Who’s Who in Walworth County

Chris Buttleman (Mr. Chicken Legs), owner-operator Lake Geneva House of Music

 Interview by: T. Allen Dyer

Question:  Mom or Dad?

Chris Buttleman: Both, because DNA makes it unavoidable that I’m a part of both of them. As for my dad, he died way too young, but what he taught me lives on… Mom recently turned 95 and still lives on her own. One of the things they instilled in me was that I would be good at whatever I tried, and my later hero was Robin Zander [of the musical group Cheap Trick] and dad actually built me a music studio/practice area.

Question: Sunlight or Moonlight?

Chris Buttleman: Moonlight because I’m a night owl. I like the quiet time on my own.  It’s where I find fewer distractions. For instance, if I start something new, like a coffee house, I don’t want to be distracted, so I will instead continue to build up LGHOM and meet people who share my vision in fulfilling a community of like-minded musicians, actors, and artists and that keeps me secure and happy in my solo, nighttime, creative ideas.

Question: Wine or Water?

Chris Buttleman: Water, because LGHOM is sitting on an amazing wetlands conservation area. Both the future outdoor patio and our wedding event venues benefit from the natural beauty of sunsets over acres and acres of cattails. Pinot noir if you’re talking wine.

Question: Children or Pets?

Chris Buttleman:  I love dogs and had four boxers throughout my childhood. Growing up on a farm I ran around with them constantly.

Question: Music or Movies?

Chris Buttleman: Music definitely. So, it’s been my life since finding it at age 10. Took piano lessons for 2 years and was a drummer in middle school. Then I found the guitar. I knew I wanted to spend my life in music. At age 15 I was out playing gigs at friend’s parties. Then I left for L.A. to learn the production side of both traveling bands and elite studio musicians.

Question: Pagan or Prayer?

Chris Buttleman: I have more questions than answers, even though I was raised Lutheran. But generally, I don’t practice religion, because God is light and love, so I will truly never know answers… Only follow them.

Question: Beach or Forest?

Chris Buttleman: Forest, because I always seem to choose solitude and the sounds of nature. I never do the beach because I fear showing my very white, rail-thin, rock-and-roll, chicken legs in revealing summer shorts.

Question: Work or Play?

Chris Buttleman: I’m a workaholic. Also, I so love the times I’m given the freedom to dream, create and build something that helps the kids, community, and other people’s lives. As for related endeavors, my big brother, Mike, we also started Rising Stars, a charitable foundation, to bring free lessons and musical equipment to the talented kids –who need an outlet to strengthen their academic goals and give them opportunity.