American boy band 98 Degrees founding member brings high-energy nightclub experience to Green Valley Ranch Resort in Henderson
Long past his days of performing as a member of a successful American boy band that went platinum with every album it released, 39-year-old Jeff Timmons, founder of the Grammy-nominated 98 Degrees, is now set to kickoff his very own show, Wired, in Henderson.
Beginning June 29, on Friday and Saturday nights, Timmons will entertain crowds at the Ovation Lounge inside Green Valley Ranch Resort, where he will perform with a live band and host some surprise musical celebrity guests.
When asked whether he anticipates his guests will join in the Wired performances, Timmons responded, "Some artists just want to go and relax when they're not working, and then some can't resist the temptation to get up and do a song or two.
"So I think we'll have a mixed bag, in regards to that."
The show will present an energetic blend of dance, hip-hop, top 40 and, of course, some 98 Degrees music. It also will feature rotating musical acts yet to be named.
"We're thrilled and honored to welcome Jeff Timmons to the Station Casinos family," said Judy Alberti, vice president of entertainment. "Jeff is one of the music industry's most gifted artists, and Wired will be unlike any other live interactive nightclub experience in Las Vegas."
According to Timmons, the show is a little different than what people in Las Vegas traditionally have seen from him.
Last spring, Timmons appeared in a monthlong guest run with The Chippendales at the Rio hotel-casino, which he described as being more of a hosting, emceeing kind of thing, and when he performed, it was to track. He also did a couple of club shows and appearances in Vegas, which also were to track.
"The whole premise behind Wired is it's a high-energy show ... with a hot band—and all of the band members now reside in Las Vegas, so it's a collection of local talent—(playing) all kinds of music: current music, music from the past, some of my new music.
"We're trying to kind of dub it as 'the party before you go to the party.' People can come, enjoy the music from 11 to 1 at night, then go to the clubs after that."
And although unable to reveal any of the special guest musical artists who may be on hand during any given performance of Wired, because keeping it a secret is part of the show, Timmons said, "They're all esteemed and well-known artists, and we're excited to have that surprise element to it."
"It reminds me of a show in New York when 98 Degrees first got signed," recalled Timmons. "There was a local hot band that used to play in a small club theater, and everybody and anybody would go to see this band, because they were so good and had such great music.
"That's kind of what we're trying to start here."
But it's not just established talent that Timmons hopes to draw to the show. According to the pop rocker, the show has a variety of new up-an-coming artists, who've not been discovered yet, lined up to perform, too.
"It'll be the first time they'll actually get up in front of this kind of crowd and get that attention and exposure," said Timmons. "We hope that adds sort of a different twist to the show."
Timmons said the show is taking auditions all the time, and that he wants to give everybody a fair shot at the opportunity.
"People are welcome to email me on my website," he added. "There's some information there where they can submit audition videos and MP3s and things like that. We're leaving it wide open; we want it just to be cool and fair ... and be something different."
Wired is scheduled to run for six weeks at the Ovation Lounge but could be extended if all goes well with the show.
"We're going to see how it goes for the first six weekends, until Aug. 4, and who knows what will happen after that?" said Timmons.
"Of course, we want people to come from all over, but we really want the local support," explained Timmons. "I know a lot of the locals don't like to go to the Strip and be a part of all the touristy stuff; they want to have some entertainment for themselves, and we want to provide (that)."
As for the room he'll be performing in for the next six weeks, Timmons described Ovation as a beautiful theater, and he fell in love with it the first time he went there.
"I just love the way it sounded in there ... and the lighting. It looks like a really well-put-together, expensive theater, and it's a classy place," he said.
"It's such a beautiful venue; I might just stay there, you never know!"
Wired performs at 11 p.m. and is open to adults 21 years of age and older. The show is free of charge, and entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about the show, visit greenvalleyranchresort.com.
Showing posts with label Wired. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wired. Show all posts
August 08, 2012
August 05, 2012
New L.V. resident Jeff Timmons talks 98 Degrees, Chippendales, ‘Wired’
Source
While Robin Leach takes his traditional summer vacation under the Tuscan sun in Italy, many of our Strip and Las Vegas personalities have stepped forward in his absence to pen their own words of wisdom. Our thanks to them all. We continue today with 98 Degrees hit-maker and singer Jeff Timmons, who became a Las Vegas resident after his Chippendales guest run at the Rio and is now headlining at Green Valley Ranch.
I am sitting in my rental house at my computer, which is smack dab in the middle of my kitchen on a table, sipping on a cheap glass of champagne very stressed and content. My new show has just started at Green Valley Ranch. I’m looking at a red mountain enjoying the dry, warm air.
Where am I? Is this Las Vegas? It might as well be anywhere. I might as well be a thousand miles away and not 20-something-plus miles away from Sin City. This is what I love about life.
Las Vegas represents a total metamorphosis for me personally and professionally. After experiencing the whirlwind of the behemoth known as 98 Degrees -- a group that had collaborated with Stevie Wonder for a Disney soundtrack and Mariah Carey and Joe for a #1 Billboard hit, sang for presidents, toured the world and had many Top Five hits -- everything came to a halt.
The media and public were over the pop explosion of the late 1990s and early 2000s. I went from having groupies hiding under room service carts, making fake press passes, sneaking into our tour bus when we were onstage, being ushered to the front of lines at clubs and getting meals comped to, well, nothing.
It was amazing, albeit depressing at the time, to see how things can change so quickly. There was never a time when I took anything that happened to 98 Degrees for granted. I loved and appreciated it with the utmost sincerity, which is probably why the shift seemed to sting even more.
On top of that, my personal life was a disaster. My young marriage was already failing; calling that experience tumultuous is an understatement. I went through a divorce, and I became obscure in the entertainment business. I lost everything personally, professionally, emotionally and spiritually. Make no mistake: I am not crying poor me by any stretch. I knew what I was getting into when I started pursuing this dream, but that didn’t stop it from hurting all the same.
