‘Candy’ Girl AMANDA LEPORE Talks Boys, Burlesque, Her New Album & more

Originally published July 7, 2009

Transsexual fashion icon and songstress Amanda Lepore is gearing up for the release of her debut album ‘I, Amanda Lepore,’ due out this month. First track ‘Cotton Candy,’ (click here to watch the vid) was just released, and now she’s gearing up for some live appearances.

You Jersey boys are in luck – as La Lepore will be hosting the Lost at Sea party at the Road Trip Kickoff event on Friday, July 17, in Asbury Park, where she’ll also be performing some of her hottest hitz. Visit her MySpace page for all upcoming events, appearances.

Now, New York City’s most ‘Fierce’ diva talks up her new album, what she likes in a guy, her new fragrance and much more. Big thanks to Mikey for taking the time to talk with Amanda and make this happen! Lets get to it…

*****

M: When we think of Amanda LePore, we think of a combination of Jessica Rabbit & Marilyn Monroe. Who are your biggest influences?

AL: Definitely movie stars from the old days, the total “bombshell” type. I love the Jessica Rabbit comparison, and have heard it all. Totally “over the top” personalities is who I best compare to.

*****

M: Are you currently single or taken?

AL: Single & playing the field!

*****

M: What type of guy are you attracted to?

AL: Definitely love the “tall, dark, and handsome” type. Nice bodies are definitely a plus, too! (you know, nothing too specific). LOL

*****

M: Many of us think of you from the amazing shots the famed photographer David LaChapelle has taken of you. His work in general, and specifically with you, is breathtaking. What kind of experience is it to work with him?

AL: You know, I just actually saw him in Hawaii & we did some fantastic shots. His photos are always so amazing, and he is so incredibly creative – and unbelievably talented.

*****

M: You will be hosting and performing at the Lost at Sea party for the Road Trip Kickoff event on Friday, July 17 in Asbury Park, N.J. Is this your first time visiting Asbury Park?

AL: I actually think I visited as a kid, but have never been there as an adult. I have heard lots of good things though, and I am thrilled to be coming down! I think I am staying for the weekend, which I am definitely looking forward to!

*****

M: Cazwell & Amanda LePore have become a modern day “Sonny & Cher.” Tell me about how that partnership came to be?

AL: Cazwell saw me at a party drinking champagne, and he wrote the song “Champagne” for me. From there, he has written a lot of my tracks – “My Hair Looks Fierce” & my new single “Cotton Candy.” Cazwell helped me with being confident on stage and being totally fearless.

*****

M: ‘Die hard’ NYC fashionistas have seen you at the Heatherette shows during Fashion Week, and you can always be counted on for a showstopping runway walk! We know the Heatherette boys are amazing, but who are some of your other favorite designers?

AL: I am a big fan of burlesque clothing and burlesque designers specifically. Actually, many of my outfits are handmade for me specifically. As far as designers, I am all about couture! John Galliano, Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabanna, any of the European boys

*****

M: You were part of the mid to late ’90s NYC nightlife crowd (which included James St. James, Michael Alig & Richie Rich). How has NYC nightlife changed since then?

AL: It has changed so much. The generation of the “huge” club is over. There are so many “little” places all over the city now, you can go to a different place each night! And it certainly is not nearly as easy to get the drink tickets you used to be able to get!

*****

M: Your latest single “Cotton Candy” is off of your new album, “I, Amanda Lepore,” which should be dropping any day! Tell me a little about the single & the album.

AL: “Cotton Candy” is about a boyfriend I had, following a boyfriend I had that was not very nice. The album should be out this month. The video for “Cotton Candy” is out and circulating, guest starring, Cazwell!

*****

M: Jason Wu designed the Amanda Lepore doll several years back. He then went on to become the designer that First Lady Michelle Obama selected to make her inaugural dress! Are you surprised at his success?

AL: I am not surprised at all. Jason is extremely talented, and I am thrilled for him!

*****

M: So who is on your summer playlist that you are absolutely LOVING right now?

AL: I love so many artists. Grace Jones, Lady Gaga, Lil Kim, Missy Elliot, Gwen Stefani, Kylie Minogue, I am THRILLED she is touring again! Old Madonna is a must, and any kind of old disco, definitely!

*****

M: When you’re not partying in NYC, where can we find you?

AL: I travel worldwide, so you can find me pretty much anywhere! Recently I have been to Switzerland, where it is one big party. I absolutely love Italy, Barcelona, Istanbul and Russia, where apparently there is no recession, it is very decadent!

*****

M: I hear you also have a perfume out? Is there anything you don’t do? LOL

AL: Yes I do! It’s called (what else) “Amanda Lepore.” I had been asked to do a fragrance for quite awhile, and I finally decided to do it. The bottle is covered in Swarovski crystals and is gorgeous! Actually, when Jason Wu created my doll, he put a drop of my perfume into the plastic to make the dolls. My doll was the first doll to ever have perfume included in the mix!

*****

M: Leave it to Amanda Lepore! What can we expect next from you?

AL: I definitely want to do another album. I love performing also, and plan to do that even more. Acting is something I have always been interested in, too.

*****

M: Perhaps “Dancing with the Stars”?

AL: I would LOVE that!!!

M: ABC execs, are you listening?

*****

M: Amanda, thanks for chatting, it has been a true pleasure.  We can’t wait to see you on July 17 @ the Road Trip kickoff Party in Asbury Park N.J.

AL: I can’t wait to be there! See you all there!! xoxoxo

For info on Amanda, visit her official site or MySpace page.