fitness advice from someone that is in worse shape than me.

Out of Twitter, Facebook, and a blog which do you find has the most potential for the future of social media?

I have a hard time separating them. They are all just digital channels. I rarely think of those three “products” in a vacuum. Ultimately, I think Facebook is built to last, because their business is built on data. Blogs are a really just a publishing platform, but I don’t think they are going away either. Twitter is in front right now, because they are filling a huge need around “instant” – instant search, instant gratification, instant gossip, etc. 2010 will be the year of instant/real time, so I expect Twitter to flourish in the short term.

Who would play you in a Hollywood film about your life?

I’ve always said Ethan Hawke. But the rest of world seems to think Stifler (Seann William Scott) would be a more appropriate fit.

The names of your children intrigue me. Can you explain how you and your wife came up with those names?

My oldest daughter, Scout Belle, was named after the character in “To Kill A Mockingbird”. We named our middle daughter Daisy Jane, just because we thought it was a beautiful name, but there is also a literally connection to “The Great Gatsby” as well. Finally, my youngest is boy named Indiana Olav – we call him Indy. That is really my way of paying homage to Indiana and acknowledging how great that community has been to me and my family.

Any words of advice for a young guy like myself who wants to be on that list of the “Forty under 40″?

I think the fundamentals of success are fundamental. There is no secret sauce. I think it is a matter of working hard, being humble, serving others, and creating value. If I could add one thing that is often left off of that list it would be – being visible. Make sure that you are communicating to “your audience” in a way that is engaging and make sure that they know what you are up to. If you’re generating value…they’ll want to know.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In a perfect world my life would look very similar to the way it does today. I would hope that my family is healthy and happy and that my businesses have continued to enjoy some level of success. I just want an opportunity to keep doing what I’m doing…which is what I love.

Do you think Lady Gaga has talent or she is all hype?

You’re asking the wrong guy. I listen to country (mostly classic country) music almost exclusively.

So how do you know Ryan Mull, managing partner at IMAVEX?

That’s a good question. If memory serves correctly we met a long, long time ago when he was at MarchFirst and I was doing consulting for one of their clients, a company called Healthx.

I always let the artist get the last word. (Yes, I consider Kristian an artist.) Go!

You’re doing good work and building a heck of a personal brand. Keep at it.

The guy that I am sitting with today has been an inspiration to me in the world of graphic design for a couple of years now. He is young, a true go getter, and a guy that will not settle for anything but the best. He deserves it too because this kid works harder than just about anyone I know. He has traveled all over the world for conferences and for study abroad programs and that will only aid in his ability to land his dream job when he graduates from college. He is also a great friend of mine and one that I can call up for a cup of coffee or a snack on any given night. Plus, he plays golf so you know he can’t be too bad! Sit with me today as I introduce you to a movie buff, a graphic design student, and a true good heart in Josh Corken.

(For those of you that do not know how Twitter works, messages that start with @joshcorken are messages from me to the guest.  Messages that start with @rickyleepotts are his responses.  I have set a limit to 140 characters for this interview and all questions and answers must fit in a single tweet.  All of the messages you see have not been edited and are exactly as I received them.)

@joshcorken Any reason why you decided to break Twitter not minutes before our #twitterview?

@rickyleepotts Ha! Well, sometimes I like to challenge the programmers over at Twitter HQ to really test their skillz. They passed the test.

@joshcorken What is your official title over there at @axiik?

@rickyleepotts First off, it’s @xiik. ;] And I am an Account Coordinator/Assistant Art Director.

@joshcorken Oh, so you are kind of the like the Dwight of your office? You know, assistant to the regional manager? Do you have an iPhone?

@rickyleepotts Haha! Ya, you could say that. I’m kinda like the jack-of-all-trades, if you will. Yes, I live and die by my iPhone!

@joshcorken Have you had a chance to listen to the new @adamlambert album?

@rickyleepotts I have not. Been trying to catch up w/ a lot of other music at the moment. I’ve heard good things tho…mostly from you. Lol!

@joshcorken If you could only eat one type of cereal for the rest of your life what cereal would you choose?

@rickyleepotts That’s probably the hardest question I’ve ever been asked! But I’d probably go with Honeycomb. That stuff is like crack!

@joshcorken If you woke up tomorrow, and had no memory of the past, and could start over, start fresh…what would you do different?

