Carnie Wilson is ready for Wilson Phillips’ first-ever New York City concert, talks “Bridesmaids” and more

by | Nov 5, 2015 | Coming Up, Culture, Events, Music

When your debut album sells over 10 million copies, features three #1 singles and quickly earns four Grammy nominations, the bar has been set pretty high. The second album by Wilson Phillips, 1992’s Shadows And Light, may have been a disappointment when compared to the success of their self-titled release, but it did go platinum in the U.S. and yield a few more hits. It may have been 12 years before another Wilson Phillips album was released – 2004’s California – but Chynna Phillips, Wendy Wilson and Carnie Wilson never stopped working. Beyond family obligations, a healthy mix of recording and television projects kept all three members very busy.

While the average lazy journalist may peg Wilson Phillips as a “’90s band,” Wilson Phillips is arguably as recognizable as ever as a result of some high-profile movie references. There’s the full-group cameo in Bridesmaids. There’s the awkward duet in Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle. There’s Razor’s arrival to try-outs in Whip It. For those who prefer television to movies, there was a prominent Progressive Insurance commercial featuring an appearance by Carnie earlier this year. And for people keeping tabs on modern pop radio, all three members of Wilson Phillips sang on “FourFiveSeconds,” this year’s hit recorded by Rihanna, Kanye West and Paul McCartney.

In spite of their 25 years of success and recognition, Wilson Phillips has never performed a full concert in New York City. This changes on Nov. 19 as the trio headlines at The Highline Ballroom. Carnie Wilson took the time to handle some Q&A for Downtown in advance of the Highline show – as filled with plenty of exclamation points – and assured that plenty more recording and touring is ahead for Wilson Phillips.

wilson philips

What do you wish more people knew about Wilson Phillips?

Carnie Wilson: I wish more people knew that we are not just a group that sings sweet love songs! We have variety in our shows and are adding many more upbeat material and intense vocals…

When you were offered the opportunity to appear in Bridesmaids, did you have any hesitation to appear?

C: The answer is: “fuck no!”

Have you turned down any appearances of a similar nature?

C: We turn down a few things every year. Usually we try to find a reason to be a part of something…it’s not always about the money. We like purpose and connection.

Do you have a favorite usage of one of your songs in film or TV? For me, personally, the scene in Harold And Kumar Go To White Castle remains a classic.

C: I actually love in Love Actually where they play “God Only Knows” the most out of any of our songs, or our parents’ music. It’s extremely touching. Of course Bridesmaids was classic!

Looking back, how was the experience of having starred in your own reality show for the TV Guide Network? Is it something that the group would ever consider doing again?

C: Still Holding On was honestly so short-lived it just felt like another lame reality show I’ve subjected myself to over the years. They always want fighting and drama and it’s just not worth it! Too negative… Some funny moments, though! Not exactly how we envisioned it…

Is there anything that Wilson Phillips hasn’t yet done that you’re still hoping to accomplish?

C: There’s a lot I’d love for Wilson Phillips to do. I REALLY want to do another CD of originals! I’d love to get back in the studio with Glen Ballard and see what happens. I’ve been waiting for that for 20 years. I’m never giving up! I’d love for Wilson Phillips to do a children’s CD and another Christmas CD, too. Those are always filled with love.

How did you three wind up singing on “FourFiveSeconds?”

C: Kanye [West] likes our sound and thought we’d be cool on the track. That was clear out of left field! Rihanna didn’t like us so much – we have no idea where she put our vocals. Sounds like we are all over the choruses…but I know for sure we are on one word: “been” in the bridge!

With regards to your upcoming show at the Highline Ballroom in New York City, what’s to be expected? Any of the covers from California or Dedicated, perhaps?

C: We do lots of covers and Wilson Phillips originals. We mix it up. A few new surprises coming, too!

What do you remember about the first gig that you ever played in New York?

C: We’ve never played New York! Our first appearance on national TV was [Late Night With David] Letterman. All I remember was gas in my stomach!

Once this tour is over with, are there any confirmed projects for the group? More recording, perhaps?

C: We are not ending a tour. We wanna go as long as the world will have us!

When you’re not busy with your music career, how do you like to spend your free time?

C: I don’t have any free time, I work non-stop. But if there’s a day off, I’m getting my feet rubbed and spending it with my family.

Do you have a favorite album of 2015?

C: My favorite CD of 2015 is hands down Deer Sounds by Linda Perry and Sara Gilbert. That CD deserves a Grammy. It touches my heart.

Finally, any last words for the kids?

C: To the kids out there: Never let anyone make you feel a certain way about yourself. You are who and what you believe you are. Keep positive people around you and if someone is negative, pray for them and move on.

-by Darren Paltrowitz

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