'Looks do play an important role not only in music, but all forms of entertainment. Your body is your office, I like mine looking and smelling clean. Your appearance tells a lot about your personality.'
Last summer FH readers were introduced to model, singer and dancer Anthony K Welch. (Ready To Shoot) What impressed me most about the talented, and incredibly hot performer, was not just his looks and images, not even just his considerable talents. What impressed me most was Anthony's determination, pride and confidence. Anthony has a clear passion to stand out in the modeling and entertainment industry. This passion however goal oriented, guided by his own personal set of values and beliefs. In an industry known for pushing boundaries, both visually and artistically, it takes strength and determination to hold on to what you believe, while at the same time taking the risks required to achieve success.
Next 3 images from Antonio Carrasco
Almost a year later, Anthony's readiness to shoot and ability to bring results has paid off. New shoots and new performance have resulted in a busy last 10 months with new work and some incredible new images from his collaborations with some great artists and photographers. I recently got to catch up with Anthony, checking in on his music, his modeling and how things have gone since we connected last year. I am already excited to find out and see what projects, images and news Anthony might have to share when we catch up next!
'Photographers, directors, and agents are extremely particular; they only want fit models. The public can be even harsher critics. They spend their time looking for flaws. People are not paying to see the ordinary. That means not abusing your body with drugs, over-eating, or other terrible substances. Health and fitness are extremely important to me and it should be for most. I inspire others to lose weight on a daily basis. I even created the hashtag #GetFitAmerica to encourage Americans to burn the fat. When you look better, you feel better.'
Next 4 images from Stillman Photography
Our last ended interviewed with a question about your dream scenario for a modeling shoot. You said it was happening the next day with a nude shoot on the beach. How did it go?
'The shoot went well. It was my first beach shoot. I shot in Rancho Palos Verdes at Sacred Cove. Right next to Donald Trump's mansion. It was a tough shoot. I shot for hours in taverns, the ocean, and even in caves. I had creative control and executed all of my ideas. I learned a lot from that shoot.'
I have enjoyed some of the images you have entered in Model Mayhem's POTD contest. Some are very hot and I always wonder why your images are not garnering more votes. What factors do you think go into success on that particular site?
'Sex. Simply put, sex sells. The photos that win are usually frontal nude pics. The guys are usually posing suggestively. I shoot tasteful nudes; leaving a hint to the imagination. Regardless of votes, I make the entries for my followers. They are what matter most.'
What factors do you consider when deciding which photographers you will or will not work with?
'Artistically expressing oneself and being nude are two different things. Just standing there naked is not modeling. If I like their work, I build the dialogue to see what they want vs what I want. Then we negotiate. I've been fortunate to still have creative control. A true artist is their best when they have creative control.'
You have stated that music is your ultimate goal. How has modeling impacted or played a role with your journey?
'The modeling culture has definitely impacted me. It has opened doors socially and has been great for networking. Others in the industry do this as a side job or hobby, but that's not my case. I enjoy it. Modeling has definitely improved my performance. I have a consciousness of spacing that I didn't have before. I now understand my body and how it works. Modeling is not easy, but it definitely have kept me on a great path.'
Anthony Welch performing Original choreography.
From your tube video's, you clearly have a passion, and the skill for dancing. Have you had any training, or has it been purely a love of the music and movement?
'Yes I am trained in ballet, traditional, Latin dances, hip-hop, and gymnastics just to name a few. Although I do love music and the culture I am a professional. I have danced professionally since the age of 14. My first job was dancing for the NBA. I'm currently registered with IDA on Hollywood Blvd. Dancing is life, I won't ever stop.'
Remaining images of Anthony from Tjpics
Whose career in modern music would you say best represent where you hope to one day be?
'This is tricky. At first I say Janet, because she revolutionized entertainment. She's one of the few artist that has lucrative career that still maintains a down-to-earth personality. She hasn't released music in years though. In today’s market? There's many: Daft Punk, Pharrell, Adele, and Drake to name a few. They work hard and are extremely passionate.'
With all the millions of artists trying to name for themselves in the music business, what qualities does Anthony Welch possess which will set you apart from the crowd?
'I have passion and determination. I enjoy performing on or off stage. I practice every day. This industry is physically demanding. Many entertainers complain about it, but I enjoy the sweat. People can see drive and they appreciate it. I'm organic and original. I'm an entertainer that a family can enjoy.'
