Jody Watley. Japanese music magazine feature.
Japan has always been a strong market for me since my solo debut. I look forward to going over next month, October for something new – this time Best Hits 80’s Meets Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Jody Watley. 1999 ‘Another Chapter’
To those who have only gravitated to my commercial successes – you have missed so much good music. It’s never too late in this digital world to catch up. This project Saturday Night Experience Vol. 1 featuring Jody Watley came at a another pivotal time in my life and career –my enthusiasm had waned for the ‘business’.. 4Hero’s Two Pages renewed it and took me into the world of underground..ambient electronica, dance – my faith and creative juices restored. It wasn’t about commercial pop success – simply the continued journey of an artist, writer and producer..creative spirit.
This review of ‘Another Chapter’ from 1999 is so on point…it remains the perfect New Year’s song..life change song…read it and check it out. “Every story has a beginning, a middle and end — it’s life..”
Read and Listen: IntoThePopVoid
Thank you to Mervin Malone Jr. for uploading “My Love, Santa Claus.” Recorded exclusively for a Japanese release with Cyber X in 2003. This was the first time I’d done ‘trance’ the various genres I’ve explored over the years.
This is stark contrast to my jazzy chilled out rendition of “Christmas Time Is Here” from A Charlie Brown Christmas – my favorite holiday album.
Another fabulous illustration by Japanese artist Hatsune Utsumi.
Jody Watley Illustration by Hatsune Utsumi (c) 2013
One of my favorite birthday’s occurred over the span of a few days in Japan a few years ago – my tour manager Van Roy and band surprised me during standing room only shows at Billboard Live in Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka. They stopped the show in Osaka as I was ready to go into the next song. My drummer Donnell Spencer Jr. had stepped from behind the drums and walked to the microphone with me thinking initially that he’d lost his mind! The band DJ Bill Coleman said the look on my face was priceless. Donnell then started making a speech as a cake was brought out and everyone sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to me. At at point I was nearly in tears. Thinking that was it – they totally got me again in Fukuoka. The cake was spectacular and once again the moment priceless.
I’m very fortunate to work with such wonderful and thoughtful people – we always have a great time when we get together.
Being full of gratitude for each day – I’m happy to have another full circle around the sun.
Happy Birthday Aquarius!