Charlie Slick is high energy, synthesizers and glitter. The performer, who hails from Michigan, is a one-man performance band, with rotating members adding keyboards, guitar, tambourine and leggings, when available.
A steady growing interest in synthesizers, drum machines, The Human League and Depeche Mode sparked the sparkling artist's interests in electronic music and high-energy performances. Slick said he feels music has helped him become more knowledgeable of himself, people and the world.
"When I am on stage, I feel like I am in the right place," Slick said. "I like creating a moment when it feels like we are all on the same page."
Glitter, sweat, bubble machines, confetti and fog are all incorporated in Slick's performances. The performer has played more than 200 shows, with most of his performances spurring crowd-encompassing dance parties. Like a moth to a flame, Slick brings people together in a bright way.
"I was looking for ways to let people know that they were in the same room as me," Slick said. "So bubble machines, fog and glitter are all things that affect the crowd in three dimensions. The glitter works really well because it makes me more visible and it shows a clear transformation that happens during the show, from regular guy to performer."
Slick's musical influences include David Bowie, Prince, Jonathan Richman, Soft Cell and Brian Eno.
Influences of David Bowie and Jonathan Richman are the most prevalent in his music.
Much like Jonathan Richman, Slick writes songs about everyday things that anyone can relate to. The lyrics, mixed between catchy analog riffs, have an inspiring communal spirit to them.
"We get up in the morning / and we think of rock ‘n' roll / and it's the only thing to do when I'm at work / We come to your party / And we play rock ‘n' roll / And it's the only thing I've found that calms my nerves," writes Slick.
Slick said a lot of his songs are a conversation piece between himself and his favorite albums or artists. For example, the track "I'm a Boy" is Slick's response to David Bowie's "Boys Keep Swinging," he said.
Slick's latest album, "Elron Hubbard," will soon be released via vinyl and digital copies. The concept for "Elron Hubbard" is jobs and working and their relation to a person's self-worth. Previously, Slick has created concept albums dealing with loneliness, relations, musicianship, love, sex and immaturity.
Part of the reason Slick decided to release his latest album on vinyl is derived from his disdain for music and electronic equipment becoming progressively smaller each year. Therefore, Slick has decided to go in the opposite direction, making things bigger and more tangible for his fan base. Slick also revives what some say is the dead art of album cover art. Slick has paired with Andy Gabrysia for most of his artwork and branding.
For more information on Charlie Slick, visit Charlieslick.com.
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