PUDDLE OF MUDD : 2003

2003 - The Life On Display Years

WHERE THEY’VE BEEN - WHERE THEY’RE GOING

One would think for Wesley Scantlin (vocals/guitar), Paul Phillips (guitar/vocals), Doug Ardito (bass/guitar/vocals), and Greg Upchurch (drummer/vocals) of Puddle of Mudd that 2003 would be a time for rejuvenation after spending 17 months on the road promoting their 2001 debut album Come Clean. However, the members of Puddle of Mudd found themselves for the most part, out of the limelight but working virtually non-stop amidst a calendar hopping release date for their second album Life On Display. It’s hard to match, let alone surpass, the stellar performance of their record setting first album, but they proved they were poised and ready to face themselves, their peers, and their fans.

Having spent much of 2002 developing new material while still promoting Come Clean, this year will be known as the year to “put up or shut up.” In an industry where time forgets you, they met eye to eye with their foes and allies with confidence to show their growth as a band. Life On Display comes not disguised as a mimeograph of their first effort or an imitation of the post-grunge era, but as an accumulative of all their influences from their times as teens, yet they were able to incorporate the older and wiser tastes they have acquired. With an appetite that could not be stifled, they dug down deep to write some out-right rock and roll music with a classic feel that hopefully will be around a long time. Delivering a no-frills-goose-bump-chills rock show, Puddle of Mudd were more than willing to show their supporters and detractors that even after coming off a year with four Billboard Music Awards (2002) and two prestigious ASCAP Awards (2003), they still have more to offer and are far from done with contributing their part to the world of rock and roll history. In the days of mega-star egos and self-serving attitudes, Puddle of Mudd remains approachable and unfazed by the celebrity stature bestowed upon them. With a “what you see is what you get” mentality and “leave the arrogance at the door” persona, they have developed their own presence. With an ominous “brotherhood of muddatude” – a loyalty to each other and their fans – the ties that bind are evident in all they do.

Speculation and anticipation were hot topics as their follow up album aptly titled Life On Display faced several delays throughout the year. With final production at a close in late fall, the album officially arrived in stores November 25^th setting the gears in motion for them to get back out on the road and do what they do best. The band gives it all they have and it shows song after song and show after show. This year closes on the verge of a full-blown nationwide and worldwide tour. Life On Display and the first single Away From Me are currently working the Billboard and Radio and Records charts rung by rung. Like everyone else, they contemplate their future. With aspirations of longevity, they are ready to do what it takes to secure their place in 2004 and with their hard work ethic; no doubt they will be formidable force in the music industry.

THE FINAL PRODUCT – LIFE ON DISPLAY

Following their highly successful tour supporting Come Clean, in the winter of 2002 the band took refuge together in a house in the Los Angeles area that had been fitted with recording equipment and all of the inspirational essentials. Thinking they were going to have some time off from their long road tour, three weeks after moving into the house their producer was at their doorstep with a large truck containing recording equipment. It worked out to be a great arrangement, if someone was inspired at 3AM, everyone is there and you can get to work on the spot. Confined to a space they soon called home, their focus was to cultivate a new musical harmony – virgin – yet familiar. Though Paul once said in his journal on the POM website, “That way we can live and work in the same place, which is very important when you are as lazy as we are,” you can see there wasn’t any slacking when it came to their new album. Working hard, developing every song till they felt it was at its maximum potential was labor intensive; Paul compared the evolution of their sound as ‘rawer’ with an edge. Not willing to abandon their signature style, they wished to exhibit a visionary approach for their future and demonstrate their development as musicians, but at the same time draw from the core rock background that had influenced them.

As luck would have it, as the album neared completion several times, more material was penned and they felt it had to be recorded to give those songs a chance, wanting the best selection from which to choose only causing more delays for its release.   Producing duties were shared between John Kurzweg (producer of Come Clean as well as albums for Creed), Michael “Elvis” Baskette, and the band members. Elvis, who was previously an engineer, was making the big step to producer and had previously worked with Incubus and Chevelle. Andy Wallace in New York (who also mixed Come Clean) received the production for the final mixing. A change in direction mid-recording was a partial reason for the delay as well as the desire to record, newly written material.

Having had an outline for the album running in his head during the creative process, Wes realized as the material evolved, some things didn’t work out as planned and it was back to the drawing board. Tracks were laid and new ideas unfolded adding more to the mix and while some changes were for the better, it was hard to abandon what was already written.

Each song is like your child. Only another musician, poet, or writer can understand the intent is not for it to be perfected to the umpteenth degree. With a musician’s song, their rough, jagged edges given to it by its maker are not all meant to be polished, smooth, and refined. To be defined by their edges and outer layer limits their beauty within. Only when one steps outside of the box and hears with their eyes and sees with their ears all that it beholds will they release its spirit. As it weathers through its journey in time, some become porcelain smooth, others remain sharp and chipped, but nonetheless a precious gem in the eyes if its creator. Not wanting to settle for anything less than their best, the writing process continued during recording.   More than 20 songs were recorded and the selection process was at hand enlisting the help of family, friends, and record company officials. It is a scary moment, you have exposed your inner psyche for critique and now it is do-or-die time, you have to choose your favorite children to put on the album.

Originally requested by Scantlin to be titled “Galvanic,” which Wes defined as a skin response to something that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up, the first news of their sophomore effort title became public in January. It was when Wes was on his way to an American Music Association after-party in he announced the tentative title for the new album as Life On Display. MTV had caught up with Wes for a short interview and he commented that he had heard some of the tracks, which literally sent chills up his spine. This small news snippet soon made the rounds and the word was out, fueling excitement in the fans and the speculative music industry media outlets. Life On Display seemed a natural selection for an album title, the idea of living in a fish bowl and losing your anonymity does not sound appealing, but when you already write autobiographical songs you are already living that life. It’s the equivalent of living naked in a storefront window 24/7 with the eyes of the world watching your every twitch and falter. He drew from Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and even mentioned the Beatles when asked from where he drew inspiration, having grown weary of the nu-metal comparison; he focused on just writing great rock music.

The goal to transform real-life subject matter into expressive lyrics that give you a candid, bird’s eye view into the life of these musicians was a challenge they met head on. You soon realize they are everyday people with issues like the rest of us - they face challenges that do not disappear with fame and fortune. Their lives are not like shiny pennies, the tarnish shows through the lyrics, their subconscious spells out their frustrations on paper, each song more of an autobiographical snapshot of a moment in time and not a work of fiction. The songs on this new disc are not faceless, contrived rhyming wit being pumped out in mass quantities, but for the most part there is a message in the music left for each listener to decide its interpretation. What is likened to therapy for its creator, is a bonus to those of us on the outside looking in trying to unravel its meaning. Striking the nerve of the listener are impassioned vocals, strong guitars, bass lines, and drum scores which shows everyone’s part is evident, deliberate and in its perfect place.

This album’s content varies from the melodic fantasy feeling and inner reflection of Time Flies and Change My Mind to Sydney, a touching memorial to a long time musician friend of Scantlin’s. The relationship analyzing Think and pondering over what went wrong in Nothing Left To Lose vent the pent-up frustrations the writer had to finally say out loud. Wishful thinking for one last chance in Spin You Around to the harder rock driven progressions in Bottom; which resonates of a self-imposed bottom of the pit lost soul looking for help and answers. The love-them-and-leave-them attitude from Away From Me and Heel Over Head speak out to something all genders and ages fear. Originally penned more than 15 years ago, Cloud 9 confirms Scantlin’s insight and rebelliousness at a young age. Being different and reading the judgmental attitudes by others, it hits that feeling of loneliness of being an outcast in Freak Of The World. Taking that step to save yourself before it’s too late in the tempting world of addictions is inspiring in Already Gone making you realize it does not have to have a bad ending. Twelve songs each echoing a poetic reality check full of hope and grit for the audience while emulating an empowering sing it like you feel it spirit. The highs and lows in a life, evoking a response from even the most calloused listener and connecting at their deepest recesses. As musicians they draw you into their space, a lyrical and musical inner place where you are not only the observer, but also the lucky ticket holder who is granted admission.

There are two bonus features added to the disc, one portion includes an interview with the band members with their observations of the creative process. Filmed in black and white, it has the appeal of being almost like a confessional and speaking what their hearts really feel. The purchaser is also allowed special access to their official website to listen to live audio footage recorded at a show in Baltimore, Maryland in 2002. The setlist available for the Baltimore bonus content included Out Of My Head, Nobody Told Me, Basement, Said, Bring Me Down, Blurry, She Hates Me, Piss It All Away, Drift & Die, and Control. In addition, with what Wesley Scantlin once dubbed as a “Mudd Lotto,” and as a special promotion for their fans, the first one million copies of Life On Display gave them the chance of a lifetime if they were the lucky winner. Holders of ten specially marked “Platinum Passes” would award them prizes of a signed guitar and one additional winner of the grand prize, to join the band for one week on the road in 2004 complete with their own tour bus, accommodations and other prizes.

One can’t help but notice Wes is pictured on the album promotion with his arms extended above his head. It is a perfect stance for Wes who has a personality that is wildly animated and has tends to show a photographer his playful gestures. After listening to Life On Display, even just the first few times, I understand that subliminal pose. Something about this album makes one want to reach out and embrace something. It’s just an empty space, we know what there is to reach for, but it’s there, a vulnerable identity. The “I’ve been knocked down but I'm getting back up,” lyrics are what real life is about. I can feel the message in the music - and I like it - it gives me peace of mind. There were many small steps and obstacles to get to where they were going in 2003. The walk through that cavernous tunnel must have seemed bleak at times, but out of the darkness they emerged as survivors. The old adage, good things come to those who wait was certainly true and it was a journey they won’t soon forget. Life On Display is just that, a journey - a pilgrimage of words - a singing novel.

