The Interview – Chad Staples

Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.

Chad Staples, Founder and Director of More Music Foundation. (Editor’s note: Chad is too modest. The organization focuses on inspiring change, one note at a time. More Music Foundation is committed to providing music education programs and instruments to students in Coweta County. More than 250 donated instruments, more than 400 free music events, more than $13,000 in grants to music teachers and more than 40 student scholarships.)

Best piece of advice you’ve received.

I regularly practice the KISS method… keep it simple, stupid.

If I had it to do over …

I’d swing the bat.

You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?

Bible.

Allman Brothers Band – Live at Fillmore East.

Tedeschi Trucks Band – I am the Moon.

Grateful Dead – Europe 72

Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know.

I umpired High School and College baseball for many years.

You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why.

Mom, Dad (just to say hi and break bread), Berry Oakley (talk about bass), Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi to talk about More Music.

Name an as yet unfulfilled dream.

Record my songs and put them out for the world to listen.

If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …

Probably painting something (airplane, house, cabinets, car, etc.).

Your go-to food.

Spaghetti and lettuce sandwich.

Favorite movies(s).

The Rookie. The Last Waltz. The Green Mile. Shawshank Redemption.

Dogs or cats?

Dogs!

Your favorite quote and why.

Fear not, for I am with you;

Be not dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you,

Yes, I will help you,

I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.

Founded More Music Foundation in 2021.

What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own.

Practice makes permanent. Find what you’re passionate about and practice!

Press Play! Music has power.

Encourage others… it’ll help them and it’ll help you.