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Not so long ago I got the chance to do a Q and A interview with the lovely artist and author Susan Calloway (Calloway is very well-known among “Final Fantasy” fans, thanks to the “Distant Worlds” concert albums and her work with Nobuo Uematsu on “Final Fantasy XIV“). So we talked about everything from “Final Fantasy”, Calloway´s upcoming plans for the future to thoughts on performing live via E3, Dreamhack and Video Games live.

Jonas TGG

I just have to say as a new fan of your music, I really love your songs. So keep the good work up! However, as a Gamer I´m somewhat curious to find out if you´re a Hardcore Gamer yourself? (as you make music based on games). I would also like to ask which aspects is it that comes into play when you decide which video game songs you should make or cover? And which game (s) are your favorites? (old as new).

Calloway

Hi Jonas! First, thanks for the kind words! I am actually NOT a gamer. I have come to appreciate Final Fantasy, however, as the music is really beautiful and it has been an honor to perform and record so many of the songs from this franchise. At this point I have only released one song from Final Fantasy, “Answers,” as I am the original singer for it… it just felt appropriate. I may do a few others, but my main passion is writing my own music. I am in the studio working on a new CD… hoping to be out this fall.

Jonas TGG

How did you get auditioned for making music to Final Fantasy? Was personal interest or did they contact you?

Calloway

They contacted me. I had worked with Arnie Roth on a few projects and he recommended me to Nobuo. And the rest is history!

Jonas TGG

What was the experience to switch from your music, to work with music for a game like? I mean, did it feel very different from anything that you have done in the past?

Calloway

Yes, totally! It was especially cool to perform in front of a big orchestra. I am used to playing with a rock band so it was really different. But it has been such a privilege to work with so many incredible musicians. That is the best part for me.

Jonas TGG

It must have been quite a journey to be working beside Nobuo Uematsu while working with Final fantasy. So, throughout that time what was it like to work with Uematsu?

Calloway

Nobuo is awesome. He is super down to Earth and has a great sense of humor. What I really appreciate about him is that he always wants me to put my style into his songs. He really respects me as an artist and wants to collaborate. This makes the production process really creative and fun. He is really amazing.

Jonas TGG

Which is your favorite track (s) among the songs that you have taken part off in Final Fantasy? And why?

Calloway

“Answers!” Because it was the first song I got to sing IN the game. And because it was written for my voice, which was an honor. It has been my biggest connection to the fans, too, so it will always be the most special song to me.

Jonas TGG

Do you intend to keep on working in the games industry if you keep on getting new job opportunities?

Calloway

Sure! I would love to. But I also have some other things in the works too for my own music… I’m even working on a book right now, too!

Jonas TGG

Do you think that making music for games a good way to spread your name further as a music artist? And did it help you? And is it something you would advise other music artists to do?

Calloway

Yes, I think it helps but I think it depends on what type of artist you are. I am really blessed that Final Fantasy fans have accepted me like they have. My voice is a big part of my artistry, so in this scenario, it creates a great pathway to my own music. The biggest thing is to know yourself as an artist and what you are trying to do… commit to being excellent, create something that will inspire people. My music is very faith driven and inspirational… so because of the nature of Final Fantasy and the storyline, it is a logical path for the listener.

Jonas TGG

Would you consider giving voice acting in games a try if you got the chance to do so?

Calloway

Yes! I have been talking with my agent about that – we shall see what pans out!

Jonas TGG

Do you have any favorite artist you would like to do a singing duet with?

Calloway

I would love to sing with Chris Martin of Coldplay – I just love his voice.

Jonas TGG

What are you currently working on?

Calloway

A new CD and a book… and also a few more Final Fantasy singles… to be announced soon!

Jonas TGG

Do you have any plans to play live at events such as Dreamhack, E3 or PAX?

Calloway

I would love to. I’m working with a new manager and we are devising a plan this spring! So stay tuned!

Jonas TGG

Do you get a lot of song requests from fans? If so, which song (s) are the most requested ones?

Calloway

“Answers” is the biggest one… but Final Fantasy fans really love the Final Fantasy songs… which I understand. “Dragonsong” has become a close second… along with “Melodies of Life,” “Distant Worlds,” and of course “Eyes on Me” is a big favorite.

Jonas TGG

Besides Final Fantasy, is there any other game IP that you would love to do music for?

Calloway

Kingdom Hearts would be cool. I really like the music in that game… I would love to write a song for them, not just sing it!

Jonas TGG

What´s your thoughts on Video Games Live? And would you like to jam together with VGL at some time?

Calloway

It would be cool! Live shows are the best and I would always take the stage if I was allowed to! I love what I do and I so appreciate the fans. Again, the friendships I have built with them is what makes all this worthwhile.

Credit:

Robin Ek – Editor



Jonas “O.J” Ek

The Gaming Ground

Twitter: @TheGamingGround

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Tags: Final Fantasy, Final Fantasy XIV, Nobuo Uematsu, Square Enix, Susan Calloway