Brother Dege (aka Dege Legg) is a songwriter from Louisiana whose music was recently featured in Quentin Tarantino’s latest film, “Django Unchained”. Dege spoke with Tuned In, Turned Up about what it’s been like having his music in the film, his musical inspirations, and what to expect from his new album.
You recently released a song on Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained Soundtrack. Has that opened up any new opportunities for you and your music?
It has given me the opportunity to keep making music, and for more people to hear it. Other than that, I have no idea where any of this will lead. I’ve been flying under the radar for so damn long – not giving a fuck – that all of this is kind of weird. But cool. It’s like getting knighted by the art pope.
What musicians have inspired your sound or influenced you as an artist?
Black Sabbath, Sonic Youth, Blind Willie Johnson.
How would you describe your sound, and how has it developed since you first begun your career as a musician?
I call it Psyouthern rock. It sounds almost the same now as it did years ago. I just play the sounds of the people, vibe, and things around me. In this case, it’s the blast furnace of the Deep South. It’s like southern rock for the new millennium. There’s no rules. Less beer fests, and more mushroom vision quests.
What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as an artist and songwriter?
Just trying to figure out how to pay for it and continue doing it without exhausting all the good graces of your family and friends. Because, trust me, they all think we’re crazy. It’s hard to pay the bills with pats on the back.
Are you working on any new music, and if so, when can we expect to hear it?
How to Kill a Horse is the new album coming in 2013. It’s already in the can. Done and mastered. Recorded by myself on a chump change budget in an empty warehouse. It’s the next evolution. I’m shopping the album around to labels. See what happens. See if they have any soul left. If any good labels are interested, hit me. What happens when you take four slide guitars and play them all in reverse…with a gang of tribal drumming underneath? Answer: my next album. It will blow your mind and then break your heart.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received throughout your music career?
Same advice I got from the guy who trained me how to drive a cab when I worked the night shift for four years: always go with your gut. If it feels right, it is right.
Are there any artists or bands you’d like to collaborate with?
Yukio Mishima, but he’s dead.
What are some goals you have for your music in 2013?
Help people heal. Purge fear from their lives. Fire up the love and connection.
“Too Old To Die Young” – Brother Dege
Brother Dege’s album, Folk Songs of the American Longhair can be purchased on iTunes.
The Django Unchained Soundtrack, featuring Brother Dege, can be purchased on Amazon or iTunes.
Additional Brother Dege music and information can be found at:
Tuned In, Turned Up 