Interview with Randy Jackson:
November 2000

Q1) Randy, I'm so glad to see that you guys have maintained through the years. I'm excited about the new CD coming out soon. Since it's been so long since the last studio album, will the old Zebra sound remain or is there a new sound that has evolved over the years.

A1) A couple of older songs will be on the new CD ("Free" and "My Life Has Changed") a couple of the new songs ("Who Am I ?" and "A World That is Learning") lean towards "Zebra" and "3.V" respectively. The rest of the CD is a bit different than a lot of the first 3 CDs but will definitely be recognized as Zebra!
The Tracks Are -

Q2) I also recently got to listen to some tracks from "The Sign" studio project that you were a part of. I really loved what I heard. How did that project come about? Was it partly your idea, or were you approached about it?

A2) Mark Mangold (Keyboards) called me and said an Italian label was interested in putting together a project with an 80's color to it. Mark got in touch with Terry Brock. Terry called Billy Greer. I called Bobby Rondinelli and we made the record.

Q3) I have been a big fan since the first album, but unfortunately have never been able to see you guys live. Will you be doing a somewhat extensive tour to promote the new CD (and will you be coming to Pittsburgh at all)?

A3) We haven't toured the entire U.S. since 1984. I would like to cover the whole country and Europe with the new Zebra release!

Q4) On a more personal preference question, you released a single and a video for "Can't Live Without" and I think it's one of your better tunes. Yet, it's not found on any live CD or the Best Of Zebra. Do you just not like the song or is there a story behind that?

A4) Mark Puma (President of Mayhem Records) made the track suggestions for the "Best Of" CD. I thought they were good selections and I didn't notice that "Can't Live Without" was missing. We actually had a little extra time on the CD so I added "Your Mind's Open" only because it is one of my favorite songs. We play "Can't Live Without" a lot live but we didn't get a good version of it when we recorded "Zebra Live" so it didn't make it to the "Zebra Live" CD. You are not the first person to ask that question!

Q5) How has the turnout been at your recent shows? Have you been playing clubs or some bigger venues with other bands?

A5) The turnout and support has been very consistent over the last 15 years and we have been very fortunate for that considering the enormous ammount of time between CD releases.

Q6) You've also been very busy playing solo acoustic shows. Do you mix up the tunes at those shows by playing some Zebra, maybe some from your solo album ("China Rain - Bed of Nails") or maybe even some Led Zeppelin or other covers?

A6) I do Zebra, China Rain, Zeppelin, Beatles, Pink Floyd, and a little Moody Blues!

Q7) Your singing style is so dynamic in range. How have you been able to maintain that range over the years? Are you well trained vocally, because many other such singers seem to blow their vocals out because of not knowing their limits or how to control their voices.

A7) I drink lots of water the day of the show and I back off during ther show if I feel my voice getting strained!

Q8) Your website is really packed with some great information and sights and sounds. Do you think it has been a big part of your fans being able to keep up with you and what's going on?

A8) The internet has made a lot of people outside of the Northeast and the South aware that we are still around. It has been great to find out that there is still such a huge interest in the band!

Q9) A lot of bands from the 80's have made great comebacks over the past year or two. But, it seems to be hit and miss with the radio stations. They play some but not others. How do you think Zebra will fit in with those other bands? Do you think you have radio playable tunes on the new CD?

A9) I am not making this record for radio. If radio wants to play it, great. If they don't, great! I am making this record for people who want to hear our music, period!!

Q10) And finally Randy, my typical final question. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

A10) Finishing up the new Zebra CD!!! Only it will be Zebra 12 !!!!

Thanks a lot Randy for the time and I hope the new CD does well for you and I hope to see you live sometime soon.

P.S.
**HELP US**
It would help Guy, Felix and me a lot if you could send us the E-Mail addresses of anyone who would like to be on the Zebra E-Mail list (to recieve info on upcoming shows,New CD releases, Video releases, etc.
Just forward them to me at randy@thedoor.com and I'll be glad to put them on the list.
*** Please only forward names of people who want to be on the list.
And visit Zebra's web site at: http://www.thedoor.com