Ohio University’s School of Media Arts and Studies and School of Music recently hosted a live on-stage interview with Ira Kaplan, the frontman and co-founder of the iconic indie rock band Yo La Tengo.  

Josh Antonuccio, an instructor in the School of Media Arts and Studies, sat down with Ira for an hour-long conversation about the 30-year story of the career of Yo La Tengo and how they have successfully navigated their way to artistic and commercial success. 

“They have a dedicated following, have consistently put out great records, provide soundtrack music for major films and continue to be darlings of music critics,” said Antonuccio

In the throes of a world-wide tour Yo La Tengo, which has included major performances at the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago, the FYF Fest in Los Angeles and Riot Fest, Yo La Tengo stopped in the Athens area to perform at Stuart’s Opera House in nearby Nelsonville, Ohio. Before their show, Ira Kaplan visited the Ohio University campus for the exclusive event.

“Ohio University students had the opportunity to hear from an artist who, together with Yo La Tengo, has not compromised their values, but rather have charted a path of success on their own terms,” said Antonuccio.

The School of Media Arts & Studies is pleased to present the interview with Ira in its entirety below.

Post Event Press:

• Yo La Tengo & Ohio University on Hypebot

• Yo La Tengo & Ohio University on Pando Daily

• Yo La Tengo & Ohio University on Stereogum