Conversing with LeAnn
By Chris Astrala
Already a two-time Grammy winner by the time she was 14 years old (the youngest individual artist in history to do so), LeAnn Rimes has sold 44 million records to date. In addition, she has received twelve Billboard Magazine music awards with hit songs like, “I Need You,” “Can’t Fight The Moonlight” and “How Do I Live.” And now she is ready to take over the stage at the White Party 2015 Sunday Tea Dance.
Event producer Jeffrey Sanker : “It’s truly an honor to have a music legend like LeAnn joining us. We look forward to an absolutely magical performance.”
We had a chance to speak with Leann about her career, her latest projects and one particular part of her husband’s body she’s crazy about.
Thank you for taking time to speak to us, let’s get to it. You have been in show business since you were a very small child, and still going strong, to what do you attribute your longevity in the business?
I think with anything you do for a long time, you need to have determination and passion. I have known since I was little that singing brings me the greatest joy in the world. And because of that, I knew I would sing all my life. I am lucky to have had the opportunity to grow musically and change and have fans stay on board for the ride.
I remember the very first time I heard your number 1 hit “Blue” and thought what an amazing voice. Did you know at the time that you had recorded a song intended for Patsy Cline and what an impact you would cause?
I was 11 years old, I had no idea what was about to happen! I just remember thinking that I loved Patsy Cline and that the song was beautiful. And the rest is history I guess!
Looking back now, would you do it all over again? If so what would you do differently and what would you keep the same?
I am very lucky to have had the life that I have had so far and am thankful for all of the opportunities that have come my way. As for regrets or things I would do differently, I prefer not to look back on the past. I think you do the best you can in the moment and as long as you are true to yourself, you can’t beat yourself up for a decision made. Hindsight will drive you crazy!
What advice would you give someone just starting out in the music world?
Don’t give up and don’t settle. It is an exciting time in the music industry right now – the way music is created and heard by the masses is changing so now it really is ‘an artist’s world.’ I tell my fellow musicians that you need to carve out your own sound and really enjoy the process as you are doing it. So many people don’t pursue their passions in life and if you are going to be brave enough, then embrace everything that comes with it.
You recently released a greatest hits album, Dance Like You Don’t Give A …. , great title by the way, did you come up with it and was there a process used to choose some songs over others?
Me and my friend Darrell Brown came up with it together…. It represented how we should approach life … Giving it all we got
Are you excited to perform at the White Party? Have you ever performed at an event like this before?
I have performed at a number of LGBTQ events over the years – just last year I performed at Orlando Gay Days and Charlotte Gay Pride but I hear they pale in comparison to the White Party; I am so excited. To be asked to play at the biggest LGBTQ party in the desert is an honor. Just think, beautiful people, costumes galore and amazing energy. What more could a girl ask for. I have been a supporter of the LGBT community for as long as I can remember.” Adding, “They have continued to embrace me and my music and I am so excited to be headlining the night at what is sure to be one of the best parties of the year.”
What are you looking forward to the most?
Definitely interacting with my fans. I have a feeling there is trouble brewing!
Thanks again Leann for your time… one last question…
3 things that people may not know about Leann are…
I love to cook and I’m quite an amazing jump roper! Oh and I’m obsessed with my husband’s butt
About the Sunday T-Dance. Held directly across from the Palm Spring Convention Center, this spectacular afternoon celebration is the largest outdoor T-dance in the world. In addition to incredible entertainment, the event features scenic rides on the world-famous White Party Ferris Wheel and a choreographed fireworks finale – set to an exclusive musical remix by DJ Wayne G.