After years of fighting to be a dad, and doing makeshift gigs to support my family and be a dad and never really dating, I met the woman of my dreams. She changed everything for me. She encouraged me to quit covering my 98 Degrees tattoo (a symbol of success, not embarrassment), rebuilt my confidence and advocated my jumping back into my career.
Enter Las Vegas. I was offered an emcee/hosting gig with Chippendales of all things. In my mind, there was no way in hell. My wife had a different idea; she insisted that I give it a shot. Plus, she is in the demographic of my fan base, which gave me some reassurance about doing the gig.
I had so much anxiety up until a week before the show’s opening night that I almost pulled out. Then I did the show, received great reviews and was given love from Las Vegas all around.
Everything rocks in Las Vegas. It’s big, it’s beautiful, it shimmers and gleams, it’s larger than life, and it’s still a small town. The people are amazing. The locals are incredible.
The folks who work in the casinos, run the clubs, the security and doormen at parties, the local press (of whom I know all by name) -- everyone looks out for one another. Hollywood doesn’t come close to doing that. New York is a bit more family-oriented than L.A., but it still doesn’t have the vibe Las Vegas does.
Because of my successful run with Chipps, I’ve been offered record deals, tours, TV shows, you name it; so far, I’m just happy being here in Las Vegas and working. Instead of me touring the country, the tour comes to me. If I want to get into trouble or host at a club or a bikini contest, I drive 20 minutes to the Strip.
Then I can go home and do homework with my kids, coach flag football and compose music in my temporary-turned-permanent home studio in my kitchen. I’ve got five kids; with my kids, my stepkids and my newborn, I’m happy with the balance that Las Vegas gives me.
For me, Las Vegas is a symbol of all that’s good. Quite the irony considering it’s Sin City. For me, Las Vegas is the best-kept secret in the entertainment business. That’s ironic, too, with it being an entertainment Mecca. I was supposed to be here for four weeks and ended up staying. They’re gonna have to run me outta this place!
BTW, check me out this summer in my new show “Wired” at Ovation Lounge in Green Valley Ranch. I gotta smokin’ band. Just sayin’. Oh, and thanks, Vegas. Sincerely.
Our congratulations to Jeff on becoming Las Vegas’ newest celebrity resident. Be sure to check out our other guest columns today from chef Hubert Keller, who spins the wheels of steel and excels in the kitchen, and two amazing ladies from “Ka” who keep the trickiest of Cirque du Soleil’s shows in shape. Join us again Wednesday for Angela Stabile and her sexy, topless “X Burlesque” dancers, along with Tom Zaller, the man who brought the Venetian’s Leonardo Da Vinci exhibit to town.
I am sitting in my rental house at my computer, which is smack dab in the middle of my kitchen on a table, sipping on a cheap glass of champagne very stressed and content. My new show has just started at Green Valley Ranch. I’m looking at a red mountain enjoying the dry, warm air.
Where am I? Is this Las Vegas? It might as well be anywhere. I might as well be a thousand miles away and not 20-something-plus miles away from Sin City. This is what I love about life.
Las Vegas represents a total metamorphosis for me personally and professionally. After experiencing the whirlwind of the behemoth known as 98 Degrees -- a group that had collaborated with Stevie Wonder for a Disney soundtrack and Mariah Carey and Joe for a #1 Billboard hit, sang for presidents, toured the world and had many Top Five hits -- everything came to a halt.
The media and public were over the pop explosion of the late 1990s and early 2000s. I went from having groupies hiding under room service carts, making fake press passes, sneaking into our tour bus when we were onstage, being ushered to the front of lines at clubs and getting meals comped to, well, nothing.
It was amazing, albeit depressing at the time, to see how things can change so quickly. There was never a time when I took anything that happened to 98 Degrees for granted. I loved and appreciated it with the utmost sincerity, which is probably why the shift seemed to sting even more.
On top of that, my personal life was a disaster. My young marriage was already failing; calling that experience tumultuous is an understatement. I went through a divorce, and I became obscure in the entertainment business. I lost everything personally, professionally, emotionally and spiritually. Make no mistake: I am not crying poor me by any stretch. I knew what I was getting into when I started pursuing this dream, but that didn’t stop it from hurting all the same.
After years of fighting to be a dad, and doing makeshift gigs to support my family and be a dad and never really dating, I met the woman of my dreams. She changed everything for me. She encouraged me to quit covering my 98 Degrees tattoo (a symbol of success, not embarrassment), rebuilt my confidence and advocated my jumping back into my career.
Enter Las Vegas. I was offered an emcee/hosting gig with Chippendales of all things. In my mind, there was no way in hell. My wife had a different idea; she insisted that I give it a shot. Plus, she is in the demographic of my fan base, which gave me some reassurance about doing the gig.
I had so much anxiety up until a week before the show’s opening night that I almost pulled out. Then I did the show, received great reviews and was given love from Las Vegas all around.
Everything rocks in Las Vegas. It’s big, it’s beautiful, it shimmers and gleams, it’s larger than life, and it’s still a small town. The people are amazing. The locals are incredible.
The folks who work in the casinos, run the clubs, the security and doormen at parties, the local press (of whom I know all by name) -- everyone looks out for one another. Hollywood doesn’t come close to doing that. New York is a bit more family-oriented than L.A., but it still doesn’t have the vibe Las Vegas does.
Because of my successful run with Chipps, I’ve been offered record deals, tours, TV shows, you name it; so far, I’m just happy being here in Las Vegas and working. Instead of me touring the country, the tour comes to me. If I want to get into trouble or host at a club or a bikini contest, I drive 20 minutes to the Strip.
Then I can go home and do homework with my kids, coach flag football and compose music in my temporary-turned-permanent home studio in my kitchen. I’ve got five kids; with my kids, my stepkids and my newborn, I’m happy with the balance that Las Vegas gives me.
