SHAME

Having been on the BackBeat R&B radar for quite some time, singer “Evelyn Champagne King” continues to capture the listening ears of fans from the US to the U.K for the last 3 decades. She is still performing and touring, 2019 ECK TOUR not bad for a young woman born in the Bronx and raised in Philly. She was discovered while cleaning the restroom of Philadelphia International Records in New York City by a music executive while singing Sam Cookes song, “A Change Is Goner Come”. Two weeks later she was in the studio working on her first album.

In 1977, she released her debut album “Smooth Talk” which included her hit song “Shame” and peaked #9 on the Hot 100 Billboard, reached #7 & #8 on the R&B Soul and Dance chart. The rest is history with hits like “I Don’t Know If It’s Right” and “Love Come Down” in which both songs were certified gold.

BackBeat R&B had the pleasure and the honor of interviewing Ms. King who took time out of her busy schedule to answer some of our questions and the journey she’s been on. We feel extremely privileged to have been given this opportunity to communicate with her. Thank you, Evelyn, for sharing your voice and talent with the world!

BB I once read, you never want to stop singing your hit song “Shame”, it’s been over 35 years. Do you still feel the same way and how do you put so much feeling into a song you have sung so many times?

ECK Well you can never forget where it all started. I also enjoy very much singing the song “Shame” and it’s a fun song that brings people together.

BB While researching for this interview, I was told your nickname was “Bubbles”, and was Champagne a middle name, maiden name, etc?

ECK My family nickname is “Bubbles” which was given to me at birth from my mom, she said I blew lots of spit bubbles. And on the launch of my career, it was decided to add “Champagne” which sounded more fitting with my personality. And still works for me today.

BB You were only 19 when you had the hit song, “Shame” topping charts all over the world and headlining concerts, how did you maintain your calm and not let it change you?

ECK Actually I was going on 17 when “Shame” was a hit. I know that I was raised right by my loving parents who supported my career and fun, and supportive siblings who also traveled with me on the road. That’s what kept me grounded. Also, always knowing where I came from. That’s what keeps me going.

BB Who would you say, were your biggest musical influences growing up?

ECK My parents, Linda Jones, song “Hypnotize,“ Chaka Khan, Sara Vaughn, Stevie Wonder, Prince, so many more artist that had meaning and purpose in their performances and songs.

BB What in life do you think you learned through your music and do you write your own music?

ECK Well I collaborated on some of my albums and cd’s I had some input. What I’ve learned is nothing is truly handed to you, you have to work hard, and strive to keep your name relevant in the business. But more importantly, be yourself.

BB Are there any venues that were your favorite and you truly enjoyed performing at?

ECK It’s hard to say a favorite venue because I appreciate when I get the call to perform for the fans.

BB What would you be doing today if you had not had a career in the music business?

ECK Well, I gather I would’ve been either a “DJ, Dancer, Actress or Working with Children in some way. Not saying none of these things can’t still happen.

BB As part of your bucket list, is there anyone you would like to collaborate with?

ECK Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, so far that would be a blessing.

BB Are you married, children, any new music tours, books, CDs in the future?

ECK I’m happily married, loss a child in 89, and working on new music, tours and other things for the near future. Surprises to come.

BB What is the one thing you would like your fans to know about you and what legacy would you like to leave behind?

ECK I would like my fans to know that I always appreciated the love and support they’ve shown me in my career and that I always tried to be nothing but myself. Because if I weren’t, it would be a Shame!

Evelyn Champagne King singing one of her Hits “Love Come Down” at 2019 New Year’s Eve Concert!

A BACKBEAT R&B EXCLUSIVE WITH ‘EVELYN CHAMPAGNE KING”