They say to write about what you know. For West Virginian singer-songwriter and storyteller Charles Wesley Godwin, well-deserved acclaim has come for just that — soulfully laying bare his closest relationships in his latest album, Family Ties. We checked in to touch base on the touring side of life with his longtime band, The Allegheny High, scored some pro tips for fans, and got the scoop on the place to get a hot dog if you find yourself in Morgantown, WV.
Q:
Y’all have been very busy touring, what’s been your favorite venue to play in the last year or so?
A:
Last year, probably the Ryman. There’s so much historical significance there, and to sell out two nights my first time headlining was incredible. This year I’m really excited about the West Virginia State Fair. As a West Virginian, headlining there has been a goal for a long time. That’s going to be fun.
Q:
Touring is bound to wear you out from time to time, when you hit the stage for a live show, where are you drawing your energy and enthusiasm?
A:
The fans! They give us as much as we give them — we feed off each other’s energy. And my guys. We go out every night with the goal of giving people the show of their lives. We take a lot of pride in never taking a night off.
Q:
Is your style on-stage different than it is off-stage?
A:
Depends on what I’m doing. What you see is what you get to some extent. Jeans, boots, t-shirts, and button-downs are all pretty standard.
I don’t wear the headband when I’m off-stage, but I do wear a lot of ball caps. And if you catch me out working on the property or hunting it gets a little more rugged.
Q:
Anything you always have with you or are wearing on stage?
A:
The bandana’s become a bit of a trademark. I started wearing it just to keep the sweat out of my eyes, but you’ll see me in one just about every night now.
Q:
Any advice you’d give fans for attending a festival for the first time? Or even their first concert?
A:
Enjoy yourself! Be present. Maybe drink a little water.
Q:
One last wildcard question, where should folks go see a show in Morgantown, WV for a great live music experience?
A:
One of the places I got my start at is a little spot in Morgantown called Gene’s Beer Garden. Definitely worth a visit — I took my guys there to celebrate after our hometown shows last December. It’s a bit of an institution. Make sure to get the hot dogs.