Doug personally pushed for Cloud 9 to be on the new album. Wes showed it to him and he was impressed. He thought it not only captured what kids like Wes felt then as a teenager, but what they feel now, anger, aggression, out of control, and a destructive nature. They add a touch of rearranging and put it on the album.

The public got a national taste-test of Life On Display courtesy of New York City’s K-Rock DJ Matt Pinfield. A world premiere hosted by Matt was on tap for syndicated programming featuring the band in the studio live for interview questions, spins from the new album and a live acoustic performance. The sneak peek was a first listen for many before the album dropped of what was in store for the fans. Disc tracks Away From Me, Heel Over Head, Spin You Around, Change My Mind, and Think were included in the premiere. As a special treat, the band did live acoustic versions of Away From Me and Think.

CRUNCHING THE NUMBERS – CHARTS AND AWARDS

In January, Puddle of Mudd was represented at the American Music Association Awards with a nomination for Best New Artist. While not capturing the win, no one could be disappointed for such an impressive start for this band with one major label release. Not to be left out in Europe, Puddle of Mudd was nominated for a German Echo Award in February for 2003 Best Alternative Group of the Year. During the first half of the year, they were still riding the wave of success of their debut album. Not ready to relent any momentum it had gained since its release, Come Clean remained on the Billboard 200 Album Chart for an astounding 87 weeks (peaked at #9 in 2001) before dropping off in May. She Hates Me, the fourth single released from the album, had respectable placements in the first quarter on the Billboard charts. The video for this single also appeared on the major music television stations in regular rotation, even securing a spot on VH1’s Pop Up Video Winter Countdown. As of the close of this year, Come Clean has sold over five million copies worldwide.

The general population, though not a fan per se, could not escape the year without hearing something from Come Clean in their everyday life. Their four hit singles were popping up on television and actively being played in the background for MTV shows, the movie trailer for A Man Apart, as well as in elevators, grocery stores and shopping malls across the country. Several music compilation CD’s including Target Red Room and SK8er Rock planted Puddle of Mudd songs on their discs.



Photo Credits: Barb Mudd Mom

One of the most prestigious honors that can be bequeathed on a musician is that from ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Artists, and Publishers. At the 20^th Annual ASCAP Pop Music Awards in May, Wesley Scantlin and Doug Ardito were recognized for superior achievement during a star-studded event at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Thanks to the phenomenal success of their hit single Blurry, the songwriters secured the approval of their peers and the public with wins for Song of the Year and Most Played Song for the accounting period. While some awards are fact driven, one that was delved out to Puddle of Mudd by the fans themselves was being named Jacksonville, Florida’s Best Concert 2003 as voted by readers of northwest Florida’s news and opinion magazine Folio Weekly for their appearance on July 24^th at the local club, Plush.

Away From Me, the first single from Life On Display, was released to radio the week of October 3^rd, followed by call-in interviews by the band to major market radio stations for its debut. It has met with much success. With only eight weeks under its belt, Away From Me forged ahead to the # 1 spot on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Chart and held that spot for three continuous weeks, and closes out the year at # 2. On the Modern Rock Chart, Away From Me peaked at # 5 and finishes up at #7 for the year.

Life on Display made its debut on the Billboard Album 200 Chart for the reporting period of December 13^th   It pulled in at # 20 with 103,000 in unit sales its first week out. While those numbers may at a glance seem dismal, in a depressed music market and the competition the week of release, those numbers are something to be quite proud of. Second week sales numbers pushed total sales to 160,000 and it continues to remain in the top 60 on Billboards chart.

At Radio and Records, a national airplay accounting agency, Away From Me is holding on tight to the # 2 position on the Rock Chart, # 2 on the Active Rock Chart, and # 6 on the Alternative Chart. Radio and Records recapped the year in review with a ranking chart that encompassed all of 2003 and Puddle of Mudd had two songs that were posted on their three rock charts. She Hates Me received its fair share of airplay earlier in the year, enough to secure the # 15 spot on the Rock Chart, # 37 on the Active Rock Chart, and # 39 on the Alternative Chart. Not to be left out, Away From Me, even with its early October release, still had enough airplay to rank # 73 on the Rock Chart, # 37 on Active Rock, and # 93 on Alternative.

TOUR 2003 - THE SHOW MUST GO ON

As a precursor to a full-blown tour to support Life On Display, Puddle of Mudd played a series of summer shows and later a small club tour to get prepared for the long grueling road ahead. Having grown weary from the days of their large arena style tour, they brought it down a few notches for some up-close-and-in-your-face small venue shows that treated the fans to rock and roll shows they would not forget. Tunes from Come Clean were the staple with some of the new material pitched in to gauge the fans’ reception. They had come a long way since their beginning days, when they played to an audience who was unfamiliar with their material. Fans were following along at concerts syllable for syllable, and when they pitched in a new tune from the upcoming album, by the end of the song they were singing the chorus along with the band.

Overall the feedback was positive, leaving fans with just a taste of what was to come in November with the album release. As an even bigger bonus, some of the club tour dates were part of the Budweiser One Night Stand concert series, which included free admission for fans and radio contest winners. Ticket prices for the club tour were dirt cheap compared to other rock concerts running at the time and with an average of $20 a show, the fans received more than their Andrew Jackson’s worth. After two weeks of rehearsals in Los Angeles they were ready to hit the road.

The six-city summer tour began in Atlantic City July 18 at Trump Marina Hotel Casino’s Grand Cayman Ballroom. Local station 102.7 WJSE carried an on-site interview with Wes and Doug via radio stream. This was their first show since their last tour had ended in 2002. They were hyped about the new tour and had three new songs from the album on the setlist for that night’s show and were more than ready to premiere the new material. One of the most memorable things to happen during a show occurred here, though it didn’t exactly involve POM, it did make for a moment those attending won’t soon forget. The support band was a local group called Blowup and in between set changes for POM, a gentleman in the audience seized the opportunity to get onstage and propose to his girlfriend who happily accepted. A crowd favorite was Control with some Black Sabbath’s War Pigs thrown in for good measure. After show reviews by the WJSE DJ’s had them surprised at how tight the band had become. One further comments, he was surprised by how powerful POM had become, leaving him ready to hear the rest of the album.

A quick bus ride followed with a stop at the Nokia Ramps and Amps Invitational that was hosted at Randall’s Island in New York City, a sports and recreational complex in the heart of the city. The expo featured three events, Freestyle Moto X, Vert Skateboarding, and BMX competition with athletes coming from around the world to compete for $150,000 in prizes. Puddle of Mudd headlined the entertainment on an outdoor stage in the vicinity accompanied by Trapt and MXPX.

It was off to Hartford, CT July 21 for a show at the Webster Theater. This event was sponsored by Budweiser One Night Stand Concert Series, which was great for fans, no ticket to buy, but the reverse of that double edge sword was you had to win them from the radio station or find the Budweiser Street Team, which put tickets scarce as compared to the fans that wished to attend. Attendance was limited to a 21+ audience but they seemed to enjoy the opening band Campfire Girls before POM came out with their set. Selected as an unusual closer for this show was the band doing the cheesy lounge version of She Hates Me, which ended with Wes snapping his fingers while the band members left one by one, only to have Paul come out and haul him off the stage. One hates for a great moment to end.

Moving further south, next stop Raleigh, NC at The Ritz Theater (Disco Rodeo) July 23. The members of POM shared their time with some fans that had gathered at the venue before the show with the chance to chat, take pictures and have their memorabilia signed. Once again this was a 21+ show sponsored by Budweiser One Night Stand series with 96.1 WBBB doing on-air interviews with the band, a radio winner meet and greet, and posting some pictures on their website. Campfire Girls once again opened for POM.

Down to the Sunshine State, sunny Florida July 24 to play at the nightclub Plush in Jacksonville. Once again a 21+ Budweiser show sponsored by 93.3 WPLA with two support bands, Campfire Girls and the local band Opiate. This was a hometown show for Paul and the crowd was really rocking it and showing the love for the band. The band must have left an indelible impression as the readers of Florida’s news and opinion magazine Folio Weekly voted this performance as Florida’s Best Concert 2003. Maybe it was the lounge version of She Hates Me that POM did for the closing song that cinched it, after all, how often does a band do a cover of a cover of their own original song, it makes for a humorous occasion!

The east coast romp ended with a performance at the legendary Rolling Rock Festival July 26 with other heavy weights such as Blink 182, Def Leppard, Sum 41, Saliva, 311 and Trapt in Pittsburgh playing ten songs to a packed crowd at Heinz Stadium. The entire town of Pittsburgh, PA participates in this event, which features a county fair image complete with rides, food vendors and an all day, outdoor stadium rock show. Large video monitors on stage made great viewing regardless of where your seats were. Rolling Rock, which makes a green-bottled-beer-brew, was heavy in the promotion for this event with attendance reported at 40,000.