@rickyleepotts I wouldn’t do anything different. My life is going in a direction I love. I’m completely happy! The future looks bright.

@joshcorken Do you prefer creamy or crunchy peanut butter?

@rickyleepotts Creamy. Hands down! I like my food silky and smooth.

@joshcorken Not sure why I am obsessed with knowing your food preference but do you drink Coke or Pepsi?

@rickyleepotts I was wondering the same thing. I actually don’t drink soda anymore. I gave it up over a year ago for health reasons. Go H20!

@joshcorken I thought water was H2O, not Bud Light!  So when do you graduate?

@rickyleepotts I saw recent studies showed beer was just as good for you as water. Or maybe that was on College Humor? I graduate May 2011.

@joshcorken College Humor is great.  What are your plans when you graduate?

@rickyleepotts I plan to work at Pixar as entry level and work my way up. I eventually wanna be a director & open my own studio! Dream big!

@joshcorken Let’s say that you are told you have a week to live. How do you spend your last seven days?

@rickyleepotts Traveling the world. That’s my goal in life. But I would have to bring all my friends & family along so I could be w/ them!

@joshcorken Who is your biggest inspiration in life?

@rickyleepotts Tough question! There are A LOT. My mom & dad, the founders of Pixar, Zeb Wood, Frank Tai, and a handful of my peers.

@joshcorken Thanks for doing this my friend.  I always let the artists get the last word.  Go.

@rickyleepotts Thanks Ricky! It was fun. Last words, eh? Stay passionate, do things that make you happy, be true to yourself, & live life!

The guy I m sitting with today fits right into the group of guys I surround myself with on a daily basis.  Coming from the genre of what most call singer songwriters, he brings a certain mystique to the stage.  He has a very polished image, his online reputation is spotless, and his music is quite frankly incredible.  He brings a classic sound to the microphone and it reminds me so much of the great Tom Petty.  His lyrics are from real life experience and beg for more at the end of every single track.  If you have not heard of him you will. Sit with me today as I introduce you to an incredible talent in Jay Nash.

Is that your real name?

Yep.

How long have you been playing the guitar?

Since I was a little kid…almost 20 years now.

When did you decide to make a run at this?

During my senior year of college.  I studied engineering at the University of Vermont.  I spent way too much time in the computer lab and decided that I didn’t want to spend my life that way.

Do you have a job outside of music?

Nope.

Where are you originally from?

Upstate New York…the Syracuse area.

Do you write all your own lyrics?

Yes.  Occasionally, I do collaborate with other artists to write and record.  Recently, I have been working on projects with Jeff Trott (played guitar on and co-wrote many of Sheryl Crowe’s hit songs),  Caitlin Crosby and a producer/songwriter, Chris Keup.

Where do you get inspiration for a new track?

That depends on what is going on in my life.  Could be anything…

Who designed your MySpace page?

Jenny Begin from Star Mile Designs.  She rules.

What are your thoughts on MySpace for that matter?

It’s an easy way for people to gain access to music and tour dates.   I try not to spend much time thinking about it though.

Are you on Twitter?

Yes.

Do you have a favorite venue?

I played the Troubadour last night.  It was a super rainy Tuesday in Los Angeles, so I think that we lost a good part of our crowd but I loved the room.  I think that it might be my favorite place that I have played so far.

What is the largest crowd that you have ever played for?

About 3,000 people.

The smallest?

2 people.

Ever been booed off stage?

No.

Do you ever forget the lyrics to your own songs?

Yes; I have a good excuse though. I have a lot of songs and sometimes an audience member will call out a song from the audience.  I’ll go for it.  If I haven’t played it for a long time, sometimes the words can escape me.

How many full-length albums do you have?

5 full length studio albums, 3 EPs and a soundtrack.

Tell me about the new one.

The newest release is an EP called ‘All the Stars in Copenhagen’.  The songs were mostly written on the road in 2008 while touring in support of the full length ‘The Things You Think You Need’.  Copenhagen was recorded in Denmark in two days in November of 2008, with overdubs in Berlin and then finished up in Los Angeles.  A global effort of sorts.  The previous full length ‘the things you think you need’ was record in October of 2007 in Los Angeles.  The stars really aligned for the making of that record.  It was produced by Chris Seefried.  We recorded live to 2 inch analog tape with some amazing legendary musicians – Charlie Gillingham and David Immergluck of Counting Crows.  Don Heffington (drums for Bob Dylan, Lucinda Williams and many others).

