Superman Returns – Jermaine Riley
Jermaine Riley is a name that will soon be labeled the King of UK RnB. Remember you heard it here first!
Top class vocals, hot moves and he writes his own tracks! Seriously Jermaine is definitely one to watch. We got the 411 on him ahead of his big show supporting US star Miguel at the HMV Forum on Friday 28th November 2011. So ladies and gents, herrrrre’s Jermaine Riley.
HM: Please introduce Jermaine Riley to the world, who is he, where did he spring from and what does he bring to the music scene?
Hi, I’m an all-round entertainer from London, formally 1/3 of UK R&B super group FDM bringing true artistry and great songs to the music scene.
HM: So tell us the deely on the ‘NineTenEleven Refixes’ album?
Thanks for referring to it as an album. Haha! It really wasn’t planned out. I created a couple “refixes” of some songs I liked, I wanted to give the fans something to get them geared up for the album. Before long I had 5 or 6 of them and wanted to do more. Releasing 10 songs one by one, week after week just seemed like overkill, so my manager and I came up with the idea of putting them all together as one body of work. It just happened really organically and it was exciting to put out because it allowed me to exercise and showcase my creativity and its always fun to put my spin on my favourite songs.
HM: What about new album ‘Hello Earth’, when is that out and what can we expect from it?
All I can say is “real soon” because I don’t want to say when it’s going to be released until I know it’s finished and it’s the best it can be. Hello Earth is another conceptual body of work, like some of my previous material, based on the story of Superman. I’m really excited about the project because for me it’s a great representation of the kind of music I love and everyone involved is so talented and helped me make it exciting to hear. There’s a song on there for everyone. I’m really proud of this album. It’ll be unleashed before the years out, so you won’t have long to wait.
HM: Who is this mysterious SHE that your track ‘Kryptonite’ talks about?
There’s not much mystery involved. I believe most people have experienced being vulnerable at some point and allowing the one you’re with to walk all over you, making you feel weaker than usual. That’s who “she” is. We’ve all had a “she” at some point. Haha!
HM: We love your video for ‘Homeless Hero’, who came up with the concept?
Thank you! I came up with the concept. I wanted to create a short piece showcasing a song and my dancing at the same time. Kind of like a really short urban “Singing In The Rain”… on a budget. Haha! In it I play a washed up superhero with the power to entertain. A young by-stander, played by my brother Shaun, puts some change in my cup and in exchange I show-off my powers a little. Shout out to the wonderful director, Lilian Ampon for helping me bring my vision to life.
HM: What/who is SUPERspective…your alter ego perhaps?
Hahaha! No not at all. SUPERspective Ent. is my production imprint. My graphic design, visual editing and song writing all fall under its umbrella. So when you see the symbol with little bug-eyed black Superman you know I’m involved.
HM: Is it me or is there a slight fascination with superheroes?
Yes indeed. I’ve always been a fan with cartoons, comic books and superheroes. Me channeling that into my music was pretty irresistible. I like to keep things interesting. If it’s going to be a love song, why not let it be from the perspective of the world’s greatest superhero who hails from an alien planet?
HM: So if you were a superhero what one power must you have?
It sounds cliché, but no one really wants to be a superhero WITHOUT the ability to fly. I’d have to be able to fly. That’s a must.
HM: One of your real life heroes was Michael Jackson, how has he inspired your music?
Michael’s inspired my music in every way. His conviction when delivering a song, diversity between songs… just his vocal ability… Michael’s just magical. How can you not be inspired by his greatness? Michael has made me the perfectionist I am today. I know how meticulous he was with his artistry. That’s the shining example I’m following.
HM: You’re quite the artist judging by your sites and album artwork, will we be seeing SUPERspective the comic, cartoon or movie anytime soon??
Yup! As soon as I’ve got the opportunity and resources to execute it perfectly. I’ve got so many ideas.
HM: Singer, songwriter, artist, music video editing, you really do have superpowers! Come on tell us, there must be something you’re bad at…badminton?
Hmmmm… I’m crap at football and being on time.
Connect with Jermaine aka Supersays at;
Jermaine Online Jermaine's FB SUPERsays' Tweets SUPERsays TV
Interview: Enam G
Photography provided by Represent Me Ltd.
