Vernon Reid of Living Colour talks about Rock & Roll, Radio, and Recognition

Vernon Reid, the legendary guitarist of the band Living Colour, has been mesmerizing audiences and fellow musicians with his exceptional talent for nearly four decades. Despite his immense contributions to music, the full extent of his genius is yet to be fully recognized by the music industry. Living Colour, a band he co-founded, not only remains active but has achieved platinum status and multiple Grammy Awards.

Recently, Vernon released his solo project titled “Hoodoo Telemetry,” which showcases his versatility as a musician. The album features a diverse mix of rock, jazz, blues, funk, and Vernon’s unique sound. During a conversation with him, Vernon revealed that some of the songs on the album were created years ago but were set aside until the timing felt right. This approach allowed him to revisit and refine the tracks, resulting in a captivating musical journey for listeners.

Beyond discussing his latest music, Vernon also shared insights into his involvement in the Ozzy Osbourne Back to the Beginning celebration. He humbly imparted invaluable lessons learned throughout his illustrious career. Notably, Vernon founded the Black Rock Coalition in 1985, an organization dedicated to advocating for creative freedom among Black musicians and supporting their artistic endeavors.

Vernon Reid’s artistry transcends genres and boundaries, making him a standout figure in the music industry. “Hoodoo Telemetry” reflects his passion and ingenuity, offering listeners a captivating sonic experience that defies categorization. In an interview, Vernon emphasized that the album is meant to be enjoyed as a whole, encouraging listeners to immerse themselves in the musical journey it provides.

Reflecting on the creative process behind “Hoodoo Telemetry,” Vernon highlighted the importance of timing and readiness in music production. Some tracks, like “Beautiful Bastard,” were originally part of a follow-up to his solo album “Mistaken Identity” but were revisited after a period of shelving and reevaluation. This reflective approach underscores Vernon’s dedication to crafting music that resonates not only with his audience but also with his own artistic vision.

In essence, Vernon Reid’s contribution to music extends far beyond his exceptional guitar skills. His commitment to artistic integrity and creative freedom continues to inspire and influence aspiring musicians worldwide. “Hoodoo Telemetry” stands as a testament to Vernon’s unwavering passion for music and his ability to transcend musical boundaries with his unparalleled talent and vision.