In August, they jetted off for their first trip to Japan to participate in Summer Sonic Festival 2003 August 2-3. Appearing in back-to-back dates in Tokyo and Osaka, it was clear many people were already familiar with Puddle of Mudd. TV Asahi covered the festivities live airing coverage on television and posting pictures online of the musical acts. For Universal Music Japan, an Internet web shoutout was taped from the band and was made available, “Slam, You Want To Rock,” as well as an MTV Japan interview that was posted online. Taking some time out from their hectic schedule, they were able to absorb some of the local culture and even take a spin on one of Japan’s infamous bullet trains.

Impromptu shows were put on for college fans at Florida State University (Tallahassee) and Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge) as part of the MTV Homecoming Tailgate Party program in mid-October. Perfect for the college class, these shows were outside, free to the public, and allowed the band to further test the waters on the new material. Meet and greets afforded the long lines of fans a photo with the band and a chance to get a few words in while they signed posters and other memorabilia. As part of the television tapings, MTV had other stage competitions including a step off, a DJ type freestyle and volunteer students showcasing their singing abilities for their hit show Say What Karaoke, all to be aired at a later date.

Florida State edged out two other colleges in Florida to host MTV’s weekend festivities on October 17 with the assistance of Student Campus Entertainment. Concertgoers gathered at the Union Green on campus for an outdoor show that afforded their audience a peek at what was to come with the new album.

Taking place on an outdoor stage in the Alex Box parking lot at LSU on a perfect Saturday fall afternoon, October 18 was off the hook with a spectacular show by the band. The LSU Reveille, the school newspaper, drummed up the hype for the event with their pre-show coverage. This was a very special show to me personally as it was my first Puddle of Mudd concert and the first time I had met them in person. After having missed them on May 3, 2002 in Biloxi, MS at WCPR-Fest (20 miles from my home and because of a paltry $30), I was definitely making the three-hour drive to see this show.

The band arrived right before show time from Tallahassee, missing sound check and literally went right on stage. People in the audience had made some signs that were hard to see over all the heads from my place in the front, but there were several requests for Blurry and they did not disappoint the crowd. During the beginning of She Hates Me, Wes was going to let the audience start the song; only we did not realize we were supposed to start singing from the beginning instead of the chorus. He was laughing and politely commented and had the crowd roaring laughing. The song begins again and this time we are prepared and we belt out, "Met a girl thought she was grand" with as much of a southern accent as they probably ever heard that song sung. Wes was chunking out guitar picks to the crowd and the ones that fell short of the barricade the security guard picked them up and handed them to the fans, so I have to give props to them for making some fans very happy. Greg closed out the show hurling drumsticks to the audience and stepped up to the microphone with the statement, “I’m Cajun, Geaux Tigers,” the crowd went wild for that recognition.

After the show, the band signed autographs, posed for pictures and signed memorabilia for the fans, who had lined up down the street. It wasn’t until an hour and 45 minutes later that they finished seeing every last fan. I was able to see the band and had some great conversations and gave them their gifts. I must say the best thing on meeting them was being able to get my daughter’s Ibanez acoustic guitar signed by all the band members. Priceless was the message Wes put on it for my daughter, ‘To Krista, Thanks so much I love you, and keep practicing, and don’t give up EVER. Wesley Scantlin, Puddle of Mudd. She is an inspiring musician and she sees that message everyday for inspiration. It was a very memorable day; the crew and personal assistants were very gracious to us during our stay, so many people made that day special for my sister and me. To everyone involved I say a huge thank you! The setlist was Away From Me, Out Of My Head, Nobody Told Me, Drift And Die, Basement, She Hates Me, Nothing Left To Lose, Already Gone, Blurry and Control with War Pigs.

Late October and early November saw them on the road towards the north with stops at Chicago, Detroit, and a detour across the border to Toronto. Smile Empty Soul provided the opening band support for most dates October 23 – November 10.

After a few days rest, the windy city of Chicago was beckoning to the band come on down to the House of Blues on October 23. As part of Target department stores release, Target Red Room compilation CD and as part of Target Red Room Concert Series, the band was more than happy to oblige. Ryan Manno from Q101 in Chicago did an in depth interview segment with Wes aptly titled, “On The Bus.” Ryan was a very humorous host and kept Wes on his toes, which fits very well with Wes’ personality, with him replying on the fly rather comically most of the time. Wes has a serious side as well when speaking of the new album Life On Display, the pressure to put out a product but they work well under the gun, keeping that hunger going. While he feels chart and sales numbers are important to a point, for the most part he doesn’t worry so much about duplicating the same success they had with Come Clean, their goal was to put out a record with some well written songs and putting his emotions on paper and they feel as a band they accomplished that goal. Pushing the risqué factor, Wes never fails to lighten it up by giving a shoutout to his Mom and Grandma. Puddle of Mudd dropped four new songs on the crowd, Away From Me, Nothing Left To Lose, Already Gone, and Think along with the hits from Come Clean. As with all great concerts, they left the audience wanting more.

October 24, they rolled into the motor city, Detroit, Michigan. Booked at St. Andrews Hall, local radio station WRIF provided radio and Internet listeners to a pre-show interview with Wes and a fan meet and greet.   Wes talked about the album cover for Life On Display for which he had designed the collage of photos. He said recording the new album was a challenge to dig down deep for that personal feeling. He was very surprised that Cloud 9 had made the cut, a song he had written when he was about 15. Doug was impressed and thought it should be on the record. His favorite song of the moment was Time Flies. He enjoyed poetry/writing class in high school and found it to be therapeutic during his rebellious days. Wes usually writes the music first, a few notes or bass lines get the flow moving and then magically the lyrics just come to light. Opening for the show was Westland and Michigan based band Bridge.

Over the border and to Toronto, Ontario at The Guvernment on October 25 was their next club gig with local band Turn Off The Stars doing opening act duties. Puddle performed an acoustic set and did an interview segment with 102.1 The Edge before the show. The audience was not as large as it could have been due to short notice as reported by Chart Attack. The setlist: Basement, Out Of My Head, Nobody Told Me, Drift And Die, Bring Me Down, Nothing Left To Lose, Already Gone, She Hates Me, Think, Away From Me, Blurry and Control.

Returning to the US, it was back on the highway from New York City to Tampa, Florida playing Come Clean favorites and mixing up their standard repertoire with new songs from the new album. Audiences were getting a close up view of the band within arms reach.

Not to leave Doug’s hometown out the Northeast lineup, Boston’s Avalon Ballroom hosted Puddle for an evening of rock and roll October 27 with the local band Dogfight providing the opening act. Surprising the audience were the eerie shadows cast by the band members, when the stage lights came up and revealed the backdrop of the stage set. It was a dilapidated tent spread from the ceiling down over the band from their music video Away From Me, and definitely it was an attention getter. The setlist: It went up to Basement, Out Of My Head, Nobody Told Me, Drift And Die, Bring Me Down, Nothing Left To Lose, Already Gone, She Hates Me, Think, Away From Me, Blurry and Control featuring Black Sabbath’s War Pigs. The crowd participation with everyone singing along was a great homecoming for Doug and his bandmates and one had to love the lounge version of She Hates Me playing in the background during the stage takedown.

What better place for rock and roll than Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s Rock Jungle October 29. Radio station 105.9 WXDX sponsored and evening out for those 21 and over on the dime of Budweiser One Night Stand Concert Series. Tickets were free for those lucky enough to find the Bud Street Team or win them from the radio station.

K-Rock in New York City welcomed Puddle of Mudd to the Irving Plaza October 30 for another One Night Stand free show courtesy of Budweiser – True Music for patrons 21+. Radio listeners called in and went to K-Rock’s Budweiser parties to get access to these exclusive, invitation only shows. Sharing the stage with Puddle was the band Mr. North.

Crushing Day had their own night to open for headliners Puddle of Mudd in Towson, Maryland November 1 at the Recher Theatre. Tickets were hard to get, because you couldn’t buy them, you had to win them from the local radio station 99.1 WHFS sponsor of the Budweiser One Night Stand free concert.

Bargain pre-sale ticket prices of $15 were up for grabs by 92.3 WXTM, which granted you admission to The Odeon in Cleveland, Ohio. Also available for the November 2 show were VIP ticket packages for a pre-show party.

Radio station 99.7 WNNX in Atlanta, Georgia was the sponsor of the next event, another Budweiser One Night Stand at the Tabernacle. On-air host Margo hosted an on-air and online interview with Paul and Greg. She fielded the usual questions to the band, including some from her show the night before sent in by the listeners who were under 21 and unable to get into the show. The featured question was, ‘are they amazed that the fans make a connection to the music to get through tough times?’   Paul and Greg both commented that they themselves use music in their lives and they appreciate that people can use theirs the same way. Smile Empty Soul provided opening support.

“Win’um before you can buy’um,” was the promotion at 98 Rock WXTB in the Tampa, Florida area, offering pre-sale tickets for the Mudd show at The Masquerade on November 5. Smile Empty Soul continued as the opening band and this show was quite a bargain at $15, keeping it affordable for two great bands and an evenings worth of entertainment.

Bussing it over the Florida peninsula to Orlando, some lucky listeners of RealRock101One WJRR were treated to a Mudd meet and greet complete with poster signing and pictures posted on the radio website. The House of Blues was rocking to Smile Empty Soul and Puddle and fan reviews relived the excitement of the night.

Continuing their up-close-in-your-face club tour, up to Charleston, South Carolina’s Center Stage at The Plex showcased not only Puddle’s latest touring partner Smile Empty Soul, but also the local band Deepfield. Three bands for the bargain basement price of $15 was definitely a lot of entertainment value for the buck.

