Quick Q and A with SETH GLIER
 by Kathy S-B  ·  7 October 2008

Seth Glier may be young but he’s done more in his short career than many others who have been plying their musical trade for years. He’s played before thousands at the National Mall and has had sold-out appearances at well-established venues like the famous Iron Horse in Northampton. He has shared the stage with the likes of John Mayer, Martin Sexton, and Shemekia Copeland. One reviewer for Tower Records said of his songwriting: “His lyrics don’t just tell stories; they paint a masterpiece of pictures. The pictures are fresh, vibrant, and thoughtful.” Check out Seth’s music at his website. Don’t miss this video of Seth singing Chris Smither’s signature song, “Love Me Live a Man” at the National Mall.

Are you still a student at Berklee College of Music? What are you studying there?

I am no longer a student at Berklee. I went there for one year and studied Songwriting with Livingston Taylor. He has become a great teacher, mentor, and close friend of mine. I decided not to return to Berklee because I felt as the songwriting department (excluding Livingston) is like an over priced paint by numbers project. And I am ready to paint my own picture.

Have you sung your entire life? Do you recall the first time you were on stage?

No, I was hockey player until I broke all the bones in my body and had to sit on the bench for the season. I still wanted to be part of the team and participate in the games so I decided to start singing the National Anthem before the games. It wasn’t until 9/11 that I started to write songs and then play piano.

You’ve already recorded three CDs which is an outstanding feat for someone so young. How did you manage to get such big name musicians and producers involved with your projects?

I make a mean quesadilla.

Do you have to be in the mood to write a song or can you discipline yourself to write when you have time to spare?

I have no control over my songwriting process. However, I do believe that there is no such thing as writers block……but then again . . . I am still young. For me it’s about writing and thinking every single day. Most of the time my ideas are turds. but if it’s worth it, you can keep polishing until you have a beautifully polished turd. ta da a song!!!