Name: Wayne Barnes
Band: Tom Dooley & the Lovelights
Website: N/A
Special Note: interview conducted by Wayne's son Jamie Barnes

QRD – How old were you when you first realized you wanted to be a professional musician?

Wayne – At age 10, after I heard Earl Palmer & Joe Morello play the drums.

QRD – What are a few highlights of your musical career?

Wayne – Recording in the Sambo Studio in Louisville; hearing the records played on the radio in different cities; touring at age 17 & 18; opening up for many famous acts; i.e. The Beach Boys, The Doors; playing in front of an estimate 100,000 people at Centennial Park in Nashville, late summer 1968; being in a band with my sons & recently playing on stage with Jamie.

QRD – At what age did you decide you wanted to become a father?

Wayne – At 25, after I got married.

QRD – What are some positive & negative impacts your family has had on your career?

Wayne – All are positive.  I could write a book, but it should suffice to say that I have lived for my family.

QRD – What are some positive & negative impacts your career has had on your family?

Wayne – Nothing negative, I hope.  I prefer that you ask them.  It might be personal.

QRD – Have your children effected the music you make &/or listen to?

Wayne – Of course.  Music is a language that crosses so many lines, age differences & cultural barriers.  It can be enjoyed by anybody & can help to pull one out of the deepest, darkest depression.

QRD – Have you had problems with the lack of steady money from a musical career providing the security you feel necessary in your household?

Wayne – I would have, if I had stayed a professional musician only. 

QRD – Given the limitations having a family has on being a touring musician, would you have toured more earlier in life if you’d known?

Wayne – I did. 

QRD – Do you think being a father or a musician has a greater impact on your community?

Wayne – Being a Dad.  I have two great sons who are making wonderful contributions to the community in their own way.

QRD – Would you rather see your child eventually become a professional musician or parent?

Wayne – Whatever he wishes to be is all right with me.

QRD – Both family & music seem like things that will take up as much of your time as you’re willing to put in.  How do you end up dividing your time?

Wayne – By doing what is most important at the time.

QRD – Do you have a split/secret life between being a parent & being a musician?

Wayne – Nope.

QRD – What do your children think of your music?

Wayne – Ask them.

QRD – What do you think Jamie?

Jamie – I don’t know.  It sounds pretty dated...  1960’s blue eyed soul band.  Lots of horns, lots of corny 60’s “baby baby” lyrics.  For example, their hit was “My Groovey Baby.”  Yikes!  But they seemed to be good at what they do.  My dad is a really good drummer though.  I’ve played with quite a few percussionists over the years & I’d have to say he’s one of the steadiest & most diverse I have ever worked with. 

QRD – Do you think you could ever do a musical project with your children?

Wayne – I have & would love to do something else, if & when the time is right for all.

QRD – Any words of advice to young people?

Wayne – Always put God first in everything.  Be real & true to yourself & others.  Keep your dream, if only in your heart.