Norfolk, Virginia’s FM99 WNOR provided a sweet prize pack in store for one of their lucky listeners, VIP Treatment and free tickets not only for the winner, but nine of their closest concert companions. Also included was an invitation to sound check, meet and greet with the band, and to top it off a guitar that was signed by Puddle of Mudd. One hitch, you had to be caller nine when you got the cue to call. Once again, Smile Empty Soul fulfilled their spot on stage as support at this show November 9.

The last date of the club tour ended on November 10 in the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The day began with Wes doing DJ duties at 94 WYSP for the 10 AM - 3 PM show playing songs, giving away tickets, and talking to listeners who called. Letting his personality show and letting out the occasional howl… he heavily promoted W-yyyyyyyyy-SP, non-stop rock blocks, and the concert feeding the fan hysteria before the show. Philly’s Theatre For The Living Arts was the setting for the show and was made memorable by Wes’ many stage dives into the crowd.

A west coast seven-city tour segment sponsored by Verizon Wireless/MTV Presents kicked off on November 13 with free tickets available to 20 people who registered on the website for the shows in Phoenix, Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas or San Francisco as part of the www.lifeondisplay.com contest. Those fans not able to win tickets were still able to find these shows very affordable, running about $20 a pop.

A few selected fans from each of the venues had the opportunity to do a remix of their hit single Away From Me. The grand prize remix winner and their guest received an all expense paid trip to the last event of the tour in Seattle, Washington as well as having their ringtone available for download. Another bonus of some of these particular shows was the introduction of ‘blogs’, a text messaging system that was set up for fans on the Internet or by using their mobile Verizon phones to post messages to the band or to others watching as they were shown.

It was also about this time that Puddle of Mudd began offering their new disc Life On Display for sale at most of the concerts for $10. Included with that purchase were laminates/arm bands that put you across from the band at autograph tables to have your items signed and have a picture made with the band. This promotion had become the mainstay for their smaller venue shows all the way into 2004.

The desert of Phoenix, Arizona was the location November 13 where the local band Lust provided support at the Celebrity Theatre with an “in the round” stage where everyone had a great view at this small venue. Tickets were low, about the price of a $20 bill. The lucky winners from the Life On Display contest had meet and greets and photo opportunities with the band leaving many with some very happy memories.

Stop number two November 14 was their home base Los Angeles at the Avalon with supporting bands Kill Radio and Smile Empty Soul. The audience was not only the public, but also industry people who were either familiar with the band or wanted to get a glimpse as to what the band was all about. Everyone was quick to notice the Away From Me tent prop on stage as the backdrop as band entered the stage to the theme song from the movie Jaws. The show generated a lot of enthusiasm in the crowd, especially when Wes decided to make the people in the balcony feel like they were in the front row by making a mad dash upwards to perform She Hates Me. Wes really had a penchant to show his appreciation, he entered the audience several times making contact with fans, high-fives, and interacting with the crowd.

One special date in the middle of this promotion was November 15, a stopover in San Diego. Having been ravaged by fires just a few weeks before, the event at SOMA in San Diego was designated as a Salvation Army fundraiser with proceeds going to their “Firestorm Relief” fund, to provide the fire victims with services and the ability to meet their immediate needs. Reportedly 22 people perished and more than 2,200 homes were destroyed. The band quickly saw the needs of the community and was more than willing to contribute any way they could.

While on tour, they had watched the fire devastation via the news and having been based in California for some time, they were quick to come to the aid by way of a fundraiser.   Teaming up with San Diego’s 105.3 KIOZ and Tijuana, Mexico’s 91.1 XETRA-FM BCN, this event was heavily promoted on radio as well as on their websites. Some local firefighters were brought on stage and the crowd clearly showed them their appreciation for all their efforts to save the community from the ravaging flames that had come so close and destroyed many homes in the area. Dirty Sweet was featured on stage as the opening act. Other national rock acts soon followed suit with their efforts to help the fire victims, donating proceeds from shows in the area, a chain reaction with a blessing for the ones who needed it the most.

The neon lights were hailing the band to stop in Las Vegas, Nevada for a gig at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s club The Joint. Las Vegas based Magna-Fi helped serve up a night of rock to the crowd of 1700 who had amassed at the club. Mudd’s hour-plus set showcased their hits as well as songs from the new album. A road weary Wes had to focus to keep the vocals in check after having been on the road quite a few days in a row without a break, but they still put on a good enough performance to earn a three out of five stars rating by a writer at the Las Vegas Sun.

After a much-needed day off, November 18 sent them packing to San Francisco, California’s Avalon Ballroom with opening act Wake. As with other shows on this tour, selected Life On Display contest winners continued to do their Away From Me remixes for the chance to win the all-expense paid trip to Seattle. This show had a delay in starting as Greg the drummer had injured his hand. He was able to drudge on for the bands set and continue on the next few stops without any perceived problems.   Streetwise Promotions filmed a short video clip while the band was at this stop.

Second to the last stop of the www.lifeondisplay.com contest was an appearance at the Roseland Theatre in Portland, Oregon on November 20 with local favorites 58 Fury as support band. The last show for this promotion was November 21 at the Moore Theatre in Seattle, Washington. Second Coming was on the bill for this memorable show. The grand-prize winner of the contest was announced, a young woman who had attended the Phoenix, Arizona show. She was accompanied by one of her parents where they received rock star treatment, from the Hummer limousine ride from the airport, to their high-rise accommodations overlooking the city of Seattle, off to the show to meet the band again and be informed that her remix would be made available as a ringtone with Verizon Wireless. It was an adventure of a lifetime that won’t soon be forgotten.

The tour schedule of 2003 closed with a few large radio Christmas shows in the Northeast and Midwest.

Arriving in the nick of time on one of the last flights able to land from Europe where they had just completed a fleeting round of press in conjunction with the release of Life On Display, near blizzard conditions couldn’t keep concertgoers away from Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City December 6 where festivities for 92.3 K-ROCK’s Claus Fest (WXRK) were being held. On-air interviews, a meet and greet for radio winners along with signing radio memorabilia filled the evening prior to going on stage with Staind, Chevelle and Offspring. Snow was a major issue for transportation in the Northeast, however the band was able to make all their radio dates including 105.9 WXDX’s Kick Ass X-Mas Show in Pittsburgh, PA on December 7. Duquesne University’s A.J. Palumbo Center was rocking as Puddle, Ill Nino and Linkin Park took the stage. Rock and roll is not your quiet type of music as proven at X103 WRZX’s Not So Silent Night X-Mas extravaganza with the band as well as Ill Nino and Linkin Park in Indianapolis, Indiana. With 7,000 fans at the sold out show held at the Pepsi Coliseum, the evening was anything but quiet. Wes delighted the fans going into the audience and at the end of Linkin Park’s set the members made their way out on stage to help close the show.

Bombarded by snow once again, 98.9 The Rock in Kansas City featured Puddle of Mudd, Ill Nino, Finger 11, and Federation of Horsepower at their Twisted X-Mas holiday concert at Memorial Hall. In front of family and friends, Wes’ hometown was witness to how close the band had become since their last stop there. The mile high city of Denver hosted 106.7 KBPI’s Mistletoe Jam and Puddle was once again on stage with former tour mates Staind at the Fillmore on December 11.

The final stop of the all-out-holiday-blowout before closing up shop in time for a yuletide break before the big tour launch in January was the infamous 106.7 KROQ’s Almost Acoustic X-Mas December 13 in Los Angeles. An event that lasted over two days, the rock-laden roster paired Puddle with one of their former touring partners Linkin Park and with other rockers AFI, Chevelle, The Distillers, The Offspring, Pennywise, P.O.D., and Thrice for day one of the celebration. An added bonus was the show being simulcast over the Internet courtesy of Budweiser, enabling fans from all over the country to watch Puddle’s performance. Wes, though ailing from the remnants of bronchitis and Paul doing guitar duties with his guitar pick taped to his broken finger, they put on a great performance despite being weary from constantly touring. The setlist: Away From Me, Out Of My Head, She Hates Me, Blurry, Already Gone, Drift and Die, and Control.

Closing out the end of their 2003 touring season Puddle was ringing in the New Year in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ryan Seacrest, emcee of the event, introduced Puddle of Mudd as the opening band for Fox Network’s America’s Party New Year’s Eve Special broadcast live from the Vegas Strip in front of the Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino on national television. Performing Away From Me, Mudd held their own against others at the rock and roll event with musical hard hitters, Matchbox Twenty, Hootie and the Blowfish, Ashanti, and Metallica, who’s performance at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s The Joint was also covered in the broadcast.

TELEVISION 2003

Television was a favorite for the fans this year. A behind the scenes show of what-makes-Puddle-of-Mudd-tick was on tap on Much Music. Airing in April, Much Music’s Exposed put the viewers in the middle of the recording process of Life On Display, how they relate to each other as people and new insight into their own personal assessments in the overall scheme of things. Much Music also covered the band on the show Spotlight.

04-06-03 Much Music, Exposed

Much Music Canada featured the band on their show Spotlight during the month of February. A behind the scenes show of what-makes-Puddle-of-Mudd-tick was also on tap, airing in April. Much Music’s Exposed put the viewers in the middle of the recording process of Life On Display, how they relate to each other as people and gave us new insight into their own personal assessments in the overall scheme of things.

