1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?
I would have to say the controversy between Tupac Shakur and The Notorious BIG back in the mid 90’s. I use to be so influenced by the “gangster rap” prior to that. So once that happened, and the impact that it had on the genre and the culture, I took a couple steps back.
Now, I’d like to say my music delivers a positive message opposed to what I use to like. Sorry I’m Late is kind of like a testament of the struggles I’ve dealt with personally, and the songs pretty much represent how I’ve overcome those obstacles. I like to believe no matter the situation, there is always a way to excel in a positive light.
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
Little bit of Lupe Fiasco. Little bit of Sam Cook. My taste in music is all over the place. I listen to classical music a lot too. I believe the instruments always find a way to pull out your raw emotions. Not to mention, I like to understand through the generations how the music has evolved, and what today’s music is influenced by.
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
Working on “All I Got To Give” with Marsha Ambrosius. Wow, what an amazing person, and an amazing singer. Before we even reached out to her about the record, she was already my favorite vocalist. So for her to actually work on the song with me is like a dream come true.
The song itself was already a very personal and emotion record to begin with. I speak on losing my grandmother, who was the person I held closest to me. So with Marsha coming in and doing what she brings to a record, just makes it that much more special to me.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
Music is powerful. People connect to music. So many emotions and feelings are tied into music. Sometimes, when people are overwhelmed with emotion, they run to their radio and put a record on that sooths their soul. It’s therapeutic.
To change the world may sound a bit extreme to an average person that isn’t in the business, but as an artist, I believe it can, one person at a time one song at a time. An artist can make a record, and a listener might be so touched by the record, it may motivate them to take a different route, being suicide, committing a crime, anything that could alter their life, and others.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
You win some, you lose some. I believe we gained some, being the exposure and ease of access to the music, and the artist. But – we also lose the anticipation and the build up of an album up to its release date.
Since were now entering the digital era, physical album sales have dramatically dropped. Back in the day, there was always a sense of mystery and the want to learn about an artist. Now because social media is so accessible, you know everything about an artist and your perception of them isn’t just perceived by the music they create.
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
I would consider myself a pair of cleats that were worn in a muddy football game. Even though they went through a lot, they made it through the game, and can be washed off to be worn in the next one. I’ve been through a lot, but not anything that took me to the point of no return. So with that said, hopefully these shoes can look forward to many games to come!
