Kirk Douglas, the longtime guitarist for The Roots and solo artist under the name Hundred Watt Heart, shares his musical journey from teaching preschool to rocking stages. He reminisces about the thrill of seeing electric guitars on Kiss album covers as a child and his early days gigging in NYC. Kirk recalls the unforgettable moment when Prince played and smashed one of his guitars on live television. The conversation also touches on his latest album, recorded in his childhood basement, inspired by legendary artists like Hendrix and Sly and the Family Stone.
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Quick takeaways
Captain Kirk Douglas reflects on his evolution with The Roots, transitioning from a touring band to a prominent fixture on 'The Tonight Show'.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Douglas enhanced his home recording skills, showcasing the importance of adaptability in music creation.
Rich Nichols' influence as a guiding force for The Roots profoundly shaped their sound, driving the band to honor his legacy through their music.
Deep dives
Birth of Vitamin Water
Vitamin Water was conceived in New York, driven by the desire for more flavorful beverage options among urban dwellers. This beverage quickly became a refreshing choice for New Yorkers after exhausting activities like climbing stairs or enduring the heat at subway stations. The product's origin reflects the cultural trend of seeking creative solutions to everyday challenges, showcasing the innovative spirit of the city. Its branding connects deeply with the vibrant lifestyle of New Yorkers, reinforcing the drink's reputation as a go-to refreshment.
Kirk Douglas and The Roots Journey
Captain Kirk Douglas, the guitarist for The Roots, has been with the band since 2003, coinciding with the rise of their hit song 'The Seed.' Over the years, he has witnessed their evolution from a touring band to a staple on 'The Tonight Show' with Jimmy Fallon. His solo project, known as 100 W.H., highlights his creative journey, including his latest album 'New Unknown,' recorded in his childhood home, which underscores his passion for music and personal growth. Douglas reflects on how his experiences with The Roots and his early musical influences shaped his artistry.
Home Recording Evolution
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Douglas to enhance his home recording skills, an endeavor he initially approached during lockdown for 'The Tonight Show.' As he became more adept at self-recording and mastering audio management, he uncovered the potential of creating music within his own space. This adaptability not only enriched his musicianship but also enabled him to collaborate effectively with other artists, including capturing his solo work. Douglas emphasizes the value of a conducive environment for creativity, illustrating how home studios can foster unique musical expressions.
The Influence of Rich Nichols
Rich Nichols played a pivotal role in the orchestration of The Roots, serving as a father figure and guiding force for the band. As the mastermind behind their success, he cultivated their sound and collaborated closely with them to shape their musical direction. Nichols' absence has been felt deeply as the band navigates the challenges of maintaining their legacy in his absence, influencing the creation of new music in his memory. The band's members view their work as a tribute to his legacy, aiming to honor his contributions through their art.
Diverse Musical Influences
Douglas's musical journey reflects a rich tapestry of influences, from Jamaica's reggae to rock legends like Jimi Hendrix and Van Halen. His early exposure to various genres shaped his playing style, allowing him to blend rock sensibilities with soulful inspirations. He discusses the importance of seeing guitar players as integral to the overall song rather than just flashy soloists, emphasizing the relevance of serving the music. This mindset has significantly impacted his contributions to The Roots, advocating for a collaborative approach that enhances their collective sound.
Captain Kirk Douglas is the longtime guitarist for The Roots. Over the past 21 years he’s seen the group evolve from a touring act, to the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, to having their own successful music festival in Philly. All the while continuing to record albums for themselves and others.
Between The Roots' many commitments, Kirk has also found time to record a solo project under the name Hundred Watt Heart. His most recent offering “New Unknown” was recorded in the basement of his childhood home on Long Island where he first fell in love with the music of Van Halen, Hendrix, Sly and the Family Stone, and so many others.
On today’s Broken Record Justin Richmond talks with Captain Kirk from the Roots’ green room in 30 Rock about the seductive pull he felt as a little kid seeing electric guitars on the cover of an old Kiss album. He also reminisces about his early days gigging around New York City in the ‘90s while also working as a preschool teacher. And he recalls the elation he felt when Prince played one of his guitars on the Tonight Show, only to smash it onstage at the end of the performance.
You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Captain Kirk Douglas & The Roots songs HERE.