80’s pop superstar Paul Lekakis stops by THEAUSSIEWORD.COM for a special interview and preview of his latest track Rainbow.
How and where did it all begin for you? What drew your interest to the music industry?
I’ve always love to sing to the radio growing up. I joined the choir at church & in college. I was in Milan, Italy on a modeling trip and I would go to the nightclubs and dance all night. I was approached by a Music Producer, and he asked if I could sing. I said “yeah, I can”. A bunch up us went out to his car and he played me some songs on a cassette. I choose the “Boom Boom” track. Then came the recording studio and the music industry!
What motivates or influences you in your quest to make great music?
I use my life experience. My relationships or if I just feel I need to write something that explains what I’m feeling or if I feel the need to say something.
What are some of your biggest goals you hope to accomplish?
I like making music that connects with people. Music, they remember. It would be nice to get back on the pop charts one day, that would be the cherry on the cake!
What can we expect from you in the coming months? Any plans to tour?
I’m open to touring. Although I don’t tour as much as I used to. It can be hard on the body. I like to spread out my trips if I can. It feels better that way.
Tell us a bit about your latest release and how would you best describe your music?
My new song Rainbow is a danceable, poppy, fun track with groovy house feels. Most of my music is Dance/Pop.
Give us an insight into your creative process. What gets you writing songs?
My new song Rainbow is something that I always wanted to write about. The song was bubbling up in me, but I was writing another song at the time and was building that song with my writing partner Scott Anderson, then I wrote Rainbow and told him hey, I think this song is the one…
Sometimes I write a lot and jot down ideas or record voice memos. Then I save them for a later date / I have several written songs completed that were never released for one reason or another.
Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music?
I like to write songs that mean a lot of things to a lot of people. Songs that can be interpreted different is always a good sign.
Success, what is the secret to it?
Hard work and determination. Ambition. It is the “luck of the draw” as well. But you can’t have a success without a strong work ethic.
What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
Besides just coming up with good songs at this point in my career? Touring Australia in 2016 with the “Totally 80’s Tour”. Going to places that are familiar with my music and getting to perform there is pretty special.
Which stars of the music industry do you find inspiring?
Miley Cyrus, Celine Dion, Kelly Clarkson, singers who can sing anything.
Are there any new projects in the pipeline?
After promoting Rainbow, I’m thinking of releasing more music online.
The music industry is constantly changing, where do you see yourself a few years?
Who knows. I like taking breaks and doing other things…I like low pressure. My head space is definitely not like it was 20 years ago. Songs come when then come, forcing things doesn’t always work out well.
What is your favorite and least favorite part about this line of work and why?
I love the feeling of writing a song, having it to come together, then finishing it. Touring is fun, performing and traveling are fun……the hectic schedule/lack of sleep, not so fun. I’ve learned working with the wrong people is not fun either.
Name a few of your favorite Australian artists.
Kylie Minogue, SIA, of course I miss Olivia Newton-John.
The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what does it mean to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
It’s all about social media these days and making my music available on all Streaming services, Spotify, etc. I’m pretty active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and I think I might join Tic Tok! Gotta change with the times!
How will you continue appealing to the international market?
I started in the international market so I will target the markets when I can. That’s why I wanted to get my new song Rainbow out in Australia in Time for World Pride!
Do you collaborate with others? Who is on your wish-list?
I have in the past. But mostly write with Scott Anderson of Solar City Music here in LA. I don’t have a collab wish list, But I do write country songs too. So maybe writing something for a country artist.
What advice do you give for other artists wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Just keep writing, singing, dancing, painting, photography, keep being creative. There is no time limit on making music, it comes when it comes, don’t drive yourself crazy listing to other people. Just keep doing it. You will have to fight for what you believe in, your own ideas, so be prepared for that. Also remain open to new ideas.
A message for your fans. How do you best interact and respond with your followers and fans?
I hope you love Rainbow as much as I loved creating it. Thanks for your support over the years! Find me on social media! (I’m always checking it)
Any last words?
Rainbow means a lot of things to a lot of people. Celebrate the Rainbow, celebrate gay pride, celebrate your friends, celebrate with family, celebrate with new friends you meet, celebrate the joy, the love. The sky’s the limit!
Website: Paul Lekakis Fan Page / Facebook
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paullekakis
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PaulLekakis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paullekakis/
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