Step inside the Puddle of Mudd house, the hideout, Mudd Camp, aka the Mudd Mansion, differing descriptions all coming down to one thing, co-habitation and a peek inside the personal side of the band members. What starts out as a joyride in Wes’ classic 1963 red convertible Corvette, he treats the show’s host Ryan to a chauffeured ride though Los Angeles, providing some suspense with some ‘creative’ driving techniques while the camera was rolling. Aptly dubbed, “the rocket ship” by Paul, he asked about the ride and was happy they made it safely back to the Mudd house to continue their tour of a day in the life of the band.

Wes is holed up at The Hook Studios surrounded by equipment, technicians, and the one and only John Kurzweg. A detour by the antique refrigerator shows the band is not all business 24/7, taking a moment to share in the previous day’s birthday cake of Doug’s. We get a quick listen to a portion of Cloud 9 to which Doug is clearly absorbed into the vibe of the track, which was being worked by Kurzweg. Paul, the late riser of the day, debates the benefits of Wes’ jalapeno honey barbeque sauce chicken versus a beer can up the grilled turkey’s wazoo as choices for a meal.

Greg, who is not a shabby cook himself having treated the guys to a non-traditional Thanksgiving dinner of seafood, chicken, and sausage Cajun gumbo, provides a watchful eye over Wes who is preparing his specialty sauce. Once published by Rolling Stone magazine and aired during a BBC interview with Zane Lowe, his secret sauce was no longer a secret. Wes prepares his concoction, which includes his favorite barbeque sauce, jalapenos with juice, honey, beer (which Wes thinks happens to be the actual ingredient in everything) and other various ingredients demonstrated for the viewers. As Wes jokes this is like a “Puddle of Mudd cooking show,” you can clearly sees he loves to grill his specialty chicken. Houseguests are treated to a full menu and enjoy it in the backyard on the mansion’s outdoor deck.

Next, it’s upstairs to Doug’s room for a tour that includes details of his CD collection. Doug’s musical tastes are all over the spectrum from old school rock to rap; Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and some Led Zeppelin classics, Tom Petty, U2, soundtracks to Purple Rain and Eight Mile, rappers Nelly and Ludacris, and rounding out with Coldplay and Queens of the Stone Age. An interesting question posed by the host Ryan was, “What was the first CD you bought with your own money?” Without much hesitation, Doug recalled the name like it was yesterday, Joan Jett’s I Love Rock and Roll. Doug seems to have adapted very well from his Massachusetts roots as an L.A. transplant, he can head up to the mountains and then down to the ocean in the same day to partake in a variety of sports to keep some kind of normalcy to his life.

Wes is happy to give us a walk through of his portion of the abode, including a step out on the balcony to view a bustling L.A. highway a few hundred feet away and a closet where this is no shortage of shoes.

Greg loves living in L.A., one can stay anonymous with so many celebrities living in the vicinity and he can just disappear into the background. He has lived in L.A. for a quite some time and was the only band member who didn’t actually move into the Mudd house during the recording process. He was very candid on his idea of success and being very appreciative of everything that being in this particular band has brought him.

04-08-03 Much Music, re-air of Spotlight

04-24-03 Craig Kilborn Show, Drumline

In conjunction with the DVD release of the movie Drumline, a movie plot revolving around college drum corps competitions, the Craig Kilborn Show hosted an all-star line up of rock band drummers on April 24 that included Greg Upchurch. In a spirited show of unity, Greg was accompanied by some of the biggest names in rock and roll as they recreated a cadence from the motion picture for the audience. Lead off by Stephen Perkins of Jane’s Addiction, other drummers at the event included John Blackwell (Prince), Mike Cosgrove (Alien Ant Farm), Darrin Pfeiffer (Goldfinger), Jason Price (Drumline), Chad Sexton (311), Matt Sorum (former member of Guns N’ Roses/The Cult), John Steward (Fishbone) and Nisan Stewart (Missy Elliott).

05-06-03 MTV Icon:Metallica

Wes Scantlin was part of history as MTV paid tribute to one of the most influential bands on their MTV Icon Series. This two-hour program had many musicians dishing up introductions and Metallica cover songs to idolize the band. Puddle was able to take time out of their busy recording schedule to attend the show with Metallica fans, Hollywood stars, and people within the music industry. Wes was fortunate be selected to introduce ‘The Four Horseman’ segment.

“Metallicaaaaa… from the beginning of rock and roll has been an unstoppable form of revolution. But instead of tearing us apart, rock at it’s best unites us. Rock makes us one, but it’s taken more than twenty years for rock and roll to unite Metallica… Take a look…” – Wes Scantlin/MTV.

08-02-03 Summer Sonic Festival, Japan

Puddle spent two days in Japan as part of their Summer Sonic Festival. During a break from performing, Wes, Paul, Doug, and Greg were guests on MTV Japan and answered a few questions by the hostess. Wes thought it was one of the biggest cities he had ever been in and was amazed at a very large bridge he saw while on their travels of Japan. He really loves the food and said he had some of the best spaghetti he had ever had the night before and was having chicken soup during the interview, which was some of the best as well. The band gave a shoutout and introduced themselves; Paul is in good humor as he gives himself the name Chip. Wes thanks the fans and gives a promo for Summer Sonic Festival.

10-16-03 MTV Making The Video, Away From Me

MTV gave the fans a personal perspective and into-the-thought–process of Puddle of Mudd for 22 minutes during the television program Making of Away From Me. Chosen due to its hard rock vibe, it was a good choice for the first single from the new album Life On Display and became the first video. Filmed over two days, director Dean Karr conceptualized the storyboard into a distinctive music video.

Day one of filming begins September 25 in Yucca Valley, CA. At almost ninety degrees and climbing in the desert, the cameras are rolling and capture candid observations from the band and crew, not only about the song itself, but impressions of each other during the filming process. Everyone arrives on the set where a design crew has in place a mutilated tent to act as the band’s stage for the day. Scenes to be shot are outside in the desert, entering and exiting the tent, and a few inside shots.

The band gives a short introduction of themselves to the viewers. Citing the darkness of the song more than once, this is an end-of-our-relationship song that makes you face the hard truths of suspicion, jealousy, and bitterness.

Dean Karr is exuberant to be on task. By utilizing a mix of stop-motion animation and black and white still photography, he expresses his vision for the video. Leafless branches are the backdrops to the individual band photos that will be interspersed between the live performance footage. Close up shots of the band were like peering deeply past the eyes and into their souls.

Wes’ idea was to keep the video a real interpretation of the lyrics. A stylist is on hand to make sure Wes keeps that rugged, vagabond look.

Paul, who is dressed in a long-sleeved black shirt, has a comical conversation with Greg, who is just a bit smarter and has on a short-sleeved black shirt. If only the camera had aroma-vision capability, Paul was wondering about the quality of his antiperspirant and he tries to give us a close up sniff.

Doug is quick to claim wearing black in a hot desert isn’t too smart, “it’s rock and roll he smirks, and you do it for the rock and roll.” Feeling the location is a good choice for a video shoot, Doug likes the symbolism of the desert to the song, dark, mysterious, and eerie and nothing really conveys that message better than a desert. Add the essence of local Indian culture essence, it seemed like the logical choice. Not to be serious all of the time, Doug jokingly takes a quick 180-degree turn and asks for his f’n Frappuccino© he ordered a half hour ago, then turns on a dime and says the desert is so serene, classic Doug humor!

Greg felt Dean’s directions were easy to follow; he knew exactly what he wanted the look to be for the individual photos and was good at communicating to the band to secure the correct pose he was striving for. By keeping the video performance based for the most part, jamming in the ragged tent, he seems pleased with the concept.

The final take of the day comes just in time, the sun is setting and the darkness reclaims the desert.

Day two is filmed the next day on a soundstage in the Los Angeles area and the band seems well rested. The battered tent is recreated at a studio and the crew is ready to shoot the performance piece of the video.

On hand at the studio is the band’s co-manager, Peter Katsis from The Firm. Having been on board with Puddle since before the first album Come Clean debuted, Peter has a deep belief in the band and what they represent to rock music, “straight forward, honest rock and roll that is out there right now, some real heart-felt, emotional music,” and he looks forward to the new album and single coming out soon.

In cramped quarters, the cameramen maneuver to film the band as a whole and doing solo profiles and close up shots. Greg asserts this part of the shoot is similar to how they rehearse, facing each other, checking each other out as they play. Wes knows he is in for a long day and makes plans to ‘pace himself but be as crazy as possible,’ and soon follows up with a quickie guitar solo.

Paul is relieved it is not quite as hot as yesterday and soaks up the comfort of a cold cloth on his neck by one of the crew, “that’s what I like, Daddy like that…” He analyzes Puddle as a ‘band who wants to keep it real rock, straight up, the music matters most at the end of the day, guitars, drums, bass, and vocals.’

Doug compliments Greg, he is an amazing drummer and he loves his tribal tom work on the drums. Doug seems to appreciate the not-so-stuffiness of the shoot. Greg is comical tapping on his cymbals and compares it more to a cowbell with his impromptu session.

Dean explains how he uses different techniques to achieve the desired effects for the video by shooting with multiple speeds and it gives the video its slow motion effects. We get a sample as an outsider looking in, the playback is in double speed time and you wonder how the band can keep up physically in time with the music for the desired result.

Wes expresses his take on both albums; he wrote material based on his life situations, for both Come Clean and Life On Display. The new record is similar, no reason to change his style, “I’m just trying to crawl under people’s skin and stay there for a while, and give people something to hold on to for a little while.”

