Live For Live Music had the opportunity to speak with Jefferson Starship members David Freiberg, Jude Gold, and Slick Aguilar as they celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the band. Jefferson Airplane was formed in 1965 in San Francisco, California, when Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy were still America’s vibrant leaders of hope. ‘Airplane’ was on the bill for three historical 1960’s rock festivals: Monterey, Woodstock, and Altamont. 

The current line-up flies under the Jefferson Starship logo, but their style is closer to the jam-band rock that was Airplane. Slick Aguilar came back to the band in 2014, after a successful liver transplant. Aguilar will contribute to lead guitar as his health allows on the anniversary tour. With Cathy Richardson doing stellar vocals originally done by Grace Slick, the band still jams like it was 1969. Jude Gold was handpicked to join the band and help with the lead guitar work, at the insistence of Aguilar himself. Starship will land at B.B. Kings in New York City on March 22nd, after a recent success in the New York area at The Paramount in Huntington.

L4LM: After being so active politically in the 1960’s, what do you make of today’s political climate?

David Freiberg: It is kind of hard to figure out who is speaking for us today.  People have to not let someone else’s money speak for them.

L4LM: It can seem cold and lonely for many people today, can it not?

David Freiberg: Everybody is a human being.  We are all interconnected, good has to be accomplished one person at a time.

L4LM: Is Grace still active in the band?

Slick Aguilar: We pretty much do our own thing.  Grace has her world of focus, and we have ours.

Jude Gold: Grace is busy with her art, and stays away from rock and roll now.

L4LM: Jude, I know Slick wanted you in the band as he has struggled with his health. How did Jefferson Starship find you?

Jude Gold: I had played with Donny Baldwin in the JGB (Jerry Garcia Band), and with Cathy Richardson in the Macrodots. 

L4LM: Slick, has your illness hampered your playing schedule?

Slick Aguilar: No, I enjoy the largest part of the schedule.  With the Solvadi and Olysio treatment I have the strength and energy to offer our listeners something substantial.  I enjoy playing with Jude and the band.  What makes it so nice is that Jude’s interest is cultivated by many genres, and of course the jam-band scene.  Jude definitely plays a strong role, and I enjoy it.

L4LM: The medications and treatment you require cost about $2,000 a day, I believe.  Do you still require a regiment of medications?

Slick Aguilar: Yes, the medications are not cheap, but must be taken daily in order for my liver and body to work together.  Working with these relationships, I was able to find the right medications that work.  In great part, I thank David Crosby for reaching and seeking out alternative medicines that work well for Hep C, and help with immune deficiencies. I’m grateful that since receiving my new liver and contending with Hep C, I’ve found a way through the support of listeners, friends, and many who give anonymously. 

L4LM: Is there a way for listeners to help you?

Slick Aguilar: Yes, all of my income goes to buying medications.  Listeners and friends can make a donation at our website.  In return, we’re offering some amazing memorabilia.  There are some great benefit photos of David Crosby and myself taken at the Great American Music Hall.  An authentic image signed by the artists is available.  I thank God for everyone who has reached out.

L4LM: What was the show at the Paramount like for you?

David Freiberg: The Paramount was a lovely venue. The show was a lot of fun.

L4LM: How is Cathy (Richardson) holding up the vocal end of the shows?

Jude Gold: Cathy Richardson reminds me of Janis Joplin, if she was here in 2014.

David Freiberg: Cathy is a force of nature.

L4LM: How long are the shows these days?

Jude Gold: Paul Kantner wants to play for two and a half to three hours a night… No wimpy ass 90 minute sets. 

 

Written by:  Bob Wilson (with Greg Panos)  Photos by: Wayne Herrschaft

 

Jefferson Starship plays at B. B. Kings in New York City on March 22nd, 2015. A tour schedule can be found in the bands website.