Steve Janowsky- The Review Fix Rocktologist- Episode Three: Felix Cavaliere Interview

Felix Cavaliere rose to prominence as a member of the Young Rascals(1965-1973) , one of the 60’s greatest bands, with such hits as “Good Lovin,” “Lonely Too Long,” “Groovin,” “How Can I Be Sure” and “People Got To Be Free.” Along with Eddie Brigati (vocals), Gene Cornish (guitar) and Dino Danelli (drums),  Cavaliere, as a lead singer and keyboardist, helped this “blue eyed soul” ensemble make rock and roll history.

Cavaliere released solo albums in his post Rascals days including 1979’s “Castles in the Air,” which included “Only a Lonely Heart Sees.” On May 14, 1988, The Rascals (the name was shortened) played the Atlantic Record 40th Anniversary Celebration sans Brigati and embarked on a brief tour. In the 90’s, Cavaliere toured with his own version of the Rascals, Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals.

On May 6, 1997, The (Young) Rascals were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with all members present. On June 18, 2009, Cavaliere and Brigati were inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.

Cavaliere released “Nudge It up a Notch with Stax and Blues Brothers’ guitarist Steve Cropper on July 29, 2008, with more collaboration between the two expected soon in the vein of their album “Midnight Flyer “. He also recorded a fantastic reworking of the classic “Groovin” on Diane Marino’s CD, “Just Groovin.” He has also been involved with production work.

Reviewfix.com recently spoke with Cavaliere from his home in Nashville Tennessee and touched on a wide range of topics including, his musical beginnings, Dion DiMucci,The Young Rascals, The Peppermint Lounge, recording,the Hammond B-3 organ and the state of the music industry today.

You can listen to the interview here or download it on your I-pod here.