ADAM JOSEPH WAS ONE OF R&B’S FIRST ARTISTS TO REVEAL HE WAS GAY, IN OUT MAGAZINE. THAT WAS IN 2003, AND THE SINGER HAD JUST RELEASED “HOW I SEEM TO BE,” AN ALBUM THAT PRODUCED TWO HIT SINGLES, “YOU’RE MINE” AND “FLOW WITH MY SOUL,” AND LANDED JOSEPH A RECORD DEAL WITH SONY MUSIC.
If fans thought that meant more soulful blues tracks would be coming soon, they were mistaken. Joseph turned his focus to the dance floor, collaborating with club artists like Johnny “Gay Pimp” McGovern and Ari Gold. It wouldn’t be until 2010 when Joseph would redirect his attention back to R&B, and even then, it would take four long years to complete the album. At long last, “Love Philosophy” is out now, and its first single, “What’s a Lover to Do,” is oh, so smooth.
Why was it time for you to return to R&B?
When I set out to make this record, I knew I wanted to make my return. I love singing and producing a lot of different styles of music, but R&B is where my heart is.
When recording your new album, did you really scrap all the material you had been working on and start over?
I did scrap some songs and re-wrote others. The recording sessions for this album spanned over four years. As with any project, over time, the way you feel about certain songs changes. I evolved, so the songs needed to evolve.
Is it harder for a smooth R&B track like “What’s a Lover to Do?” to get the attention of say, a “Faggoty Attention”?
A risqué title like “Faggoty Attention” obviously helps to grab interest, but I think a song like “What’s a Lover to Do” has a more emotional and universal appeal.
Why should fans give “What’s a Lover to Do?” a chance?
The song relates to emotions that everyone feels at some point in their life. It also explores a more vulnerable side of my personality.
How does it relate to the rest of the “Love Philosophy” album?
All of the songs on the album are about relationships and how each experience teaches you something new about love.
Whose idea was it to add the racy plot to the song’s music video?
It was mine. I wanted to explore the meaning of the song from an unexpected perspective.
Do you worry the adult themes in the video may scare some fans off?
I think it’s best to go with your artistic instincts and let the chips fall where they may. Great music videos have always pushed the envelope. I’d rather take people to places that may not be familiar with than down the same old road.
What is your philosophy on music?
Music should make the listener feel something and expose a part of the artist’s personality.
… on the current state of the world?
Keep calm and carry on.
… on love?
I’m still trying to figure it out. I do believe you have to give to receive. Love and relationships are something you must fight for. It’s like happiness; you have to chase after it and appreciate each moment that you are lucky enough to have it.
INFO
Adam Joseph
performs The Ritz (369 West 46th St) on Thursday, April 17. Love Philosophy is available on iTunes now.
Visit www.adamjosephmusic.com.
