A man in fine tune with his finances
BRITISH guitar virtuoso Jon Gomm is in South Africa to play in Tony Cox’s International Guitar Night winter series in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Gomm can tap, bend and slap his way through just about any song on the guitar. Brendan Peacock finds out if
Are you good with money or irresponsible — a saver or a spender?
I’m terrified of money. I save, yes, but not to a schedule. I’ve never had a salary type of job, so I am reassured by the physical reality of paper with pictures of the queen on it. What did your childhood experience teach you about money?
I have some wealthy family who seemed to be able to magic money from nothing, and some poor family who don’t. I learnt that rich people know something I’ll never understand. What is your biggest extravagance or vice?
Probably my tattoos. They are extremely expensive. Good art often is, especially art you live with 24/7. What is the one thing you wish you had never bought? And your best buy?
Best buy: Wilma, my guitar. £750 used and still my one and only 13 years on. Worst buy: none I can think of — I’m a real bargain hunter. Have you learnt any important lessons about money through mistakes?
Yeah, lending money is never an act of generosity, only giving is generous. What was the best money advice you were ever given?
The above, by my mom. What kind of car do you drive, and do you rate cars in terms of practicalities, speed or looks?
My car has no hubcaps and the front bumper is held on with gaffer tape. But it is totally reliable. Sometimes I have my music gear in the trunk, so it’s a good idea to have a beat-up-looking car.
How do you invest (if you do)?
I think it’s good to spend money now to save in the future. For example, when I bought a house I sank all my savings into it to keep my mortgage small.
Have you ever been in debt?
Everyone in the Western world is either very rich or has debt. I still have a student loan. We send our kids into the world saddled with debt. To me it’s insane and also playing fantasy economics with people’s lives.
Do you have a fear of bankruptcy?
No. How do you prefer to pay for things — cash, card or cheque?
I’m always travelling, so my card is my lifeline. How do you tip? Are you an easy tipper?
Again, travelling means I have to figure out the local culture for tipping. And then, yes, I always tip.
Do you manage your own financial affairs?
My wife and I share the responsibility and we think similarly. Neither of us is really materialist. What’s the worst thing you’ve done for money?
I’ve driven 200 miles [300km] to play to five people. But even then it can be rewarding. Musicians who are in it for the money aren’t really musicians.