#2550 - Rick Springfield

Rick Springfield, at 77, reflects on his extensive music career, which began at age 11 with guitar and public performances by 15. He shares positive experiences that fuel his passion for performing, while acknowledging the varied experiences of musicians. His time in Vietnam, where he performed for soldiers, was fraught with danger, and he questions the purpose of the conflict, noting the lack of celebration for returning veterans compared to those from World War II. Although he has written about these experiences in his autobiography, he has not yet translated them into songs.

Springfield's new record delves into themes of aging and death, contrasting with the youthful themes of his first album, "Working Class Dog." He cites the Rolling Stones as pioneers in challenging the notion that rock is solely for the young, highlighting Mick Jagger's ability to maintain performance quality. He believes live performances offer a unique escape for both audiences and performers, emphasizing that art should be created out of necessity rather than for approval. Springfield admires how Jagger and Paul McCartney remain grounded despite their fame.

He discusses the initial motivations for creating art, which often stem from a desire for attention, but stresses the importance of focusing on the quality of work over seeking validation. Springfield reflects on his career milestones, including his first hit "Speak to the Sky," and shares a personal shift from self-centeredness to prioritizing his audience. He recounts leaving his management due to a misalignment with his artistic vision and contrasts his experience with Elvis Presley, who he found friendly and engaging.

Springfield expresses frustration with media misrepresentation, focusing on superficial aspects rather than his songwriting. He emphasizes health and fitness, revealing a rigorous workout routine and a diet consisting of 80 to 90% meat, influenced by his father's early death. He is involved in a trial with BEMI for skin treatment using his own cells and has found newer stem cell technology more effective. He discusses various health practices, including hyperbaric chamber sessions and cold exposure, which he incorporates into his routine for recovery and mood enhancement.

He became a U.S. citizen ten years ago for tax reasons and has lived in the country since 1972. Springfield identifies as a writer first, having authored several novels and an autobiography, and is currently working on a book about his life and health. He believes that passion for one's work contributes to longevity and acknowledges the real fear of failure that can paralyze many individuals.

Springfield's early music career included a band that arranged a version of "Eleanor Rigby," and he pushed for a heavier sound influenced by Led Zeppelin. His first big hit in Australia was "Elna Rigby," leading to a solo career. He notes the cultural shifts in music from 1959 to 1969, with British bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones influencing American music. He discusses the rise of "Jesse's Girl," which gained traction thanks to supportive DJs, despite initial reluctance from his record company.

The episode highlights Springfield's unexpected rise to fame through his role on "General Hospital," where he felt overwhelmed by recognition. He reflects on the show's production values and the influence of audience feedback on character arcs. Springfield enjoys writing as a creative outlet and shares that he has original handwritten lyrics for "Jessie's Girl." He also collects Beatles lyrics, discussing a common misconception about "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds."

The conversation touches on the changing role of DJs in music culture, contrasting past influential DJs with the current landscape. Springfield discusses the importance of competence and self-belief in seizing opportunities, emphasizing that luck favors those who remain engaged. He shares the inspiration behind "Jesse's Girl," revealing it was based on a girl he found attractive in a stained glass class, who never realized the song was about her. He questions the perception of success, pondering whether it is a pattern recognized in hindsight, and recounts his early shyness in performing.