By the end of day two, silliness took over and Dean was cutting up with the band on their manufactured sandy-floored stage doing somersaults and flinging sand. The band and crew are jubilant and welcomes the words, “It’s a wrap!”

The television program takes us over to an editing studio where 5-6 hours of footage are merged to give continuity to the production. Zorab Ovsepyan works on special effects in the studio. By projecting a specific piece of footage onto a screen that is waving in a fan-blown wind, the film is re-shot to add back to the video giving it motion and texture. Over at Telecine at Encore Video, Arnold Ram goes over the footage with Dean. Bill Yukich from Gotham worked on the offline editing, piecing it together with Dean. They get approval from the band and management, and they deliver the final product.

At the close of Making Away From Me, we are treated to a viewing of the entire video. It is a surprise to see how all of the individual elements that were taped end up merged together brilliantly. Videos take a lot of effort, coordination of services, and expertise of everyone in the crew and the band to deliver an excellent video, and Puddle did just that.

11-11-03 MTV TRL Spankin’ New Music Week

Puddle took time from the middle of their club tour to stop by the MTV studio in New York City during TRL Spankin’ New Music Week. It was a star-studded week at MTV, featuring longer than normal programming time allowing quite a few guests each day. Live music performances had Times Square packed with fans hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite artists.

Entering to the music of Puddle’s recently released single Away From Me, you can’t miss Doug who gives a cheerful wave and ‘Hi Mom’ to the cameraman as the band enters to the joy of the applauding fans in the studio. TRL VJ Quddus chatted it up with the members of Puddle about touring, songwriting, a recent benefit show, and an unusual prop from their Away From Me video.

Paul comments he prefers to doing the small venues, bigger isn’t always better, rock should be in-the-face-hot-sweaty-and-personal with your audience and it is good to get back to that with their current club tour. Quddus talked to Wes about writing about his past relationships in the songs on the previous record and Away From Me is similar. Wes replied that this album covers his life again, everyone has been burned by people or stabbed in the back, and though he was bitter when he wrote the lyrics he has moved on.

Greg answered the question about their new stage prop being used in concerts, the tent from the Away From Me. They had paid for it so they decided to use it and give the illusion to their audience that they could come on into the tent with them at the shows, they were bringing their desert tent with them and besides they were cheap, and the audience erupted in laughter. Doug covered their benefit event, raising money for the victims of the recent wildfires in San Diego. They live in California and it was the least they could do in conjunction with the Salvation Army and do a show at SOMA with all proceeds going to the victims.

Puddle’s new album Life On Display was going to be featured in its entirety for preview the following week on MTV’s The Leak, which posts a new album for listeners the week before it is released. Puddle met Kid Rock who was also a guest on the same day and Blink 182 performed rooftop over Times Square on this episode of TRL. Puddle did not perform, there was only the short interview segment.

11-25-03 Fuse 7^th Avenue Drop

Fuse Network, a New York City based music channel had recently, created a new show titled 7^th Avenue Drop, whose premise is to give musicians a forum to perform live in the studio the day their new album drops. This show was still fresh in its wrapper when Puddle took over the studio as the second guest to appear in late November. Korn, a former tour mate of Puddle, were also having an album release on the same date and how fitting that both bands would help launch this new program. This show is based on what the fans want to see and hear and is also fan interactive. Online fans were able to vote for what song they wanted to hear at the live taping and the Fuse website also added an ‘ask the band a question’ option where online fans were able to submit their questions in hopes it was selected for on-air use.

Fuse VJ Marianella was outside of the studio chatting with a line of fans that had wished they had made it inside. Inside, VJ Steven introduced the band. The setting was small and intimate, almost as if Puddle of Mudd were playing in your living room for you and a few of your closest friends.

Away From Me and Already Gone were the first cuts Puddle churned out for the exclusive audience. A lucky fan on the street who had waited in the cold was chosen by Marianella to ask the band his question, “What do you do on the day your album drops?” to which Wes replied, “Pray, cross your fingers, and pray,” then Wes added he hopes everyone goes out and buys 20 copies.

Blurry came out the winner of the online poll for the song the voters wanted to hear most. What had become one of Puddle’s bread and butter songs was still fresh and remained a fan favorite.

Steven took a break between songs to pose an audience question to the band. From the front row a fan asked, “I wanted to know when you told your family you were going to be in a band who supported you the most?” Wes answered his Mother, she never gave up on him and without hesitation he gave his biggest supporter an “I love you Mom” shoutout. Before he end of the show the fan was surprised when Wes handed her the new CD, a sandwich. and chips in reward for her question!

Think from the new album was the last song for the evening. Slower and reflective, this song was perfect to close the show, a reassurance that ‘it’s gonna be alright,’ and alright it was. Wes thanked the audience for coming and Spin You Around starts in the background as the band greeted the audience after the show, leaving everyone with special memories from an unforgettable night.

11-25-03 The Late Show with David Letterman

The Life On Display release date promotion was in full swing by the time the lights came on and the sun went down on November 25 in the Big Apple, New York City. Next stop was the Late Show with David Letterman. Busting out with their hit single Away From Me, Puddle were running on adrenaline as the first notes exploded from Wes’ guitar. If they were weary it didn’t show, they were vivacious and wreaked of intensity; each member was stoked with excitement.

Paul, who has his own individual style, was one of is most physical on stage giving the audience some hard-pressed guitar work, intoxicating if you used the rewind button on your VCR. With deep, dark notes and rock-solid strumming it was reminiscent of what you would see at a live concert versus a television performance. Greg was particularly punchy as well showing the skins no mercy, a viewer has to wonder how he can work the drums persistently and sing back up vocals at the same time. For this rock song, the drum parts are key with its hint of tribalistic thump merged with modern rock drumming.

Doug was also on vocals while giving his Warwick Bass a full-body-workout. Bless those Rotosound Bass Strings, they take a fair amount of abuse and deliver every time. Wes, showing his respect for linebacker Derrick Thomas (1967-2000), donned a #58 Kansas City Chiefs jersey while front and center, echoed ‘now I sit here by myself…’ in a carefully controlled frenzy. This first-class hard rock performance left the audiences in the studio and at home feeling the emotions of every single word in the lyrics.

After taping The Late Show With David Letterman, the band were soon off to Long Island, New York for an in-store record signing at Looney Tunes Record Store to finish their media blitz for Life On Display’s debut. They signed autographs and met fans that had come to check out the new disc.

11-27-03 The Late, Late Show With Craig Kilborn

Craig Kilborn, the funky late night talk show host who possesses a natural charisma, hosted Puddle of Mudd as the musical guests performing Away From Me the week of Thanksgiving. Life On Display had just been released in stores that week and Puddle were everywhere getting media exposure. The band was in overdrive despite the hectic week of heavy promotion and landed another solid showing on television. Other guests on the show included actress Lauren Graham and rocker Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi.

12-2003 Top Of The Pops Upfront

A short clip about Puddle’s new video Away From Me aired on BBC 3’s program Top Of The Pops Upfront. Brief snippets of the video played as the host gave minimal details about the video ended up putting more emphasis on Fred Durst and his love life. It was mentioned that Puddle had a big hit with another song Blurry; Away From Me is Puddle’s latest release after recording in the studio. Not much in this clip, but any publicity is good publicity and comes about the time the band were hitting Europe for a quick promotional tour for the new album Life On Display.

12-01-03 Zane Lowe, On The Couch, Gonzo

Right after the CD debut, Puddle spent just over a week doing a quick round of promotion in Europe. One of those stops included a session on the infamous brown sofa of Zane Lowe at the MTV2 studios with Wes and Doug. Zane asked how their life has changed since the release of their first album. This second album adds to it, most of it comes from real life according to Wes but it is worthwhile to keep writing songs all of the time. They were writing for the second album while they were recording the first album. Though they were tired after the Come Clean tour, it’s strange after so long of touring there is nothing to do all of a sudden.

They play the new video, Away From Me in it’s entirety and Doug comments that they played that song on some of the later tour stops the previous time out on the road. Zane asks about the inspiration for the new albums and Wes said that most of the ideas come from him and he presents them to the band and everyone adds their “ambience and essence” to the songs. In a way it feels like they are married, they are together so much but Doug likens it to playing with your brothers in a band.

They didn’t get much of a break between coming off tour of Come Clean and the ‘powers that be’ expected them to start writing for the new album without much delay. It was only a few weeks before they were back to work, recording gear had shown up at their front doorstep unexpectedly and their time off was already over.

They come back from break and Wes had his herbal tea to keep him going. Zane comments on the repeated delays, and Wes said they kept coming up with more material, Change My Mind and Freak of the World were two of the last add ins that had been demo recorded with their own money, then redone to put on the album. The association with Fred comes up, and Wes states that “Puddle of Mudd is Puddle of Mudd,” they were really on their own for this record. They write their own material, and they appreciate all of the help that they have received from Fred. There is a clip shown of Courtney Love who makes the statement about Puddle that “the band is a rented band, that’s not a real band.” It is hard to ignore such comments, it does get upsetting sometimes they said but they know where they came from and they are not manufactured, Fred only gave them their break.

Off of the new album Wes likes to do their new song Think, they have been doing that song at shows lately. Wes tries to take care of his voice, it can be stressful and despite a list of do’s and don’ts he manages skate by and take care of his voice.

Wes talks about meeting Jerry Cantrell, they did a late night jam session and it was a cool experience. The conversation turns to cheese and what they don’t like about the UK, and even though it rains a lot in the UK, Wes likes rain. L.A. is the same weather all of the time and Doug gets a good songwriting feel when it is cloudy and overcast. Zane wishes them well with the album and makes plans to see them in a few days on his BBC radio show.

