The Crimson Idol

VHS Archives #98: Blackie Lawless vs. Erica Ehm – 1992 reunion interview

VHS Archives proclaimed that video #43, Blackie Lawless’ 1989 Power Hour show, was the best interview with the man that you’ll ever see.

Every hit deserves a sequel.*

Unfortunately by 1992, when Blackie returned with new album The Crimson Idol, MuchMusic cancelled the Pepsi Power Hour and replaced it with the half-hour Power 30.  No more hour-long in-depth shows with an artist like Blackie.  This shorter talk is from midday in the summer of ’92.

Erica and Blackie joke around, but still get serious.  They maintain their excellent rapport from the prior encounter.  Topics discussed:

  • Spinal Tap’s three concerts in a single day, and Blackie’s cameo in the VHS release.
  • The concept behind new CD The Crimson Idol.
  • Pete Townsend.
  • The price for anyone who wants to make it in the music biz.
  • New video “The Idol”.

Once again well done to Erica Ehm who did the best with the limited time at hand.

* Kevin does not agree.

VHS Archives #46: Blackie Lawless of W.A.S.P. returns! MuchMusic interview 1992

“If somebody woulda told me what this business was like before I got into it, I still woulda done it.” — Blackie Lawless

The MuchMusic personality here is as yet unidentified (best guess is Angela Dohrmann; help anyone?), but that is definitely Blackie Lawless. The W.A.S.P. mainman (and only remaining member at this point) looks to be in England, judging by the red double decker busses behind. His new album, The Crimson Idol, was the reason.

The Crimson Idol is a concept album about the hazards of the music business, and Blackie offers his perspective.  His beloved horses are discussed again.  He also speaks of W.A.S.P.’s past as a shock rock group in an interesting way.  Check it out.