If you're throwing a 1940s-themed party, you can't go wrong with Baltimore musician Bosley. In fact, it'd be a bit remiss not to include him.
"Sultry dance music, louche behavior and hijinx," is how the 28-year-old (full name: Bosley Brown) described what to expect when he headlines the Party at the Patterson, dubbed "Lipstick," on Friday at the Creative Alliance (8 p.m., $7-$15; 3134 Eastern Ave.).
The Lipstick gig begins another busy year for the Hamilton resident, who said he's influenced by everything from the Beatles and Miles Davis to Otis Redding and Teddy Pendergrass. On March 15, he'll release "The Dirty Dogs Radio Show," the follow-up to his acclaimed 2012 debut album, "Honey Pig."
Before he leads the zoot suit riot, Bosley talked to us about his love for Carl Sagan, his dream musician to work with and more.
Worst pet peeve? Parking tickets.
What songs are you loving and hating right now? I love the new Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings song "Making Up and Breaking Up." Bosco Mann [of Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings] is the king as far as I'm concerned. Though I think pop music has been pretty dull these days and for a while, I try not to hate anybody out there doing their thing in this business, even if it's not my thing. I think it's pretty classless to publicly trash other artists.
Last concert you went to? Height With Friends at the Metro Gallery.
Your worst habit? It depends on the week. Right now it's overcommitting myself and dropping balls. But a man's gotta hustle.
Trend that has exceeded its natural lifespan? This is a question better suited for someone who keeps up with trends. Uh, Snuggies? Are they still all the rage?
Last movie you liked and disliked? Liked: "The Art of the Steal." It's a fantastic documentary exploring the value of art. Disliked: "Despicable Me 2." It lacked the humor and pathos of the original.
TV show you can't get enough of? Carl Sagan's "Cosmos." Also, the one about those teenagers struggling with growing up in high school and drugs and pregnancy and all that. You know the one.
Favorite and least favorite fashion statement? Favorite: "I think I look hot as s--- in this s---!" Least favorite: "Everybody thinks I look hot as s--- in this s---!"
Favorite place to get a drink in Baltimore? WC Harlan. You might even catch me playing the piano.
Best advice you ever got? Don't be afraid of failing; be afraid of not trying.
Last great meal you had? Brunch at Maggie's Farm.
Favorite thing about the 1940s? Swing, the golden era of the music, Duke Ellington, Lindy Hoppers, the Savoy Ballroom — all of it.
Dream musician to work with? Tom Waits is my idol. I'd love to write for the Daptone stable, too. That's a goal of mine.
Favorite thing about Baltimore? Its outstanding and distinguished print publications!
AS TOLD TO JORDAN BARTEL