12-15-03 Jimmy Kimmel

The phrase, “I ‘heart’ My Grandma” greeted viewers who tuned in to the Jimmy Kimmel Show to see Puddle perform under the stars on the outdoor stage. Wes’s homemade white t-shirt left no doubt that his grandma rocks with the best of them and what better way to send her a personal message than one from the heart. Fans crowded into the studio lot to get a first hand listen to a mini-concert. While only Away From Me and a portion of Blurry aired on television, the live audience was treated to three additional songs and the admission price was a bargain, free to those who contacted the studio for tickets. In spite of having a broken finger still bandaged from an earlier mishap, Paul was the trooper and fulfilled his guitar stint with the pick duct taped to his hand splint showing his dedication and belief that the show must go on.

12-31-03 Fox New Years Eve, America’s Party Live From Las Vegas

There was a street party going on New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas, Nevada on ‘The Strip,’ a street concert of sorts featuring artists from all over the music spectrum, Puddle of Mudd, Matchbox Twenty, Hootie and the Blowfish, Ashanti, and others to celebrate the midnight hour. Televised on Fox Network as America’s Party Live From Las Vegas, Puddle were the first band in the lineup to take the stage in front of the Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino delivering their hit single Away From Me complete with bleeps to the jam-packed crowd. Everyone was in great spirits and Wes freelanced a few lyrics near the end to add a slight twist to the usual version.

Fox Network demonstrated a unique feature as it was televised to homes across America, whereas AT & T Wireless customers could call in and text their New Year’s Eve messages for airing on the scroll at the bottom of the screen. While it was annoying to the viewers who were mostly interested in the musical performances, there was a trade off as they displayed the Life On Display album intermittently on the corner of the screen.

THE MILLINEUM’S NEW MULTI-MEDIA – PAPER, RADIO AND THE NET

While paper media coverage was slightly less than in 2002, many music news sources kept Puddle of Mudd in the press. Several publications including Hit Parader, Metal Edge, Guitar One, Kerrang! and Rolling Stone published interviews and updates on the progress of Life On Display. Their die-hard fan base and the “doubting Thomas’, ” read of the ever changing release date, proposed song titles and descriptions and hoping to catch a glimpse of what’s going on inside the studio. Hometown newspaper coverage was also down; however, in January 2003 Greg Upchurch and his band mates were featured in his local hometown paper The Madill Record covering their past year achievements. The Boston Globe (though a small mention) did honor Doug Ardito on his accomplishment of two ASCAP awards for songwriting honors in May. Kansas City’s The Pitch and Kansas City Star - with their ever-differing opinions on Puddle of Mudd - succeeded in what is the purpose of the press, keeping the band on the minds of the people.

Several new individual endorsement advertisements were in the press as well. Doug Ardito had the premier of his new ad for Rotosound Bass/Guitar Strings and Warwick Basses. Greg Upchurch changed drum sets in 2003 from Premier to DW Drums and was in a new print promotion. On Pro-Mark’s website (his drumstick of choice), a full-length article gave some insight to the early days of his career as a musician. Paul Phillips had a new solo advertisement for PRS (Paul Reed Smith) Guitars in magazines.

The Internet became a primary player for those searching out details on the band. Up-to-date and up-to-the-minute news became available to everyone everywhere with the click of a mouse. In addition to well-known online music news source dot coms such as MTV, VH1, Billboard, Rolling Stone, Rockdirt and Blabbermouth, even the smaller unknown websites started to have pages within their sites highlighting the band. Many new fan-based sites cropped up on the net this past year all showing support for the band providing other fans information in the world of Puddle of Mudd.

Thanks to the MSN.COM network in December, a live chat session with Paul Phillips, Doug Ardito, and Greg Upchurch was conducted with fans from all over the globe participating. Their humor left many laughing on the other end of their keyboards while taking questions submitted by the fans via the net. They take what they do seriously but have the balance to be themselves and enjoy the tasks that come with promotion. In late fall as their first single Away From Me was released to radio, the band called in to stations the day of its debut in many markets with interviews and gave the fans a first glimpse of what to expect from Life On Display. Hard Drive Radio took calls in from Wesley Scantlin. A nation wide radio promotion premiered on stations showcasing Life On Display with an in-depth interview with the band and six new cuts from the album prior to its release. An entire episode of Rockline, a nationally syndicated rock-talk show, aired the night before the new album dropped on live radio and participating streaming stations. All four-band members fielded calls from across the country with candid questions from the listeners. With the advent of internet streaming, Muddfans heard radio interviews and live acoustic sets from radio stations all over the US and Europe. The Internet has made it easy to get exposure in many untapped markets. The next generation of “webvertising” allowed ad placements, promos, and news bits to be placed on music related web pages to reach outside-the-box consumer markets.

One week before the album debut, Life On Display was added to the MTV website under “The Leak,” a hear it before you can buy it section of the site. It gave those familiar with their music a chance to preview the album in its entirety and a sneak peek to the public to hopefully become future fans. Postings on the official Puddle of Mudd website were overwhelmingly positive for the new material.

Los Angeles’ premier rock station KROQ, hosted their annual Almost Acoustic Christmas in December and as part of the two-day event Puddle of Mudd did a seven-song set that was simulcast over the web courtesy of Budweiser.

The Internet became a primary player for those searching out details on the band. Up-to-date and up-to-the-minute news became available to everyone anywhere with the simple click of the computer mouse. In addition to well-known online music news source dot coms such as MTV, VH1, Billboard, Rolling Stone, Rockdirt and Blabbermouth, even the smaller lesser known websites started to have pages within their sites highlighting the band. Many new fan-based sites cropped up on the net showing their support for the band by providing other fans information in the world of Puddle of Mudd. Online voting added another candidate to their categories. Circus magazine offered up their ‘band with the hottest song’ poll, throwing Puddle’s She Hates Me in with the Foo Fighters, Chevelle, Stone Sour, Audioslave and Creed.

Thanks to the MSN.COM network in December, a live chat session with Paul Phillips, Doug Ardito, and Greg Upchurch was conducted with fans from all over the globe participating. Their humor left many laughing on the other end of their keyboards while taking questions submitted by the fans via the net. They take what they do seriously but have the balance to be themselves and enjoy the tasks that come with promotion.

In late fall as their first single Away From Me was released to radio, the band called in to stations the day of its debut in many markets with interviews and gave the fans a first glimpse of what to expect from Life On Display. Hard Drive Radio took calls in from Wesley Scantlin. A nation wide radio promotion premiered on stations showcasing Life On Display with an in-depth interview with the band and six new cuts from the album prior to its release. An entire episode of Rockline, a nationally syndicated rock-talk show, aired the night before the new album dropped on live radio and participating streaming stations. All four-band members fielded calls from across the country with candid questions from the listeners.

With the advent of Internet streaming, Muddfans heard radio interviews and live acoustic sets from radio stations all over the U.S. and Europe. The Internet has made it easy to get exposure in many untapped markets. The next generation of ‘webvertising’ allowed ad placements, promos, and news bits featuring Puddle to be placed on music related web pages to reach outside-the-box consumer markets.

One week before the album debut, Life On Display was added to the MTV website under The Leak web page, a hear it before you can buy it section of the site. It gave those familiar with their music a chance to preview the album in its entirety and a sneak peek to the public to hopefully become future fans. Postings by fans on the official Puddle of Mudd website were overwhelmingly positive for the new material.

Los Angeles’ premier rock station 106.7 KROQ, hosted their annual Almost Acoustic Christmas in December and as part of the two-day event Puddle of Mudd did a seven-song set that was simulcast over the web courtesy of Budweiser.

A NEW YEAR AND A NEW LOOK – WWW.PUDDLEOFMUDD.COM

The original Puddle of Mudd website fell to the wayside in 2003. The last count of registered users before the new site launched on October 3^rd was 33,025 and rises everyday. The familiar falling rocks and crumbling background were replaced with an entirely revamped site with many new features. With the new administrators, the website is in a constant state of change being updated almost daily with current news, archived and upcoming events, photos, downloads and a community forum where their loyal fans visit regularly to keep abreast on what’s new.

The new video for Away From Me, was posted on the website and available at www.mtv.com and met with great reviews from the fans. An all-new media player was a sneak peek into Life On Display. First up was the full-length version of their # 1 single Away From Me. Shortly after, five more clips (Heel Over Head, Change My Mind, Spin You Around, Think and Time Flys) from the new album were added for preview creating positive feedback posted by the forum members for the new material. Also available on the media player are links to print concert flyers for distribution for any city on their tour schedule, and a quick resource for news and events.

The Official Puddle of Mudd Street Team was re-activated in October to bring together people who wish to play a more active roll in promoting the band. To date, the team is comprised of 2700+ members who are given access to the street team page where exclusive information, contests, tickets as well as their own forum to exchange information and ideas. Prize packs of merchandise, free tickets and autographed memorabilia have been awarded, and at any given time more than one promotion is always active.

Website traffic watcher, www.alexa.com, recorded increased hits on www.puddleofmudd.com this year, particularly in the last quarter. A surge of hits over their norm are evident reflecting the events of the first single which was release in early October, the week the album debuted in November, and continues into December. Their third quarter ranking was boosted to 97,836, an increase of 123,838 positions.

