MARK EVANS INTERVIEW - 2012

How are things since your book has been out, how has the response been so far?

The response to "Dirty Deeds" has been astounding, here in Australia and in the US. I have
been very busy doing the PR for the book and the sales have been and continue to be very
strong. The feedback I have been getting via my website www.markevansblues.com and
facebook has been super positive. It is very humbling that the book has been so well received.
What was the writing process like for your book, how did you go about putting it all together?
The writing process was an interesting journey as you basically re-live episodes of you life
and recount them in detail, in a lot of ways writing "Dirty Deeds" has been cathartic. There
were times when writing was very difficult emotionally but I look at the process now as being
very remedial, extremely worthwhile. I basically sat in front in front of my computer and
recorded my memories, lucky for me I am blessed with an excellent memory, it's a genetic trait
along with eating as much as I want and not putting on weight, I'm blessed.

So tell the people out there, why should someone buy your book?

If they are interested in what its like being in a rock band touring and recording, or being
involved in the music business in general with all the ups and downs it would be a good book
for them. Obviously a major part of the book takes in my time with AC/DC so it would be
illuminating to the fans of the early days. It is my way to pay back all the support I have been
shown over the years.

To the people who say you're only out to make money now off of AC/DC's legacy, what do you
say to them?

Every one is entitled to their own opinion but I would prefer they read the book before
they made up their minds on its validity on any level.

You've been doing some book signings around Australia, would you consider or are you
planning of possibly coming to the USA, UK, or Europe for some signing appearances?

There are no definite plans as yet but I would certainly like to do signings outside Australia.
So, when was the last time you spoke to any of the members of AC/DC in person or on the
phone?

At the Sydney Showground gig on the Back in Black tour, 1981 as a group but I have spoken
to Cliff since then, although very rarely I must add.

What is the relationship between you and Angus/Malcolm like now? & the other AC/DC
members?

There is no relationship whatsoever.

You have met Cliff Williams before correct? What was that like, discussing the early AC/DC
days, playing in the band at all?

Cliff is a great guy, we got along fine, although we never discussed the early days at all from
memory.

When was the last time you saw AC/DC live? What are your thoughts?

The Monsters of Rock at Donnington, 1991 I believe. The band was firing but with all
respect to Chris Slade I much prefer the sound of the band with Phil on drums, I am biased
though.

In only one or two words, what would you say was the absolute final reason behind you
parting from AC/DC?

Impossible in 1 or 2 words. The best I can do is that if I was the right guy for the band I
would still be there.

Who were your biggest influences as a bass player early on?

Gerry McEvoy from Rory Gallaghers band, John Entwhistle from The Who and Andy Fraser
from Free

who do you most admire as bassplayers/musicians now and see as continuing influence to you
musically?

George Young immediately comes to my as a bassplayer although he is recognised more as a
guitar player. Keith Richards and Ron Wood as a guitar duo, second only to Malcolm and Angus
who are almost telepathic as guitar players, brilliant.

Do you ever envision yourself up there in place of Cliff, imagining you never left the band, a
sort of what if?

Never.

What are your thoughts on the song "Carry Me Home"? Do you recall what the atmosphere
was like in the studio during the recording of that song? and why wasn't it used on an album?

That song was recorded at the Vineyard Studio in London mid 1976. I haven't listened to it
much so I don't really have a comment. My assumption would be if it was a killer track it would
have been used on an album

When Bon sadly passed away, did you honestly think that AC/DC would continue?

I don't remember having feelings either way, it was a massive shock but only a
fraction of what the guys must have been going through at the time. I have a huge amount of
respect for the way they handled the transition, typical AC/DC, get on with it. Showed a heap
of determination and courage in an awful time for them.

You named "Highway To Hell" and "Powerage" as your 2 favorite AC/DC albums, why these,
considering you don't play on either of them?

It doesn't matter to me if I played on them or not, they are just great rock n roll records.

Do you still own any of your original AC/DC record awards?

Yes, boxes of them in storage, I use them as fund raisers for charities.

What is your opinion behind the truth of what really happened with the Rock and Roll Hall of
Fame induction?

I believe that AC/DC richly deserved to be inducted, Bon played a huge part of that , of
course and in my opinion induction was way overdue. My nomination was reviewed and then
withdrawn as it was deemed that I didn't qualify, that's the story in a nutshell. Why the Hall of
Fame sought to review my nomination I do not know, you would have to ask them.

What's new with Tice & Evans? What's in store for the future musically?

We have a new CD out "Brothers in Arms" available on iTunes or directly thru my website
www.markevansblues.com We are costantly gigging and writing. Dave has a massive voice
and is a blast to play with. I have a new band too, The Dynosaurs with Mark Gable from the
Choirboys on guitar and vocals, Buzz Bidstrup from The Angels on Drums, Les Gock from Hush
on guitar. Nice n loud, plenty of balls…we will be recording mid year and it may be at Alberts
which would be fantastic.

Do you forsee any out of Australia live appearances in the future possibly?

Yes, that is a definite possibilty, stayed tuned to the website….also if you want an
autographed copy of the Australian edition of "Dirty Deeds" you can order on the my website.

Do you get recognized often? People bugging you for pictures and autographs?

It has been happening more often since the book came out. If someone is interested
enough to ask for a photo or autograph that's fine by me, only too happy to oblige. Generally
people are very genuine and polite so it is good to stop and have a chat.

In closing, What would you like to say to your fans out there?

Thanks for all the support and kindness you have shown me over the years, there would
be no "music business" without the fans, I have had a blast (and I still am) and if I have
contributed to some music that you have enjoyed, that's a great buzz.
Cheers !