For me, Las Vegas is a symbol of all that’s good. Quite the irony considering it’s Sin City. For me, Las Vegas is the best-kept secret in the entertainment business. That’s ironic, too, with it being an entertainment Mecca. I was supposed to be here for four weeks and ended up staying. They’re gonna have to run me outta this place!
BTW, check me out this summer in my new show “Wired” at Ovation Lounge in Green Valley Ranch. I gotta smokin’ band. Just sayin’. Oh, and thanks, Vegas. Sincerely.
Our congratulations to Jeff on becoming Las Vegas’ newest celebrity resident. Be sure to check out our other guest columns today from chef Hubert Keller, who spins the wheels of steel and excels in the kitchen, and two amazing ladies from “Ka” who keep the trickiest of Cirque du Soleil’s shows in shape. Join us again Wednesday for Angela Stabile and her sexy, topless “X Burlesque” dancers, along with Tom Zaller, the man who brought the Venetian’s Leonardo Da Vinci exhibit to town.
Q and A: Week of July 9
Source
Q: Was there, or will there be, a 98 Degrees reunion this summer? — Dawn D., Canton, Ohio
A: While the former bandmates would love to perform together again, it ain’t happening just yet. I spoke with Jeff Timmons recently, and he told me: “There was a tour set up for the summer, but not everybody was on board with it in the end. I was very excited to do it, but it just didn’t fit what everybody wanted to do, so we called it off. We decided when it’s a better opportunity for everyone, we’d decide collectively as a group that we’ll do it then.”
In the meantime, Jeff is heating up the already-hot Vegas scene with his new show, “Wired,” which is free at Green Valley Ranch Resort and Casino. Performing Fridays and Saturdays all summer, Jeff describes it as “the party before the party. You drink, have a good time, listen to us perform classic and current R&B, pop, my stuff, 98 Degrees stuff, and then go out to the club and hear a DJ spin it afterward.”
Jeff promises surprise guests who will sing with him, but you’ll have to come out there to see who. “That’s part of the element of surprise. Who’s going to be there next? We have a couple of people who we know are coming in July when they’re going to be in town, but most of it’s going to be spontaneous.”
A: While the former bandmates would love to perform together again, it ain’t happening just yet. I spoke with Jeff Timmons recently, and he told me: “There was a tour set up for the summer, but not everybody was on board with it in the end. I was very excited to do it, but it just didn’t fit what everybody wanted to do, so we called it off. We decided when it’s a better opportunity for everyone, we’d decide collectively as a group that we’ll do it then.”
In the meantime, Jeff is heating up the already-hot Vegas scene with his new show, “Wired,” which is free at Green Valley Ranch Resort and Casino. Performing Fridays and Saturdays all summer, Jeff describes it as “the party before the party. You drink, have a good time, listen to us perform classic and current R&B, pop, my stuff, 98 Degrees stuff, and then go out to the club and hear a DJ spin it afterward.”
Jeff promises surprise guests who will sing with him, but you’ll have to come out there to see who. “That’s part of the element of surprise. Who’s going to be there next? We have a couple of people who we know are coming in July when they’re going to be in town, but most of it’s going to be spontaneous.”
"Dance Moms" Visit Jeff Timmons at Green Valley Ranch"
Source
Jeff Timmons had two celebrity guests this weekend at his show "Wired" at Green Valley Ranch in Las Vegas.
Jeff was visited by the moms from the TV show "Dance Moms" and T-Lo from the group Next.
Jeff was visited by the moms from the TV show "Dance Moms" and T-Lo from the group Next.
Jeff Timmons Visits Magician Mike Hammer's Show at The Four Queens
Jeff Timmons from 98 Degrees opens a show in Las Vegas
Source
Las Vegas is full of hidden gems that aren’t on the Las Vegas Strip. One such gem is the Ovation Showroom at Green Valley Ranch. I have heard nothing but good things about this showroom. So I was excited at the chance to check it out myself for the grand opening of a new show called Wired!
Wired is a new show by 98 degrees front man Jeff Timmons. Though that was all I really knew about the show. Ovation was packed. I tried to find an area to shoot photos from without standing in anyone’s way. I was to find out shortly this wasn’t going to be a problem.
The lights dimmed and the spotlights highlighted a person on stage. This wasn’t Jeff! This was DJ Freddy B. Dj Freddy B was on the stage to get this party started! He started to play some high energy music that got the crowd loose and relaxed and in the party mood. As DJ Freddy B started to fade into the background as most DJs do Jeff Timmons started the show.
Jeff actually started his show from the audience, which was great. This was a big surprise for all the excited fans. Jeff was accompanied on the floor by the extremely talented Tymara Walker to start off the show. As Jeff and Tymara sang and made their way to stage people got up and followed them. Now the dance floor was packed and plenty of seating was available.
An incredible band called “Circuit” backs up Jeff and Tymara’s as they sing. Circuit consists of Jason Styles, Jason Bolden, Ryan Graham and Musical Director Ken Logan. Apparently all the members of the band have played for well-known artists both on tour and in the studio.
After a few duets, Jeff Timmons stepped back and let Tymara Walker do her thing. Tymara let her powerful voice engulf and entrance the crowd. The crowd was cheering enthusiastically, as Tymara showed the crowd her passion for singing.
The spotlight found Jeff as he started to sing a 98 Degrees song. The dance floor was filled with screaming women. As Jeff unzipped his shirt and exposed his bare chest the woman screamed even more. Sitting in the back I watched at least 50 cell phones follow every movement that Jeff made.
Jeff Timmons really connects with his audience. He reaches into the crowd touching hands and caressing faces, and even poses for photos while singing. This isn’t something you see very often. It just goes to show he never forgot his fans.
His fans never forgot him. I saw a girl trying to lift her friend into the air so that Jeff would notice her. Jeff got down on his knees and sang to the elevated girl maintaining eye contact with her the whole time, the crowd swooned at the gesture and I even heard a few jealous remarks.
