Interview: Singer, Quentin Elias - From French Boy Band to New York Big Boy

Formerly of the multi-platinum French boy band Alliage, Quentin Elias is now a New York City transplant who has worked alongside artists ranging from Junior Vasquez to Spike Lee. With an incredibly sexy stage presence, Elias has been leaving audiences gasping for more while performing his original singles like "Serve It Up!" This unbelievably handsome and charming performer recently chatted with HX about his homeland, the perks of being in a boy band, and fighting with Diana Ross for photo ops.

Matthew Ray: You were born In France? Do you get back often?
QE: Not as much as I want. Last time I was there, it was for a TV show to promote "Serve It Up." It was 2 years ago already !! Wow, times fly.

When did singing come into the picture?
Singing came naturally. I wanted to be a dancer at first, then when I moved to Paris I started singing classes and singing on stage. When I got my first record deal at 16, I took it more seriously and practiced my voice as much as I could. I think singing and dancing are the best combination for me.

You really slept on the streets of Paris when you first moved there?
Yes, I did, unfortunately. Leaving Marseille for Paris was a sudden decision, I left without thinking. Once I got to Paris, I realized I had nowhere to go. It was the summer, so it wasn't that bad. It makes me stronger and more appreciative of having a nice comfortable bed! Thankfully, I eventually got some work as dancer at the Moulin Rouge and I could afford to get a room.

Tell our readers, who might not be familiar, a little about Alliage.
Alliage was a boy band like N'Sync or Backstreet Boys, very popular in France. We sold over 5 million CD's. It was a great experience for me, but I had no private life. After 4 years, I left and moved to NY. I was tired of touring and working 24/7. I needed a break.
Did you have mostly female fans, or were there some gays boys out there buying those CDs?
Well, everyone bought the CDs, I can't tell you who was who. But we did get a tremendous amount of support from the gay community. Music is a universal language. I don't believe that there is straight or gay music.