One of the greatest pleasures I’ve had lately was sitting down with multi-talented singer-songwriter Eric Redd. Redd has just released his latest single with Carrillo Music, “54,” the title track from his new CD. “54” is a soulful journey traversing through clubland with exciting beats and storytelling. Like the new single, Eric Redd captivated us with a retelling of his amazing career story. His path to fame is truly what many dreams are made of.
Eric, you are a busy guy! What’s going on today?
It’s been kind of nuts lately. I am involved in three projects right now. A rock band called California Transit Authority, with members from the group Chicago and we have a CD out. I also sing with The Hudson Project, which has kind of a Black Eyed Peas pop sound. And, I have my Carrillo Music dance solo project that we’re promoting called “54.”
When did you first start singing?
Quite a while ago, actually. In my first career, I was a ballet dancer in England. Andrew Lloydd Webber saw me perform one night and insisted I do his musical “Starlight Express.” I had never sung professionally at that point. After I auditioned for his show, they gave me the lead understudy role. They provided me with all the vocal training while I was in the show. I was always enamored with music, so I went along with it. I had joined a rock band on the side. That first year I was in “Starlight Express,” I got a major record deal on my first tryout. I got a deal on Jive, back when it was a budding label. They were only in England and were working on branching out to the states. I was doing pop music back then, when rap and hip-hop went crazy. So I got lost in the shuffle.
What did your family do to encourage you?
They really wanted me to be a doctor. They hated me doing this career. The reason that I left ballet and took the Webber show was only because my parents had actually heard of “Starlight Express” and Andrew Lloyd Webber. He was so famous. They were like “Wow! You must be good!” So I called Andrew back and took the job. For my first performance I got to perform in front of Prince Edward and he came backstage to meet me because he really liked the show. That was the beginning of a career.
Anyone else in your family sing?
No. It’s just me.
Who are your inspirations for the “54” video?
My interest in dance started because someone took an interest in me. That person is Don Cornelius and sadly, he just died yesterday. He owned a dance studio and he would pay for particular students who he thought had real talent. The inspirations of who I portray in the video are how I saw people look when I was a kid. That is what it looked like in that 1979 time period.
How did Kelsey B. land a juicy role in your video?
I love Kelsey! I wanted to work with her. I think Kelsey has a special personality. She’s like me. She’s that dancer/singer that wants to create a personality for the audience. I wanted someone to be “disco girl.” And Kelsey is that! I am a BIG Kelsey B. fan.
What is your process for writing music and lyrics?
Most of the music I collaborate on with Rod Carrillo these days, but I do write a lot. Sometimes he sends me a track to write to that is very personalized for me. Sometimes I write stories. I write about things that intrigue me. I am a romantic writer.
What kind of music do you listen to?
I listen to a LOT of dance music. I also like I do go to Berlin a lot for inspiration because in their clubs they arrive at 1am and stay for the weekend. They love African beats and they love rock. I am always listening for that sound that is different and unique. Bjork, Kate Bush and Likki Li are a few of my favorite artists. My absolute favorite right now is Robyn. I am in love with her. As a lyricist she is brilliant. It’s hard to find great writers these days!
What embarrassing songs might I find on your MP3 player?
The Charlie Brown theme song and Burt Bacharach! Barcharach’s entire collection of Dionne Warwick songs– it is genius writing. I’m also in love with Bugs Bunny sound effects. They are on my iPod too.
What venue has been your most favorite place to perform?
I did an arena in the South of France in Cannes. It is called the Acropolis. Thousands of Italians and French people party and smoking in this big open air arena.
Who would you most like to open for?
Robyn! [laughs] Robyn! Robyn! Yes!
If you weren't singing, what would you be doing?
I would love open in Spa for cancer patients near Woodstock, NY, where I live. I’d create something in the Catskills for those that are really ill to make them feel good inside and out. Not just medicinal treatments, but also beauty sessions like facials, herbal treatments, and sea wraps so that they can feel beautiful.
If there was a genre a music that you haven’t worked in yet what would it be?
It would be Opera and Classical. I think there is something so amazing about that music genre.
What genre of music can't you stand to listen to?
I think everything has a merit. I can’t think of any music genre that doesn’t have merit, just because it does fit me.
What hidden talents do you have?
I’m really a good cook. My mom’s been ill the last few years. I had her teach me her recipes. Been really into cooking Soul Food.
So you’re ready to have your own cooking show on the Food Network?
NO! I want to have my own huge live touring show. I’d love to create something that gives the audience a feeling of a rave-an interactive dance event where the music drives everyone crazy!
Make sure you check out Eric Redd’s new single “54” from Carrillo Music and watch the video!
Stay connected with Eric Redd at the following online portals:
http://www.ericredd.com
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Eric-Redd/119545444742282
Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/ericredd
Article first published as "54" Singer Eric Redd Talks Andrew Lloyd Webber, Don Cornelius and Kelsey B. on Technorati.
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