From Grammy Award-winning “Jesse’s Girl” in 1981 to the 2018 blues album “The Snake King,” Rick Springfield’s artistic journey has been quite a long one. With 25 million records sold he has certainly stood the test of time. The singer will be performing on Sept. 14 at the Wellmont Theater in Montclair.
Springfield, also an actor, writer and 80’s heartthrob, has a large fan base dating back to the soap opera “General Hospital” and the television show “Six Million Dollar Man.”
Springfield explained at the Wellmont he will be playing all the hits as well as some of his new music. His latest album, “The Snake King” is blues based, but will not be the entire focus of the show.
“We do a couple songs from it that really work live,” he added.
He spoke candidly about depression and creativity. When asked what advice he would impart to those suffering from depression he said, “My only advice is to try to channel it into something creative.”
He said he sees evil everywhere and wonders where God’s hand is. When asked if he was literally looking for God or making a commentary on current leadership in a more figurative way, he said, “Both. I drift in and out of a spiritual path. I wouldn’t say I found it, but it’s part of the chase, part of the battle and part of the hunt.”
Springfield commented, “The leaders are in it for themselves. They’re just a bunch of snakes.”
When asked why he thinks we elect our leaders he described it as “toothpaste time,” saying there is no substance and that “they are all as crazy as we are.”
He envies those who found their spiritual center and find satisfaction in talking dogma. His new album is a quest for knowing what we are doing and what we should do.
Asking if there was a call to action in his quest or perhaps nonprofit foundations or even politicians he supports, Springfield replied vehemently that he supported no politicians and added, “I commit my time to animals, and kids’ charities… adults are pretty much on their own.”
He currently enjoys listening to Porcupine Tree, The Church and explained he also tends to listen to new music that people send him.
Springfield loves the stage and is looking forward to the show.
“It’s my time to be free of all my demons. Come and have fun… The show is high energy and a lot of fun. The whole band… we love each other… and it shows,” he added.
(Photo: Courtesy of KMJ PR)
