By GREGG KIRK
February 1994, Big Shout Magazine

If you follow the tabloids or read the music press, you’ve probably heard by now that megastar, rock ‘n’ roll crooner Melissa Etheridge has “come out” with the fact that she’s a lesbian. But don’t confuse the title of her latest Polygram release Yes, I Am as an affirmation of her sexual preference. The batch of new songs has nothing to do with her own sexuality, but instead speaks of the trials of struggling middle-American workaday types. You can see her perform these tunes in person when she hits the Spectrum in Philly on Feb. 27.

In the meantime, in honor of Valentine’s Day and all, we thought we’d get the Kansas native’s tips on dating and various advice on affairs of the heart. She called us all the way from L.A. on her car phone. Are we getting more and more like Sassy Magazine, or what?

What’s the number one thing not to do on a date?

Not to try to impress the other person. That’s the most uncomfortable thing.

What was the dating experience like for you in high school?

Well, I dated boys in high school. I was always the musician; I was always kinda strange. I dated very interesting boys, though. High school is so awkward. It’s so hard; everybody’s hormones are raging and nobody ever talks about anything. I grew up in a very small town (Leavenworth, KS), so you’d either go to the movies or the high school game — football or basketball… whatever was happening.

Did you date girls when you were in high school?

No, (laughs) that wasn’t available then. I didn’t until I was in college and after, not until I was 19 or 20 years old.

What is the sign that the date is going well?

There’s a certain comfortableness in yourself. I think we all have that part of your brain that goes on even while you’re talking or whatever, and it’s either saying, “Oh, this is pretty cool” or “Warning, warning — outta here!” And I think if things aren’t strained and you’re having fun, and you can kinda relax and go with it, then I think that’s a good sign.

What is your favorite breath enhancer?

Well, I’m a real garlic and onion eater so as long as they eat it also, I’m fine. I love those potent foods. I suppose if I was around a stranger again, I’d grab just some gum. I haven’t done that in so long (laughs).

What are your feelings about drugs or alcohol in a dating experience?

My own experience is — I don’t not drink, but I don’t look to alcohol to make an evening better. And I certainly do not enjoy a drunk person. I mean, I’m all for relaxing and enhancing, but I don’t like those that depend on it… I don’t like drunk people. Don’t get drunk around me (laughs).

What’s your idea of the ideal date?

I like people that are independent and strong in themselves and have their own opinions and ideas and like to have fun. Someone that doesn’t just want to do what I want to do but has their own opinion.

What is your special dating tip?

Have a sense of independence. If you don’t get along with somebody, it’s not the end of the world. There’s other people; keep yourself open. Love yourself first is kind of what I’m saying. You know, people are searching so hard for somebody else. Learn how to date yourself first before you date others (laughs).