Musician Interview!! TRACY ANDERSON!!
Tracy Anderson is one of my new top picks for music! She has a sound that is all her own, and her lyrics are from real experiences. I found her stuff on Facebook and immediately became addicted. Luckily, Tracy was able to take some time out of her busy schedule to let me interview her. Take a look!
KE:You totally rock and so does your music! How did you decide that you wanted to start writing music?
TA: I was playing the guitar for some of my friends and they asked me to play something I wrote, and I had never thought about writing until they told me I would be good at it. So I gave it a shot and I here we are.
KE: What was the first song that you ever wrote?
TA: Spoon Me. I wrote it for my sister because she was my best friend and apparently I had 10 good things to say about her.
KE: I have to say that “Walk of Shame” is my favorite song. Did that come from a personal experience?
TA: I’m embarrassed to say it, but yes. It is dedicated to a night in vegas spent with my sister and best friends from the UK.
KE: Besides your music, what do you like to do? Give us a day in the life of Tracy.
TA: Wake up, go to the gym, eat a tuna fish sandwich, and spend the day with my sister doing whatever we want. When she is at work I clean our apartment and wait at the door for her to come home.
KE: Are there any bands or artists that heavily influence your music?
TA: Every night before I fall asleep listening to Coldplay. I also love the Moldy Peaches and Kate Nash.
KE: Where can we see you playing next? I’m sure that people are wanting to hear your stuff.
TA: I play at a local diner every friday and saturday nights. You might catch me playing on the Las Vegas strip with my guitar case open for a contribution.
KE: What are your goals over the next little bit as far as your career goes?
TA: I want people to know about and enjoy my music, but I have no real plan. I’ll go where the wind blows me, and if it happens to blow me toward Hollywood, far be it from me to say no!
KE: Last, tell us something that people wouldn’t typically know about you?
TA I have a secret obsession with hot dogs. I’ve had a hot dog in almost every state I’ve been to. My favorites are the foot long in Vegas and the ones they sell at Costco.
Tracy has been traveling and performing for the last little bit. Her latest performance was in Washington at Mount St. Helen’s. She is an incredible talent that connects with her audience through lyrics that everyone can relate to. She reminds me A LOT of Ingrid Michaelson with a mix of Coldplay. I’m basically addicted and I think that EVERYONE needs to check out her stuff. So click HERE to take a listen!
1 comment February 24, 2009 kaderade
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW w/ BRIAN NOLAN of “THE LAIR”!!
Now that I’m back from my short break, I couldn’t think of a better way to start than an interview!
Brian Nolan is one of the most talented actors I know. He currently is starring as Frankie on “The Lair” and just finished filming the third season. He also has a few other projects that have just wrapped. So here we go with the interview…
Kade Eriksson: You are currently filming season 3 of The Lair. How is everything going on set? Do you feel you have a good story line for this season?
Brian Nolan: Shooting has been so much fun this season, yet insanely fast paced. Frankie has A LOT going on this season, which is so exciting for me because I feel I really get to show my range as an actor. I become somewhat of a ‘Spiritual Guide’ to Dave’s character, Thom, his ghostly sidekick so to speak. The chemistry between Dave, Peter, Dylan and I is sensational now that we’ve known each other so long. The crew is the same too, so its refreshing to come back to the same family again.
KE: What was your first audition and how did it go?
BN: I think it was for the play ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ my freshman year of High School and I ended up getting cast. I was so misinformed though at the time that I did a monologue from the actual play, which is a big no-no in theatre. It took me a long time to get over nerves too. I would get so nervous before any kind of performance. I still get the jitters every now and then but nowhere as bad as they were when I was teenager. Age, experience and growth as an actor help. I went on to major in theatre in college at the University of Central Florida where I received my BFA in performance.
KE: What advice would you give to young aspiring actors?
BN: Know yourself as an actor. Know your niche. I know I’m a somewhat kooky, flamboyant guy so those are the roles I primarily try to pursue, however, don’t let that stop you from becoming the best actor you can be. Although I am very aware of my niche, I try hard to stretch myself. Becoming the best actor you can be opens you up to a vast amount of roles, despite your type. Knowing your type is important in LA too, as I see too many people try to be what they aren’t. I know I’m a character actor, not a leading man Brad Pitt type, so I don’t pretend to be. For aspiring actors I would also recommend working as hard as you can. Its a TOUGH field that you have to make a lot a sacrifices for, but its also a very rewarding field that has made my life very special and so interesting. I love what I’ve done and experienced and wouldn’t trade it for anything.
KE: You just finished filming “George’s Intervention” what can you tell us about that project?
