interview gerard way

Interview Highlights

The interviewer catches up with Gerard Way before My Chemical Romance’s show on the Project Revolution tour. Gerard says the band is playing better than it has in years—like they did at the start—and that the tour has them feeling “psychotically inspired.” He encourages fans who missed the Black Parade tour to come see them now.

The conversation turns to the band’s upcoming shows opening for Bon Jovi in New Jersey. Gerard calls it a huge honor, especially since he has been a fan since third grade. Talking with fellow Jersey native Richie Sambora made Gerard’s own accent suddenly get much thicker.

Gerard says the band loves playing live and prefers being a live band to a studio band. Touring Europe can be tough, though: he describes feeling disconnected when his phone doesn’t work and jokes that mayonnaise seems to be the only food he can find. Long flights are fine; short flights on small planes make him nervous. Asked about regrets, he says he has none.

On possible collaborations, Gerard names Tom Waits as a dream choice, praising his distinctive voice and storytelling. The interview also touches on Scarlett Johansson’s Waits covers and other artists who have covered his songs.

Later, Gerard heads over to greet the cheering crowd. Asked how the band unwinds after a show, he says they sweat it out. When the interviewer teases that fans might enjoy hearing about him stripping off, Gerard quickly insists, “I don’t ever get naked.”

People Mentioned

• Participants: Gerard Way; the interviewer/host, who is unnamed; audience members Holly and Chelsea; Ana, who asks a question by email; and Jeff, who is addressed during the discussion.
• Also mentioned: Mike Pedicone, Bob, Richie Sambora, Tom Waits, and Scarlett Johansson.