Some artists try to scale their way to the top of the music industry by personal flamboyance (or calculated inscrutability). Others work the business like hardened politicians and hope that money and fame will redeem whatever compromises are made along the way. But a very few can do it by a golden amalgamation of originality and talent. Heroux is such a man. His voice has the wry charisma of the best Country artists, and his guitar skills are clockwork-definite yet infused with a restless energy that subtly and constantly defies the benevolent tyrannies of time and tuning. 'My Way' is a very personal communication - you can hear its authenticity in every chord and verse - yet it speaks to an almost universal journey toward conscious individuality we seem humanly obligated to undertake. If it's melancholy at moments there is good reason; no one gets far enough in life to write a song like this without being fully exposed to the disillusioning complications of identity and self-representation. Independent reporter Lauren Thompson recently caught up with Heroux to talk about his history, influences and plans for the future.
LAUREN: When did you first discover your love of music?
ALAIN: When I was very young I dreamed that I knew how to play music. I always felt that I had a gift for writing it. The first time I heard someone playing acoustic guitar I got hooked real hard. Music has always been present in my life.
LAUREN: Your song ‘My Way’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
ALAIN: I still can't believe that a song I first wrote for my mom is playing on the radio. I felt like the fact that my music was spinning gave me the hope to succeed and inspire others to realize their dreams.
LAUREN: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
ALAIN: To share my love of music and passion for life.
LAUREN: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as ‘My Way’?
ALAIN: The first album was a little sad. The second one will be a little more upbeat (and bilingual). The mood behind 'My Way' was a magic moment. I wrote lots of songs and I am trying to give to each of them that special color that anyone can relate to.
LAUREN: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
ALAIN: I have to admit that I have always been a dreamer and a very sensitive person.
LAUREN: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
ALAIN Not really. I never quite understood where this gift comes from, but every time I write a song I know there is external influence of some kind at work.
LAUREN: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
ALAIN: The most rewarding is the love and the recognition of the people who love your music. The fact that you can share your story and immortalize a moment is undescribable. On the other hand, everything that is related to management is a challenge. Making a decent living from your music should not be this difficult.
LAUREN: Who are your role models in music?
ALAIN: It's hard to answer that question. I guess I would say that I admire any artist who has been successful and able to stay away from trouble (drugs and stuff) - while remaining available and accessible to fans.
LAUREN: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
ALAIN: For me, every performance has to be a memorable; for me and the fans. That is what will give them the desire to come back again. No matter what, I have to perform anyway.
LAUREN: Do you have a music video for your hit single? If so, what can you tell us about it?
ALAIN: No, I dont have one, but it would be great to find a sponsor for that. I have some live videos, but nothing professional.
LAUREN: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
ALAIN: Never give up on your dreams. Do not try to be someone else. People will love you as you are.
LAUREN: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
ALAIN: The next step for me is touring to promote my music worldwide. I also have an offer to write music for a documentary soundtrack (something amazing). I already have a first album called 'Little Angel, another single call 'Let it Go' and some other French singles. I am now working on a second album and plan to release it in August or September. It will be bilingual; five songs in English and five in French.
LAUREN: Thank you so much Alain for taking the time to speak with us. We wish you the best of luck and many more hits like 'My Way'!
http://www.reverbnation.com/alainhéroux
