You, like other members of Amici Forever have made the decision to pursue a solo career now. What do you miss about being in a group and what do you enjoy about being a solo artist?
I miss the comradery, the banter and the different talents and attributes we each brought to Amici to make it unique. It was an amazing experience. Being a solo artist is a buzz though as you know it's all on your shoulders and you can't be 'carried' or you don’t have to 'carry' anyone. It's an awesome feeling spreading the love up there on stage by yourself! And hey, the great thing is if I want a group around me I simply sing with my other 'family', Incognito. The team rock!
Do you think your future work as a solo artist might include collaborations with any other artists?
Yes. There are a lot of awesome people that I admire and would love to jam with, too many to name. Ummm.. to give an example: George Michael – saw him live at Wembley recently – maximum respect, what a voice!
Which other Classical Crossover artists do you admire and why?
Josh Groban – I admire his incredible talent, drive and determination. What a career he's had already. We have a lot of friends in common and he sounds like a really intelligent, nice guy too. I admire my fellow Kiwi, superstar Hayley Westenra – she is so grounded, successful and yet so young! I have to say anyone who is making a good living in this business I admire as the odds of success are not high.
Is there any venue you haven't already performed at that you would like to?
I fancy singing at the new Wembley stadium, Radio city music hall, the crypt in Italy...and other famous and/or beautiful places really!
How do you feel your singing / the songs you choose to perform will differ now you are a solo artist?
I have chosen songs for my new album that are suited to my voice. I can put my heart and soul into them – it's got to be in you man!
Having two young children now, will you pick performance venues closer to home or do you still plan to tour once your album is released?
Travelling comes with the territory in this industry so it's inevitable. But I control my entertainment business so I try and choose when I perform and where. My family comes first, no question. My wife and business partner Simone is very involved with everything I do as a solo artist and in our company and she comes with me, and we bring the kids too, whenever possible.
Do your girls like to sing along with you at home? Are they displaying any musical talents yet?
Are you kidding! They sing non stop! Seriously! They are both wonderful singers, I know I'm biased like all parents but other people comment on their perfect pitch and musicality all the time. Our eldest daughter (4) could sing and dance before she could talk but our youngest (nearly 2) is also just as passionate about all things musical. I am constantly in awe at the amount of lyrics and melodies they know of all kinds of songs at their age. There's a constant party at my house!
JUST FOR FUN
Wine / Beer: NZ Wine
Reading / Movies: movies - Dead Poet's Society or Starsky and Hutch my fav – everyone in the US says I look like Hutch (Owen Wilson) I can’t see it though!
Busy / Relaxing: With two little children, a singing career and a multinational company are you kidding me? Nah...its all deeply relaxing, I'm loving it!
Summer / Winter: sun surf and sand
Bath / Shower: Showers – always do it standing up
Fast Food / Healthy: we're totally healthy in my house, gluten & dairy free, always organic etc.
Morning Person / Night Owl: 6am rise and shine
Many thanks to Geoff for taking time out of his hectic schedule for us, I'm sure you will all join me in wishing him well in his future projects, especially his debut solo album.
The Tri-Nations match bewteen the All Blacks and South Africa, where Geoff will be proudly performing the NZ anthem, can be seen on SKY Sports 2 at 8am, Saturday 14th July.