Jeff stepped off stage and a lyrical group graced the stage. The group is called the Indovizualz and they are part of the West Coast Wu-Tang Killa Beez. The trio consists of Poison Ivy, Mac and Legend and they hyped the crowd up some more. As the Indoovizualz finished up their set, DJ Freddy B took over the crowd with his turntables.
Intermission consisted of naughty dancing and reapplication of makeup. Next to the bar this gentleman was showing off his mad dance skills. A group of people gathered around to watch. This was just one of many dance circles that formed.
Freddy B was killing it. The crowd was ecstatic, as he played nothing but the crowds favorites. Suddenly the stage went dark. Smoke filtered in on the stage. The spotlight found Jeff sitting hunched over in a jogging suit. The dramatic start of the second set sent the fans into a frenzy. This propelled the show in the wee hours of the morning.
So much action going on I couldn’t narrow down what I liked the best. Jeff Timmons being stalked by dozens of cell phones or Ryan Graham rocking on the guitar to Jason Bolden shuffling with Tymara Walker on stage. The show was full of surprises. Even Dj Freddy B got off the turntables to show off his singing ability. This was just the first of the three sets they played.
Jeff Timmons’ show Wired is the new must-see Las Vegas Show! Ovation in Green Valley Ranch is well lit with an incredible sound system and comfortable seating. The staff was friendly and quick to serve you and the truly phenomenal part to Wired is that it is FREE! I don’t know for how long but highly suggest you go to Green Valley Ranch and check it out. This is what you need to know.
What: Jeff Timmons’ ‘Wired’ at Ovation
Where: The Ovation Lounge at Green Valley Ranch
2300 Paseo Verde Parkway, Henderson
When: Friday and Saturday Nights at 11:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE!
Wired is a new show by 98 degrees front man Jeff Timmons. Though that was all I really knew about the show. Ovation was packed. I tried to find an area to shoot photos from without standing in anyone’s way. I was to find out shortly this wasn’t going to be a problem.
The lights dimmed and the spotlights highlighted a person on stage. This wasn’t Jeff! This was DJ Freddy B. Dj Freddy B was on the stage to get this party started! He started to play some high energy music that got the crowd loose and relaxed and in the party mood. As DJ Freddy B started to fade into the background as most DJs do Jeff Timmons started the show.
An incredible band called “Circuit” backs up Jeff and Tymara’s as they sing. Circuit consists of Jason Styles, Jason Bolden, Ryan Graham and Musical Director Ken Logan. Apparently all the members of the band have played for well-known artists both on tour and in the studio.
After a few duets, Jeff Timmons stepped back and let Tymara Walker do her thing. Tymara let her powerful voice engulf and entrance the crowd. The crowd was cheering enthusiastically, as Tymara showed the crowd her passion for singing.
The spotlight found Jeff as he started to sing a 98 Degrees song. The dance floor was filled with screaming women. As Jeff unzipped his shirt and exposed his bare chest the woman screamed even more. Sitting in the back I watched at least 50 cell phones follow every movement that Jeff made.
Jeff Timmons really connects with his audience. He reaches into the crowd touching hands and caressing faces, and even poses for photos while singing. This isn’t something you see very often. It just goes to show he never forgot his fans.
His fans never forgot him. I saw a girl trying to lift her friend into the air so that Jeff would notice her. Jeff got down on his knees and sang to the elevated girl maintaining eye contact with her the whole time, the crowd swooned at the gesture and I even heard a few jealous remarks.
Jeff stepped off stage and a lyrical group graced the stage. The group is called the Indovizualz and they are part of the West Coast Wu-Tang Killa Beez. The trio consists of Poison Ivy, Mac and Legend and they hyped the crowd up some more. As the Indoovizualz finished up their set, DJ Freddy B took over the crowd with his turntables.
Intermission consisted of naughty dancing and reapplication of makeup. Next to the bar this gentleman was showing off his mad dance skills. A group of people gathered around to watch. This was just one of many dance circles that formed.
Freddy B was killing it. The crowd was ecstatic, as he played nothing but the crowds favorites. Suddenly the stage went dark. Smoke filtered in on the stage. The spotlight found Jeff sitting hunched over in a jogging suit. The dramatic start of the second set sent the fans into a frenzy. This propelled the show in the wee hours of the morning.
So much action going on I couldn’t narrow down what I liked the best. Jeff Timmons being stalked by dozens of cell phones or Ryan Graham rocking on the guitar to Jason Bolden shuffling with Tymara Walker on stage. The show was full of surprises. Even Dj Freddy B got off the turntables to show off his singing ability. This was just the first of the three sets they played.
Jeff Timmons’ show Wired is the new must-see Las Vegas Show! Ovation in Green Valley Ranch is well lit with an incredible sound system and comfortable seating. The staff was friendly and quick to serve you and the truly phenomenal part to Wired is that it is FREE! I don’t know for how long but highly suggest you go to Green Valley Ranch and check it out. This is what you need to know.
What: Jeff Timmons’ ‘Wired’ at Ovation
Where: The Ovation Lounge at Green Valley Ranch
2300 Paseo Verde Parkway, Henderson
When: Friday and Saturday Nights at 11:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE!
Jeff Timmons is ready to get ‘Wired’ at Green Valley Ranch’s Ovation
Source
Jeff Timmons is the founder and lead singer of 98 Degrees, but he probably didn’t expect to live in a desert city that is regularly hotter than 98 degrees in the summer.
Since guest hosting Chippendales at the Rio in spring 2011 in a hit engagement that was extended, the 39-year-old Ohio native has settled in Summerlin with new wife Amanda Rose and children from a previous marriage, and he couldn’t be happier.
Timmons has become a Las Vegas nightlife and event regular. Along with the Chippendales gig, he has co-hosted the 2011 Miss USA Pageant arrivals ceremony at Planet Hollywood, tapped the keg at Hofbrauhaus and appeared on numerous red carpets. And he’s been interviewed by Sun Editor at Large John Katsilometes and Tricia McCrone on “Kats With the Dish.”
