A Peek Behind the Scenes: A Chat with The Legendary Felix Cavaliere

[audio mp3="https://wjrz.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/28/2024/06/Felix-Cavaliere-WJRZ.mp3"][/audio] ^^^ **LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW ABOVE** ^^^ It all started with a phone call from WJRZ Program Director Matt Knight. “Hey, wanna interview Felix Cavaliere? My heart skipped a beat-Felix Cavaliere, The founder of The Rascals? Nervous? Absolutely. Excited? You bet! That night I dove deep into research. I read everything I could about Felix. His music (started out playing and only knowing classical music until he heard Rock and Roll, and his life was forever changed), his career, and his life. He is originally from NY but has lived in Nashville for many years. I listened to a podcast to hear his voice and learn what it was like during COVID-19 for him. My husband got in on it and mentioned that he has a daughter Aria, who is a musician as well. The more I learned, the more I felt a mix of awe and anticipation. By the time I went to bed, I was confident and ready for our conversation. The next day, I called Felix. We kicked things off by talking about his upcoming concert on the beach with Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes in Seaside Heights. Imagine the energy on the beach and two legendary acts sharing the stage- it is going to be phenomenal! Our conversation naturally flowed into how the music business has evolved over the years. Felix shared his insights with a blend of nostalgia and optimism. He talked about the changes in how music is produced, distributed, and consumed. It was fascinating to hear his perspective. But the real magic happened when I asked him about his big break in the Catskills at the Raleigh Hotel. His eyes lit up (I could hear it over the phone line…The smile in his voice), and he reminisced about those early days. As he spoke, something clicked for me. Felix wasn’t just a music legend; he was a person with stories, experiences, and dreams just like anyone else. The more we talked, the more I felt a connection. Felix reminded me so much of my dad-wise, kind, and full of life. All my nervousness melted away. It was like talking to a family member who just happened to be a rock ‘n’ roll icon. ALSO SEE: Moves Like Jagger: Seeing The Rolling Stones Live By the end of our conversation, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Interviewing Felix Cavaliere was not just a career highlight; it was a personal milestone It reminded me of the age-old lesson on interviewing, be it a famous rock star or for a big job interview: know your subject. Once you prepare questions and know the topic, it allows you to come to the conversation and engage with the other person at the moment.  It brought to mind why I love what I do. Connecting with people through music and stories.