There's often an assumption among the general public that the cream of the crop rises to the top. That even if quality film, television and music don't reach as great an audience as blockbuster Hollywood movies or the Billboard Top 100 initially, they'll get their fifteen minutes of fame when they're honored in critics' top-10 lists, or at awards ceremonies. But, sadly, this assumption is not necessarily well-founded.

Geoff Byrd is a case in point. One of the most talented singer-songwriters around, he's garnered a fair amount of critical acclaim, and a loyal, dedicated fanbase - but genuine commercial success has eluded him. It's a crying shame, as his music - which runs the gamut from catchy pop-rock to acoustic guitar-driven via experimental dabbling with soul and hip-hop - demands to be heard by a wider audience.

Regardless, Geoff seems more than happy with the way things are. I had the opportunity to put a few questions to the man recently, and the clear running theme throughout his responses is a dedication to evolution, art and experimentation over pursuit of commercial success: his mantra, one he hints at several times throughout, is "word of mouth rules." Not record company promotion. Word of mouth.

Given this commitment to allowing both his material and fanbase to grow organically, ahead of active pursuit of a worldwide audience, it's no surprise to learn he's had a passion for music since childhood..

How old were you when you first discovered music? Is there any kind of musical history in your family?

I was young, like three years old. I harmonized with my mom and she freaked! It started from there. I sang in choirs until the day I formed a band. Then, I thought that was cooler.. But I still have much love for a cappella choir, it's a beautiful artform.

You've often cited Hall and Oates as influences, and you've toured and worked with them too. That must have been a dream come true. What has it been like working with them?

Daryl [Hall] and John [Oates] are awesome. Both are way more talented and relevant than the press sometimes gives them credit for. The tour [Geoff opened for them on a ~50-show tour of the USA and Canada] was one of my favorite memories in my life actually. I sat backstage and watched every show from the side of the stage. Oates sometimes threw picks at me.. he can launch those damn things! He and I have become close friends and we have written four songs together, and plan on writing many more. Daryl still sings his ass off and I learned a lot of phrasing from him as I watched those shows. I had a great time in Canada... some of the nicest people I have ever met. Many I am still in contact with. The St. Dennis Theater in Montreal was a highlight! Those people were awesome. They gave me such amazing energy. The Beacon Theater in NY was the same way, unreal fans and a great show. I love NYC and I can't wait to go back and play again. If you haven't listened to Hall and Oates in a while... get their Greatest Hits, it's one hit after another... they rule.

Article Author: Wesley Mead

Wesley Mead is a politics student from England. He spends far too much time and money on DVDs. You can catch up with a range of his content from around the Internet, including lists and articles, here.

Visit Wesley Mead's author page — Wesley Mead's Blog