THE FUTURE – A CRYSTAL BALL TO WHAT LIES AHEAD

Critic reviews have been mixed, some rather unfairly. While negative press will always be part of the entertainment game, this band has shown they can take it in stride when being raked over the coals. Realizing it is not the critics who buy and support the albums and ticket sales, Puddle of Mudd have learned to survive some of the worst criticism and comparisons with a “never say die” attitude showing the hardened exteriors they have to put up on their outside. The compliments of a magazine or critic one week are replaced with those same writers jumping on the hate wagon of what seems popular the next week. Ill-wishers are always ready to tear down the house that Mudd built, only to be met with the poker-faced-foursome who have bet everything, shown all their cards and even if they lose, they win. Knowing numbers and sales do not measure all successes, it is the tenacious belief in yourself, your band mates, and being proud of the final result that brings them their greatest reward. Puddle of Mudd in essence are peddlers of there wares, but are far from the dreaded carpetbaggers who tout their snake oil and miracle tonics. Without a doubt, Life On Display is solid to the core, and there are eight Adidas sneakers who stand behind its integrity.

At the end of the day or years from now, what others think will be irrelevant. The music lives on in the minds of the people. There will be no talk of awards or stats; they may not even recall the artist. They won't debate a critic's opinion, but they will remember the song they felt was important to them personally at the time. It's preserved for all-time in a recording for our future listeners, they will decide what it means to them. Someone will think back on Blurry being played at a wedding or even a funeral, wonder how they survived the end of a relationship when Away From Me or She Hates Me said exactly how they felt at the time. They will be in an elevator, Drift and Die will play softly, and they will smile for no reason. That is the ultimate legacy for a musician; the music lives on even though time passes. Puddle of Mudd will continue to put out music that is not defined by an era or a fad. Life On Display doubles as a first aid kit - a cure for whatever ails you – its contents, a band-aid for the heart and soul. A prescription that never runs out or needs refilling, you just push play when you need a music fix.

Another 365 days have passed by rather quickly. The road to Life On Display was a long one and now it’s time for the adventure. The bus is on cruise control, the airplane is on autopilot, and they are ready to push on to the next town. A caravan of rock paraphernalia takes to the highway in January of 2004 with a ragged tent in tow from a desert video shoot as the backdrop to the gadgetry on stage where the Mudd Men feel most comfortable, performing. Day after day, no show is the same as the one before. The crowd interaction, the venue, and even the unavoidable technical difficulties at times provide each concertgoer with a unique experience. The members of Puddle of Mudd love every fan - from the deep-rooted to the passive fan - for within the fans lie their future. With more single releases on the horizon, new videos to be produced, and the upcoming tour, Puddle is ready to rock the Mudd in 2004.

Sources and Links: www.puddleofmudd.com, www.muddfetish.com, www.wesscantlin.com, www.pauljphillips.com, www.dougardito.com, www.gregupchurch.com, www.mtv.com, www.vh1.com, www.fuse.tv, www.billboard.com, www.radioandrecords.com, www.rollingstone.com, www.reuters.com, www.rockdirt.com, www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net, www.kerrang.com, www.bbc.com, www.kcstar.com, www.pitch.com, www.ascap.com, www.flawless-records.com, www.geffen.com, www.interscope.com, www.rollingstone.com, www.bbc.com, www.boston.com, www.rotosound.com, www.warwickbass.com, www.prsguitars.com, www.dwdrums.com, www.promark-stix.com, www.sandiego.salvationarmy.org, Hit Parader, Metal Edge, Guitar One, The Madill Record, American Music Association, Folio Weekly.

Thanks to the Muddfetish team – Lisa, Denise, and Lynn for everything you do all year long to support POM and the fans to make the websites what they are today. You are not only great Muddfans, but special, personal friends to me as well. To the special contributors who include us, thanks for putting your faith and trust in the team.

In closing, one can’t help notice Wesley is pictured on the album promotion with his arms extended above his head. It was something I thought was classic for his animated and playful gestures he tends to show for a photographer. However, after listening to Life On Display, even just the first few times, I understand that subliminal pose. Something about this album makes me want to reach out and embrace something. It’s just an empty space, I don’t know what there is to reach for, but it’s there, a vulnerable identity. The “I’ve been knocked down but I'm getting back up,” lyrics are what real life is about. I can feel the message in the music - and I like it - it gives me peace of mind. Thank you Wesley, Paul, Doug, and Greg, Mudd Mission complete. Congratulations and best wishes for your continued success.

© POMuddRockOn 12/10/03

2003 HIGHLIGHTS AND MILESTONES

01-14 Wes comments on 2nd CD title, Life On Display
01-31 Come Clean certified Triple Platinum
02-16 German Echo Awards, POM nominated for Int’l Group of the year
02-19 Much Music, POM featured on the show Spotlight
03-22 Billboard, after 80 weeks Come Clean drops below Top 100
04-06 Much Music, in depth POM profile on Exposed program
04-24 Craig Kilborn, drummer Greg Upchurch, Drumline all-star lineup
05-06 MTV airs ICON:Metallica, Wes presents Four Horsemen segment
05-17 Billboard, after 88 weeks Come Clean drops below Top 200
05-20 ASCAP Awards, Blurry, one of the most played songs 2002
09-18 POM.com, official announcement Life On Display release for 11-25
09-25 Away From Me music video begins shooting
10-02 POM.com launches updated band website
10-07 Life On Display to contain a Golden Ticket
10-16 MTV airs Making The Video Away From Me and video premiere
11-07 Lifeondisplay.com Verizon Wireless Remix Contest
11-11 MTV TRL, POM interview segment
11-12 MTV 2 Rock Countdown, POM host show
11-17 Loveline, Wes co-hosts
11-24 Rockline, POM guests, preview Life On Display
11-25 Life On Display released
11-xx AOL Sessions, POM tapes segments
11-25 Fuse 7th Avenue Drop, POM performs
11-25 David Letterman, POM performs Away From Me
11-27 Craig Kilborn, POM performs Away From Me
11-27 POM begins Europe media blitz for Life On Display
12-12 MSN live chat with Paul, Doug, Greg
12-15 Jimmy Kimmel, POM performs Away From Me
12-31 FOX America’s Party New Years Even, Las Vegas, Away From Me

PUDDLE OF MUDD TOUR SCHEDULE 2003

2003 United States – Pre-Release Life On Display Album Tour – POM Headline, Various Support

07-18    Trump Marina/Atlantic City, NJ/Blowup

07-19    Randall’s Island Ramps & Amps/NYC, NY/Trapt/MXPX/Damones

07-21    Webster Theater/Hartford, CT/Camp Fire Girls

07-23    Ritz Theater/Raleigh, NC/Budweiser One Night Stand/Camp Fire Girls

07-24    Plush/Jacksonville, FL/Camp Fire Girls

07-26    Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA/Rolling Rock IV

08-02    Makuhari Messe Chiba Marine Stadium/Tokyo, Japan/Summer Sonic

08-03    Intex #5 WTC Open Air Stadium/Osaka, Japan/Summer Sonic

10-17    Florida State University/Tallahassee, FL/MTV Homecoming Free Show

10-18    Louisiana State University/Baton Rouge, LA/MTV Homecoming Free

2003 United States – MTV Sponsored Club Tour Dates – POM Headline, Smile Empty Soul (SES), Various Support

10-23    House of Blues/Chicago, IL

10-24    St. Andrews Hall/Detroit, MI/Bridge

10-25    The Guvernment/Toronto, Canada/Turn Off The Stars

10-27    Avalon Ballroom/Boston, MA/Dogfight

10-29    Rock Jungle/Pittsburgh, PA/Budweiser One Night Stand

10-30    Irving Plaza/New York City, NY/Budweiser One Night Stand/Mr. North

11-01    Recher Theatre/Towson, MD/Budweiser One Night Stand/Crushing Day

11-02    The Odeon/Cleveland, OH

11-04    The Tabernacle/Atlanta, GA/Budweiser One Night Stand/SES

11-05    Masquerade/Tampa, FL/SES

11-06    House of Blues/Lake Buena Vista, FL/SES

11-08    Center Stage at the Plex/Charleston, SC/SES/Deepfield

11-09    Norva Theater/Norfolk, VA/SES

11-10    Theatre of the Living Arts/Philadelphia, PA

2003 United States – Verizon Wireless/MTV Club Tour – POM Headline, Various Support

11-13    Celebrity Theater/Phoenix, AZ/Lust

11-14    Avalon/Hollywood, CA/SES/Kill Radio

11-15    SOMA/San Diego, CA/Dirty Sweet

11-16    The Joint/Las Vegas, NV

11-18    Avalon/San Francisco, CA/Wake

11-20    Roseland Theatre/Portland, OR/58 Fury

11-21    Moore Theater/Seattle, WA/Second Coming

Radio/Miscellaneous Christmas Shows – Various Support

12-06    Hammerstein Ballroom/New York City, NY/KROCK Claus Fest

12-07    AJ Palumbo Center/Pittsburgh, PA/WXDX Kick Ass X-Mas Show

12-08    Pepsi Coliseum/Indianapolis, IN/X103’s Not So Silent X-Mas

12-10    Memorial Hall/Kansas City, KS/98.9 The Rock Twisted X-Mas

12-11    The Fillmore/Denver, CO/KBPI Mistletoe Jam

12-13    Universal Amphitheater/Universal City, CA/KROQ Almost Acoustic X-Mas

12-31    Las Vegas Strip/Las Vegas, NV/Fox New Years Eve