Describe your genre in one word.

RocknAmericanaFolk.

Your beard seems like a signature part of your image.  Ever thought of shaving it?

(Laughs)  It comes off from time to time.  If you do some digging on the interwebz, you’ll find some photos of me without it.  I never really gave it that much thought.  I think I have one a lot of times because I spend a lot of time on the road and it’s easier to maintain the bearded look than the freshly shaven look.  Also – most of my heroes have beards.

You are too good to not be on a label.  What is the hold up?

Thanks dude!  I guess I’m just waiting for the right one.  Until then, it’s nice to be able to point my music and career in the direction that I want to go in without having to wrestle a giant corporation.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

The Band, the Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Sam Cooke, and Greg Brown.

How many instruments do you play other than the guitar?

Most of them.

How did you react to the death of Michael Jackson?

MJ is a tragic story.  He’s kind of like Benjamin Buttons.  It seems like he was the most in control of his life and his music when he was a little boy.  I think everything went south from there.

Who would win in a pillow fight between Keaton Simons and Cary Brothers?

Good question.  I think that Keaton might have the edge on Brothers in terms of brute strength.  But then again Brothers is from the south, so he probably knows how to throw down.  He’s also quite a crafty fellow.

If you were told you only had a week to live how would you spend your last seven days?

I would spend 3 days Heli-skiing in Alaska, 3 days surfing in Bali and 1 day writing letters to all the people that I care about to let them know just how much I love them and why.  I would use a lear jet for transportation.  Evenings would be spent carrying adult activities with the woman of my dreams.

What connection do you have to Barcelona?

I spent some time there in 2006.  I was in the middle of some tough stuff relationship-wise.  It was the perfect juxtaposition of being completely moved and inspired by my surroundings and at the same time utterly lonely (though I was surrounded by beautiful people.)

What are you drinking on stage?

Room temperature water.  I do like to have a sip or two of whiskey before hand, but I have found that I put on a better show if I wait until afterwards.

If you could be any cartoon character whom would you be and why?

Garfield.  He’s lazy, cared for and somehow content.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

The same thing that I’m doing now except that I will be better at it and the rooms will be bigger.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

Connecting and inspiring people with music and compassion.  also – my beard.

I always let the artist get the last word.  Go.

Use your turn signals, people.

The band that I am sitting with today actually was one I found on MySpace some time ago.  I had sent out a message in hopes of scouting some new votes for my recent nomination as one of the top 50 blogs in the state of Indiana.  These guys not only voted but also saw that I interviewed bands all over the world.  No band goes without attention and after hearing them they deserve every ounce they get.  These guys are screamers, that is for sure, but they add a dash of Warped Tour to the stage and some humor with some off the cuff covers.  Sit with me today, as I am happy to introduce you to Arise.

Where did you come up with the name Arise?

Honestly, Ethan kind of just spit it out one day. We had been practicing for a few weeks and had countless ideas that just did not seem to fit us. So finally, we sat down after one of our practices and Ethan just said why don’t we use Arise. It was a huge transition for us, considering the trend is 2 word band names that get shortened into an acronym such as Attack Attack (AA). We have actually grown pretty fond of it though!

How long have you guys been performing?

As a band, still not even a full year. Individually, too many years to count. Ethan has been playing guitar since age 2, and started performing live in elementary school. Preston has been playing and performing for 4 or 5 years now. Cory is still the youngster but has the most confidence out of all of us on stage, he has only been performing for 2 years but has really taken to the stage. Tom the newest edition to the band has been playing drums for 11 years now I believe, as for myself (Will) I have been on the stage since age 13 doing vocals for various local bands!

What would you do if you were not performing?

Honestly, I think Preston would be doing the best out of all of us. He is really artistic, all though we are all so lazy its not even funny. Honestly, music is the one thing that we all are passionate about and it’s something we can connect with. I do not want to imagine myself not performing.

Do you guys have jobs outside of music?

Preston actually handles graphic design for a clothing company and Cory works for his father’s company. Tom has 2 jobs, one of which is being a kick ass employee at Giant Eagle! (Laughs) Ethan and myself are unemployed and on the search for work.

Any tattoos in the band?

We are all bare, for the moment! We all have piercings of sorts but no ink sadly.

Who is doing all of that screaming?