BN: It’s a zombie-horror comedy that also stars my good friend and ‘Lair’ co-star Peter Stickles. I play a Mormon Missionary. I’ve never been covered in so much fake blood in my life. So much fun to shoot. It should be on video shortly, but unfortunately I don’t have a release date yet. I’ll post the release info on myspace as soon as I get it.
KE: Was it a nice change from TV?
BN: Yes, it’s technically my first full-length film. The film process doesn’t move as fast as the TV process, so there’s a little bit more time to develop certain things.
KE: I hate to bring it up, but you were on Hannah Montana for an episode. That show is huge, do you feel that even small roles can help your career?
BN: Are you kidding? I love it. I was so excited to be on that show! I have a scene with Miley, who’s probably the most famous person in the world right now, so it was a thrill. My episode is airing within the next couple of weeks. Small roles can definitely help your career. Just look at the ‘Soup Nazi’ on Seinfeld. I see posters of him for sale in TV memorabilia stores! I’ll do ‘Hannah Montana’ again any day!
KE: I recently interviewed your co-star David Moretti, and asked him about The Lair casting porn actors. Why do you feel the show decided to do that?
BN: Well, I think a part of our audience gets a kick out of it. There’s a lot more to those guys than their industry gives them credit for.
KE: Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans or let them know about anything coming up?
BN: Thank you thank you thank you for being my fan! Honestly, what a thrill. It means the world to me every time I get a letter. I love to entertain and make people happy, so I hope I can do that for all my fans. Check my myspace for the air date for ‘Hannah Montana’ and the release date of ‘George’s Intervention’ in the future. I’m also in a short called “Neurotica’ that will air on Logo in April.
Brian is an incredible actor and such a talent. I love watching him on The Lair and can honestly say that he is my favorite character. The third season of The Lair doesn’t have an air date yet, but watch Brian’s myspace for more info on that. I am actually excited to see him on Hannah Montana!
My life is about to get a little bit more interesting! In just a couple of weeks my best friend Colin and I will be moving to Hollywood. It’s gonna be quite a change from where I’m at and can’t wait for the hustle and bustle. We are still trying to secure a place, but can’t wait for the day. If anyone has some suggestions let me know!
It’s really great to be back and writing again. I have missed it and am finally in a place where I’m happy. I hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday and a happy new year!
1 comment January 8, 2009 kaderade
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW!! SEBASTIAN GACKI!!!
Sebastian Gacki is a young actor with a bright future up ahead. He has several big credits under his belt with guest starring roles on Smallville, Kyle XY, and Flash Gordon. I was recently able to fire a few questions at Sebastian in between his busy schedule. He has a role coming up in the new Val Kilmer film “The Thaw” and has a few other projects coming up.
Kade Eriksson: Thanks so much for letting me interview you! You got to be part of the Brotherhood Series!! How was it working with David DeCoteau?
Sebastian Gacki: It was great to work with David! He is very good at what he does especially with amount of time he has to shoot these movies. Very professional and fun to work with.
KE: A lot of people say that he sparks careers to take off. Would you agree?
SG: The thing with David is he has a great eye for talent and really cares about his actors. He gives undiscovered talent a chance to get things rolling and I’m thankful he gave me a chance.
KE: You’ve done quite a few shows over the past little bit. What was your favorite one to work on?
SG: That’s kind of hard to answer. I’ve really been fortunate to work with a lot of hard working people who love what they do. I’ve had great experiences on all the shoots I’ve done so far, but one that really sticks out for me is Flash Gordon. I played a lion type character named Rivus. It was like nothing I’ve done before because I had to go through hours of special make-up to become this character which I dont get to do that often. It was definately a great character role to play.
KE: When you started into this business, what hopes and expectations did you have for your career?
SG: I’m the type of person that when I put my mind to something, I intend to follow through with it. When I got into this business, it wasn’t something I was just going to try out. I took it very serious right from the get-go because I love acting and I love the challenges that come along with it. I just want to be the best actor I can possibly be and continue to work with people who share my passion.
KE: Do you have any tips for young actors that want to get into it?
SG: This job isn’t for everybody. There are a lot of talented actors out there. You need to have perseverance.
KE: What future projects can we expect from you?
SG: I have a film called “The Thaw,” due out sometime in 2009. It stars Val Kilmer and I was thrilled just to be a small part of this project.
KE: Anything else you want to say to your fans out there?
SG: To my fans, I’m very thankful from all the positive responses I get. I love acting and I couldn’t continue to do it without you guys! Thank you again for all your support.!
Sebastian got his start in “The Brotherhood IV” series with the starring role of Lee Hanlon and it has only gone up from there.
