A career in the gay porn industry would normally indicate immense talent in the bedroom, not in the recording industry. Former same-sex adult film star Colton Ford is working to blur that line.
The 49-year-old, California native is hard at work on his third studio album, four years after the release of his debut, Tug of War, and his second, Under the Covers, which featured covers of iconic Britney Spears and R.E.M tracks.
After a brief stint in the adult film industry, Ford decided to show his fans a different side of his artistic abilities. The release of “Everything,” a track from the 2004 documentary, Naked Fame, a film that followed Ford’s transition between both careers, eventually led to his debut pop album release.
“I’ve been in the music industry since I got out of high school, so there is no fear there,” Ford says. “It is what I’ve always done, so I went into the project doing what I’ve done, sing and create music.”
Singles off the album, “That’s Me feat. Cazwell” and the title track, co-written by Quentin Harris and Ford, were accompanied by sultry, revealing and provocative music videos. The risks were some not normally seen from a male artist in the music industry. “Well I have to say straight out that each director and production team that I have worked with has been amazing,” the artist says. “I’ve always been provocative by nature, so my experience in porn didn’t have any impact on my comfort level. I was cool exploring whatever it was that we all agreed on trying.”
The videos showed Ford shirtless for many scenes, a quality that excited many devoted fans. Ford’s use of sexual appeal in his videos is something female artists have been doing for years. Ford’s toned body may draw in viewers, but should not distract from the music. “I’ve just been consistently taking care of myself through the years,” Ford says. “I’ve listened to my body and have changed how I work out as I’ve gotten older, downsized a bit, and I just try to be mindful of what and how I eat.”
One of the most interesting facts about Ford’s long career is his 10-month stint in the porn industry, which occurred after filming a scene with his then-partner, Blake Harper. Ford has since retired from the adult film industry and people see the transition to the music scene as a daring switch. Ford sees it another way.
“Well I never viewed it as a switch. I’ve always created music and performed, so that continued during my 10-month stint in porn,” he says. “I decided to give myself permission to have the porn experience at a time where I felt stagnant and bored in my professional life. I wasn’t major label material anymore as I was 39 and too old in their eyes.”
The music Ford crafts is inspired by a wide range of artists. From Chaka Khan to Marvin Gaye, Fleetwood Mac to The Police, they all have an impact on his efforts.
Negative criticism and comments toward Ford’s music does not slow him down. Many listeners cannot seem to get past his short career in the porn industry. “I do think there is a contingency of people out there that won’t be able to see past my porn career and get my music, and that’s okay,” the artist says. “I believe there are more people out there, however, that see me as multi-faceted and are open to seeing and hearing what else I can do. I feel my music speaks for itself.”
And what does Colton have to say to those who have nothing but negative, rude attitudes towards the music he creates? “Well you know the saying, opinions are like assholes,” Fords says. “Everyone has one and nobody thinks that theirs stink. I take it all in stride. I’ve received the full spectrum of comments and opinions, from stellar to downright rude. It’s to be expected.”
People should take Ford’s career seriously. The singer has already performed with legends like Cyndi Lauper and Chaka Khan and unlike popular pop stars such as Rihanna and Chris Brown, Ford says he will never be caught lip-syncing a performance. He sings live and will not have it any other way. “I don’t care if I’m hoarse, I’m going to sing live,” he says.
2012 is shaping up to be a very busy year for the artist. His current single, “Let Me Live Again”, an upbeat, catchy pop track about the perfect love is available on iTunes now, but that’s only the beginning.
“I have a new single remix package and video coming out in June,” he says. “A new album is coming out this summer, “The Way I Am”. I’m collaborating with Chris Willis, Nervo and Wawa. I’m involved in a new TV show, and should be shooting the pilot shortly. I’m also involved in a new musical that should start previewing over the summer.”
Colton Ford is a talented artist with a unique background. The decision to dive into the world of gay porn could keep listeners at a distance, but the singer has no regrets. “At the end of the day, I’m satisfied, happy and proud of what I’ve done. I know what I do, and feel I do it very well. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in,” Ford says.
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