Tonight at 11, Timmons kicks off “Wired,” a nightclub experience with dance, Top 40, hip-hop and -- of course -- 98 Degrees music, at Ovation Lounge at Green Valley Ranch, that is set to run every Friday and Saturday at 11 p.m. 98 Degrees fans have another reason to celebrate: “Wired” is free (for those ages 21 and older).
Timmons took a break from rehearsals to chat before his premiere tonight.
Don Chareunsy: What’s the inspiration behind “Wired” at Ovation in Green Valley Ranch?
Jeff Timmons: I love Las Vegas. What started out as a four-week stint in Chippendales turned into my family moving to Summerlin. People are really great here, and I wanted to do music this summer, put a band together and perform music that I love. Las Vegas doesn’t have a club with a hip-hop, R&B and jam band atmosphere, so I’d like to offer that a few nights a week.
D.C.: Anything in the show that might surprise your fans, like hip-hop?
J.T.: I don’t think so! 98 Degrees was signed to Motown, so we were an urban group heavily influenced by hip hop. And we love everything from New Kids on the Block to Heavy D and the Boyz to Chris Brown. It’s going to be a high-energy night of fun.
D.C.: You moved here with your family about a year ago, correct? What do you think of Las Vegas so far?
J.T.: I love it! We lived at the Rio for a month during Chippendales, and the slot machines and smoke can be a bit much. But we live in Summerlin now 20 minutes away from the Strip. It’s like Colorado; it’s beautiful and clean.
D.C.: What has been a highlight?
J.T.: I’m divorced and remarried, and, on a personal level, my daughter from a previous marriage is here now, and that means a lot to me as a father. And, professionally, being here has given me a ton of opportunities hosting shows, performing and creating. My whole life has changed, and this resurgence in my career, a second chance for my career, is amazing.
D.C.: It doesn’t sound like you’re leaving Las Vegas soon. Anything on your bucket list here?
J.T.: I’d like to create a show on the Strip. I’ve talked with a few production teams. I’d like to produce, be a part of a headline show on the Strip … and I think it’s going to happen!
D.C.: What has been the most surprising thing about living and working in Las Vegas?
J.T.: When people visit Las Vegas, they blow it all out in a couple days, and then they’re fried after spending all their money and drinking and partying too much. There is a sense of normalcy here; it slows down when you get away from the Strip. When you’re on the Strip, it’s 0 to 60! When I’m home, it’s all about my family and kids, I can coach a football team and write music.
D.C.: In a recent interview with my colleague John Katsilometes, you talked about a new album and a holiday show on the Strip. Any updates?
J.T.: That is one of those exciting opportunities here … a holiday show, and we’re still putting it together. I have a single I hope to release in August or September. I have a hundred songs for a new album, and I’d like to shoot a video locally here in Las Vegas. The Nevada Film Commission has approved it. I have an affinity for Las Vegas, as it has meant great personal and professional changes.
D.C.: Will there be a 98 Degrees reunion? You’ve gone on record saying that you want it to happen.
J.T.: It is going to happen -- on Aug. 18 at the MixTape music festival in Hershey, Pa., with New Kids on the Block, Backstreet Boys, the Wanted, the Fray, Kelly Clarkson and more. They’re expecting about 70,000 people, so it’s huge.
D.C.: What’s the one 98 Degrees hit that you will never tire of performing?
J.T.: “Invisible Man.” It was our first song on the radio, and it put us on the map. It’s a great song with a classic vibe.
D.C.: You’re in excellent shape; obviously that was part of the reason you were chosen to be a guest host of Chippendales. How was your experience?
J.T.: I loved it; I absolutely loved it. I had the most fun in my entire career doing that gig. They are the greatest guys and really fun to hang out with. And I got myself in shape for that; I didn’t look like that before the show! I will always consider hosting and producing a nightlife Las Vegas gig. And I love that Chippendales caters to women -- to drink and have fun. The girls’ reactions are priceless.
D.C.: Tell me something that very few people know about you.
J.T.: I never sleep! I sleep maybe two hours a day because I’m an insomniac and a workaholic. And I think a lot of people don’t realize that I write and produce music. Writing music is a big passion of mine.
D.C.: Any final words on “Wired”? Do you still get nervous before a performance?
J.T.: Absolutely! I am going out of my mind before this performance. This show is a crazy workload for me. It’s two hours of music, singing, coordinating a band, choosing the right members. Ken Logan, my music director, is a godsend. It’s about getting the right people; I have an incredible female vocalist in this show. I get incredibly nervous before everything.
D.C.: Final question: Being an Ohio native, was LeBron James’ first NBA championship with the Miami Heat bittersweet for you?
J.T.: Of course! That is the perfect word -- bittersweet. In my perfect world, he would’ve won it with the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron is a rare species, and you want to see someone with that skill set succeed. I’m still happy for the guy.
Since guest hosting Chippendales at the Rio in spring 2011 in a hit engagement that was extended, the 39-year-old Ohio native has settled in Summerlin with new wife Amanda Rose and children from a previous marriage, and he couldn’t be happier.
Timmons has become a Las Vegas nightlife and event regular. Along with the Chippendales gig, he has co-hosted the 2011 Miss USA Pageant arrivals ceremony at Planet Hollywood, tapped the keg at Hofbrauhaus and appeared on numerous red carpets. And he’s been interviewed by Sun Editor at Large John Katsilometes and Tricia McCrone on “Kats With the Dish.”
Tonight at 11, Timmons kicks off “Wired,” a nightclub experience with dance, Top 40, hip-hop and -- of course -- 98 Degrees music, at Ovation Lounge at Green Valley Ranch, that is set to run every Friday and Saturday at 11 p.m. 98 Degrees fans have another reason to celebrate: “Wired” is free (for those ages 21 and older).
Timmons took a break from rehearsals to chat before his premiere tonight.
Don Chareunsy: What’s the inspiration behind “Wired” at Ovation in Green Valley Ranch?
