Gwen Dickey Is A Pillar Of Longevity & Reflects On Her Legendary Career
Intro:
Today we have the legendary vocalist Gwen Dickey as our featured interview guest to start the week. This month she released her new EP which features the exciting new single “If I’m Gonna Be With You”. Her early notoriety started from her role as the popular lead vocalist of the band Rose Royce during the 1970s. Since the 80s, Gwen has thrived in the journey of her own impactful solo music career & is still active today delivering amazing vocal performances. Before reading our full conversation & learning more about Gwen Dickey below, you should follow him on Instagram today @gwenettad.
Meet: Gwen Dickey
Me: Greetings! It’s a pleasure to have you on the platform. What got you into music at the beginning?
Gwen: I first got into the music after becoming friends with Elaine Prater, who was the niece of Dave Prater from the soul duo Sam & Dave. Later, I met Miss Betty Wright who then got us both involved in the music industry. Remember Sam & Dave – “Hold On I’m Coming” – that track was christened after Dave started shouting from the toilet when late for recording!!
Oh wow haha, that’s awesome! How would you describe your style musically in your own words?
My style musically I describe as soulful R&B.
Great! And what made you choose your stage name?
My stage name originated from the late, great Norman Whitfield, he was the producer of Rose Royce and so many other amazing acts. I have never changed my legal name.
Who are some of your favorite artists/producers to listen to or work with?
Some of my favorite artists are Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder, Celine Dion, Joan Armatrading and Alicia Keys. The producers who were part of the making of my EP "This is Gwen Dickey" are my favorite to work with - Elijah Storm and Eric Jackson. Norman Whitfield was also just an amazing inspiration.
The new EP came out so wonderful! Do you remember the first song you ever made?
The first song I ever made was called Potato Salad. Yes, that's what the song was called!!! It was written by the late Mr. Clarence Reid.
I have a ton of respect for him & your other talented collaborators. Furthermore, what does the perfect studio session look like for you while at work?
The perfect studio or recording session in my imagination would have a chef cooking all of my favorite meals, a masseuse on site, and a very large swimming pool for when I need to relax and recharge. Please send me the address.
That sounds like a heavenly experience! Off-topic, but do you have any other hobbies or talents that many don’t know about?
I don't have any hobbies outside of music apart from….. shopping which is my second love!! That’s something people may not know about me. And I like to cook.
What's been the most difficult aspect of your music career?
The most difficult part of my journey in music is always the business side. The music is easy, but business is always hard trying to nail down the right deal.
That’s so real & I appreciate your insight. Is there any advice you would give to someone else considering getting into music?
My advice to anyone looking to get into the music business would be to first learn the business, surround yourself with people you can trust 100 percent and always follow your heart. And if it doesn't feel right more than likely it’s not right for you.
I love that answer! And last, do you have any upcoming plans you're comfortable sharing with the readers?
I have recently released a four-track EP titled “This Is Gwen Dickey”. It can be found for streaming on all Social Media Outlets, where you can take a listen.
Yes, I also encourage all to give the new EP a listen! Quality music from a legendary musician. Any final words for the people?
The only thing I would like to add is please check out my new music. If you're not familiar with me Gwen Dickey please go to Gwen Dickey - the voice of Rose Royce Facebook page and see me in action. Also, my new website should be available soon at www.gwen-dickey-rose-royce.com Please have a listen to my new EP “This Is Gwen Dickey” on all the usual streaming platforms.