That’s me, Will! Cory’s vocals are featured on some of the old tracks before he made the transition from second vocalist to the bass. Although he still does some back up vocals for me live!

Does your voice ever get sore?

When we practice I am lucky to make it the full practice without my scream just dying out on me, however when we play live I feel like I can scream for days straight without stopping. The adrenaline kicks in and makes it all work so well.

Who writes all of the lyrics?

Me again! Although Cory, Ethan and Preston do help me revise my lyrics and make any changes to fit the music better.

Is there a ringleader in the band?

We all are on the same level for the most part. We assigned roles once we started making member changes to make sure everyone brought an even amount to the table to keep a balance.

Where do you guys get inspiration for a new song?

Life in general, we all lead such different lives, and for awhile we struggled to put it all together while maintaining familiarity on a song to song basis. But we finally reigned it all in and are starting to define our own sound!

What are your thoughts on MySpace?

Everybody in the band besides myself downplays how important MySpace can be for any up and coming artist. It’s the easiest method of reaching ALL types of people, at any time of the day without moving an inch to do so. It’s a beautiful thing, and we have been blessed to have such a great following on MySpace. Our fans are talkative, and more importantly supportive. Anytime we post bulletins, or blogs our friends respond almost immediately. MySpace was the biggest reason we got on our cities date for the PacTour Battle of The Bands. I cannot stress how important of a tool MySpace is for anybody trying to get themselves out there.

Are you on Twitter?

As a band, yes we are! @ariseoh

Individually we all are well, but those names can be found on our personal pages.

Do you guys have a favorite venue to play?

For sure, the Newport. It’s one of the best venue’s here in our native Columbus and the venue is nothing short of amazing. It has a really nice open raised up stage so we are always comfortable, and the crowd area is rather large as well, allowing a lot more people to watch then some of the other clubs we have played!

What is the largest crowd that you have ever played for?

Honestly, I would have to say Loganpalooza was our biggest turn out. I am unsure of how many people were there. Last I heard of ticket sales were past a thousand though, so somewhere in that range.

The smallest?

Definitely Springfield, Ohio. We got booked on a “huge festival” the turn out was nothing short of jaw dropping. We had maybe 20 kids standing watching us, we felt humiliated for the people who put the show on.

Who did that photo shoot with you guys I see all over MySpace?

Our friend Ethan Beazley.  He is absolutely AMAZING!

Where are you guys all originally from?

I am from Florida and I still miss the heat! Preston is from Cleveland, just a bit north of us here in Columbus. Cory and Ethan are from Columbus, and Tom is from Upper Arlington.

If you could live anywhere else in the world where would you go?

We all agreed that anywhere that consistently stuck to the routine season would be nice. Ohio is an amazing place, but we have some rather odd weather which can be rather frustrating!

Do you guys have any plans on a nation wide tour this year?

We are really hoping to get out on the road, hopefully by this summer. But we have an EP in the works, and financing that will be our first priority.

Have you guys ever thought about playing on Warped Tour?

We hope to one day play every date on the main stage. As far as being voted on to the show, we will try our hand next year! Warped Tour is just an amazing experience even if you are not in a band.

How did you all react to the passing of Michael Jackson?

Very mixed reactions, but the major emotion was surprise. None of us really were following the recent news on him and just out of nowhere Ethan’s mom told all of us while we were practicing that he had passed. We seriously sat in front of the television for a solid 2 hours trying to figure it out.

Describe your genre in one word.

Progressive.

If you were told you only have a week to live how would you spend your last seven days?

Living exactly how we do now, like tomorrow is not a guaranteed. We all try to live life to the fullest, which is why we all probably click so well together. We are just trying to have some fun and make a difference in people’s lives.

Are you using a PC or a Mac?

Gah! I hate this question. I always get made fun of for having a PC! I AM BROKE! (Laughs) Preston, Ethan and Tom make up for me though by having Mac Book Pro’s though!

Do you ever forget the words when you are on stage?

Practice makes perfect. We focus on parts that any of us struggle with until it is just as solid as the recording. The live performance is just as important as the recording!

What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you during a show?

Our first show, Cory jumped up and somehow managed to lose his mic and it fell and hit him fairly hard on the head. We all laughed about it afterwords, but it was probably rather humiliating for him at the time.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

Out on the road, with other bands that are doing the same thing as us. Playing music for anybody who will listen!

