Bastards and Dangerous Q&A by Amelia Greyson
Hey, Darren! Thank you so much for sitting with me today for this interview. I’ve compiled a list of questions from your fans as well as some of my own. Are you ready to get up close and personal with me?
Darren: Sure, Mel. Just don’t go trying to bang my bongo or anything, that’s reserved for the other half of your troublesome twosome.
I wouldn’t dream of it! Let’s jump right into a question from Ashley J. What are your top-five favorite albums of all time?
Darren: That’s an impossibly hard question and so fucking awesome. I’ll give you the first five I remember having a big influence on me. Purple Rain by Prince, Thriller by Michael Jackson, Metallica’s Black Album, Hotel California by The Eagles, and Night Train by Joey and Iris Triton. Just to be clear, that last one isn’t because they were your parents but because it’s a fucking kickass album.
Thanks, Darren. I’m sure my parents would appreciate the shoutout. This question is from Misti S. What is the first thing you want to do when the tour is over?
Darren: I’m going to Disneyland! <insert laughter> Damn, I’ve always wanted to say that. For real, I’m going to spend some time with my parents. They’re getting older, and family is important, you know?
Yeah, I sure do. I think that’s sweet. This question has been asked by quite a few fans. Boxers, Briefs, Commando?
Darren: Commando, baby.
That was so much more than I needed to know.
Darren: Well, hey … you asked. When you’re touring, every second is important, so underwear of any kind wastes valuable seconds. I want to be able to unzip, cover up, and … well, you know the rest.
Yup, sure do. Let the banging of the bongos commence.
Darren: Exactly! You know what’s up, Mel. Even if Boy Band was the one to teach you the ropes.
And on that note, next question! This one is from Gayle C. Do you have a fantasy destination you’d like to go to?
Darren: We’ve traveled so much on tour but we honestly don’t get much time to enjoy where we go. I’d love to grab my girl and show her the Seven Wonders of the World. I think that would be an amazing thing to experience together.
I love that answer! I’m sure your girl would love that, too. <wink wink> Okay, let’s switch it up a bit. Tell me about the friendships between you and your band members. Are there any love/hate relationships going on? Or are you all actually good friends?
Darren: We’re all best friends … brother’s, really. Noah and Wyatt are the two serious ones, so they spend a lot of time together. Sawyer and I are more of the party guys, so we’re always together. It’s hard to explain. We’re all best friends, but we usually pair off. Noah and Sawyer’s relationship sort of supersedes all of that, though. Their twin connection is just … I can’t even put it into words, but I’ve always been envious. I’d love to have that kind of unique bond with someone else.
Me, too. Here’s an interesting question from Dana S. Do you have a favorite song you like to perform at karaoke?
Darren: Yes! The absolute best karaoke song is “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond. Everyone knows it and ends up singing along.
Favorite Holiday?
Darren: Halloween, hands down. The combination of candy and scary shit is a guaranteed recipe for getting laid.
How do you guys always turn everything to sex?
Darren: You’re the author of The O Factor and you’re asking me that? You’re lucky we don’t talk to you about sex 24/7 because seriously, Mel, I have questions about your book and your inspiration for said book.
Moving on. This one from Kim T. should be safe enough. Do you have any pets?
Darren: Nah, pets and bands don’t mix. We’re far too busy to take care of an animal the way it deserves. Maybe once we’re done touring I might get a dog. I’ve always loved English Bulldogs and regularly donate to a few different rescues.
That’s so true but super sweet you give donations. Our next question is from Cindy L. If given the choice, would you pick cake or ice cream?
Darren: Both. I’m not a take it or leave it kind of guy … I want it all.
You remind me so much of this reporter I know. She likes to bang bongos in her spare time.
Darren: You’ll have to introduce me someday. <laughs>
Alright, last question. If you could give any advice to your sixteen-year-old self what would it be?
Darren: Don’t sweat the small stuff. Just live in the moment because things always have a way of working themselves out.
For some reason that’s exactly the answer I expected from you.
Darren: At least I didn’t disappoint.
I don’t think you ever could. It’s always a pleasure to spend time with you, Darren. Thank you for hanging out with me today and answering my questions.
Darren: Happy to do it, Mel, and I can’t wait to read it.