Media Path Podcast How To Make Pop Culture History & The Creative Depths Of Rock Stardom with Rick Springfield
The whole world knows Rick Springfield, the performer, songwriter, idol, rock star, actor, hitmaker....but the real Rick is an introspective deep thinker who has overcome wrenching personal and professional obstacles while remaining true to his purpose and authentic self. Rick joins us this week to talk about a remarkable career trajectory, a new album, a coffee table book and an upcoming national tour!
Rick realized at an early age that he was destined to make art, setting off on a unique journey which began in the suburbs of Sydney, then took him to England during the early days of the legendary British rock scene, back to Australia where he launched his music career and then deep into Vietnam to perform for the troops during the height of the Southeast Asia conflict in the late '60s.
Rick shares astonishing recollections of playing live in an active war zone, ducking for cover in the middle of a set, flying in an Apache helicopter and his nearly fatal encounter with a grenade.
Rick was able to secure a record deal that brought him to America, but while his first single, Speak To The Sky, landed with a flash, he quickly fell into a personal and career rut that lasted 8 years.
Rick spent the disco era sticking true to his hook heavy power pop sound and eventually came up swinging with the instant classic Jessie’s Girl, followed by 16 more top forty hits! Simultaneously, Rick’s side hustle landed him on the soap that was addicting millions, General Hospital. Rick played Noah Drake who he describes as a better kisser than doctor.
Rick’s autobiography, Late, Late at Night is raw and honest about his struggles with bouts of deep depression. Therapy and medication have helped him and he’s gratified that sharing his truth has been a beacon to others but he feels that music is the greatest comfort. That and possibly rum (use responsibly) Rick and Sammy Hagar have launched the Beach Bar Rum company.
All of the above, plus a round of IMDB Roulette which takes Rick from Wonder Woman to Meryl Streep. (Often mistaken for the same person.)
In recommendations--
Weezy: The Four Seasons, Netflix Series
Fritz: Documentary, Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History
Path Points of Interest:
Rick Springfield on Apple Music
Rick Springfield on YouTube Music
The Four Seasons film on Netflix
Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History