Slik Toxik - Nick Walsh Interview: Moxy - 40 Years and Still Riding High

As vocalist of Slik Toxik, Nick Walsh became part of Canadian hard rock history during the early 1990s, when the band earned national recognition and won a Juno Award, Canada's equivalent to the Grammy Awards. Years later, Walsh stepped into another important chapter of Canadian rock by fronting Moxy, a legendary band with more than four decades of history.

In this exclusive interview, Rockum's Gino Alache speaks with Nick Walsh about joining Moxy, honoring the band's classic material, his years with Slik Toxik, the music industry, Famous Underground and the continuing power of live rock music.

Gino Alache: Moxy is a legendary band with more than 40 years of history. What does it feel like to be the vocalist of the band?

Nick Walsh: First of all, it's a lot of fun to sing those great songs. Secondly, it's an honor to receive approval from the band's most loyal fans.

Gino Alache: Forty years is a long time and several generations of fans. Do you feel a responsibility toward Moxy's audience and legacy when performing these songs?

Nick Walsh: I feel it's my duty to preserve the feeling of the songs because people know and love them. At the same time, I also feel responsible for bringing my own passion, style and a more modern approach to them.

Gino Alache: Earl Johnson is the original member of Moxy. What is it like working with him?

Nick Walsh: Honestly, we've had our share of agreements and disagreements throughout the process, but overall we have a good relationship.

Gino Alache: I've listened to 40 Years and Still Riding High and the live album recorded in Toronto. How would you describe a Moxy concert?

Nick Walsh: I think we deliver a great live show. We are all veterans of different projects, so we bring a true arena-style rock show with energy and tension to the stage.

Gino Alache: Nick, you have your own rock 'n' roll history as the vocalist and founder of Slik Toxik. What can you tell us about those years?

Nick Walsh: I founded Slik Toxik, one of Canada's most important rock bands of the early 1990s. We won a Juno Award in Canada, which is the equivalent of a Grammy Award. We also toured with many major names, including Black Sabbath, Yngwie Malmsteen, Faster Pussycat and Overkill.

Now I have my new baby, Famous Underground. We released a self-titled album and are working on our second record.

Gino Alache: What is your opinion of the music industry today, and how do you see its future?

Nick Walsh: I've been part of the music industry through the transition from CDs to MP3s, from big advances and major label support to independent releases. I don't really see that side improving, but I do see live music becoming king again. That's where fans and artists truly connect, and that's a good thing.

Gino Alache: If you had the power to change something about the music industry, what would it be?

Nick Walsh: I would try to make it less corporate and more about the art. Sponsorships and brands can still exist, but the industry should be closer to the fans and the bands.

Gino Alache: What are your future plans?

Nick Walsh: I hope to tour with Moxy for this release, finish the new Famous Underground album and do the same with that. I don't see myself slowing down when it comes to music. I'm addicted to it!

Gino Alache: What advice would you give to a young musician?

Nick Walsh: Keep believing in yourself and work hard. People often think that once you get a record deal, you've made it. What they don't realize is that the hard work really begins there.

Gino Alache: Any final words?

Nick Walsh: I hope to see all of you on tour someday. Live music is everything. Energy!