Ones to Watch in 2012: Zander Bleck

THIS is Zander Bleck. Familiarize yourself because this guy’s got MAJOR potential.  Released in February, Bleck’s debut single, “Temptation” is an 80s-inspired electro rock jam that he co-penned alongside legendary songwriter Holly Knight (Heart, Tina Turner, Pat Benatar).  Add to that, you know a song is HOT when you attract the attention of a hit maker of RedOne‘s (Lady Gaga, Enrique Iglesias) caliber, and that’s exactly what happened with Bleck’s “Temptation.”  In an interview with USA Today, RedOne praised his new talent, calling his voice “A mixture of Jim Morrison, Bono, and Freddie Mercury,” and adding “There’s no male singer like that right now.”  After listening to “Temptation,” I’m inclined to agree.  While Bleck’s talent and vocal style is certainly comparable to these rock icons, he’s definitely got a vibe that’s uniquely his own.

“Temptation,” is the first single taken from Zander Bleck‘s forthcoming debut album, Monument, which is due out later this year on Interscope Records.  Bleck recorded the single, as well as a majority of his debut album, while in Europe running around with RedOne and Lady Gaga on her 2010/2011 Monster Ball Tour.  Another song, the Mutt Lange (AC/DC, Def Leppard, Foreigner, Bryan Adams, Maroon 5)-produced “Bring It On” was recently featured in FOX Television‘s regional and national promos for the PAC 12 NCAA conference games, giving Zander some much needed exposure leading in to his upcoming album release.  With major support from both RedOne and Interscope chairman Jimmy Iovine, it’s pretty clear that Zander Bleck has a lot riding on this debut album being a success.  While he’s definitely got the chops, I don’t think it’s a good thing that this is the first I’m really hearing of him.  Here’s hoping Interscope promotes the hell out of this guy, because he’s definitely ‘One to Watch.’ 

Born and raised in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, Thomas Zander Bleck grew up immersed in the music world.  His father was a filmmaker, DJ and former Millennium/RCA Records recording artist.  While Zander was exposed to a variety of musical genres, it was ultimately rock and roll that struck a chord with the aspiring star.  In fact, it was a video of The Who performing at Woodstock that sealed the deal for Zander – he was going to be a rock star.  Upon graduating high school, Zander packed up and moved to New York City where he dabbled in modeling, working for an impressive array of high profile clients including Diesel, Armani Exchange and Sunglasses Hut.

While modeling certainly paid the rent, music was where Zander’s heart was.  Bleck formed his first rock band, Monument, writing songs and gigging all over New York City with the band, eventually branching out on his own and using his connections to line up a series of songwriting sessions.  All things considered, Bleck did just fine on his own.  In 2009 he independently released a self titled EP, followed by a 2010 dance collaboration, where he contributed vocals to a cover of Tears for Fears‘ 1985 hit “Everybody Wants to Rule World,” (Star 69 Records) (iTunes US) which peaked at #6 on Billboard‘s Hot Dance Club Songs chart.  Not too shabby.  Of course, all of this hard work ultimately paid off in an even bigger way, in the form of a lucrative record deal with Interscope Records.  I would say things are off to a pretty good start for this up & coming rockstar, as he’s already shared stages with the likes of American Idol rocker David Cook and explosive British boy band The Wanted.  It’s only a matter of time before Zander Bleck is headlining his own shows all over the world.

Both “Temptation” and “Bring it On” are available to download now (iTunes US) and look for a “Temptation” remix EP due on May 1st.  Download Zander Bleck on iTunes and check out the rockstar-chic video for “Temptation” BELOW.