Can you share your musical journey with us, from when you first discovered your passion for music to where you are today as an independent musician?
My musical journey spans over two incredible decades, and it all began when the legendary Stevie Wonder discovered my talent. I was fortunate to spend seven transformative years as a staff producer and writer at Motown Records, where I had the privilege of working with some of the industry’s most talented artists.
Over the years, my music has taken me on a remarkable journey. I’ve composed and produced for the likes of Jay-Z, Kanye West, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, Dionne Warwick, Anita Pointer, and Pat Boone, among others. My contributions to the Disco era were substantial, with hits like “Down to Love Town,” “Grip My Hips,” and Cheryl Lynn’s “Shake It Up Tonight” becoming iconic dance singles.
In my career, I’ve written, produced, and scored over 300 songs, spanning major artists, film, and television. Notable achievements include Thelma Houston’s gold album “Any Way You Like It,” the platinum album “Switch,” and movie scores such as “One False Move.” I’ve also lent my talents to documentaries, TV series, and theme songs for major networks.
Throughout this journey, I’ve maintained a reputation for professionalism, honesty, and integrity. My thirty-plus years as an ASCAP member reflect my commitment to being a premier artist, composer, and producer in the industry.
My musical roots trace back to gospel music, where I began by writing songs for the great James Cleveland and playing the organ for gospel choirs in Los Angeles.
Today, I continue to create music with my own labelTHE SOUND OF L.A.and for other artists as well, that stands the test of time, including my debut album “Hopeless Romantic,” which reached the top 50 on the Billboard charts. And now, I’m returning with a new single after a decade, titled “Those Words,” a song that delves into the complexities of love and life, exploring the hesitation to say “I love you” when falling in love, I wrote this song for my wife Aneessa
What motivates you to create music, and how do you stay inspired to continue making new and unique music?
My motivation to create music stems from an unwavering passion for this art form. Music is a language that transcends boundaries, and it has the power to connect with people on a deep, emotional level. To stay inspired, I draw from a wide range of sources, including listening to other artists, reading, and watching movies. Inspiration can be found everywhere, and I’m constantly exploring new avenues to keep my creativity flowing.
As an independent musician, you wear many hats – from composing to marketing. How do you balance these different aspects of your career, and what challenges do you face in the process?
Balancing the various facets of my career as an independent musician is both a challenge and a rewarding experience. It requires effective time management and a keen sense of prioritization. I’ve learned to allocate my resources wisely to ensure that every aspect of my career gets the attention it deserves.
Financial management is another critical factor. As an independent artist, I must manage my finances carefully to sustain my music career while also covering personal expenses. It’s a constant juggling act, but it’s all part of the journey.
Could you tell us about your creative process? How do you come up with new ideas for songs, and how do you go about turning those ideas into finished tracks?
My creative process is a journey in itself. It often begins with a spark of an idea, which can be inspired by personal experiences or observations of the world around me. Once I have an idea, I start crafting the lyrics and melodies, seeking to capture the essence of the concept.
Collaboration is a significant part of my creative process. I work with talented musicians, producers who help bring these ideas to life, turning them into finished tracks. It’s a collaborative effort that often results in something greater than I initially envisioned.
Independent musicians often face financial challenges. How do you manage your finances to sustain your music career while also covering your personal expenses?
Managing finances as an independent musician is crucial for long-term sustainability. I prioritize budgeting and ensure that I reinvest in my music career. Additionally, I maintain a separate income stream to cover personal expenses. This dual approach helps me strike a balance between my music career and personal financial stability, allowing me to continue pursuing my passion.
Can you share a particularly memorable or challenging experience from your journey as a musician that has had a significant impact on your career and personal growth?
One of the standout moments in my career was the electrifying experience of performing one of my original songs live in a packed nightclub, where people were queuing to see me perform. It was particularly special because the song was produced during my time at Motown Records. The connection with the audience that night solidified my deep passion for performing. However, alongside these exhilarating moments, navigating the intricate landscape of the music industry has presented its fair share of challenges. These experiences have been invaluable in teaching me resilience and reinforcing the significance of perseverance in this industry.