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

Honestly all we have ever wanted to do was travel this world, and see everything there is outside of Ohio. We write music as a way of expressing ourselves, and we want to play for everybody who has helped us along the way, whether it be kind words on our band MySpace, or for people out of our local area who have helped us get booked. We just want to play our music for the people who want to hear it, wherever they may be.

I always let the artist get the last word.  Go.

Well thank you for the opportunity, and for choosing us for an interview. You have our continued support, and you have a friend in us forever. We also want to thank everybody who took the time to read this interview, not only for supporting us but for supporting the man who took the time to ask us all these questions. We have so much planned for the future, make sure to check out our MySpace for all of our other information! We love you all

I am hanging out today with a talent you have probably heard of one way or the other.  If you have not, then take my word for it, go listen to his music.  He is also a treat live so if you can see him perform even better.  Bringing a fun, energetic, and incredibly talented set of instruments behind him, he is one of the Midwest’s best talents.  Always able to light up a stage, get you out of your seat and dance, and take a shot of Jager with you when the show is over, he is on his way to where he belongs; the top.  It is my absolute pleasure to introduce you to Rich Hardesty.

I have seen you both full band and solo.  Which do you prefer?

I enjoy both shows equally.   It’s nice to play solo and tell stories about the songs and how they came to be. One of my biggest influences was Jim Croce and he did a lot of story telling.  The acoustic show has been my full time job  for 15 years, enabling me to have the freedom to put the band together. The synergy of playing with the band in the present moment is such a gift.  I have also been blessed to make some very great friendships from my band mates and have the utmost respect for their talent and what they bring to the stage.

Do you play full band or solo more often?

75% solo  The demand for the band is high for both shows.  The band can be a bit pricey also but it gives the fans something to look forward to.

When did you guys all meet?

All at different times within the past 10 years.  In studios,  venues and via musician friends.  Bloomington, Indiana was definately the catalyst that indirectly brought us all together.

What is your first memory of playing a guitar?

At my aunt’s house.  I knew how to play the piano by ear at age 7 so I knew what a chord sounded like.  I took my aunt’s guitar and tuned it so when you strummed all the strings at once it sounded like a G chord. Then all I had to do is put my finger across the chord like a Kapo.  I learned a bunch of John Denver songs that way. Then I learned the proper way and have been playing by ear ever since.

Where do you get inspiration when you sit down to write a song?

From lifes experiences and from living in the present moment of life.  Jamaica has been very inspirational to me when it comes to writing but I also remember in 7th grade writing a song for a commercial we had to come up with and I wanted to be creative and stand out in the class.  I recently started writing a song in Australia and finished here in Indiana. The sky is the limit to my writing and I also enjoy writing jingles for companies.  Ultimately it is a gift from God and I want to keep practicing and focusing on my talent that I feel so blessed to have. I have hopped planes at the last minute just to arrive in a new and different place for inspiration.

PC or Mac?

MacBookPro.   Everything about it!  Notebook G4 was my old one that I currently use to record. It’s fun to sit down at my PC and be reminded how much I love my Mac.

You play a ton of shows.  Are you ever afraid of over saturating yourself in the local market?

I spread them out all over and think I do a pretty good  job of not saturating.  There are so many small towns within an hour to 4 hours of driving where people are starved for singer/songwriter tunes.  I usually send out my posters a couple weeks in advance to create the demand.

What is the biggest crowd you have ever played for?

Negril, Jamaica during spring break.

The smallest?

A fly on the wall in my studio.

What is the last movie you saw?

Taking Woodstock.

Did you like it?

Yes but I had to duck out towards the end to make my sound check.

If you could meet anyone alive or dead who would it be and why?

Jerry Garcia or Bob Marley; they have kept me keeping on!

Who are some of your biggest inspirations?

Jim Croce,  James Taylor,  Sinatra, a Prof Smith from IU who taught me the law of diminishing returns and to take road less traveled,  My mom and dad who have been fighting and surviving Cancer and MS and the most higher.

What would you be doing if it were not music?

I swam since I was 6 years old to senior year in high school.  I had a couple state records.  When I went to college I wanted to have fun with my guitar.  I love brand marketing and it goes hand and hand with my music now.  If I stopped performing today I would still be involved in Marketing.  Although my college degree is marketing I believe you can do whatever you want in life.  We are all blessed with something.

