On a recent episode of "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," rock legend Alice Cooper made a memorable appearance. Known for his theatrical stage shows, Cooper revealed that he was searching for a special guest to join him on his upcoming nationwide tour. And this guest happened to be a snake. Yes, you heard that right – Cooper was holding auditions for a slithering performer.
Cooper's unique request caught the attention of many, including the trade paper, the Daily Variety, which ran an article about the auditions. The ad called for snakes of any species, regardless of sex, nationality, or religious persuasion. The job even came with unique employee benefits such as a liberal pension arrangement, free hospitalization, profit sharing, and the occasional human sacrifice. Talk about a wild job description!
After sifting through about a hundred snakes, Cooper finally found the perfect candidate. Cooper proudly introduced his new tour mate, a harmless and clean snake named Angel. Sitting beside Cooper during the interview, Angel captured the attention of the audience. Cooper debunked the common misconception that snakes are slimy, stating that they are actually dry and clean.
During the interview, Cooper explained how snakes don't have hearing but can sense adrenaline. This is why they often strike when sensing fear. Cooper assured the audience that his snake would only strike 24 hours before or after feeding, and with Angel having eaten two weeks ago, there was no cause for concern.
Cooper's love for snakes didn't come as a surprise to many, as he has always been known for his eccentric stage presence. However, he emphasized that his shows are meant to be an entertaining experience, not a dangerous one. Cooper compared his performances to an adventurous show, where he takes on giant spiders, fierce Cyclops, and other mythical creatures. Parents have even attested to being entertained by Cooper's shows, realizing that they are no more dangerous than a show featuring the adventure of Sinbad the Sailor.
In the interview, Cooper also discussed his creative process and inspiration. He explained that shock value played a significant role in his choice of stage name. With a desire to get attention, he wanted a name that sounded like an ax murderer. Therefore, Alice Cooper was born, offering a stark contrast to the expectations of conventional rock and roll.
Cooper's father, a minister, surprisingly supports his son's career choice. Cooper sees his shows as a form of show business, transforming rock and roll into burlesque or vaudeville. The music serves as the background to create an experiential performance, with Cooper stating that anything that works visually and physically on stage must have the right musical accompaniment.
The interview wrapped up with Cooper discussing his upcoming tour and the themes he would be incorporating. He promised a show that would be a compilation of his best and most bizarre acts, featuring a guillotine and other outlandish elements. Cooper admitted that he still gets nervous before opening night, despite his years of experience and worldwide performances.
It was evident that Cooper was passionate about his craft and dedicated to creating a unique and entertaining experience for his audience. As the interview came to an end, the audience bid farewell to Cooper and his slithering companion, eagerly anticipating the opening night of his tour.
So, get ready for Alice Cooper's tour and expect the unexpected – because when he takes the stage, anything can happen.
Originally aired on June 6, 1977