Jeff Timmons: I love Las Vegas. What started out as a four-week stint in Chippendales turned into my family moving to Summerlin. People are really great here, and I wanted to do music this summer, put a band together and perform music that I love. Las Vegas doesn’t have a club with a hip-hop, R&B and jam band atmosphere, so I’d like to offer that a few nights a week.
D.C.: Anything in the show that might surprise your fans, like hip-hop?
J.T.: I don’t think so! 98 Degrees was signed to Motown, so we were an urban group heavily influenced by hip hop. And we love everything from New Kids on the Block to Heavy D and the Boyz to Chris Brown. It’s going to be a high-energy night of fun.
D.C.: You moved here with your family about a year ago, correct? What do you think of Las Vegas so far?
J.T.: I love it! We lived at the Rio for a month during Chippendales, and the slot machines and smoke can be a bit much. But we live in Summerlin now 20 minutes away from the Strip. It’s like Colorado; it’s beautiful and clean.
D.C.: What has been a highlight?
J.T.: I’m divorced and remarried, and, on a personal level, my daughter from a previous marriage is here now, and that means a lot to me as a father. And, professionally, being here has given me a ton of opportunities hosting shows, performing and creating. My whole life has changed, and this resurgence in my career, a second chance for my career, is amazing.
D.C.: It doesn’t sound like you’re leaving Las Vegas soon. Anything on your bucket list here?
J.T.: I’d like to create a show on the Strip. I’ve talked with a few production teams. I’d like to produce, be a part of a headline show on the Strip … and I think it’s going to happen!
D.C.: What has been the most surprising thing about living and working in Las Vegas?
J.T.: When people visit Las Vegas, they blow it all out in a couple days, and then they’re fried after spending all their money and drinking and partying too much. There is a sense of normalcy here; it slows down when you get away from the Strip. When you’re on the Strip, it’s 0 to 60! When I’m home, it’s all about my family and kids, I can coach a football team and write music.
D.C.: In a recent interview with my colleague John Katsilometes, you talked about a new album and a holiday show on the Strip. Any updates?
J.T.: That is one of those exciting opportunities here … a holiday show, and we’re still putting it together. I have a single I hope to release in August or September. I have a hundred songs for a new album, and I’d like to shoot a video locally here in Las Vegas. The Nevada Film Commission has approved it. I have an affinity for Las Vegas, as it has meant great personal and professional changes.
D.C.: Will there be a 98 Degrees reunion? You’ve gone on record saying that you want it to happen.
J.T.: It is going to happen -- on Aug. 18 at the MixTape music festival in Hershey, Pa., with New Kids on the Block, Backstreet Boys, the Wanted, the Fray, Kelly Clarkson and more. They’re expecting about 70,000 people, so it’s huge.
D.C.: What’s the one 98 Degrees hit that you will never tire of performing?
J.T.: “Invisible Man.” It was our first song on the radio, and it put us on the map. It’s a great song with a classic vibe.
D.C.: You’re in excellent shape; obviously that was part of the reason you were chosen to be a guest host of Chippendales. How was your experience?
J.T.: I loved it; I absolutely loved it. I had the most fun in my entire career doing that gig. They are the greatest guys and really fun to hang out with. And I got myself in shape for that; I didn’t look like that before the show! I will always consider hosting and producing a nightlife Las Vegas gig. And I love that Chippendales caters to women -- to drink and have fun. The girls’ reactions are priceless.
D.C.: Tell me something that very few people know about you.
J.T.: I never sleep! I sleep maybe two hours a day because I’m an insomniac and a workaholic. And I think a lot of people don’t realize that I write and produce music. Writing music is a big passion of mine.
D.C.: Any final words on “Wired”? Do you still get nervous before a performance?
J.T.: Absolutely! I am going out of my mind before this performance. This show is a crazy workload for me. It’s two hours of music, singing, coordinating a band, choosing the right members. Ken Logan, my music director, is a godsend. It’s about getting the right people; I have an incredible female vocalist in this show. I get incredibly nervous before everything.
D.C.: Final question: Being an Ohio native, was LeBron James’ first NBA championship with the Miami Heat bittersweet for you?
J.T.: Of course! That is the perfect word -- bittersweet. In my perfect world, he would’ve won it with the Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron is a rare species, and you want to see someone with that skill set succeed. I’m still happy for the guy.
98 98 Degrees' Jeff Timmons Talks (On-Camera?) Reunion, '90s Nostalgia, and More!
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If you were a young girl growing up in the '90s, chances are you probably owned every boy band paraphernalia known to man. CDs, backpacks, posters, concert stubs — you name it, girls had it (it was years before I ever saw the actual wallpaper in my bedroom). And chances are, one of those famous boy bands was none other than the contemporary adult group known as 98 Degrees, which featured four main vocalists: Nick and Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre, and Jeff Timmons. So it's a safe bet that you likely squealed hearing that the four men would be heating up the state once again for una noche at the MixTape Festival in Hershey, Penn., this August.
News about this one night event spread like wildfire, leaving fans hoping and praying that a full-fledged reunion is underway like rumors earlier this year had suggested. But Timmons tells Hollywood.com that's not exactly the case. "We actually had a tour mapped out for the summer time," Timmons says. "It was a different tour. At the last minute, without a doubt, everyone wanted to do it, but for whatever reason we just didn’t feel it was right, and I’m sure that fueled the rumors."
Even without a full-out tour, though, the guys definitely wanted to reunite in some capacity, and Timmons felt MixTape presented the perfect opportunity. "We had to get on the same page about what we wanted to do, whether it’s one thing or a big thing," he says. "Finally we decided, 'You know what? Let’s give it a shot.' MixTape Festival is supposed to be amazing, huge, and if there’s any time to get back together, this would be the time. This feels right, and we’re all very excited about it." As are the entire female population, no doubt.
