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Rick Springfield Interview
(Singer and Actor)
If you remember the song "Speak To The Sky" back in '72, then you'll remember its singer - Rick Springfield. Rick saw that song reach the #1 spot in Australia, the #5 slot in Japan, and #15 in the U.S.
Rick became an instant hit with the teen set crowd and this severely hampered his efforts to gain credibility with older listeners.
Management and recording deals changed but success as a serious musician, and singer, was yet to be found.
Rick studied acting with Malcolm McDowell and noted coach Jack Garfein. His career as an actor really took off, resulting in roles on "The Six Million Dollar Man," "Wonder Woman," "Battlestar Galactica," "The Rockford Files," and "The Incredible Hulk."
Now Rick has re-entered rock with a new album titled "Working Class Dog" on RCA Records.
Q. Did you always want to be in show biz?
A. Yeah, after school I always used to practice with a band. There was a time when I thought of being a disc jockey.
Q. Were your parents musically inclined?
A. My mom and dad both played piano, and we had this great player piano in the living room.
Q. Who are your heroes?
A. Paul McCartney.
Q. Did you like getting the "star treatment," being chauffeured around in a limo, having a contract rider that demanded certain types of food in the dressing room?
A. I didn't like the star treatment. I think it's pointless.
Q. Were you impressed by new wave?
A. I wasn't knocked out by the Sex Pistols' first album. There was some incredible stuff on Elvis Costello's first album.
Q. Are there any musicians you would like to work with that you haven't?
A. Maybe Toscanini.
Q. Has success changed you in any way?
A. No. I still have the same goals. I've been through some changes, but I'm still optimistic.
Q. What advice would you give up-and-coming entertainers?
A. Play as much as you can. Listen as much as you can. Don't sign anything (laughs).
© Gary James All Rights Reserved
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