Rolfe had to work intensely with Sarandon while filming their love scenes, which required him to work almost completely naked.
"The whole thing pushed my comfort level," Rolfe says. "I was a sex object and a love interest. I had to get used to being around a lot of people with next-to-nothing on [my body.] The love scenes weren't uncomfortable, but they were weird because you're acting like you're having sex. But, I really did enjoy all of it."
Although there were some aspects that he had to warm up to, Rolfe says that he was fairly comfortable in his first role. He found it easy to relate to his character, and says that they are somewhat alike.
"My character is more abusive, and I'm not a hustler," he says. "But other than [those qualities], we have a lot in common. I am a sexual person. I love being creative, and I love music."
Rolfe's love for music was what first brought him into the limelight. He began playing the piano when he was just six years old. Beginning with classical music, he then transitioned into jazz.
In the early days, Rolfe mostly played as a solo artist, but after entering college he formed his first jazz band. He attended Seattle's leading music school, Cornish College of the Arts. After two years there, he moved to New York and attended Mannes Conservatory.
Rolfe's debut record, "The Persuader," (Blue Jay Records) topped both the domestic and international jazz charts in 2001, as well as won the SESAC National Performance Award. He has since released three additional albums, with the latest entitled, "The Mind of an Evolutionary." His music fuses rock, soul, funk, jazz and dance — blending the musical styles of artists such as Herbie Hancock, Jamiroquai, and the Dave Matthews Band — to create one unique sound.
"They're all very relevant styles, so I asked myself, why not fuse them all into one? I'm willing to take a risk," he says. "My music does not fit into one particular mold. It's okay to emulate and copy in the beginning, because that's how you develop your own voice. But people are drawn to real, true, honest music. Take bold steps, follow your heart and do your own thing."
Rolfe continually proves his talent by performing solo, as well as with notable musicians all across the world. In doing so, he has learned a great deal about becoming a respected entertainer.
"Continually performing really strengthens your playing," he says. "I always remind myself to treat every performance as if it's my last. To give everything I have, every time I perform."
The 34-year-old husband and proud father admits that he owes a great deal of his success to the people closest to him.
"My wife and kids have been my greatest supporters," he says. "Things are either really good or really snug."
Although living the life of a professional artist can sometimes take Rolfe away from his loved ones and bring about certain hardships, he truly appreciates the opportunities that he's been given and he's looking forward to the future — both on stage and on camera.
"It's a beautiful thing to get paid to see the world and do what I love," he says emphatically.
Be sure to check out Nick Rolfe's music on his official Web site — www.nickrolfe.com
- Comment
