WIP

TEN QUESTIONS WITH TOM PAXTON

By: Una Matthews

1. What were you doing when you were my age (21)? 

I was just finishing at The University of Oklahoma, where I majored in theatre.

2. How did you get to where you are today? 

One day at a time, with my eyes always on the goal of succeeding as a singer and songwriter.

3. Who was the most influential person in your life and why? 

Pete Seeger, who set the finest example of using music to bring people together.

4. What do you value most in life? 

My family.

5. What advice would you give to a young university graduate from Northern Ireland/Ireland?

 Set goals. Set them high. Write them down somewhere and review them often. Work toward them!

6. What inspired you to become a musician?

Music! I've always loved it.

7. How did you feel when you were awarded the 2009 LIFETIME  ACHIEVEMENT AWARD from the the 51st Annual Grammy awards?

Gob-smacked! Totally surprised. I've never had a hit recording or been a big seller of records, etc., so it completely amazed me to be chosen.

8. What has been the biggest highlight of your career?

A few of them: The Isle Of Wight Festival in 1969, the farewell concert for Woody Guthrie in Carnegie Hall and this year's 90th birthday celebration for Pete Seeger in Madison Square Garden.
9. Are you working on anything at the minute?

Always working on the next song!