With her own label and an edgy new album, dance-floor diva Johanna Maria Clarissa Adriana is doing it her way.
By Brandon Voss
She cranks out quality club hit after hit and became our personal BFF when she graced the HX Pride float in 2002. Now, after amicably separating from Tommy Boy Records, Amber is self-releasing My Kind of World, her deepest, darkest, smartest album yet; the lead single, “You Move Me,” is already on its way to becoming her eighth consecutive chart-topper. We caught up with the newly single superstar mom as she enjoyed some well-deserved downtime before embarking on her North American tour.
HX: Hey Amber! How are you?
Amber: Working hard, but I’m fine. I just got back from picking my son up from school. He actually turned 14 today.
Tell him happy birthday from HX! Is he a big Amber fan?
No, I’m just his mom. He appreciates the new record, though, because it’s a little more rock-y and alternative.
It really is unlike anything you’ve ever done.
I was influenced by so many styles. I’m a very diverse woman and get bored easily. I can’t explain my feelings with just one genre. I was going through a divorce while writing the record, which is not a nice thing. I mean, I’m glad that I’m divorced now — trust me — but to get to that point, it was a pretty big nightmare.
Does listening to the album bring back unpleasant memories?
I don’t believe in regrets. That’s just self-destructive. Besides, this album wouldn’t have existed had I not been through that experience, so I always see the good within the bad. And I’m not a special case; there are a million people out there going through the same thing.
Boys can be so cruel, Amber.
What pulled me through was my self-love and self-respect. I’m not the type to let her head hang down and say, “Oh my God, the world is ending because somebody doesn’t love me anymore.” Everything happens for a reason.
Could you have ever made an album like this with Tommy Boy?
Absolutely not. That’s why it was time for me to go on my own. With my last album, Naked, I remember 10 men standing around me asking, “Is she going too far, too deep?” They wanted to keep me in one corner and go the safe route, but I’m not scared to take risks and bare myself. Truth and honesty are way more interesting for the fans.
Your new label is called JMCA Enterprises. What does that stand for?
My full baptismal name: Johanna Maria Clarissa Adriana.
Wait, with four gorgeous names to choose from, you made up a fifth name?
Oh, honey, that name! My first production team felt my given name, Marie Claire, wasn’t commercial and that I should have a name at the beginning of the alphabet. I’m not quite Prince yet, who can just come up with a symbol and still be recognized, but maybe one day I’ll be able to use my real name and have the public understand.
You really rock out on your fierce new single, “You Move Me.”
It was hard for me to decide on a first single because when I make an album I don’t want anyone to say, “There are only two hit songs and the rest is just crap.” I give 150 percent to the creation of every song. Plus, I didn’t want to alienate old fans by not releasing a dance song. “You Move Me” is a fun, strong anthem with elements of rock and dance that I feel fits perfectly with my transition.
You’ve written for Cher and Bette Midler, and your songs have been featured on Sex and the City. You sure you’re not a gay man?
[Laughs] I’m very open-minded when it comes to who records or uses my songs. As long as they aren’t used in hardcore porn. I mean, I have to draw the line.
Totally. Girl, when are we gonna get you back up on the HX Pride float? We miss you!
Well, call me up! [Laughs] Oh, my God, there was this one go-go boy on the float I’ll never forget — he drove me crazy! He hugged me and said, “Amber, you’d be the only woman I could ever do it with.” I was like, “That’s it! Stop right there!” [Laughs] But I love gay men to death. There’s nothing better than performing in front of a gay crowd because they send so much love back to you. But what am I doing right to deserve so much support from the gay audience?
Everything!
No, seriously, could you tell me?
Well, you’ve provided a powerful soundtrack to some of the best nights of our lives. Plus, being a gorgeous, flawless, fierce, independent and talented diva doesn’t hurt!
[Laughs] Okay, I think I understand a little better. I really do appreciate it tremendously. You guys are a huge part of my career and the reason why I’m still here. Thank you!
HX, October 2004.