Add comment December 22, 2008 kaderade
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW: JACK MACKENROTH!!!
Many people know Jack Mackenroth from Project Runway. The incredibly attractive designer from New York that came out HIV+ and had to leave the show due to a staph infection. Since appearing on the show he has made a huge impact on the fashion community as well as the gay community. He has spoken all over the country about HIV/AIDS awareness, designing for celebrities, and showing you can live a healthy positive life.
I recently was able to sit down with Jack and get the 411 on what’s going on with fashion, life, and what’s in the future for him. This is one busy guy!!! Luckily he found the time to chat with me and let me ask some questions…
Kade Eriksson: Thanks so much for the interview Jack! You became a household name when you competed on Project Runway. How was that experience overall and was it a growing experience?
Jack Mackenroth: The experience was amazing. It was like we were in this bizarre creative bubble where all we could do is make clothes and talk to each other. We couldn’t even address the production team or camera crews. They took away our phones and we weren’t allowed to listen to music or read the paper—not that we would’ve had time. It was like fashion boot camp. I don’t think viewers even get a glimpse of how difficult it is. I also made amazing life long friends. I talk to Kevin, Kit, Victorya, Sweet P and Christian on a regular basis.
KE: Is Heidi as great in real life as she seems on TV?
JM: Well she is even more beautiful in person. On the show we don’t really get to know her. We are never in a situation where we are just sitting around chilling with Heidi or Tim or the judges so I don’t know her well on a personal level. But she has always been very sweet to me.
KE: Coming out as HIV+ to the general public must have been a big decision. Is there anything that you would change about it?
JM: It really wasn’t a big decision. I have been HIV+ for so long that I didn’t even think twice about being open about it. I knew by being a positive role model (pun intended) I could do a lot of good for the public. I have received such amazing, touching emails from around the world. I never would have imagined the scope of the impact.
KE: World AIDS Day was on December 1st and you designed a t-shirt for COTAM.org. What was the inspiration behind the shirt?
JM: Well the slogan on the front of the shirt says, “Love across barriers soothes the heart and cures the soul.” Its means that we should embrace all differences regarding HIV status, race, sexual identity, religion or anything else. It benefits everyone. I also played with positive and negative space in the design of the shirt. The back says, “Shame can be fatal. Get tested.” Meaning that we need to combat the stigma of HIV so people are not ashamed to get tested or afraid to seek medical help because of shame.
KE: I recently did a blog regarding bareback porn becoming a growing genre. (READ IT HERE!) The British press recently pointed out a connection between looser sexual practices and the increase in bareback films. What are your thoughts about this topic?
JM: I think having bareback sex is more taboo and thus more exciting. Let’s be honest—no one likes to use condoms but you need to protect yourself. Approximately 1 million people in the US are HIV+ and about 25% of them, 250,000 people, do not know they are infected. You don’t see people dying like we did in the 80’s and 90’s so people are not as careful. Bareback porn may be fun to watch but you shouldn’t practice it.
KE: As a fashion designer you constantly have to watch the trends. What are some ways that guys can spruce up their look during this financially strapped winter season?
JM: Go vintage. Don’t underestimate the thrift store. There is no shame in wearing someone else’s cast offs. And tailors are relatively cheap. You can take a pair of pants to your local dry cleaner and get them hemmed for 10 bucks.
KE: You are so busy with HIV/AIDS awareness and the development of a new TV show, but what can we expect from you in future as far as fashion goes?
JM: Well my great hope is that the new show is sold into a network and then we develop a brand around the designs we make on the show. I have been working on an amazing HIV education campaign called Living Positive by Design (livingpositivebydesign.com) and I have been speaking all around the US so that has taken up a ton of my time.
Other than a few specialty design projects, which you can see on my website, I haven’t had time to devote to a full line of my own.
KE: I guess that brings us to the TV show. You and Kevin Christiana will host, but can you tell us anything else regarding this project?
JM: Well it’s all very secretive but I can say that it’s a design based show and it has a little Project Runway flavor. You’ll have to wait and see. Hopefully it will be out this summer. It’s adorable if I do say so myself.
KE: Is there anything else you’d like to say to your fans?
JM: Well I would love to say thank you for all the really great messages of support on myspace and facebook and via email. I try to respond back to everyone as much as I can.
Please visit my website for all my updates and read my blog which is linked to jackmackenroth.com. I will be blogging about fashion week in February for LOGO so I should have some good behind the scenes dirt.
Also please support Livingpositivebydesign.com. Go to the website and check out my tour dates and come see me!!!
