Exclusive Interview with Kimberley Locke

Ever since Kimberley Locke auditioned for American Idol with Judy Garland‘s “Over The Rainbow”, we knew she was a woman after our hearts. And it seems that our hunch wasn’t completely off base! The incredibly talented vocalist has emerged as a huge supporter of the gay community. Heck, you may have even seen her performing at your local Pride parade…

In fact, Kimberley loves the gays so much that she agreed to do an interview with Manhunt Daily! We chatted about everything from her romantic life to her latest dance hit “Strobelight”. Long story short? We can’t get enough of this fabulous woman! Click through to read, and you’ll understand why.

– Dewitt

Photo credit: Kate Romero

To check out our interview with Kimberley Locke, follow the JUMP:

So no lie–I was walking through a mall the other day, and “8th World Wonder” was playing over the speakers. Are you surprised by the direction your career’s taken since then?

I am very surprised. I think that when I set out on this journey, I didn’t know what to expect. I just tried to keep an open mind and stay open to all the possibilities. I still try to maintain that, because this business is very random. Sometimes there is no rhyme or reason as to how things come about.

We read that the deal you’ve singed with Randy Jackson’s Dream Merchant 21 record label is a “singles only” agreement. Does that mean we won’t ever be hearing another album from you?

No, not at all. The success of the first few singles will determine if there will be a full album.

Do you think the music industry would benefit from more artists taking a similar approach?

Possibly. I think the consumer is doing it already. They download the singles that they want from an album as opposed to getting the whole thing. I think this is a great way to introduce an artist and their music by giving a little at a time. It gives the consumer something to look forward to.

Let’s talk about “Strobelight”. This is your first straight-up, original dance song, right?

Yes, it is! I am very proud of that. “Strobelight” is a fun dance song for the summer. It has been a great success for me and something fresh for me and my fans.

Did your decision to head into dance-oriented territory have anything to do with your fanbase in the gay community?

OF COURSE! My gay fanbase is the reason for my dance success, and that can not be overlooked. They love me in this genre. That’s another reason why I wanted to do an original dance song. I had never done that and I knew it was time to give them something different.

Speaking of the gay community, you’ve performed at a pride event or two. Tell us about a funny or enlightening experience at one of these events.

Oh, there have been plenty! At one pride, a drag queen gave me her dress. My mom was like, “Who’s dress? She’s one big woman!” Another time, I almost got pulled off the stage… Not good! In Seattle this year, there was a Kimberley Locke drag show! Also, I met the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and I love them (Brian!). I have had so many great Pride experiences, Chicago and LA Pride being among them. In a few weeks, I’m off to Southern Decadence and Delaware Pride. I have the most fun with the Boys!

What’s one of your favorite songs to perform live? Why?

“Strobelight” is my new favorite. I love to watch the crowd’s reaction. It’s new, so they start out listening, and by the end everyone is dancing and having a great time. Of course, “8th World Wonder” is an all time favorite. I love to hear the fans sing it back to me. That is the ultimate feeling.

You very publicly showcased your weight loss struggle on Celebrity Fit Club. What inspiring words do you have to say to folks who are trying to shed a few pounds?

One day at a time… Be nice to yourself and your body. If you want to lose it and keep it off, do it the healthy way.

Of course, you were also thrown into the spotlight for your relationship with trainer Harvey Walden IV. We hate to bring up such a personal topic, but have you been dating since then?

I’m currently dating someone that I went to grade school with. We’ve known one another for twenty years. WOW!

Drastic topic change! You’ve done a good amount of charity work in raising awareness of HIV/AIDS and breast cancer. Tell us about a particularly moving moment within your work.

There have been so many that I can’t limit it to one! The thing I’m most excited about right now is a contest that we hosted for Camp Heartland. In appreciation of fan’s donations, I’m about to get the chance to make a personal phone call to a fan to thank them for supporting our worthy cause!

Last question–what can we expect to hear and see from Kimberly Locke in the next couple of months? Will there be another single on the way?

There certainly will be. More info coming soon!