In late spring, after being a favored contestant on MTV’s “Rock the Cradle,” singer/songwriter Crosby Loggins paved the path to victory with an organic grace that won the hearts of America. After a strong performance and praise from industry experts as the show’s most consistently solid vocalist, the multi-instrumentalist was voted as the winner, earning him a sweet deal from Jive Records.

Next up, Crosby is headed back to the studio to write and record music for his debut release on Jive Records, but not before he plays a show in Hollywood this week. Crosby is set to perform live on August 5, 2008 at the Henry Fonda theatre at 8 p.m. Loggins will be opening for blues rock artist Joe Bonamassa and it sounds like it may be a while before fans will see Loggins play live, so catch him now if you can!

We had the opportunity to chat with Crosby about his upcoming performances and debut album…

Hollywire: Are you excited to be performing live again?

CL: Absolutely. There’s nothing like performing live, and I have some new tunes to try out so I’m looking forward to it. A few of the core members of my former band, The Light, will be performing with me, but in a new configuration, so it will be sort of “seat of the pants” which should make it fun.

Hollywire: Tell us about your history with Joe Bonamassa.

CL: I opened for Joe for the first time about two years ago, and after the show he pulled me aside and asked if I’d be interested in signing with his label. At the time I was being approached by a major and a couple boutiques, but I didn’t really love the vibe I was getting. Joe promised far less in the way of big time marketing money, but far more in the way of passion and accountability. He released my debut in September of 2007, and promptly tossed me on his bus for over 120 dates in the US and Europe - a vote of confidence exceedingly rare in today’s scene. It was a terrific experience because we play very different styles of music, but his crowd was very welcoming. We share a very deep love of the craft. Now that I’m signed to Jive Records, and my career is picking up speed, it will be something of a homecoming to perform with Joe again.

Hollywire: Any more shows planned?

CL: Not yet at this time. I’m really focusing on producing my next album first and then I’ll jump back on the road.

Hollywire: We hear you’re writing music. What can we expect of your next album?

CL: I’m really digging some of the new stuff. In addition to my current “stylistic melting pot,” there will be more accessible melodies that are memorable, but not always simple, and meaningful lyrics that hopefully bring a fresh sense of soul to the pop craft.

Hollywire: When can we expect the next album?

CL: No release date is set as of yet, but we are all pushing for sooner rather than later. My goal is to have it recorded and ready for release by early Fall.