Peven Everett Interview
Peven Everett is undeniably one of the most prolific names in house and soul music to date. Most commonly known for tracks such as ‘Gabrielle’ and ‘Watch Them Come’ the world renowned singer, songwriter and producer from Illinois, caught up with The Guestlist Network to discuss the cut-throat music business and his love for London.
You recently performed at Relentless Garage in London, which was your first London gig in quite some time. How was the show? And what do you think of London in general?
Man, that show was ridiculous! I can’t tell you how much fun I had because there just aren’t enough words. You know... the magic of playing live is that every crowd is different and the London crowd had a feeling that only belongs to London. They respected my song choices and allowed me to perform without any hints of prejudgment. It was just the kind of crowd you want to give your all to in every way. I love me some London! They are my folks. The biggest supporters and as nice as they could be, that’s London.
What is your song writing process? Is it lyrics 1st, then instruments, or the other way round or...?
I will never tell (Laughs)
You were just 16 when you wrote ‘Gabrielle’. What strikes most people about that song are the lyrics. Where did those lyrics come from, what is the song about and what does the song mean to you?
‘Gabriel’ is about the archangel and the connection I had with him, which at the time I didn’t understand. I had a duty to state where I was emotionally, since honest portrayal is a musician’s job.
You have been an independent artist for many years and you are often described as ‘underrated’. How do you feel about that and why do you think you have not had the mainstream success a man with your talent should be experiencing?
Because I don’t kiss butt. I hate the idea that a grown man can’t accept a simple fact. So when these dudes freak out, they start sabotaging. Is all a musician wants is a half arsed career? That is stupid to consider. The easier alternative is to dump the attempt all together. I will prove that my intellect and talent made people target me. I’ve said it for years. No man is more feared by the big business world than I. It is so easy to call me cocky, because if my story is seen, then the world will see that the many stories of corruption I have are true. A smart black man with a knack for the pretty ladies has never been championed unless it is certain to embarrass brown skin. They are not so sure about me.
For someone that puts their heart and soul into their music, as you do, how do you feel when people remix your songs without permission?
Picasso doesn’t need some B – Boy spray painting moustaches and circulating the picture, does he? I think he would hate that. I feel the same about my music. A remix is a tool that is to be used by the DJ exclusively for his set in the clubs only. Anything else done with that material is up to the DJs knowledge of the law and adult minded discretion. The right to choose my Re-mixer is not a right that I forfeit. I have very few remixes that I have ‘okayed’ or approved and these guys have defamed me and hurt my reputation by connecting themselves to me.
Speaking of re-mixes, there was a rumour circulating a while back that Roy Davis Jnr remixed ‘Gabrielle’ and did not credit you. Is that true? And if so, why aren’t you suing the hell out of him?
I found that music is ego based for some people and it is best to have your own or you’ll be ripped off. I wrote Gabriel and I perform it with my voice and not turntables. It is in the best interest of a select few to turn my case down since I’m the biggest independent threat there is. I get special attention for the smallest things. I’m constantly watched and stolen from. The whole scene loves to hate on me.
You have accused many mainstream Hip Hop and RnB acts for stealing your music in the past, the most prominent person being, Pharrell Williams. What exactly happened there?
My gift is a blessing and a curse, because the savage beast is attracted to it. I do respect originality and that is lacking in the music business. I’m being copied when I should be running the scene instead of the liars and their slick thief philosophy.
You could argue that if you were a signed artist, your music would be more protected from theft. What do you think about that?
True in some respects and false in others. The wizard of oz is a good blueprint for how the city is built inside and out. Believe it or not, the witch will get splashed.
You have released music in various genres. What genre would you like people to associate you with?
Dancing is what music is supposed to make you do. If it doesn’t do it, you shouldn’t pursue it.
If you could just listen to one song or album for the rest of your life, what would it be and
why?
I hope that I never have to choose, but any Motown is good with me.
For more information on Peven Everett visit: www.peveneverett.net
