Interview: Rick DeJesus of ADELITAS WAY

The new single, “Ready for War (Pray for Peace),” is a pretty powerful lyric video – can you outline the message behind the video and how the video itself was made?

The song was inspired by our Police officers and soldiers who prepare every day and then go work hard towards a peaceful and prosperous future in our communities. I’m a father and I have a household of beautiful girls to protect and guide. I pray for love, peace and freedom, and I always try to treat people kindly… But I’m always ready to protect. Our soldiers prepare to keep our great country free and safe, while inside they are praying for peace. They risk a lot every day for our communities and our country, so this song it’s about the other side of the story from their perspective.

Will the message of the video be a theme that will be prevalent throughout the rest of the album? When will the new album be completed? Where is it being recorded?

Each song will be different emotions and feelings, so that’s not the theme throughout – just that song. We’re still working on the album so we don’t have a release date yet, but it will be in 2017, probably in March.

In terms of Adelitas Way and their sound, will the next album see the band evolve further – or will you stick to your singular and characteristic sound?

I want to focus on great songs and make sure those songs sound the best they can. My roots are I’m a songs guy first and foremost – that’s my mentality for this album, I write the songs I love as they flow through me.

You will shortly be off on tour with Scott Stapp – will those dates feature any of the new material? How long will the band’s set be for?

We have 45 minutes each night and we are playing 1 new song – our single “Ready for War (Pray for Peace),” off our upcoming 2017 album which we hope to release in March. The rest of the set are songs from our catalog that we believe our fans want to hear. ;o)

Adelitas Way have toured with many high-profile artists – what have been the stand-out highlights for you?

The Uproar Festival was everything I ever dreamed it could be! It was 3 months long with Shinedown, Godsmack, Staind, and so many other amazing acts. We have played so many memorable shows it’s hard to single out just a few – we are blessed. We like to think we’ve rocked them all!

Your music has been utilized in movies and sports series. What current TV series are you enjoying that you would like your music to provide the soundtrack to or play a part in?

I love Daredevil on Netflix, I’m addicted.

Adelitas Way at times can seem very hard to categorize and pin down in terms of musical genres. How would you define what you do as a band musically?

We just enjoy ourselves and work hard every night. I love great songs – I always want to make sure the records have songs that I truly love, we are a Hard Rock band with soul, and I believe I write love songs people can connect to and feel as well.

What was your first exposure or experience to music – can you share that with me? Maybe your parents record collection, or a song on the radio?

My parents always had music playing in the house, they are great, I was always drawn to the energy inside of a song, especially a song I completely connect with. I learned good music in my house growing up, my older brother always had a music collection that was amazing.

What’s the best piece of advice that you have been given?

My dad always pushed hard work and toughness. He taught me to battle – you have to want to keep going when others quit, and keep pushing towards your goals. Persistence pays.

What is the meaning of life for you?

To enjoy it and embrace it, and give your children the memories and future that I was raised to envision and want for them too. Dream big and enjoy the ride of life!

Who is the most inspiring musician that you have ever worked with?

I’ve worked with some great musicians: Andrew, Robert, and Trevor in my band always inspire great things from me! As far as some of my favorite works I was always inspired by Dave Basset, the producer of our album, Homeschool Valedictorian, for his energy and positivity – it’s electric.

What in your life are you most proud of?

My family. And that I dreamed big, worked hard, and followed my dreams – always.

Are you a glass half full or half empty kind of person?

Happy to have a half full glass. ;o)

Outside of music what are your spare time interests and hobbies?

Family time is first. Then for me it’s sports, MMA, and working out. I own a boot camp functional training gym in Vegas called “Sweatzone” that I love working out at.

I am sure that you have done many interviews but who would you like to sit down with and interview? A personal inspirational hero or icon? Maybe even outside music?

I’d love a hang with Dave Grohl, he has such GREAT energy.

What is next in terms of music for Adelitas Way?

We are going to keep working in the studio to finish the album so we can get it out in March of 2017. We are then going out on a headline tour of the USA starting in March/April. [separator style=”line” /]

“Ready For War (Pray For Peace)” Lyric video

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Adelitas Way Tour dates:

12/1 – 8 Seconds Saloon – Indianapolis, IN
12/2 – The Apollo Theatre – Belvidere, IL (w/Scott Stapp)
12/3 – The Machine Shop – Flint, MI (w/Scott Stapp)
12/6 – House Of Blues – Chicago, IL (w/Scott Stapp)
12/8 – The Pub Fountains – Sugarland, TX (w/Scott Stapp)
12/9 – Alamo City Music Hall – San Antonio, TX (w/Scott Stapp)
12/10 – Clicks – Tyler, TX (w/Scott Stapp) [separator style=”line” /]