The Obelisk Questionnaire: Jeff “JD” Dennis of Lie Heavy
The Obelisk Questionnaire is a series of open questions intended to give the answerer an opportunity to explore these ideas and stories from their life as deeply as they choose. Answers can be short or long, and that reveals something in itself, but the most important factor is honesty.
Based on the Proust Questionnaire, the goal over time is to show a diverse range of perspectives as those who take part bring their own points of view to answering the same questions. To see all The Obelisk Questionnaire posts, click here.
Thank you for reading and thanks to all who participate.
The Obelisk Questionnaire: Jeff “JD” Dennis of Lie Heavy
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How do you define what you do and how did you come to do it?
I create music w/ other people. I use my musical instincts and drums as a vehicle to do that.
Describe your first musical memory.
My Mom spinning records on our console stereo.
Describe your best musical memory to date.
Signing my first record deal. Recording that first record & touring to support it.
When was a time when a firmly held belief was tested?
Becoming aware of the true nature of organized religion changed my whole worldview & understanding of what it means to be a good human. And, how that can be accomplished without the presence of religion in my life.
Where do you feel artistic progression leads?
Artistic progression leads to a sense of accomplishment. And, a realization that there’s so much farther you can go.
How do you define success?
In younger years success meant something different than it does now. Now, success just means accomplishing a goal.
What is something you have seen that you wish you hadn’t?
The death of my Mom because of cancer.
Describe something you haven’t created yet that you’d like to create.
I would like to create a drum-centric piece of music utilizing loops of live tracks in different time signatures.
What do you believe is the most essential function of art?
To push boundaries and make people think.
Something non-musical that you’re looking forward to?
I always look forward to my next fly fishing trip.
