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At age 93, William Shatner isn’t done making albums. Not by a long shot

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5 months ago

August 4, 2024

At age 93, William Shatner isn’t done making albums. Not by a long shot

Captain Kirk, also known as William Shatner, has a passion for making albums. After a long break following the release of the popular music album “The Transformed Man” in 1968, he returned with “Has Been” in 2004, which included a surprising alt-rock radio hit with his cover of Pulp’s “Common People.” Since 2011, Shatner has been consistently producing music, with a total of twelve albums to his name, not including compilations and bootlegs. His most recent album, created in collaboration with Ben Folds, marks a return to a more orchestral style.

Shatner has a history of performing in this manner, with previous works like “Exodus: An Oratorio in Three Parts” in 2008 with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. His latest album, “So Fragile, So Blue,” was recorded at the Kennedy Center with the National Symphony Orchestra, making it his 12th album.

Looking ahead, Shatner has more projects in the works. After his trip into space aboard Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin in October 2021, he is working on a new album and a television documentary. Despite the quick turnaround from the space mission to the recording session, Shatner is excited about the new project.

Reflecting on the recording process, Shatner shares the challenges of performing in front of a symphony orchestra and the intricate cues involved. Despite the complexity, the recording came together smoothly, with Shatner crediting the universe for aligning everything perfectly.

As Shatner navigates the artistic process, he acknowledges the beauty that can arise from mistakes and unexpected moments in music. The high-fidelity recording of his latest album showcases his dedication to the craft and the artistry of orchestral performances.

It’s quite rare these days to have a two-channel stereo mix along with a five-channel Super Audio CD mix that requires a special SACD player to play.

WS: The production team at the Kennedy Center is quite unique, to say the least.

AC: Your range of albums covers a variety of genres from rock, classic rock, alt-rock, country, to Shakespearean interpretations, a narration based on the Book of Exodus, a children’s album, blues, and even a Christmas album.

WS: Yes, a blues record. And they all gained popularity.

AC: We’re eagerly anticipating an electronic dance album from you next.

WS: Currently, I’m collaborating with Robert Sharenow and Brad Paisley on an album that explores my unconventional idea of love. It’s not about romantic love, but rather the peculiar things that I love. For instance, I cherish my health and my sense of smell because they contribute to different forms of love.

AC: Will this album have a country vibe?

WS: It’s uncertain. Brad’s musical prowess might infuse some songs with a country sound, but we’re open to exploring other genres. One track titled “I Love Music” delves into various music genres. Brad will work his magic on the guitar in a Los Angeles studio, and we’ll collaborate to enhance the melodies.

AC: I have a special request for a hardcore punk album collaboration with Henry Rollins after this project.

WS: That’s amusing. Henry and I have previously worked together on a spoken word piece for “Has Been.” It had a vibrant rhythm.

AC: Well, I’m still hoping for that hardcore punk record from you.

[This interview has been slightly edited for brevity and clarity.]

Alan Cross is a broadcaster with Q107 and 102.1 the Edge and a commentator for Global News.

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