Some artists are able to keep making music together through decades. This has become rare but one band still doing it is the Scheckler Brothers. We caught up with Robert Scheckler of the classic rock duo for a chat. Enjoy the interview here:
First off, tell us about how The Scheckler Brothers originally formed?
The dream of The Scheckler Brothers formed while watching The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964. Then, in the early 70’s, I was playing professionally with the late Eddie Money in California, and Tom would send me cassettes of his songs. We decided to put a band together when I got back to Connecticut.
How would you describe the band’s sound?
We’re a mix of all of our influences, mostly bands from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.
Aside from the Beatles, which bands have influenced The Scheckler Brothers?
We’re inspired by all of the English invasion bands, as well as the Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison, Elvis and many more.
As brothers, what is the key to staying in a band together for over 60 years?
It’s all about Family, Love and Respect of music and ideas.
How does a song come together for you? What is your songwriting process?
Tom is the writer – he’s very inspired by news and current events. I get involved and try to expand on some of his ideas, and put in some humor as well if it fits.
Tell us about your newest single “She’s Got Me Hypnotized” and the matching music video?
Tom was inspired by the Robert Palmer song “Simply Irresistible,” which led to “Hypnotized.” The song turned out to be totally different and really came together while mixing it with Tom Stewart at Factory Underground Studio. I got more involved with the video, which was very fun for me. I had been watching a lot of old James Bond movies, so I wanted to incorporate that retro style with models and swirling hypnotic patterns.
Share some advice for other musicians hoping for a long career in music?
You have to believe in yourself, stay true to what you believe and it has to be for the love of the music. Don’t give up.
What does the future hold for The Scheckler Brothers?
We’re going to keep putting out songs, keep having fun, and rock until we drop.
Keep up with The Scheckler Brothers HERE.