Do you have a job or is music it?

Music is my life and music is my wife. (Laughs)   It’s been my full time job for over 15 years.

If you could play with any band in the industry right now who would it be?

Slightly Stoopid.

Let’s say you are about to open at Verizon Wireless Music Center.  Who would be your opener?

Kelley Isenhower.

Pepsi or Coke?

Pepsi.  I used to guzzle it down.  The Pepsi in Jamaica must have sugar cane in it and it is the best in the world.

Let’s get some pizza.  What toppings?

Veggie; all veggies especially hot peppers.

Has anyone ever told you that you look exactly like Dane Cook?

I get that often and also that I bust out envelope pushing comments that others only think.

What was it like touring with Slightly Stoopid and Pepper?

It was great to travel around with two of my favorite bands and get to know some of them.  They didn’t seem to have great big egos.  Ironically three years later one of my songs is going to be on the new Jagermeister 2010 sampler with Slightly Stoopid and Pepper.

Miles (one of the lead singers of SS) had us over to his house on the last day of the tour in San Diego and cooked us breakfast. When I lived in California I spent a lot of time in San Diego.  I wish I could have linked up with Slightly Stoopid then but blessed that it happened.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Writing songs about the people and places that inspire me. I believe everyday is a gift and I take it day by day to soak up the present moment.

What do you want to be remembered for when it’s all said and done?

An entrepreneur who created his own reality writing songs and creating a musical soundtrack to life while making a difference in the world.

If you could play only one cover song for the rest of your career what song would it be?

Eyes of The World; it is never played the same way and has an amazing message.

I always let the artist get the last word.  Go.

I love feedback from the people who allow me to keep doing what I love.  It’s a two way street and I want to continue this dream job. Thank you to all the people and places that have inspired me on this journey of life.  Blessed love and positivity!

If you took Relient K and put them in a blender with Treaty of Paris, Yellowcard, and New Found Glory you might come close to the insane talent packed into the Boyd brother’s band 3Union.  Warped Tour is where you would expect to find a group like this and it has even been a jumping off point for thousands of bands in it’s ten years of touring.   Still, I am not sure talent of this magnitude needs a jumping off point with lyrics and vocals like this.

I have not heard this album in over a week and I am still singing the lyrics from track one to ten.  Their debut album, “Say It Now,” grabs a hold of you, pulls you tight, and won’t let go.  You will hit repeat time and time again and wonder why you have not heard of these guys before now.  They sing songs that appear to come from experience and tragedy, but when you realize how young they are you might change your mind.  The fact that they can come up with lyrics packed with heartbreak and heartache at this stage in their careers opens a lot of doors to their futures.

When first thinking about boy bands, or even family bands for that matter, your mind tends to go straight to the likes of N’Sync and The Jonas Brothers.  Don’t get me wrong; I am a huge fan of songs like “Bye Bye Bye” and “Burning Up,” but when listening to 3Union you do not think about sitting around the dinner table and having story time, you think of jumping up and down screaming for one more song with your closest friends.  These lyrics develop an emotion that can reach an epic level in three minutes.  Their sound fits a mold that has been built by hundreds of bands in the past.  That is not what makes this album and these boys scream out for MTV.  Their ability to take a sound that has already made a name for itself in this competitive market and make it their own, to bring their own interpretation on this genre, and to make you demand for more once the album is over, is what will take these boys as far as they want to go.

This is the band’s debut album, and the only thing that keeps this album out of the perfect category is the number of songs.  There are only ten tracks and if I have ever said that an album leaves me wanting more it is this one.  Working with John David Webster, a genius in his own right, they have managed to put together a Best Buy sound with a Warped Tour mentality.  I dare you to listen to this album and not tap your foot and wave your arms in the air.  When it’s over try and not hit repeat.  This album is not only packed with incredible music but is also an addiction that I can’t seem to quit.

If anyone reads this post I hope that his name is Josh Corken.  Josh is a fellow blogger friend of mine (I hope he makes the WordPress switch before it’s too late) and he writes nearly every single post about graphic design, 3D animation, or the latest Pixar flick.  Sure, he had had some posts that did not fit this mold, but he writes this way for a reason and his following appreciates this style.  So this post is dedicated to you and yours as I am going to get serious for a moment and discuss the accepted process for logo design.

