Carmen Electra’s latest pop-culture adventure is in music. She’s got a blazing new single, a hot video and an army of gays behind her. She’s also performing twice at this year’s Pride celebrations. This girl is on fire.
Xtra: Tell us what you’ve been up to lately.
Carmen Electra: I’ve been in the studio a lot lately, recording and working with amazing people like Mams Taylor and Orlando Puerta at Citrusonic. I just got back from the Vienna Life Ball, which was so exciting and a completely life-changing experience for me. The crowds and positivity were amazing, and it’s definitely the biggest party I’ve ever been to. Of course, movies and TV are still going on, and now I’m gearing up for Toronto Pride. We’ve got two performances in your city and heavy-duty rehearsals starting. I’ve got my girls — dancers — ready to go. I can’t wait to go out there and perform and have a great time. I’m going to show the love.
You’ve conquered so many aspects of media; what drew you to music at this point in your career?
Music has always been my first love, whether it be exploring music through dance and studying classical ballet from age five or doing musicals at my performing-arts high school in Cincinnati. I love being in front of the camera, but I love being in front of an audience more. I love feeling the energy immediately. You kind of know right away if you’re killing it or not. When I do my stuff onstage, I give my heart and soul, and it’s what I love to do.
What was it like working with director Marco Ovando on the “I Like It Loud” video?
I love Marco so much, you don’t even know. He brought so much through his talent and connections with club kids. He has the best energy, too. I trust him and will let him shoot me doing anything. I can’t wait to get back to NYC and have a kiki with him.
You seem to have a really strong relationship with the queer community. Why do you think this is?
I think for me it’s been early exposure to the arts and going to my high school. There, there was no judgment in terms of race or gender, and it was a very free environment. We were taught to be and express ourselves. From a young age it opened my mind to see the beauty in people.
What was it like being a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race?
So much fun! I am a huge fan of RuPaul since back, back, back in the day. It was fun and campy and entertaining. And I will say that RuPaul may be one of the kindest people I have ever met. He was so friendly and so generous — and looks so goddamned good. He puts every girl to shame. When he walked out on the stage, it was crazy. The body, the outfit, the hair, the makeup!
Have you ever seen a drag version of Carmen Electra?
I have, and it’s the biggest compliment in the world. I remember the first time was actually around the time when I was working with Prince. I would go to drag shows with friends, and someone happened to perform my song “Go Go Dancer.” My music was underground, and people didn’t know who I was, so that was a moment when I felt like I had made it.
It’s Pride in our lovely city of Toronto — can you describe your perfect Pride experience?
I love taking it all in: the love, the parties, the celebration. I can’t wait to see what everyone is wearing. It’s so inspiring and fun. I look forward to a really fabulous time and celebrating life!
Aqua
Sat, June 29, noon–8pm
Olympic Island
$35
Proud FM Superkiki
Sat, June 29, 9pm
Bud Light Stage
436 Church St
Free
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