Q & A with Eddie K. (Keyboardist for Montgomery Gentry)
Can you explain to those unaware of MG Underground, what makes you "different" from your typical artist fan club?
The MG Underground is different from a typical artist's "fan club" in many ways. Probably the most notable are the webisodes. Each week while touring, we put together episodes from the road that contain material you just can't see anywhere else. It's not the spit and shine stuff you see on tv, rather it's a collection of video capturing the real deal backstage, onstage, on the bus, and everywhere in between. We've even created a few characters that make appearances every so often! Some of the webisodes are scripted, which makes for hilarious results, because none of us are actors. In addition, fans can find a frequently updated photo gallery with shots from live concerts and behind the scenes images. Of course, members can order pre-sale tickets, and are offered one meet and greet per year. We also have some cool contests happening all the time! Most of all, the "Underground" shows how close knit all the band members, crew and Eddie & Troy are. It's a true wheel in motion with no hint of a weak link in the chain.
When did MG Underground officially launch and how long were you in the production stages?
The "MG Underground" went online in the Spring of 2005 after a few months of pre-production and design implementation.
How did the name "Underground" come up?
The name "Underground" came up on an overnight bus ride while Eddie Montgomery and Eddie K were discussing the website. Eddie M wanted to offer something different than the standard fare, so we discussed the possibility of using video as a means of "giving the fans their money's worth." Instead of just being a fan club member, now you could become part of the "Underground" and take part in our lives on the other side of the stage.
It seems like a lot of work... but like you said, it's A LOT OF FUN. What do you personally get out of the whole Underground experience?
No doubt, there's a lot of work involved. Late nights of editing, posting, website maintenance, you name it. The fun part comes when you get to talk to the fans and they bring up their favorite webisodes. That makes all the work worth the effort, because a lot of people are watching these things and getting a kick out of it!
Is there anything else you would like to say to those fans who may be surfing around and just found the Underground?
We encourage all of your readers to go to www.montgomerygentry.com and check out the site. The first 7 webisodes are free for the viewing, so go ahead and check out what we've been up to. Then, if you'd like to become part of the "MG Underground" family, just sign up and as a special bonus, use the Promo Code "MGTEAR05" to save 30% off your membership! There are hundreds of photos and over 70 webisodes to see, plus all the news from Montgomery Gentry...grab a shovel, and dig in to "The MG Underground."