Four time Grammy Award-winners, BOYZ II MEN make their long-awaited return to the Australian shores this October.

AMNplifys Pauli Dee spoke to Shawn Stockman about their favourite artist to work with, returning to Australia and lots more…

Pauli: Boyz II Men have been leaders in the music industry for over 20 years. What’s your secret?

Shawn: It really comes down to our core philosophy- as artists, we are committed to making timeless music, we are willing to work hard, and everything we do is for the fans. That’s how we’ve always approached our careers and I think the industry and the fans have responded to that. We don’t take success for granted, and I think that has absolutely contributed to our success.

Pauli: Everywhere you look, you can find an artist influenced by BIIM. What is the most touching way in which you have seen a legacy that you’ve created live on elsewhere?

Shawn: There have been so many amazing stories we have heard from other artists who have been inspired by our music. Most recently, Bruno Mars Tweeted at us after coming to our show at the Mirage in Las Vegas. It was touching to hear that one of today’s most successful artists is one of our fans

Pauli: Wow! I Love Bruno! You’ve worked with a lot of artists over the years. Do you have any favourites to work with? Or fondest memories or stories to share?

Shawn: That’s a tough question! We have had the privilege of working with so many incredible talents it is tough to choose. I would say one act that we had a lot of fun with was Justin Bieber. He is so talented and we enjoyed working with him since we love spreading our music to younger generations of fans.

Pauli: I’m a big Michael Jackson fan, so I have to ask: What was working with the King of Pop like?

Shawn: It was an honor to work with such a legend. Michael has been an influence to us throughout our career & it’s something we will never forget.

Pauli: Is there anyone you haven’t worked with yet that you would love to collaborate with in the future?

Shawn: Definitely, Prince!

Pauli: Maybe on the next album! …Do you have a favourite of your albums?

Shawn: I think they are all so unique that I couldn’t pick just one! Our latest album, Collide, which was released last fall, is one that we are extremely proud of because it showcases a different sound that our fans really loved.

Pauli: What music are you currently loving?

Shawn: It depends on my mood, I listen to everything from today’s top hits to the classics!

Pauli: You hit Australian shores in October, what can Aussie fans expect from your shows?

Shawn: Fans can expect a mix of new tracks from our latest album Collide, and all of the old hits that everyone knows and can sing along to. We love Australia, so we’re really looking forward to this show!

Pauli: What memories do you have of Australia? What’s the first thing you think of when you think of Australia?

Shawn: We have performed in Australia a few times and we always love the energy that fans bring to our shows. When I think of Australia I picture the Sydney Opera House since it is such an iconic musical spot.

Pauli: How has your music changed since you started out in the industry? How has the industry changed since you started out?

Shawn: Our music has developed throughout the years and we just continue to give the fans what they want.
Recently, at our residency in Las Vegas at the Mirage, we have started playing guitars in some of our sets to give our audience more of the sound they love.
As for the music industry, in a lot of ways, the playing field has been levelled by social media and technology, which is a beautiful thing- anybody can record and upload a video on YouTube in their bedroom and be the next Vine star. There’s a lot of talent out there and now everyone is able to get their music out there and in front of people.

Pauli: Boyz II Men have 12 great albums under their belt. Are there any plans for a 13th?

Shawn: With our last album, Collide, we didn’t want to make an album for the sake of making one. We never want to make music just to make it. When the time is right our next album will come!

Pauli: Well thank you for taking the time to answer my questions, I hope you enjoy your stay in Australia.

Shawn: Thank you and looking forward to the shows!

You can catch Boyz II Men at one of their Aussie show dates:

Saturday 3 October — Metro City, Perth

Monday 5 October — Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide

Tuesday 6 October — Palais Theatre, Melbourne

Thursday 8 October — Eatons Hill, Brisbane

Friday 9 October — Jupiter’s Casino, Gold Coast

Saturday 10 October — Big Top, Sydney

Monday 12 October — Royal Theatre, Canberra

Thursday 15 October — Evans Theatre Penrith Panthers, Sydney

Tickets available HERE