Jack is an incredibly sweet guy that seriously tries to answer ALL of his mail. I can’t tell you how excited I am for his new show. I know that it’s going to be a hit!!
Another thing that I love are the star tattoos on his elbows!! They are amazing, but I have no plans to get any myself. It’s always interesting to see artists tattoo’s because they tend to be so unique.
I look up to Jack in his effort to raise HIV awareness. I have had family and friends affected by the disease and hope that people see the importance of safe practice and getting tested. I really hope that everyone will check out Jack’s causes and contribute in some form. Whether it be promotion to other people or donation. Every little bit helps!
Everyone stay tuned for more interviews because I have a few exciting ones coming up!!
9 comments December 14, 2008 kaderade
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW!!! David Moretti of “The Lair”
Alright it’s time for another celebrity interview!! I got a chance to sit down with the star of “The Lair“, David Moretti, and pick his brain a little bit! David is a very sweet guy and one that is making a big move in the gay Hollywood scene. He has steamy love scenes and intense acting on The Lair!
Not only has David been on The Lair, but he has also made appearances on Dante’s Cove and has a role in the upcoming David DeCoteau film “Playing with Fire“. CHECK HIM OUT!!
Kade Eriksson: Thanks so much for letting me interview you and taking time out of your busy schedule to help me out! So let’s get started! How did you get your start in acting?
David Moretti: It was in high school actually. My friends and i were really into this show on MTV called The State. It’s like edgy SNL. It only lasted a few seasons but was brilliant. So we performed take offs of their 
shits for our school and we accumulated a following and took the show on the road a bit to Providence and the surrounding areas. Then it was college and I enrolled at BC in Boston. I was unhappy and couldnt figure out why. Turns out it was because I wasnt pursuing my real dream of acting. I applied for an internship at NBC in LA – got it – drove to LA – got accepted into USC – never went back to Boston after the summer internship – and the rest is history!
KE: WOW! That is quite a story! Was being an actor something that you always aspired to be?
DM: Absolutely. I was completely enamored by everything about the industry as long as I can remember. There’s just something magical about how film and tv affect people and I knew i had to be a part of that.
KE: If you were given an opportunity to remake ANY movie, which one would you choose? Would you want to play a certain role or would you want to direct it?
DM: This question is soooo hard! So i have to answer it a few ways. If I wanted to go the character actor route, I would play Hannibal Lecter. Such an amazing role and amazing performance by one of my favorite actors of all time. If I wanted to be a teen hearthrob I would probably take Paul Walkers role in Varsity Blues. Such a fun movie and career starting role. And Ive always dreamed of being in a Sports movie. As far as directing, I don’t have that bug quite yet. im all about the front of the camera 
And then probably my favorite ROLE ever – and great movie to boot – is Ryan Philippe in Cruel Intentions. One of the coolest roles Ive ever seen. I love the darkness of it.
KE: “The Lair” was just renewed for a third season! Congrats!! Can you give us any hints on what we can expect to see?
DM: You know what, I have no idea! They keep the scripts under a really tight wrap. I wont know for another few weeks, basically just a few weeks before shooting!
KE: I became familiar with The Lair after an interview I did with Ethan Reynolds. He was my first celebrity interview. What was he like behind the scenes? Did you have a love scene or anything with him that we can expect?
DM: He’s a really sweet kid. I believe this was his first acting role and we all tried to take him under our wing and welcome him to the family. We had no love scene – so it wasn’t thaaaaat kind of embrace. But we worked together a few times. I showed him the ropes.
KE: Along with starring in the “The Lair”, you’re also in “Playing with Fire”, how was it to work with David DeCoteau?
DM: David is a really cool guy – very easy to work with – much like Fred Olen Ray. Between the two of them, they’ve directed seemingly ever horror movie ever made lol. I only had a brief cameo in this film as a director of a movie within a movie (opposite Susan Anton), but we are in talks of working together in a larger context. His movies are a fun ride and I want to take a crack at one.
KE: Sounds like you’ve got some things in the works! I recently wrote a blog entry asking the community why porn stars are being elevated out of the “darkness” and getting a spotlight. You star in an excellent television show that casts porn stars. Why do you think the show has decided to go that route?
DM: I think it’s because they have such a fan base going into the shoot. They definitely bring in an audience. And when they pull off legit acting, they just fly from there.
KE: Thanks SO much for taking the time to do this interview! Is there anything you want to say to your fans out there, or advice to aspiring actors?
