We caught up with Cliff Campbell, the guitarist from Fair to Midland, before their show in Sacramento. We talked about everything—from their recent lineup changes to the band’s evolution, working with Serj Tankian, and what keeps them grounded when they’re not on tour. Cliff opened up about his journey, fan stories, and some solid advice for aspiring artists.
Capital Chaos TV: So, what’s it like being back in Sacramento? I know you guys have played here before. What do you like about Sac?
Cliff: Good fans. Just good people that still care about music—that’s really rare, you know? We’ve had a little help from radio and stuff out here, but word of mouth really did a lot. I’m sure Deftones helped with that too. But people here really care about music, and that’s a rare thing across the U.S.—everyone’s kind of jaded. Out here, though, it just keeps building. That’s awesome.
Capital Chaos TV: Speaking of jaded, I noticed the lyrics on your newest release are a bit more cynical and darker. Was there a reason behind that? Something personal, or just the direction you wanted to go?
Cliff: It was basically our experiences over the last couple of years—between labels and everything else. It’s crazy what goes on behind the scenes. You’d never know—we were so green. We’re from Sulphur Springs, a town of like 10,000 people. Then suddenly, we’re flying to New York to meet these labels, thinking everything’s right and that they mean the best for Fair to Midland.
Capital Chaos TV: Naturally.
Cliff: Yeah—then a couple years down the road, you realize what’s actually going on. It’s all about money. That was a turning point for us, because we’re about passion, realism, being individuals, and enjoying the process. Fortunately, our fans get that too—they’re the same way. That album really expresses all of that.
Capital Chaos TV: Do you have any crazy fan stories? Stalker-type stuff? Anyone show up at your hotel room naked in a red ribbon?
Cliff: (Laughs) Not with me—but I’ve seen things. I won’t throw anyone under the bus right now, though.
Capital Chaos TV: Fair enough.
Cliff: Yeah, beyond the girls, we’ve had guys come out and just hang for hours. We call them “punishers.”
Capital Chaos TV: Punishers?
Cliff: Yeah, someone who won’t leave for like an hour. It’s a behind-the-scenes term.
Capital Chaos TV: So, what was it like working with Serj Tankian from System of a Down? That dude is phenomenal—and the work he did with you guys was great.
Cliff: It was amazing. He really had heart in everything he did. He only suggested something if he truly thought it was best for the song. He did nothing but good things for us. He’s a really busy guy, but at the end of the day, just a great musician and person. He does a lot for his community, for the world. We were lucky to be part of that.
Capital Chaos TV: Yeah, he’s definitely politically in tune. I know you had a recent lineup change—new drummer and bassist. Do you want to comment on that or let the fans know what’s going on?
Cliff: Honestly, I was kind of enjoying watching everyone speculate about it. But yeah, people go down different paths in life. We’d been together a long time. With our bassist—it was just a different direction for him. I love the guy to death. We grew up together, so it was hard. Same with our drummer. Things just started to feel off, and we had to keep moving forward to progress. It sucks, it really does. But I think we’re better for it now. And you’ll let me know what you think after the show, right?
Capital Chaos TV: Absolutely. I’m sure you’ll be great. Out of all the albums and songs you’ve done, do you have a personal favorite? One that really hits home?
Cliff: Wow, there are so many. Greener Grass really stands out. Not sure if you’ve dug into that one much, but it’s one of the most passionate and real songs we’ve written. In this business, you’re always restricted in some way. But with that song, we went all the way. It was daring, but real. It’s very personal to me—and amazing to perform.
Capital Chaos TV: I want to ask about Darroh. He seems like a pretty eccentric character. I’ve heard rumors that he’s only truly happy when performing. What’s it like working with him? You’ve been together for, what, 13 years?
Cliff: Yeah, that’s true. He completely freezes himself in that space. He always stresses about how things come across—everything should be perceived correctly. That’s what Musical Chairs is about. Listen to the lyrics—it’s exactly that. He lives his life that way. I love it and hate it at the same time. It’s a lot to deal with, but I’m happy to share this journey with him. He’s just very introverted, even though he does what he does on stage. He’s scared to talk to people sometimes. Very humble. I’m similar in that way. People just assume he’s crazy or weird, but really—he’s just normal. We’re all a little weird. Some of us just hide it better.
Capital Chaos TV: So, when you’re not on tour, what’s life like for you?
Cliff: I usually teach kids at the School of Rock. I love it. It gives a lot back to me. You really have to try to keep the passion in this business—it can break your spirit. The kids help keep me grounded. I’ve put bands together with them, gotten them merch, set up shows—it’s awesome. I also do art, anything to keep myself busy. I can’t sit still for more than five minutes or I’ll go crazy. If I do, I end up hiding in a corner and losing it. I already look like a homeless guy—I’ve got to stay moving.
Capital Chaos TV: Totally understandable. For aspiring artists or kids who want to do music, any advice or words of motivation?
Cliff: Just do it for real. It sounds cheesy, but it’s true. It’s so easy to be influenced by people around you now. But you’ve got to be true to yourself and do what you love. Music is beautiful—it’s beautiful to create and beautiful to listen to. Be real, be original, and enjoy it. That’s all that matters.
Capital Chaos TV: I love that. So, are you guys partying in Sac tonight, or are you moving on right away? I think this is your fourth stop on the tour?
Cliff: Fifth, actually. We’re headed to Portland next. But I’ll probably relax tonight. I did a bit of detoxing today—last night was a little too much. So yeah, I’ll keep it chill tonight and keep it rolling in Portland.
Watch the full video interview below
Categories: Fair To Midland, Interviews, Music
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