Tomorrow night, Jared Jones who also goes by deejay alter ego Vibelicious, celebrates the release of his debut single – a cover of the eighties hit “Shattered Dreams” originally by Johnny Hates Jazz with newly recorded vocals from Canadian artist Dean Boudreau.

Jones hosts a release party with the Richmond Queer League at Papa Ningo as part of the new Tuesday Turnabout. In addition to his own remixes, expect a handpicked playlist from Vibelicious to keep the dance floor hopping throughout the night. And yes, there will be Michael Jackson.

GayRVA had a chance to catch up with Vibealicious for a little Q&A.

So Michael Jackson was a huge inspiration for you…

I have loved Michael Jackson since I was a little kid. My mom has told me stories about how I have begged her to put Thriller on TV. I just think the music that he has put out is far above anyone else you could consider his peer. He’s in a class of his own.

You dressed up as him for Halloween?

Glitterly glove and all.

Where were you when you found out what happened?

I was actually working on a remix and just happened to take a break and saw the news that he was taken to the hospital. I was really looking forward to the concert in London. It seemed unbelievable to me. He is part of our pop culture and you didn’t think he would be gone so soon. You just thought that he would be around for some time.

We actually went to Esta’s Drag Race that night and I thought about wearing the glove, but I decided not to…

Have you ever remixed any MJ?

I have never remixed any Michael Jackson songs. I do have the vocals for “Beat It,” so I may try something out and see what happens – as a possibility.

So what are you working on now?

I actually just finished up a remix for an artist named Kelly Keen. She’s going to be releasing a single in August called ‘Working Girl. Her original has a reggae-ish vibe. My mix has a dance sound. That’s my normal vibe.

What was the first song you remixed?

Brandy’s “What About Us” – hokey stuff. Culture Club “I’ll Tumble For Ya.” When I first started, probably a lot of Britney Spears or Madonna.

You’ve worked with Ru Paul too…

I have a remix of Ru Paul’s latest single called “Jealous Of My Boogie.”

How did you meet Ru Paul?

I met Ru in 2002. He started doing his blog on RuPaul.com and I sent him an e-mail saying I would be honored if I could do a remix. He actually gave me a call which was really cool. We talked for a whole year. Then when my birthday came around, I went out and stayed in LA for a week.

What is Ru Paul like?

Ru is basically what you see on TV except more toned down – he definitely has an interesting view on life. I’ve never seen Ru in drag in person. He only does drag at an event or if he’s paid for a performance.

Why do you think people are drawn to dance music?

I think dance music is uplifting and makes you want to have fun. In general, dance music doesn’t take itself too seriously. You’re there to have fun and be with friends, so it kind of fits with the mood and the atmosphere.

What do you hope to get out of tomorrow’s event?

I would love more feedback from people… I want to hear what people think about [the music].

What can people expect?

It’s for people to come out and have fun. I know a lot of people haven’t checked it out yet, but [Papa Ningo’s] a really great space.

Tuesday Turnabout featuring Vibelicious is Tuesday, July 7 starting 8 p.m.  with a $1 cover after 9 p.m. 18+ all night.  Papa Ningo is located on 1707 E. Franklin St.  Listen to Vibelicious on his official website at www.vibelicious.com or download “Shattered Dreams” on iTunes.

More…

 

• Video: Under The Wig With Jade & Tatianna
• Video: Under The Wig With Pandora Boxx
• Convo With Shannel
• Michael Jackson & 7-11 On A Snow Day
• Richmond Rocky Horror Week Lineup Announced

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