DM: I definitely want to thank all my fans out there for their awesome support, letters, and kind words. It’s really great when I hear things like I’ve helped someone have the courage to come out after my “outing” in the fraternity… or that someone is really touched by a performance. It makes what I do worth doing. And to the aspiring actors out there, dont be afraid to be who you are. Although there are hurdles to face coming out in an industry that doesnt exactly make the process easy – once enough of us do it, they’ll have no choice but to accept us 
Feel free to stop by my website davidmorettionline.com. Or find me on facebook and I’ll try to get back to everyone!
David is such a sweet guy with a big heart!!! I would love to be able to just pack up and move to LA the way that he did. He is seriously someone that young actors should look up to, gay or straight! David seriously tries to get back to all of his messages and everyone should definitely hit him up!! Also, the end of season for “The Lair” is coming up and you DON’T want to miss it!! You can see if on the here! Network website and find out what station it’s playing on in YOUR town!
1 comment October 25, 2008 kaderade
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW!!! CHELSEA HARRIS!!!
So, my good friend, Chelsea Harris, and I had the opportunity to sit down and have a great interview. Chelsea has only been in Los Angeles for a couple of years, but has accomplished more than a lot of actors in the industry. On top of acting she is one that is always willing to give back to the community! She spent her summer as a camp counselor, she’s working on a big, and she also helps with educating people on self esteem.
Chelsea has worked on such shows as Hannah Montana, she was a recurring role on Just Jordan, working on the Jonas Brothers Movie, and is now the host of a makeover show “Size Zero Heroes”! She is truly a delight to talk with and can make you laugh for hours!
KS:When you found out that you were going to be a season regular on Nickelodeon, what what your reaction?
CH:I’m a big believer in fate, so I definitely just thought it was something that’d already been planned along the strings of. I was so excited. I couldn’t have asked for a better thing to be doing after only 3 months of living in Los Angeles.
KS: So were you making the big bucks at that point?
CH:To be honest, I think I just payed my rent. After getting the show, my cousin who I’d lived with moved back home. My apartment became solely mine. It was the first time I’d ever had such a huge responsibility, so I thought I might as well start on the right foot by paying my bills!
KS:What is one accessory that you can’t live without?
CH:I’m a sucker for purses. I have all the basic neutral colors so that no matter what I’m wearing, my purse always matches.
KS:I know that fashion is your passion! What are some of your favorite fashion tips for boys and girls?
CH:First of all, you’re so right, I do love fashion! My first favorite fashion tip for anyone is to have your own style. Its great to draw inspiration from others, but if you try to copy them then you’ll always only be a second-best imitation. Only wear what feels good and looks good to YOU. F**k everyone else’s opinions. Can I say that? LOL
KS:No, but I’ll edit it for you. Keep goin…
CH: Personally, I love ladylike silhouettes and wear dresses most of the time. On the other hand, a lot of my friends are into always looking “sexy” and showing skin. NEWS FLASH – having your own sense of style and a strong personality is the sexiest thing anyone can have.
KS:You’re also starting a make-over show with Buena Vista that does all the Disney shows! How has it been to get that started? And what info can you give us?
CH:The makeover show that I’m doing right now is called “Size Zero Heroes”. The title is kind of tongue in cheek a bit. The premise of the show is that I and two other girls make over totally gorgeous women who’ve lost touch with their inner-hotness. Once we’re done with them, they look like total divas…SWEAR! Anyone who watches the show will absolutely love it. On top of that, the other two girls, Beth Behrs and Bridget Helene are so cute you can’t help but fall in love with them.
KS:WOW!! Looks like something to watch for! Any other upcoming projects?
CH: As far as the future goes, I don’t have any new projects lined up at the moment besides Size Zero Heroes. I’m doing a lot of other things outside of the entertainment industry though. Because I think that self esteem and confidence building are two things overlooked in schools, I’m in the process of putting together a program that can be taught in education centers. There is a book that I’m working on that will correspond with the program as well. I also have another book in the works that talks about the issues young adults and twenty somethings face, and gives guidance on how to manage your life and become anyone you want to be.
KS: Chelsea, thanks so much for letting me interview you! You are truly someone that girls can look up to! Maybe you can be the next Tyra! Anything you want to say to your fans?
CH:LOL! It’s possible. I send a big thank you to everyone who’s supported me and my career! You guys have helped shape the person I’ve become and made me realice anything I want is possible!
And there we have it!! Chelsea is definitely a star on the rise both on TV, and in the personal lives of many. I truly have learned a lot from her about self esteem and not really caring what people say about you. I’ve struggled with self-esteem issues my whole life, and she is the first one to tell me that it’s okay and you can change it.
Next Up: “Heroes” my all time favorite show!!
Add comment October 6, 2008 kaderade
