Frankie Knuckles: The Man
by Doug Brandt | Published November 2005 | Features Archives
Countless journalists have had the privilege to interview Frankie Knuckles, but I have yet to see an article about Frankie Knuckles, The Man.
By now, everyone should know the story of Frankie Knuckles. Born in Brooklyn, he ran around with Lawrence Philpot, who would later grow up to be Larry Levan. While only 17, they both worked in Manhattan at the Continental Baths - known today as where the famous clip was filmed of a young Bette Midler performing her schtick with an equally young Barry Manilow on piano. (Frankie was there that night.) Together they frequented David Mancuso's loft and reportedly spiked the punch with acid. (Frankie unequivocally denies doing this.) Later he moved to Chicago to kick off the Warehouse, and then left to open the Power Plant.
If we can learn anything from the past about House music, we can learn from Frankie Knuckles. The Godfather, perhaps, but he's more like the father who tries to tell you to study hard in school otherwise you'll regret it later. He survived all the headaches, paved the way, and will tell you from experience what is best - all while letting you do the opposite and learn from your mistake. (Note: he's not above saying, "I told you so.")
I certainly had my own impressions of Frankie Knuckles: The Man, but I was curious what he thinks of himself. Recently, in a series of email exchanges, I had the opportunity to ask him some questions about what makes him the special person so many "Knuckleheads" revere.
5 MAGAZINE: So who is "Frankie Knuckles?"
FRANKIE KNUCKLES: Someone familiar. Someone you've always recognized. That guy who you always see either on the bus or train to work but never speak to. Someone who thinks a lot like you and shares all the same dreams and aspirations that you do. That guy you've looked at a thousand times and said to yourself, "I know this guy, but where from?"
5 MAGAZINE: Congratulations on your recent 50th birthday! In a career where so many others have fallen victim to drugs or alcohol or health issues, you've come through. To what or whom do you owe your longevity?
FRANKIE KNUCKLES: There have been a number of people that have had my back for many a year now. Frederick Dunson being the first, Judy Weinstein and David Morales rounding out the top three. Not to mention John Brown, Kevin Hoover and Maurice Chaytor (my assistants for the better part of the past fifteen years). But more importantly just common sense, I guess.
Don't misunderstand me;İI've earned my day out of the sun when it comes to playing with drugs and failing health. I ultimately recognized that God has something a lot more special in store for me. No! I don't think I'm doing God's work. But this gift I have came from him/her and I'm doing the best I can to make it count.İ
5 MAGAZINE: Who's your guardian angel, and what has he or she protected you from? You've had your demons, how have you overcome them?
FRANKIE KNUCKLES: Who says I've overcome them? I am my own worst enemy; I am my own worst critic. I know when I'm good and bad at what I do. I know when I've exerted the proper effort and when I've just been lazy. But the best thing about it all is coming to terms with myself about it all. I know there will always be critics and naysayers who will stand on the outside and look in and say that they can do a better job. My answer to that is, "The field is wide open. Help yourself!"
5 MAGAZINE: Those who knowİyou seem to agree - you're one of the most genuine people around. How do you do that? What are your guiding principles in life that make you soİloved? Who doesn't love you?
FRANKIE KNUCKLES: I can think of a number of people who don't love me, but I refuse toİgive them any kind of recognition. I do my best to treat people the way I want to be treated. Sounds cliche-ish, I know, but it's all I have to go on. This life is the only one I have. I try my best to give folks what I want in return. As John Brown always tells me, "Some days you eat the dog, some days the dog eats you."
One of the best things about being 50 years old is being able to recognize the games when they're being played and knowing all the answers before someone has a chance to work it on you. And apart from all of this, nothing is promised to any of us. We're all just passing through. Some of us will make great strides and leave our mark on this planet, either with our children or the legacy of our life's work. My music is my legacy. And the audience I play for are the children who will benefit from this legacy.
5 MAGAZINE: Where will you be in ten years?
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