Many of you met Brian, some of you have been lucky enough to hug him or get his autograph, but for those of you who want to know more about the man behind the name, we’ve got him right where you want him. Listen in as Brian Friedman dishes about the King of Pop, the Pop Princess and the prom.
What's the secret to your accomplishments?
I never gave up on my dreams. I chase what I want no matter how crazy or impossible it may seem. I also believe that no one’s ever achieved their highest level of knowledge. There’s always something new to learn. That’s how you grow.
What was it like working w/Britney? Do you see future collaboration?
It was incredible. I was there in the beginning and during her peak as a mature artist. Watching a star rise in front of you is a huge learning experience. I truly enjoyed those times. In the past, I didn't think we would be reunited in the work place, but like I say, you never know your path. It unfolds before you. Time will tell.
Your path’s crossed with so many stars. What’s 1 of your most memorable experiences?
Working with Michael Jackson. He was a huge inspiration to me- his moves, his persona, everything about him. I used to dance around my room wearing a silver sequined glove like the one he wore. Five years later, at age 15, I shared a stage with him. That was the first and last time I was truly star struck.
True or false: Your prom scene was exactly like She's All That.
False! I didn't go to prom :( I opened my dance studio when I was 16, so I started home school to work more. I did a lot of things differently as a child. I wanted to pave my path, unlike the other kids around me. I knew I was nothing like them. That movie is a replacement for my prom, and what makes it better is that I was able to share it with the world.
gendance loves young entrepreneurs. How did you open a studio at 16?
I worked professionally since I was 12, so I saved money. My mother and I took our savings and did it together. My mother owned a studio, so she had experience running a business. I was choreographing at age 13 and never got credit for my work. I knew if I wanted credit, I needed to go out on my own. Our studio, The Dance Source, was a huge success. We weren't large in numbers but we had quality dancers. My students went on to dance professionally in LA and NY. Having the studio taught me so much about business at an early age. We closed in 2000 so I could focus on my career in LA.
From your SYTYCD experience, what does being on a reality show do for performers?
Reality talent shows can help you or hurt you. A lot of contestants leave the show and leave their dreams of becoming a professional dancer behind. Working with other choreographers molds you into a better choreographer yourself. Skipping those steps only decreases your knowledge. On the flip side, there’re some dancers that have left shows with more training and knowledge than they could've hoped for and use it in their careers. I’m their fan.
What’s your advice for dancers who have doubt?
Doubt is a disease. The second you stop believing in yourself, you lose the power to achieve your dreams. You can't let that spread through your mind. Eventually it will take over your body. Remain confident and never take “no” for an answer. Don't listen to haters. Hear them and use it as fuel, but don't listen!
Being the Creative Director for The X Factor is…
The most challenging job I’ve ever done in my life. I work 7 days a week, 12 to 16 hours a day. I conceptualize the performances, including wardrobe, hair, make-up, lighting, set design and camera angles. If I can get through that show with success, I can do anything!
Like design your own shoe line?
Oooh wanna know what he has to say about his sneaks? Click here
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Photo by ProPix Courtesy of The PULSE
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