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Guitar guru finds his place

Parker Smith

Issue date: 9/27/07 Section: A&E
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Media Credit: Parker Smith

Known to many as "The Applejack Masta," a nickname affectionately given to him by a friend, Anthony James Wessling is attending Kirkwood Community College for the second time. "Yeah, I went for… part of a semester in 2004 and just sort of quit going. I played a lot of music for a few years, among other things," said Wessling.

During that time Wessling attended Carlson College of Massage Therapy, which he finished in August. He is currently studying for his board exam and said he hopes to become a certified massage therapist in the near future.

At Kirkwood Wessling is now a music major and plays the bass guitar. Commenting on musical influences on his own playing he said, "Number one, Red Hot Chili Peppers. Flea is amazing. He is as solid as they come and just crazy at the same time, probably the greatest bass player alive. Also Primus, Les Claypool. I actually met Les Claypool and the first thing he said to me when I came up to him was, 'Potatoes!' I just thought… he seems alright."

Wessling said there are also other artists who have inspired him along the way. "I'd have to go with Eric Clapton. Tom Waits is a great musician. He is one of those alcoholic guys who just smokes cigarettes all the time," he said.

"Aside from individual musicians who have influenced me, I think bands like The Doors. I love playing that style of music," Wessling said.

When asked if he aspires to become a professional musician, Wessling stated, "Sort of, it depends on what you consider a professional musician. I don't want to make a lot of money or get played on the radio… I would probably hate all the people who were listening to me. I think if I went to hell Z 102.9 would be playing constantly."

Wessling said he also plays guitar and has been known to break out the conga drums when he's feeling crazy. He said he writes lyrics but he can't play bass and sing at the same time. "Once I pick up my bass I'm just in a totally different world," said Wessling.
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