Interview with Xavier E
Category: Interviews Created on Wednesday - 05.11.11 @ 6:44 PM Written by The Face
The Lab: Do you have a record label? Are you a member of any music organizations?
Xavier E: I was signed with one of the hottest independent record labels out there called Moiko Records for the release of my first album "Scam Artist". But, I decided to go solo on my new album and single, "Another Day". I still work closely with the people of Moiko Records in promotions. My first album "Scam Artist" is an amazing pop/dance album and I am fully behind it and my new single "Another Day". One of the charities I work with is The American Cancer Society. I produced a compilation CD which has 14 amazing independent artist including myself and a portion of the sales goes to the ACS. This was with Moiko Records. I performed at several of the American Cancer Society events and will continue to work for a charity that I support. The song "Proud" off my Scam Artist CD was written for a good friend of mine who lost a loved one from cancer. This is why I wanted to get involved with the charity.
The Lab: Describe your musical trademarks or a favorite group of sounds you use in your music.
Xavier E: My music trademark is the high energy beats and the vocal quality of my music. It's been said that my music is infectious. I've been featured in several magazines and publications including a featured article on April 29th, 2011 in NYC GOOTH magazine. I use one of the hottest music producers around Sweet Rain Production, who's worked with Janet Jackson, Lionel Richie, Amber, Rhianna and many more. They know what they are doing and I trust my music and sound with them.
The Lab: Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?
Xavier E: I've performed at many venues. I have to say that I love Club Amber in NYC and I also love Spring Point Tavern in South Portland, Maine. Just the atmosphere and the people that work there are amazing. I've never had a bad venue. I really appreciate them all for booking me and allowing me to perform. I have a whole month of shows in June so... I am really, really excited about them all. There will be lots of people and a lot of people dancing and that is what I love the most. I also love seeing how much people love my music.
The Lab: Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers? Do you have a set play list?
Xavier E: I never perform covers! I am an Academy Recording Artist with voting rights so I stick with my own music. I love performing my songs "Sacrifice", "Scam Artist", "Devotion of a Life Time", "Another Day", all of them. I haven't performed my song "Friends" yet but I plan on doing it when I go to Maine in June. It's a fun song to dance along to. I do not have a set playlist but I mix it up depending on where I am performing. If I am at a club then I do dance mixes and my sets run from 25-60 minutes and I am telling you, singing live and dancing like I do ain't easy but it all pays off in the end.
The Lab: Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs? Do you think these topics will change over time?
Xavier E: I write my own music. The topics are usually what hits me at the moment. With my new album "Another Day" I am trying to think deeper, but I just write what I feel. I want something that is easy to sing along to and dance to but still have some meaning.
The Lab: Briefly describe your music-making process.
Xavier E: I have an idea for a song, I write the song. I write the melody and record it on an MP3 player and I send it to my producer. If he likes it he will demo it up. I will book some studio time, go spend 6-7 hours laying tracks and a month later I have a song I always love. Then I get it remixed for the clubs.
The Lab: What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?
Xavier E: If I have a show coming up I spend up to 4 weeks before it to prepare. My music is very high and fast so I need to be able to keep up with my music and still be able to move and dance. There is a lot of going to the gym, running just to keep up my lung capacity. And it is everyday for hours a day until the day of the performances.
The Lab: How has your music evolved since you first began making music?
Xavier E: My music is totally radio ready, Grammy ready. It has taken a life of its own. As an artist I am always growing and this is just part of my growth.
The Lab: What have been your biggest challenges as an artist? Have you been able to overcome those challenges? If so, how?
Xavier E: My biggest challenge as an artist is realizing what I want and going for it, which I've done. You have to understand that you do not need American Idol or a Record Label to be successful. You have to just go for it.
The Lab: What's your ultimate direction for your music? Are you seeking fame and fortune?
Xavier E: I just want to make music and do what I do.
The Lab: What advice do you have for people who want to create their own music?
Xavier E: Make sure you copyright your music before you begin. It is very easy. Know what you want and go for it. Don't think you need to be signed or on a talent show to get to where you want to get, because you do not! If you're talented and determined trust me. You will get to where you want to go.
The Lab: How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?
Xavier E: You can sample all my music on my website www.XavierE.net and you can find my music all over the place: Itunes, Amazon, you name it- it is there. If you click on my website make sure you "LIKE" my facebook page so you can get all my updates. Also click on my MUSIC tab to listen to my music!
The Lab: Is there anyone you'd like to acknowledge for offering financial, emotional or other support?
Xavier E: My mom for all her emotional support. Thank you very much!
The Lab: Name artists, producers or acts with whom you would like to work?
Xavier E: Really...the list goes on. There are so many. Of course, I'd love to work with Lady GaGa, Madonna. I can just close my eyes and pick any really.
The Lab: Any last words or comments for our readers?
Xavier E: Music is an art form. Some people may not like your art and it is very subjective. Just remember that. Also, working out isn't just for looks but it is to also feel great about yourself. I love you all. Go to my website and get to know me.