David Cassidy on the Web
Just Asking: A conversation with pop singer David Cassidy
July 05, 2007
Kane County Chronicle
www.kcchronicle.com
By Eric Schelkopf
David Cassidy will appear in St. Charles today. (Photo provided)
In his new autobiography, "Could It Be Forever? My Story," David Cassidy reveals that he played second fiddle to his character Keith Partridge, star of the 1970s hit TV show, "The Partridge Family."
This has been a busy year for Cassidy, who in February released "David Cassidy Part II: The Remix," a modern spin on his classic hits with newly recorded vocals by Craig J, known for his work with Madonna and Mariah Carey.
Cassidy also is touring, and will perform Friday at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles.
How did you come up with the idea for your remix album?
Actually, the idea was brought to me by Jim Brandmeier of 180 Music. He did a special series of CDs for Target stores and felt that with a new spin, and with Craig J producing and remixing the tracks, we could have a hit. It's in stores now.
Have your longtime fans embraced it?
As far as I know, the reaction has been all good. Fans of all ages seem to like the fresh and contemporary mixes.
Has it created a new generation of fans?
I don't know if the CD has created new fans or if the younger fans, who know me because of re-runs of "The Partridge Family" on cable, are buying the records (yes, I still say records), as well as coming to shows. It's not unusual though to see three generations at shows.
You became the world's highest paid performer at the young age of 21, with your concerts selling out worldwide. What's it like being on stage these days?
I love performing live and I actually prefer playing to a more intimate audience. The stadiums were fun, but I like the closeness I feel to my fans and seeing their responses.
Your face was probably on every teen magazine cover in the world in 1970. Was all the attention embarrassing?
I don't know if embarrassing is the right word. I didn't mind the exposure as much as I wanted journalists to get it right. I wanted people to know the real me and that the innocent, naive guy on TV was Keith Partridge, not David Cassidy.
How was it teaming up with your brother, Shaun, in the Broadway show "Blood Brothers?"
It was probably one of the best experiences, if not the best, of my career so far. It was the first and only time we worked together, and we had an amazing time.
You've done so much in your career. What have you enjoyed the most?
This period of my life is by far the best. I now have a balance between my professional life and my personal life, and I have made time to spend with my family, to be there for my son's baseball games and theatrical performances. (My son) Beau is an amazing actor and musical talent, but he knows he has to finish school being he can pursue any of it as a career.
Do you keep in touch with any cast members from "The Partridge Family?"
We're spread all over the country, but I've seen Danny from time to time.
Was it awkward working with your stepmother, Shirley Jones?
Not at all. She's a terrific inspiration and taught me so much. She was the glue that held that show together, and it brought us much closer.
There seems to be a real nostalgia for shows like "The Partridge Family." What is it about the show that connects with people today?
The show was in a time of innocence and it reflected that time. It was a true family show that entertained. Entire families would get together in front of the TV every Friday night.
There also seems to be a lot of interest in your life. Is it fun telling people your story?
Absolutely not. How would you like talking about yourself every day for 30-plus years? That's why I wrote the book, so I could answer any possible questions in one place at one time. I'm glad that people are interested enough to buy it.
David Cassidy
WHEN: 8 p.m. today
WHERE: The Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles
TICKETS: $39 to $75
INFORMATION: (630) 587-8400
