Jane Lynch, Kate Flannery and vocal arrangement for “Glee” Tim Davis, accompanied by The Tony Guerrero Quintet, toured the country to promote their vacation album, Swinging Little Christmas.
Before performing at Kutztown University, the “Hollywood Game Show” host sat down with me to speak about life on the road, what he does not want for Christmas, and his attitude towards New Year’s resolutions.
Jane, what’s your pre-show ritual?
JL: It’s doing makeup with Kate Flannery who sings with me there and we put on some music. We normally play like The Carpenters or something like Burt Bacharach because we love that music so that is what we do.
What was it like to tour with Kate and Tim?
JL: Oh, that is the best. You know we even have five people, band. We were in a big bus—it was our first time doing it in a big bus since our touring boomed this Christmas season and we really enjoyed it. I go to my little bed and draw the curtains and listen to the news. We all go out sometimes and eat a little. We have stopped at Cracker Barrel all over this great country, we love Cracker Barrel.
What’s your favourite song to perform?
JL: Let’s see—right now, I believe my favourite song to perform is “We Three Kings.” We did a Dave Bruback-y jazzy version of “We Three Kings” and it was really fun to do.
When can we expect a new Christmas CD?
JL: We’re not getting any new Christmas CDs. See, the wonderful thing about Christmas notes is that you can reissue them every year. That’s the point of doing this. We love Christmas music—all of us, the band, Kate and Tim and me, and we thought it was something we could bring back every season. The amazing thing about Christmas music is that it lasts and you can play it season after season and it never gets old.
Did you give Tim and Kate any Christmas gifts?
JL: No, I did not get anyone a Christmas present. I’m not a giver—I do not give and that I do not like receiving either. I like other things in life, but I’m just not a presence. Don’t buy me something I must give to Goodwill—do not do it.
What are your Christmas plans?
JL: Well, we’re done with this Christmas Eve tour—I’m going home on Christmas Eve. I normally go to Chicago and visit my family there. Nobody likes Christmas in Chicago, this is the best place to be. But, since we’re done on Christmas Eve, I’ll just be staying in LA with my family and four dogs, so that’s going to be fun. I’ll be celebrating Christmas in LA which I’ve only done a few times. It’s strange to be in LA for Christmas.
Will you host Christmas?
JL: We’re having a Christmas Day lunch with all the other orphans who aren’t going anywhere.
What’s your New Year’s resolution?
JL: I do not make New Year’s resolutions. I’m just trying to live day by day. I did not plan a year out. I like it like I’m here with you right now, and it is so charming.