Though fans may not be able to look forward to a tour, they can anticipate at least one new song — and perhaps even a reality show somewhere down the line. "I’ve just been getting my personal life on track and making sure that I can be a dad, but I never left music. I’ve always been producing and writing music," Timmons tells us. "Now that my kids are little bit older...I have the opportunity to get back into my career. And as far as reality television, we might be bringing a reality TV show out here to Vegas with my family and everything I’m doing here. So there’s the possibility that will happen." This could even include a behind-the-scenes look at the band's upcoming MixTape reunion. "I’m sure it would be included if we do the one out here, that would be part of it," Timmons says. "You never know. A lot of opportunities are opening up since we made the announcement, so there are things out there for us, and I’m just excited about the whole chance."
Next: Timmons Talks Fashion Mishaps and His Future Career Goals.
And as much as fans might be excited at the chance to see those ridiculous photo shoot outfits of the past at MixTape, don't expect them to make a modern comeback anytime soon. When asked about his most embarrassing outfit he ever had to wear for a photo op, Timmons assures us that the list is quite long. "Have you seen our pictures," he says. "We wore everything from jumpsuits, fireman outfits, bulletproof vests, silver suits. I could go on and on. They’re all quite embarrassing." And of course the photographers were always angling for them to take their shirts off (we thank them for that, by the way). "We did it once, then it was over. Then everybody wanted us to it every time," Timmons says. "The label wanted us to do it, they thought it was a marketable thing. Looking back, it really was. We had a fireman poster where a couple of us had our shirts off, and it was the highest-selling posters of that era." And according to Timmons, it's still a common request even to this day. "People still ask me today to take my shirt off," he says.
Timmons still has fond memories, though, despite the many fashion mishaps. And some of their songs are still very near and dear to his heart. "I think my favorite song of our group would be the first one we ever released, called 'Invisible Man,” Timmons shares, while also recalling a song he wasn't too particularly fond of back then called "Can I Touch You There." "It was a little racy...that was my least favorite at the time. Now I really like it. I like all the songs, they have a special meaning to them, and each experience recording has a memorable, you know, some things that are very memorable about them."
But Timmons has had a pretty busy schedule outside of 98 Degrees. For one, he continues to work on his solo career. "I’ve been working on a record for a long time. I’ve got 100 songs, we’re trying to narrow it down and figure out what we’re gonna put out," he says. And starting June 29, Timmons will kickstart his new Las Vegas show WIRED, which will feature Timmons performing with a live band, plus an array of surprise celebrity guests and rotating musical acts.
And then, of course, there was that temporary stint as a Chippendale, which he describes as being "the most fun I’ve ever had in my entire career." In fact, after seeing some of the moves shown in Magic Mike, Timmons is almost positive that some of the routines were stolen right from a Chippendales live show. "I spoke to some of the folks from the media here locally and they said yeah, some of the routines and songs they chose are down to a science with the Chippendales." No complaints here (amiright, ladies?).
While big things continue to be on the horizon for Timmons, he continues to hope a new 98 Degrees album is somewhere in his future. "I would love to do that. I think that would be the whole point of getting back together outside of this show," Timmons says. "We would definitely have to break new music into the mix and I think that would have to be a requirement we would all want to be a part of." And even though no big reunion tour has officially been booked, Timmons advises his fans to never say never. After all, "You never know what can happen."
In addition to discussing his professional history (and future), Timmons graciously participated in one of Hollywood.com's quizzes, regarding his favorite '90s pop culture phenomena, including TV shows, music, and even Nintendo 64!
If you had to choose between the movies Austin Powers and American Pie, which would it be?
I don’t watch a lot of TV or movies, but I’ve never seen the Austin Powers movies all the way through, any of them, so I’d have to go with the American Pie. I’ve only seen the first one of those.
Nintendo 64, or Playstation?
Playstation, no doubt.
Weakest Link or Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?
Who Wants To Be A Millionare.
Britney Spears or Christina Auguilera?
Depends on what you’re trying to go for.
What’s your thought process for that?
If you’re going for vocals, you’ve got to go with Christina, if you’re going for sexiness, you’ve got to go with Britney.
Deep Impact or Armageddon?
Deep Impact. I don’t even know what that is. I haven’t seen either one of those movies. I was watching kids movies all the time. I’ll go with Armageddon, that has Liv Tyler in it, so I’ll go with that one.
Did you ever watch Friends at all?
No, never, not one episode, I’ve never seen one.
I own all 10 seasons, I used to love that show. Rachel or Monica — that’s Jennifer Aniston or Courteney Cox?
I’ll go with Jennifer Aniston.
As far as hair, frosted tips or the Caesar cut?
Geez, wow, both of those are so bad! I pick neither, can I pick neither on that one?
Pick the lesser of two evils on that.
The lesser of two evils, although I never sported them, I’ll go with the frosted tips.
Ricky Martin or Marc Anthony?
Ricky Martin’s way cooler.
Boy Meets World or Full House?
I’ll have to go with Boy Meets World on that one.
The Tamagachi or Gigapet? Do you remember those?
I remember the – is that the little egg that your program, or something like that?
They were those digital pets. The Tamagachi was more of an alien, the Gigapet was more of a cat.
I’ll go with the Gigapet.
TGIF or Snick?
TGIF.
I used to love those Friday nights, watching those shows.
Jeff Timmons: We got to host, those TGIF on Disney, so I had to pick that one.
News about this one night event spread like wildfire, leaving fans hoping and praying that a full-fledged reunion is underway like rumors earlier this year had suggested. But Timmons tells Hollywood.com that's not exactly the case. "We actually had a tour mapped out for the summer time," Timmons says. "It was a different tour. At the last minute, without a doubt, everyone wanted to do it, but for whatever reason we just didn’t feel it was right, and I’m sure that fueled the rumors."
