life advice from broken social scene’s brendan canning

Any hot tips for starting a band? Find people to work with who don't annoy you to death. Be present in whatever scene is happening in your hometown. And if there’s no scene, make one! I moved to Toronto when I was 21 and there was a lot going on – I was often the annoying person going, “Hey, can I open for your band? Can I borrow your amp? Can we open for Goo Goo Dolls?” Knock on them doors until a door opens a crack. How do you make friends as an adult? Get a dog or join a book club. Fortunately, I play in a band, so there are always people around (maybe too many) and my friend group expands exponentially because of that. Don’t be afraid of rejection or putting yourself out there, either. Who cares if someone doesn’t like you? That’s on them, not you. If you’re a good person, you’ll find friends. How do you fight the critical voice in your head? A good breakfast every morning. Half a grapefruit, coffee, oatmeal and one poached egg. Then you can deal with the voices. Without a full stomach, the vampires come at you from all sides and you’re defenceless. Ideas for impressing someone on a first date? Show up on time and fully bathed. Be yourself without volunteering all the things about yourself. We’re all freaks, but maybe it’s best to hold back a couple of things. And the best way to break up with someone? There is no best way. Be honest, unless the other person can’t handle honesty, then try to make it as ‘nice as possible’ – but we all know that’s total bullshit.