With Green Day, bassist Mike Dirnt has sold over 75 million CDs worldwide. But things weren't always rosy for him - the punk rocker had a tough start in life.
Why is it still cool to be in a rock band at 44?
Because it's cool to make music at any age. You can't physically touch music, but you can be touched by it. It can make us laugh or cry. It can make us euphoric, but it can also make us deeply sad ... Music is the closest thing to magic.
You've been rocking for almost thirty years. Are you surprised that you've kept going for so long?
Quitting was never an option. It's the same as when someone asks you how long you think you'll be able to walk. I don't know, you just do it. And you're happy that it still works.
What's different today compared to the 80s?
In the digital age, everyone has a huge choice. Which makes music interchangeable. We used to have to sit in front of the radio for hours just to hear a song we liked from time to time. That gave you a much closer relationship with songs.
Was there never a plan B in your life?
I come from the bottom. Things could only get better in my life. My mother had drug problems. I was given up for adoption. I left home at 15, then worked in construction, was a chef in a seafood restaurant and delivered parcels for UPS. Survival was never a problem for me, nor was working hard. If it hadn't worked out with Green Day, I would have got by some other way.
You now have three children of your own. How has fatherhood changed you?
On the one hand, the children have kept me young. On the other hand, they also made me mature earlier. You become more responsible when you suddenly no longer have to look after yourself.
When were you happiest?
Probably right now. I have a great family. And my band is still firing on all cylinders. I'm not the nostalgic type, I don't often look back. Life is a journey. I want to experience as much of it as possible. I wouldn't be able to do that if I was constantly mourning the past.
What was the worst moment of your life?
There are a few. I've lost several close friends over the years. But it was also bad when we found out that my wife Brittney had breast cancer. She underwent chemotherapy and also had to have an operation. Fortunately, she is now doing better.
What is your favorite pastime?
I've owned a coffee company in Northern California for over a year now. I'm involved in everything, flavor development, sales, etc. I love this work!
Which is better: Facebook or Twitter?
Instagram! A picture is worth a thousand words. I don't have time for too many words.
If you could be someone else for a day, who would it be?
My dear wife. Then maybe I would finally understand her for once (laughs).
Who is or was the greatest rock star of all time?
Elvis Presley, for sure. And maybe David Bowie. Both were nobody and became universal icons. They are revered in practically every culture in the world. Not a bad achievement, I think.
This article was originally published in Blick.
GREEN DAY
Mon 16.1.17, Hallenstadion Zurich
TICKETS
