Richard Marx, the legendary singer with a velvety voice and tender lyrics, who has sold over 30 million albums in 20 years and written hits like 'Right here waiting for you', ‘How many dreams will end’ and 'Endless summer nights' is set to perform in India along with Backstreet Boys, South African alternative band Prime Circle & Jayce Lewis at the annual Rock 'n India music festival in Delhi and Bangalore on Feb 20 and Feb 21 respectively.
Marx, whose timeless love songs have epitomized romance and have been the quintessential of soulful, touching music, in his first ever interview on his India visit, tells Smita Mishra of Spicezee.com about his trip, his future plans and hopes.
What picture comes to your mind when you think of India? Do you listen to Indian music?
I really know very little about India and its music. I’m certainly aware of some of the Indian music that got attention in the US, like Cheb Mami, and of course the great music from “Slumdog Millionaire”. Ringo Starr also recently turned me on to Tina Sugundh, who is talented and beautiful.
You try to improvise your music. How do you do it?
I try to change things regularly. I sing the songs differently each night. Change a melody slightly here or there. And sometimes, I get with the band and we totally re-arrange a song just to keep it fresh for us.
What will you be playing in India?
As for the songs in the show, I’ll be doing shorter shows than I usually do. I’ll be doing several of my hits, but these sets will be predominantly rock songs with only a ballad or two.
What else is on your itinerary?
This will be a very quick visit and, unfortunately, I won’t have any time to get out and see and do things. But I sincerely wish I had more time as I have always desired to explore India.
What are you working on right now?
Actually, I am in a hurry to go back to the US to produce an album for another artist, hence I am more or less on a whirlwind tour.
But I’m hoping these shows will be the start of me coming to India every other year or so. I would really love that.
First Published: Friday, February 19, 2010, 13:46