Patrice Covington is a prolific Broadway actress and singer who has just released a cover of the song “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music. We caught up with her to discuss her music, her theatre career, and her industry advisement class The Galaxy Method.
The Knockturnal: What inspired you to make a cover of “My Favorite Things”?
Patrice Covington: I am a musical theater baby at heart. The first musical I ever fell in love with was “The Sound of Music.” Now in my adult life, the music is beautifully nostalgic for me. “My Favorite Things” was a love of mine before I even realized it was a holiday song. I loved other renditions, especially the one by Luther Vandross. It was time to make my own version and make it BOP!
The Knockturnal: Are you planning on releasing more music?
Patrice Covington: Yes, I do plan to release more very soon. I am working with such a fantastic team including Keith Harris on production and Anesha Birchett on vocal arrangements that I could never stop making hits right now. We’ve got plans!
The Knockturnal: How do you describe your experience working on Genius: Aretha as Erma Franklin?
Patrice Covington: I am honored and proud to be a part of a legendary story of a queen: Aretha Franklin. I have always been inspired by her music. To be able to peel back the layers and understand her life’s journey is a very special honor. Her sister, Erma was a large part of her life’s path and I am proud of the work I’ve been able to do to tell her own legendary story as well.
The Knockturnal: You started The Galaxy Method in 2017. Could you explain your company’s mission statement and what its methods are?
Patrice Covington: The Galaxy Method was created to connect the dots and fill in the holes in an entertainer’s career experience. I learned a lot the hard way. I was a very hands-on learner. I hit every rung on the ladder to success. I love to share. I love to be the plug to connect people. I am a believer that your network is your net worth. The Galaxy Method is about helping other people shine and brightening your own light at the same time. It is for all ages with a specialty in guiding high school and college students.
The Knockturnal: How has your company been affected by the pandemic?
Patrice Covington: I have seen an influx in people wanting to learn more of how to create and use what they’ve already got to make money. In this industry, we sometimes sit and wait for the phone to ring to make money. During the pandemic, I have fortunately been able to help people figure out a path to continue to create and bring in income while the larger parts of the industry have been shut down. It’s a blessing.
The Knockturnal: How do you feel working with stars like Stevie Wonder and Christina Aguilera?
Patrice Covington: I am blessed to have worked with both! A legend and a major pop star asked me to lend my vocals to support them! I will never ever forget it or take it for granted. Stevie affirmed my talent and encouraged me to stay in this industry when times were super hard for me. Performing with Christina was a blast! I mean come on… it was Vegas, baby!
The Knockturnal: Can you describe the experience of performing in Sweden’s SEAT Music Session?
Patrice Covington: It was my first time performing my own music out of the country. I was the only American and the only black woman in the festival. I was proud and grateful. Performing out of the country is always much appreciated because in my experiences, audiences in foreign countries tend to show a bit more gratitude and appreciation for new and independent artists.
The Knockturnal: How does it feel traveling around the world to perform?
Patrice Covington: I have always had a good time enjoying and exploring cities and countries while working. The best part is exploring the world on someone else’s dime. I plan on documenting so many moments. My future generations will have a lot to learn, laugh about, and be proud of.
The Knockturnal: Considering all the theater productions you have had a role in, which was your favorite?
Patrice Covington: This is an interesting question because I have learned and grown so much from each role I’ve played. However, in The Color Purple, the story itself was the star of the show. It taught so much to us as performers and the audience nightly. We saw people change right in front of us. It was always a good idea. I played the role of Squeak, a woman who was uninhibited and set out to reach every goal and dream she had no matter what she had to do to get it. She was fun and a little nuts too. I love that girl.
The Knockturnal: Do you have plans to take the stage again?
Patrice Covington: The theater is my first love. I will always plan to be center stage. It’s home.
