Sunday, 7 October 2012

LINK: The 69 Faces of Rock - Michael Des Barres interview


By Mark Kadzielawa

Michael Des Barres is a multidimensional artist from Great Britain. He’s made his name in the music world, as well as the acting world. In addition, he paints and takes photographs. One could say he finds different ways to express himself.

Musically, Des Barres, formed his first band, Orange Illusion, as a teenager with whom he never actually performed live. A couple of years later, things got more serious with Silverhead, with whom he released two records, and completed a few tours. By 1975, Des Barres, left his native England, and moved to Los Angeles, forming a brand new band Detective. Detective quickly signed to Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song Records, and managed two studio albums before disbanding in 1978. Des Barres resurfaced in 1980 with a solo album, “I’m Only Human.” By 1984, he was part of a new band, Chequered Past, with whom he released a self titled album. Michael Des Barres is also known for co-writing “Obsession,” which proved to be a big hit for 80s Animotion. In 1985, he replaced Robert Palmer in The Power Station, as the touring vocalist, and appeared in Live Aid. In 1986, a solo record followed, “Somebody Up There Likes Me.” Then the acting world claimed Des Barres, but he never stopped playing, or being involved in music.

As an actor, Des Barres, is known for his portrayal of Murdoc on the MacGyver weekly hour drama. But that’s not how he got started, in fact, a very young Des Barres appears in classic “To Sir, with Love” back in 1967. Other notable acting appearance include: Nighflyers, Pink Cadillac, Under Siege, Sugar Town. He is no stranger to TV either, besides the charismatic Murdoc, Des Barres made appearances on Seinfeld, Melrose Place, Alf, Renegade, Rockford Files, and countless of others. He's got more than 90 movie credits to his name.

By 2011, Michael Des Barres, formed his own The Michael Des Barres Band, and a year later released “Carnaby Street.” The album is pure rock ‘n’ roll, it has that great feel. The combination of blues, soul, and rock. Great songs, and great delivery, needless to say there is a Grammy potential here. On the cover, there is Des Barres dressed all in black, and the Union Jack behind him, how could things go wrong? The man put some guts back in rock 'n' roll!
Michael Des Barres, talks about his return to active performing, and how he put “Carnaby Street” together.

If you have not done so already, check out Michael's Gonzo Artist Page

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