There’s no introduction needed when it comes to a visionary like Peven Everett. He transcends the standards of many that came from his town, simply because he has worked not harder, but smarter, than the rest of the pack. He’s often shifted his sounds, his focus and his vocal structures to whatever has been laid onto his lengthy path. From his early days working with fellow Chicago legend Roy Davis Jr. up until his most recent soul-centric albums, (Power Soul, Party Of The Year) he has maintained his presence worldwide as a phenomenal vocalist and prolific producer; which explains why he is playing Resident Advisor’s special RA X event  in New York City on August 20th with fellow musical dignitaries Mala, Masashi Nakazawa and the group King Sunshine, who will be collaborating live with Peven during his exclusive performance that night at Le Poisson Rouge. Peven took the time to chat with URB about his legacy, his stance on Chicago’s scene at the moment and what’s next for him in the immediate future. Check out the interview after the jump.

URB: You’re known for a multitude of sounds, crossing genres seamlessly throughout the years; which sound have you been most proud of?

PEVEN EVERETT: I’m proud that everyone is still dancing because of my sound. I’m also proud of the legacy I’ve created. It’s good old-fashion hard work and talent in action. That’s just my opinion though…

URB: You’ve been covered by the musical underground for ages but at times have achieved mainstream attention. Do you prefer being known or lesser-known by the musical public?

PE: I definitely feel that fame and good musicianship go hand-in-hand. Bribery isn’t just for thugs and rough guys; it effects everybody. With that said “the natural order of man based on capability can be detoured. Unfortunately the detour can go in a negative direction as well as a positive one.” I prefer a very stress-free approach to everything. The truth is real important to me so I try to show my growth as truthfully as I possibly can.

URB: You’re still a Chicago native and have seen things progress stylistically there, what’s your stance on the music scene in Chicago now? How involved are you at this point in your career?

PE: Chicago has a music scene that’s changing to the negative like every other place. For over twenty years I’ve spoken about the value of the musician. It seems that the world overall has a problem with talent, karaoke this and reality that. Nowadays, any excuse is used to disregard those who evolve mankind away from enterprise and towards free expression. In spite of constant character assassination, I’ve stood by my city and I’ve fought for those who’ve taught me.

URB: What can people expect from a Peven Everett live performance?

PE: Good sounds and surprises that you like. I have to be really good at surprising to guarantee such a thing *laughs*

URB: You’re playing an eclectic night for the RA X show at Le Poisson Rouge on August 20th, how do you feel about being part of something so historic with a lineup that expansive?

PE: Definitely a first for me to play an event of this kind,  but I’m ready for anything these days. I just want us to have a good time and make a great memory out of the night.

URB: What’s Peven Everett up to for the rest of 2011?

PE: If I told you, then those who were trying to stand in my way would have an easier time. Who wants to help an enemy? It will be new, which is the whole point of seeing me live. I have to do my job.

URB: If there’s one emotion people can get out of your live performance on Saturday, what would it be?

PE: One emotion of many will be love.

RA X at Le Poisson Rouge, NYC: AUGUST 20, 2011

X
King Sunshine (live)
Mala
Masashi Nakazawa
Peven Everett (live)

TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED HERE