What does McDonald’s, Target, Walmart, and Adidas have in common?  Well, I am sure they have a lot of things in common, but the thing that each one of them share in relation to this post is that each one of them have a very simple, easy to recognize and therefore remember, logo.  Target probably has one of the most widely (OK, maybe Nike) recognized logos on the planet.  The name, in theory, is their logo, and it works on multiple levels.

But what makes a logo design so difficult?  We see logos everywhere we go and nearly every company has one.  Even individual brands, such as rickyleepotts, has a logo.  They are the foundation of a brand and what that brand is related to more often than not.  When you think of McDonald’s the first thing that comes to my mind are the golden arches of the logo and then the double cheeseburger and the greasy french fries.

So why when I sit down to create a logo do I have such a hard time?  A logo design should not just start with a pen and paper.  A logo design is a process.  There are steps that a logo should go through and not all of these steps include creation.  I will break down the steps for you now.

1. Design Brief

When you first start a logo design you need to listen to the client.  You need to get their understanding of their product.  You need to hear everything that their company does and every service that their firm offers.  However, when meeting this this client keep the meeting brief.  You do not want them to over load you with information and material that will prove to be worthless by the time the logo finally rolls out.  But one you have heard what they have to say, you will have a better understanding of what they are looking for.  This, however, might not be the best solution for a logo, but it gives you a launching pad into the next step.

2. Research

This is a step that I take pretty serious when I am given a project.  I do more research than is probably necessary but at the end of the day I would rather be more prepared than under prepared.  But when you are working on a logo look at more than just the company the logo is for.  Look at their competition.  Look at the client base.  Look at the demographic of the client base.  Look at the geographical location of the company and where their product is most used.  Take every little detail into consideration.  One thing that helps me in the process is writing everything down.  When I begin a logo design I write down every single idea that comes into my head.  There is no such thing as a bad idea and you never know when that dumb idea you had on day one ends up being the base for the logo on the day you hand the logo over.

3. Reference

This step i not necessarily all that important but one that must be taken serious.  Referencing your logo and comparing it to other successful logos in the field is one way to ensure client satisfaction as well as giving you creditability with your end product.  Also, reference current design trends in every step of your logo process.  Trends are always changing and you see that in every website that once was the best on the block is now the worst in town.  Reference credible sources and you will begin building a portfolio that stands out among your peers.

4. Sketching

Finally you get to draw!  This is the step where you take out a pad of paper and a pencil (or a pen if you are feeling daring) and start to draw the concepts and ideas that have been in your heads since day one.  Draw anything and everything that comes to mind and begin drafting a foundation for what the final logo, or if you are a good designer one of the final three as you always want to provide your client with options, will look like.  This stage does not have to provide perfection but needs to produce a logo that you can be proud of to show to the client.  Take this step serious and if you can not draw, or simply do not like drawing, get over it.  I would suggest taking a sketching class at your local university if you are serious about logo design.  You would be shocked if you knew how many techniques you can pick up in a semester.

5. Reflection

Now it’s time to go on vacation.  Well, maybe not a vacation, but take some time away from the logo.  Close the note book, shut the laptop, and take a week or so off from the design.  Go shopping, or out to dinner.  Take the weekend to go play some golf and hang out with your family.  Do all that you can to completely separate yourself from the logo project.  This step, as much as you are going to hate leaving your project on the desk top, is crucial.  And this step goes for every project that you are working on.  The same process should go for a website as well as a logo.  Let the ideas and sketching and the inspiration loose by working on something else for a change.  (I actually do this every single day.  I can not work on the same project all day.  I have to work on multiple projects at once.  I have to work on two or three to just keep myself fresh.  I read more than one book at a time too.  Don’t ask me why I do it, but I think I have perfected the art of reflection.

6. Presentation

Now comes the moment of truth.  Now it is time to take your product to the client.  But this is OK; you want their feedback as you take your logo back to the desktop to put the finishing touches on it.  You want to be able to one, show that you have actually been working on the project, but two to let the client feel that he or she has a say in the final design of the logo.  It will happen to you time and time again where a client refuses to take your advice but then again they are the one signing your check at the end of the day.  (That is another key element to this.  Do not do free work.  It is OK to do free work in the beginning when you are either, one building your portfolio, or two can not find work.  But do not make a habit of it, like I have, in doing free work.  Just because it is called freelance does not mean it is free.)  Go to the meeting with an open mind, take notes, and provide them with the comfort in your note taking and your open ears.  If nothing else you might hear something that will push the logo from just OK to incredible.

