In a candid and wide-ranging interview with MetalgodZradiO, legendary vocalist Jeff Scott Soto opened up about everything from cultural identity to the evolution of recording music at home, the future of his band Art of Anarchy, and the possible end of Sons of Apollo.
Here’s a look into the heart and mind of one of rock’s most prolific and enduring voices.
On Cultural Identity and Early Encounters
The conversation kicks off light-heartedly with geography and heritage, as MetalgodZradiO notes that Macedonia was once part of the former Yugoslavia. Jeff shares his connection to the region through his Bulgarian wife and his fascination with last names and accents that hint at someone's roots.
"I'm very accustomed to the surrounding areas," he says. “The names, the accents—I always try to pinpoint where someone might be from."
That curiosity is mutual. MetalgodZradiO, born in England, explains how being a foreigner himself feeds his interest in cultural identity and appearance. This leads to a moment of reflection when he asks if Jeff had ever been racially profiled.
“Luckily, no,” Jeff replies. “I’ve always kept my nose clean, avoided trouble, and luckily haven’t had to deal with that. But I do understand the perceptions people might have.”
Breaking the Mold as a Frontman
Despite not fitting the traditional mold of a rock frontman visually, Jeff believes things have changed for the better.
“I didn’t really fit the profile,” he admits. “Maybe I lost some gigs because of that, but we’ve moved on. Today, it’s about the music and integrity, and that’s what really matters.”
Art of Anarchy: Evolution and Creative Chemistry
Jeff’s enthusiasm spikes when the topic turns to Art of Anarchy and their upcoming album, Let There Be Anarchy, set to release in 2024. Their latest single, Vilified, has already generated buzz.
While the band maintains its signature sound, Jeff explains how his presence has shifted their approach. “It’s the same people, same DNA, but we’re writing together now. This isn’t just a continuation; it’s a progression—with a familiar edge.”
There won’t be any bonus tracks or Japanese-exclusive covers this time around. “We just focused on the songs,” Jeff says. “No gimmicks. Just music.”
Home Recording: A Dream Come True
One of the major highlights of Jeff’s current process is recording vocals at home in California, while the band works out of Bumblefoot’s East Coast studio.
“To be able to work from home—it’s what I dreamed of back in the days of two-inch tape,” Jeff recalls. “Now you just need a laptop, a good mic, and the freedom to create on your terms.”
He contrasts this with the "hideous waste" of major-label budgets in the past. “Back then, you were paying for studio time, engineers, food, everything. Now? You get the same results without the insane cost.”
On Being the ‘Third Scott’ and Reigniting the Flame
Jokingly referred to as the "third Scott" to front Art of Anarchy, Jeff isn’t just another hired voice. In fact, he pursued the band, not the other way around.
“I went to them. I was a fan,” he shares. “They didn’t have to convince me. I brought that energy to the table, and it changed the dynamic. It became a band again—creative, organic, alive.”
As for the previous vocalists—Scott Weiland and Scott Stapp—Jeff is respectful, but honest: “They’re not my cup of tea. Amazing singers, but I was never into STP or Creed. I listened to the material imagining how I would sing it.”
Creative Freedom Over Nostalgia
Would Jeff ever join a band like Stone Temple Pilots or Creed?
“Probably not,” he says. “I’m not interested in stepping into someone else’s shoes anymore. I want to bring my personality and creativity to the table.”
That philosophy is part of why Sons of Apollo may soon fade into the background, especially now that Mike Portnoy has rejoined Dream Theater.
“Without Portnoy, it doesn’t feel like Sons of Apollo. Everyone was key in that band, and it just wouldn’t be the same.”
From Yngwie to TSO: Lessons and Loyalty
Jeff reflected on his early days with Yngwie Malmsteen, having left the band before their second album Marching Out was even released.
“I thought it would be like Rainbow—everyone contributing creatively. But it wasn’t. I didn’t want to just be a hired gun.”
That experience taught him to value collaboration and creative ownership. These days, he's poured that passion into projects like Trans-Siberian Orchestra, where he's been a fixture for over 15 years.
“I’m on the West Coast TSO band, and as long as they want me, I’m in. It’s a tribute to the late Paul O’Neill’s vision, and I’m grateful to be part of it.”
Looking Ahead: Books, Films, and Future Tours
Could a book or documentary be in Jeff’s future?
“I’d love to do it,” he says. “But only if there’s a real demand. I don’t want to spend years on something nobody sees. I want to know people care.”
That same energy fuels his approach to touring with Art of Anarchy.
“We’re not just going to book a tour because we released an album. If the fans want it—if there’s excitement—we’ll go out and bust heads open. That’s my mentality.”
Final Words
Whether it’s recording vocals at home, honoring a fallen musical visionary, or keeping it real about identity and legacy, Jeff Scott Soto isn’t slowing down—he’s doubling down.
As MetalgodZradiO puts it: “You’re a prolific artist.”
And it’s true. Few rock vocalists wear as many hats—or wear them as well—as Jeff.
Stay heavy. Support the underground. Long live metal.
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