The Temptations were formed way back in 1960 and became one of the biggest selling soul acts the world has ever seen. Almost fifty years, 22 million albums and a few line up changes later and they're still going strong. Female First caught up with newest member Bruce Williamson- or Big Sexy to his female fans- to find out how it feelsto join such a legendary band and what it's like working with the group's founder and longest serving member Otis Williams.So you're the newest member of The Temptations- is that right?
That's correct. I joined this time last year. What did you do before joining the group?
I was Vice President of Band Relations for Harbor Lights Music West in Las Vegas, Nevada. Have you always been involved in music?
All my life pretty much.How did you come to join The Temptations?
Ron Tyson, the first tenor of the group is my godfather. He's been trying to get me into the group for years. He was trying to convince Otis to let me into the group rather than me waiting to accept the job. I was ready to go 10 years ago.What was it like to join such a legendary group so late in their career?
It was quite humbling for me. It's a learning experience and I'm blessed to be with a bunch of brothers that really embrace me and make me a part of their family.
Otis Williams is the founder and longest standing member of the group. Does he have a big say in what goes on?
Actually he has the final say (laughs)
What is it like working with such a legend?
You know what it's humbling. The thing is Otis is one of the most meek and humble gentleman I have ever met in my life and for him to have accomplished so much in his career and still remain humble and meek you know it kind of makes you re-evaluate your way of thinking when it comes down to the business.
Your new album is made up of covers of classic soul songs. Why did you decide to record an album like this?
Basically there is a lot of music and a lot of artists that we admire and we just decided to re-do some of their songs and put a Temptations touch to it and just pay tribute to those people who inspired us.
So does that the songs sound a little bit different?
Oh no we always want to stay close to the memory of the song. We never want to veer away from that. But we just add that flair of the five part harmony and that famous Temptations sound.
Do you have any plans to release any new material anytime soon?
You know what there's really no telling. We are always working on something new. The one thing we don't believe in is plateauing so you will definitely be hearing and seeing new things from the Temptations as time progresses.
What do you think is the secret to the success and longevity on the Temptations?
Keeping God first and having a great sense of humour.
What are your hopes for the future of the group?
What can you say when it comes to the Number 1 legendary top RnB group in the world. It's just to keep the flame alive. Keep it going.
Caz Moss- Female First
Tagged in The Temptations