7. Delivery

This is a step that I am still trying to get a grasp on.  When the project is complete, and you hand over the logo, you have some options.  If you were smart, at the start of the project you drafted a contract for the client to sign stating exactly what you would be submitting.  If you did not (learn to write contracts) then you are in between a rock and hard place.  What does the client get?  In most cases the client will request the raw files of the logo in case they either one, want to make changes in the future, or if they ever need to send a particular file format to another design firm.  I can not tell you how many times I have requested a logo in a vector format and I get a JPEG in return.  There is no standard in this, but the more files that you provide the happier your clients will be and the better your chances of a referral are.  Also, it increases your chances of work with that company in the future.

This list is not perfect.  This list might not work for every designer out there.  But I think that it is a good starting point for anyone wanting to dive into logo design.  I have applied numerous times to Logoworks (click the image) in hopes of being hired as a freelance designer for logos.  They pay well and allow you to work from home but have one last stipulation that is thrown into the mix.  To be a logo designer in today’s market you have to be proficient in Adobe Illustrator.  I used to, and still do, use Macromedia Freehand.  There are some tools that Freehand has Illustrator does not.  But at the end of the day, and going back to what I said earlier, you must stick with current design trends.

So go out there and create!  You never know where the next great logo will come from.  However, if it comes from this post and I have inspired you to create the next Nike swoosh, all I ask in return is 10% of your profits!  Get busy creators.

As a web designer I run into issues every single day with Internet Explorer.  There are currently three versions of IE ranging from 6, 7, and 8.  When designing a website, most of us will use browsers such as Firefox and Safari but when it comes time to test the website to make sure it looks consistent across all browsers, you then add all of the versions of IE to the mix as well as Opera and Google Chrome.  (I personally refuse to use Google Chrome because I can not stand the browser.  Sure, it’s fast and all, but there is just something about Firefox that keeps me going back time and time again.)

So when you take any given website to IE, no matter what version you go to, I can basically guarantee that you will see something different than you did in Firefox.  But the thing that continues to make me slam my mouse is that you not only see something different in IE 6 but 7 and 8 will provide a different set of issues.  Microsoft knows about these issues, yet continues to ship IE8 on all of their machines.  The W3c (World Wide Web Consortium) also acknowledges the problems but does not do anything to encourage the use of another browser.

When Microsoft announced a few months ago that it was going to ship computers over seas without an operating system all together some designers here in the states got happy.  Was this the end of IE and the start of an easier testing phase in web design?  No, of course not.  Microsoft pulled back that statement and said that it would now ship all machines with IE7 and make the update an option for those that wanted to use it.  Even Microsoft can not make up their mind as to what they want to do.  And with 54% of the Internet on some version of IE the guys designing those sites have to pay some attention to that.

I found this chart you see above today and it made me laugh as I can relate to pretty much every one of these.  It broke down the “real” reasons why people are still using IE.  One of them states “I can’t use a computer,” while another one says “What is a browser?”  These are the people that do not even need to be using a computer.  If you do not know what a browser is, and if you have to call technical support when you can not figure out how to turn the machine on, then you need to step away from the computer and take a course in modern living.

But as this chart was meant to be funny, one of them actually made some sense.  The smallest one, ironically, says, “Over 65.”  This is ironic because that should actually be towards the top of reasons why folks still use IE.  They are what I like to call the “baby boomers” and are part of the reason for a lot of stalled progression in our society.  They are the reason that we still have record labels.  They are the reason we still get the Sunday paper (or any paper for that matter) and they are the reason why we still produce dollar bills rather than credit cards.  But, over the next twenty years, as they move their way to the grave and we digital natives take their place, you will see a lot of these things become obsolete.

But will IE ever really become obsolete?  As Microsoft continues to make money and designers continue to test in it, I do not see it going anywhere.  We have actually been in talks at my firm discussing whether or not to stop testing in it, trying to force our users to either upgrade of change browsers, but it continues to be put on the back burner until the numbers show us something different.  So take a look at whatever browser you are reading this on.  If you are using Firefox, then high five.  If you are using Internet Explorer, then open a new tab, and go here to begin a life of educated browsing.  You will make my life easier and you will enjoy your time spent online so much more.  As Nike always said, just do it.