Even without a full-out tour, though, the guys definitely wanted to reunite in some capacity, and Timmons felt MixTape presented the perfect opportunity. "We had to get on the same page about what we wanted to do, whether it’s one thing or a big thing," he says. "Finally we decided, 'You know what? Let’s give it a shot.' MixTape Festival is supposed to be amazing, huge, and if there’s any time to get back together, this would be the time. This feels right, and we’re all very excited about it." As are the entire female population, no doubt.
Though fans may not be able to look forward to a tour, they can anticipate at least one new song — and perhaps even a reality show somewhere down the line. "I’ve just been getting my personal life on track and making sure that I can be a dad, but I never left music. I’ve always been producing and writing music," Timmons tells us. "Now that my kids are little bit older...I have the opportunity to get back into my career. And as far as reality television, we might be bringing a reality TV show out here to Vegas with my family and everything I’m doing here. So there’s the possibility that will happen." This could even include a behind-the-scenes look at the band's upcoming MixTape reunion. "I’m sure it would be included if we do the one out here, that would be part of it," Timmons says. "You never know. A lot of opportunities are opening up since we made the announcement, so there are things out there for us, and I’m just excited about the whole chance."
Next: Timmons Talks Fashion Mishaps and His Future Career Goals.
And as much as fans might be excited at the chance to see those ridiculous photo shoot outfits of the past at MixTape, don't expect them to make a modern comeback anytime soon. When asked about his most embarrassing outfit he ever had to wear for a photo op, Timmons assures us that the list is quite long. "Have you seen our pictures," he says. "We wore everything from jumpsuits, fireman outfits, bulletproof vests, silver suits. I could go on and on. They’re all quite embarrassing." And of course the photographers were always angling for them to take their shirts off (we thank them for that, by the way). "We did it once, then it was over. Then everybody wanted us to it every time," Timmons says. "The label wanted us to do it, they thought it was a marketable thing. Looking back, it really was. We had a fireman poster where a couple of us had our shirts off, and it was the highest-selling posters of that era." And according to Timmons, it's still a common request even to this day. "People still ask me today to take my shirt off," he says.
Timmons still has fond memories, though, despite the many fashion mishaps. And some of their songs are still very near and dear to his heart. "I think my favorite song of our group would be the first one we ever released, called 'Invisible Man,” Timmons shares, while also recalling a song he wasn't too particularly fond of back then called "Can I Touch You There." "It was a little racy...that was my least favorite at the time. Now I really like it. I like all the songs, they have a special meaning to them, and each experience recording has a memorable, you know, some things that are very memorable about them."
But Timmons has had a pretty busy schedule outside of 98 Degrees. For one, he continues to work on his solo career. "I’ve been working on a record for a long time. I’ve got 100 songs, we’re trying to narrow it down and figure out what we’re gonna put out," he says. And starting June 29, Timmons will kickstart his new Las Vegas show WIRED, which will feature Timmons performing with a live band, plus an array of surprise celebrity guests and rotating musical acts.
And then, of course, there was that temporary stint as a Chippendale, which he describes as being "the most fun I’ve ever had in my entire career." In fact, after seeing some of the moves shown in Magic Mike, Timmons is almost positive that some of the routines were stolen right from a Chippendales live show. "I spoke to some of the folks from the media here locally and they said yeah, some of the routines and songs they chose are down to a science with the Chippendales." No complaints here (amiright, ladies?).
While big things continue to be on the horizon for Timmons, he continues to hope a new 98 Degrees album is somewhere in his future. "I would love to do that. I think that would be the whole point of getting back together outside of this show," Timmons says. "We would definitely have to break new music into the mix and I think that would have to be a requirement we would all want to be a part of." And even though no big reunion tour has officially been booked, Timmons advises his fans to never say never. After all, "You never know what can happen."
In addition to discussing his professional history (and future), Timmons graciously participated in one of Hollywood.com's quizzes, regarding his favorite '90s pop culture phenomena, including TV shows, music, and even Nintendo 64!
If you had to choose between the movies Austin Powers and American Pie, which would it be?
I don’t watch a lot of TV or movies, but I’ve never seen the Austin Powers movies all the way through, any of them, so I’d have to go with the American Pie. I’ve only seen the first one of those.
Nintendo 64, or Playstation?
Playstation, no doubt.
Weakest Link or Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?
Who Wants To Be A Millionare.
Britney Spears or Christina Auguilera?
Depends on what you’re trying to go for.
What’s your thought process for that?
If you’re going for vocals, you’ve got to go with Christina, if you’re going for sexiness, you’ve got to go with Britney.
Deep Impact or Armageddon?
Deep Impact. I don’t even know what that is. I haven’t seen either one of those movies. I was watching kids movies all the time. I’ll go with Armageddon, that has Liv Tyler in it, so I’ll go with that one.
Did you ever watch Friends at all?
No, never, not one episode, I’ve never seen one.
I own all 10 seasons, I used to love that show. Rachel or Monica — that’s Jennifer Aniston or Courteney Cox?
I’ll go with Jennifer Aniston.
As far as hair, frosted tips or the Caesar cut?
Geez, wow, both of those are so bad! I pick neither, can I pick neither on that one?
Pick the lesser of two evils on that.
The lesser of two evils, although I never sported them, I’ll go with the frosted tips.
Ricky Martin or Marc Anthony?
Ricky Martin’s way cooler.
Boy Meets World or Full House?
I’ll have to go with Boy Meets World on that one.
The Tamagachi or Gigapet? Do you remember those?
I remember the – is that the little egg that your program, or something like that?
They were those digital pets. The Tamagachi was more of an alien, the Gigapet was more of a cat.
I’ll go with the Gigapet.
TGIF or Snick?
TGIF.
I used to love those Friday nights, watching those shows.
Jeff Timmons: We got to host, those TGIF on Disney, so I had to pick that one.
Get ready to get Wired with Jeff Timmons
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Jeff Timmons, an Ohio native and founder of the American boy band 98 Degrees, opens his new high-energy show, Wired, at Ovation Lounge inside Green Valley Ranch Resort on June 29.-------- Courtesy of Station Casinos
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