Interview with Jody Watley

Our girl, Jody Watley has found a new love with her own independent label, Avitone, and an upcoming memoir. Watley is constantly reinventing herself. She talks with Gay Life about being an independent artist, her relationship with Workout's Doug Blasdell, and the one piece of advice she has for all of the young artists out there.

Your latest CD The Makeover was an independent release on Avitone Records. Talk about your transition to an independent artist.

I started Avitone in 1995 when I released Affection. Initially, I was inspired by Prince who had released "The Most Beautiful Girl" independently after severing ties with Warner Bros. I've always had an entrepreneurial interest—I sold merchandise in junior high for lunch and shopping money!!

After doing research, it seemed that the traditional label system was going to go the way of the dinosaur—and I liked the idea of being quietly at the forefront. I'm a girl who doesn't mind rolling up her couture sleeves!

Has the journey been easier now that people have tossed plastic for digital?

It's an exciting time! When I released The Makeover exclusively to the Virgin Megastore chain—I debuted as their #1 seller and remained a strong seller! I was selling more than artists on major labels who were getting commercial radio play. Had we had full release, I would have debuted in the Top Twenty on Billboard's Hot 200 Album Chart... from what Virgin told us!

Labels were calling asking how I did it! I was also in the iTunes Top 10 for several weeks on their Electronic Charts. I suppose it's also redefining success for me in a new era. The journey continues!

What's the number one played track in your iTunes library?

Currently: "Feist- 1234" right alongside my new music. I'm preparing to do a video for the new single "I Want Your Love" making it stay in heavy rotation for inspiration. I also play Madeleine Peyroux and Alan Pasqua on the mellow side ... Oh, and I just wrote a new song called "Reach" and it's the first song in my workout rotation when I run/walk in the morning... Justin Timberlake has also gotten a lot of play.

Why do you think gay men love you?

I'm told my sense of strength, style, and individuality! I love them back for the same reasons!

Each album seems to show yet another side of Jody. Is there one true side to Ms. Watley?

I'm thoughtful, and always positive—my lyrics reflect pieces of me. Most recently, "A Beautiful Life" from The Makeover is one that says a lot about me. I embrace self respect and inner strength—this is a theme in the majority of the songs I've written from "Looking For a New Love" up through the recent songs.

What's the most scandalous detail in your upcoming book?

That it will be truthful while remaining uplifting. There are all sorts of goodies... I can't wait for the musical and movie!

When will it be available?

I'd love to see it released in summer 2008 or early 2009, but I have to finish it first!

Doug Blasdell from Workout was your trainer and friend for many years. We were all saddened by his death.

My heart was broken by Doug's sudden passing. It affected me more than I could have anticipated. We were all caught off guard. Losing someone you love is never easy. Doug was loved by a lot of people, including me. He was one of the best men I have ever known—and came in such a handsome package. I miss him everyday. People who came to know Doug from Workout can donate to his foundation if they'd like to do something to help honor him: www.douglasblasdell.org.

Is it difficult for you to go into SkySport now?

I don't go to that gym anymore—and have not worked with a trainer since. I have also not been able to watch this season of Workout... I work out on my own for the time being.

What was your relationship like?

We were very close. He could push me as my trainer, but then we hung out. We'd go to dinner, to The Abbey in West Hollywood for drinks, the usual things friends do. Talk about life and love. My kids also adored Doug, he was like a member of the family.

After nine solo albums and decades in the industry, you're still topping Billboard. What's the secret to your longevity?

A certain level of fearlessness and not being afraid to make choices based on my passion and respect for music. I have a strong work ethic, a bit of hustle and flow I guess! I can perform live, be it a dance club, jazz festival, theater, whatever. I'm versatile and amazingly not jaded after all of this time... this being my third decade in the mix! You have to be able to adapt to change. I also surround myself with people who are not stuck in the past.

Do you have a message for all of the "young b****es" out there, as Cher calls them?

Good luck!