Shawn Rivera [Formerly Of Az Yet]: Modern Vintage Soul
Let’s hop right into this latest single, “Giggity” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?
“Giggity” is one of those songs that just came together and caught fire quickly. One of my friends said the way I sang the hook [‘Get It Girl’] reminded him of (Glenn) Quagmire from Family Guy, when he says, “Giggity goo!” So I ran with that for the title. The track was produced by David P. Stevens, who is based in L.A.; I wrote the lyrics and melody here in Philly. We both recorded at home and exchanged files back and forth until the mix was right.
Of course “Giggity” [fingers crossed] comes courtesy of your long in the making official debut solo LP — If so, what all can you reveal and / or divulge about upcoming said body of work?
I’m excited about finishing a full length project this year. I have a lot of great material that has been bottled up for too long. Sexy, soulful, feel-good music. I love wordplay and double entendres, sprinkled with a dash of humor. My next album will hopefully remind people why they love music.
Aside from the obvious, how then does this new material(s) either differ and / or compare to what your friends / fans already both know and love you for?
For those fans who remember, Az Yet was known for classy-yet-provocative songs like “Last Night.” Content that was once considered edgy for the ‘90’s is now pretty tame by today’s standards. Music has evolved a great deal since then, and so have I. I always love to push the envelope creatively, but you can be sure that I will stay true to my soulful roots.
As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw your inspiration from?
I like storytelling from personal experience or things I’ve witnessed. Relationships are an easy place to start for me. I have no shortage of heartbreaks to draw from!
Aside from putting together this new set of music — What all else exactly had / have you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during your lengthy musical hiatus?
It’s a common misconception that when you don’t hear from an artist in a mainstream capacity, they are inactive creatively. Most of the time, that is untrue. In my case, I moved toward more behind the scenes work in music and film. I have been teaching, mentoring artists and speaking at conferences. I produced a double album with the late, great Dr. Maya Angelou. It was her final musical project before her passing in 2014. I also have some song placements in TV and film. Currently, I have an agent who books me on private events. Last year, I did about 40 shows.
Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Shawn Rivera?
My entry into music was entirely unintentional. I was an excellent student in high school, with Ivy League scholarships waiting for me. But I was terrified of public speaking. Growing up in one of the worst neighborhoods in Philly [Frankford], I knew that fear was a sign of weakness. So I joined my high school Gospel choir, so I could get used to being in front of people, while hiding in the harmony. I was shocked and scared when they offered me a lead vocal part two weeks later! The day I mustered up the courage to sing, I was discovered by Ali Hyman, who was putting a group together. I didn’t think I was that good, but apparently others did, so I stuck with it. Eventually, Dion Allen and I would put together Az Yet and the rest is history.
Now you’re a native of Philadelphia, PA, correct? So growing up in ‘The City of Brotherly Love,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
Philly has a rich musical heritage. I grew up listening to artists like The O’Jays, The Stylistics, Patti LaBelle, Frankie Beverly & Maze, Sister Sledge, etcetera. I’m also a fan of the Motown sound, Staxx Records and more. Vocalists and creative visionaries like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, Sam Cooke, Barry White, Prince and Donny Hathaway come to mind.
In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?
Modern Vintage Soul.
What particular string of events actually led to the initial formation of Az Yet and later inking with the LaFace imprint?
As I mentioned earlier, Dion Allen and I started the group in Philly. We had both been in other singing groups and decided we wanted to comb the city to form our own. After 6 years of grinding and growing, we finally got the attention of Jacqueline McQuarn, who introduced us to her son-in-law, Kenneth ‘BabyFace’ Edmonds.
Ultimately, what caused the group to disband?
A perfect storm of music industry upheaval and infighting amongst group members eventually led to the group’s decline. LaFace Records dissolved before we could release another album with them. Egos and lack of professionalism made it impossible to keep the group together with no financial support from a label. But as far as I know, Az Yet is still together in Vegas, with new members. I love them as brothers for life, and wish them all the success they deserve!
Switching gears here…
What do you feel has been and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
What do you want people to get from your music?
Joy, comfort, refuge, escape, arousal, release.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?
This may sound crazy coming from an O.G., but I like where things are heading. We have (more) choices than ever before. Independent artists are taking more chances and thinking outside the box. I’m hopeful for the next generation.
Do you have any other outside / additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
I’m writing a lifestyle cookbook, based on my Mom’s holistic recipes. I have been able to maintain a healthy weight and reduce inflammation without going vegan. Even cured my eczema!
To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?
Working with Dr. Angelou was life-changing. You cannot spend time with her and not be transformed! I also co-produced a platinum single with BabyFace and David Foster, “Hard To Say I’m Sorry.” It was nominated for a Grammy for ‘Best R&B Vocal Performance, Group or Duo.’ I guess my career low was probably being shelved by LaFace for about 2 years, stuck waiting to be released from our contract.
What’s an average day like for you?
I wake up at 5am, 7 days a week, with no alarm. Haven’t set one in years. I’ll have my coffee and rehearse for upcoming shows. I like to sing while walking in the sunrise. Then I will handle my clerical tasks, emails, banking, scheduling, etcetera. I am my Mother’s primary caregiver, so I spend most days with her; cooking, cleaning and reminiscing. I’m lucky to still have her! Then I go home to write and record until I pass out. I don’t have much time for partying or socializing, but I prefer it that way. I’m a natural introvert.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
I’m always especially grateful when someone takes the time to comment or share. I may not respond immediately, but I eventually read my DMs. When I meet folks in person, I like to give hugs, when appropriate.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
I like making my own schedule. Being my own boss. I don’t like the constant state of ‘feast or famine’ that comes along with that. But I’m used to it.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Don’t do it, unless you love it more than anything else! Stick with the folks that stick with you. Don’t burn bridges. The most valuable assets you have in this business are education and reputation.
“Last Night” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry,” y’all’s Chicago cover, are bonafide R&B classics — How did these specific songs come about? Who came up with their concept(s)? And, please describe for me the overall studio vibe on those fateful day(s)?
BabyFace wrote “Last Night” with Keith Andes. Even in its demo form, we knew it was going to be a smash hit. Face works fast in the studio, so you better have your ish together! My verse in “Last Night” was actually an accident in the second take, and he kept it in. I chose “Hard To Say I’m Sorry” because I thought it would be cool to make an R&B cover of an ‘80’s Rock classic. Face heard my demo of the arrangement and pretty much let me work it out with the group in the booth. Then he played it for David Foster, who produced the original song. David brought in Peter Cetera – lead singer of Chicago – to appear on the remix.
Lastly, what’s next for you, Shawn?
This year is looking pretty busy, in a good way. The official “Giggity” video drops on February 3rd. I’m hoping to finish up an EP to promote and perform this summer. I’m featured as a composer on some film projects scheduled for release this year. I’m also a member of a 5 member group based in Philly called Horizn. [There’s an acapella of us pinned to my IG.]
Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?
I am a proud father of 3 amazing humans! November Skyy Rivera, Jonah Joshia Rivera and Molly Marguerite Rivera. They are 24, 7 and 5 years old, respectively. Everything I do is for them. And sometimes for me!
Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?
I don’t do this for fame and fortune. Music is the only life I’ve known. It’s who I am. Thank you all for taking the time to care and share! ~ SKR
Connect w/Shawn Rivera Online:
Tweet
Related Posts
Patrick Carroll’s “Kicks for Kids” Tour Brings Sneaker Joy to Chicago! →
Tink- “Fake Love” →
Reggie Becton: Straight From The Heart →
