With its single female member, this band should really be named Scissor Sister Plus a Few Brothers. Nevertheless, when it comes to songwriting, the Scissor Sisters are quite on point. Scissor Sisters are one of the few bands secure enough in their rock roots to embrace disco and pop–genres other bands consider anathemas. Guitarist Del Marquis recently plopped down in the mtvU Hot Seat to quote Dolly Parton and admit the embarrassing truth about the first concert he ever saw.
Q: Tell us about your craziest touring experience.
A: I tried to stay awake on a dare, the next morning I felt so weird.
Q: What type of college class would you most want to take and why?
A: Anything involving complex mathematics, so I could revel in how little I know on the subject.
Q: What city in America is the most fun to visit and why?
A: NYC, because it’s home and I know where everything is, therefore it’s optimal fun. Any city where you can’t eat out after 2:00 a.m. is automatically off my list.
Q: What’s some of the best advice you were ever given?
A: Be patient, but have a plan.
Q: What’s in heavy rotation in your mp3/CD player right now?
A: The Cardigans’ Long Gone Before Daylight…it breaks my heart.
Q: The last good book you read or TV show you’re addicted to.
A: Considering I don’t have a TV, its hard to be addicted, but Crossroads is a favorite. I’ve seen three episodes, my favorite being the one with Dolly Parton and Melissa Etheridge; it is alternately riveting and hilarious. Sample commentary…
Melissa: Dolly, you look amazing! (Dolly is in a blue, sequined mini dress and Melissa is in jeans and a T-shirt)
Dolly: Well, you know I have to represent Nashville (they hug) and I guess you have to represent everyone else.
Ouch!!
Q: What’s the first concert you ever saw? How was it?
A: Well, the first one I like to tell people is The Cure with Love and Rockets, the Pixies and Shelleyan Orphan at Giants stadium for the Prayer tour. It sounds cooler, but the reality is Squeeze (Annie Get your Gun) with Katrina and the Waves at Madison Sq. Garden. ‘87?
Q: What are three items you can’t live without on tour?
A: The largest suitcase of anyone on the bus. My translucent Muji bags (clear zippered organizers for toiletries, computer peripherals, etc….very good for Virgos). My laptop.
Q: Who are your major musical influences?
A: The Cure, The Cult, Echo and the Bunnymen, Jane’s Addiction, Suede and a slew of other likeminded English and American alternative rock from the mid to late ‘80s….throw in Britpop up to ‘95 and that should be all
Q: Any random messages or tips you’d like to give to mtvU watchers?
A: Guys, take care of your feet…Girls, don’t spend over $1,000 on a purse.
