By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Sun-Times
May 7, 2004
After the success of his bandmate Justin Timberlake’s solo CD “Justified,” JC Chasez had his work cut out for him. But thanks to controversial songs like “All Day Long I Dream About Sex” and “Some Girls (Dance with Women),” Chasez seems to be doing just fine himself. The other ‘N Sync heartthrob phoned from Los Angeles on his way to rehearsal to chat about his solo album “Schizophrenic,” Clay Aiken and his love for classic rock.
On the album’s mixed reviews: I like the record, but you never know whether people are going to like it or not. You prepare for the worst and hope for the best. If people like it, I think it’s because it’s so expressive and open-minded. It’s a breath of fresh air because it’s not overly programmed or overly thought out. It’s just music and capturing good times and moments.
On being quoted saying you’re sick of Clay Aiken: The kid’s a nice kid, but his song is everywhere.
On being mad at Justin Timberlake: [Laughs] I’m not mad at him at all. That’s something someone made up after the Super Bowl incident [with Janet Jackson]. Who knew that would happen? We’re looking forward to getting back in the studio with the rest of the guys.
The controversy surrounding your CD cover (where Chasez is in a straightjacket): It’s sad we’re in a day and age where people can’t just not like something. Instead, they have to be offended by it. I’m not a doctor and I wasn’t talking about a principle or a technical term. I was using the slang as a way of expressing a different personality than people are used to seeing from me. I understand it’s a serious disease but it’s treatable. I wasn’t trying to wish ill will on anyone. People just took it way too literally.
Which is better, recording or playing live? I like both, but the goal is to get out and play shows. I’m an artist. That’s what I’m supposed to do.
Last good movie you saw: I just watched “The Thirteenth Floor.” It’s this sci-fi movie that “The Matrix” was based on.
Music you’re into now: I love Air. I’ve been listening to a lot of them in my car. I still listen to a lot of classic stuff. I’m on an ELO and Doors kick.
On the intricacies of dancing while you sing: I’m OK with the dance moves. I just stand up there and do my thing. Sometimes the confidence breaks up, but I work hard at it.
Best advice you ever got: My father told me to treat people how you want to be treated. I live my life by that motto. It’s a matter of respect. I believe you can get along with anyone if you treat them with respect.
Most humbling experience: Doing my own record. It’s very gratifying and feels really good to hold something in my hand that I’ve worked very hard at. But it was hard.
Your job: I just make music. I haven’t found the cure for cancer. But it is gratifying to know that long after I’m gone, people will be able to hold this piece of work I worked on. I’ll be in the Library of Congress.
What you’ll be doing in 10 years: I’ll always be headed to the studio to work on something. Right now, I can’t think that far ahead. I’m thinking about this record.
Regrets you have about not going to college: I would’ve liked to have gone to college but the timing wasn’t right. You have to make a choice about what’s right for you at that time in your life. I have no regrets.
What you want to do in Chicago: I want to just hang out with my parents [who will be visiting]. I don’t have a lot of spare time to see my family as much as I would like to.
