Darlene Love

"In 1955, San Antonio, Texas in Junior High School Choir", regarding when Darlene Love started singing.

"Singing background with The Blossoms drew the attention of record producer from Capitol Records"

Where she went on to release major label albums and much more. She has also had done backing vocals for many greats including James Brown and Stevie Wonder to even Cher.

"Of course Luther Vandross and Elvis Presley", being her favorite experiences. "Dionne Warwick, Sam Cooke, The Beach Boys, Tom Jones, Aretha Franklin, The Late Luther Vandross and Elvis Presley", on her favorite musical collaborations.

"It is like living my life story every night on stage", says Darlene Love. As she is recently doing broadway in NY for the musical Hairspray.

Does she ever get stage fright?

"No, but mostly butterflies which I have become used to overcoming"

Her latest album is a holiday record called Its Christmas, Of Course! Darlene Love says, "Very exciting working with a live band in the studio after so many years. It was a sincere tribute to my peers who wrote songs that are just as relevant today as when they were first written"

She shares us her best advice that she has been given over the years, "Dionne Warwick told me "Do not give nay sayers and doubters the power to frustrate of discourage"

Darlene Love says her dislikes and likes about America, "Mature artists like myself are considered too old to have successful recording careers"

And what has helped her get through any difficult career times?

"Starting a solo career and coming out from background work but my faith in God and in the talent he gave me and his ability to bring me out from obscurity to where I am today"

Lastly, Darlene Love speaks of her career high lights, "Singing at the Clinton White House (Dec. 2000), being nominated to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and R&B pioneer recognition"

Thanks for the interview.

"You are very welcome! Also, please mention this years Chritmas show on Dec. 17th at Lincoln Centers Rose Theatre and visit www.darleneloveworld.com"

Email Interview by Matthew Daniel

Soulisms 2008