Smooth Artist Interviews
Actually, I was working on producing a film at the time, which I ended up having to shelve due to circumstances beyond my control. However, I had accumulated the rights to sixty (60) demo tracks during the process. I decided that the music was too good to go unheard, So, as Executive Producer, I immediately began working on a full album with Smooth Jazz tracks that were new with a smooth groove and vibe that I thought people would want to hear. Three(3) years later, Let It Flow, the album came alive. I feel really good about the finished product, and hope that not only Smooth Jazz lovers, but people who just like good music, will enjoy the album as much as I have enjoyed making it happen. The single came from a track that I had produced as the theme song for the movie. When things changed, I took the track in a completely different direction. During the process, It evolved into something totally brand new. So I aptly named it "Evolution"...
I am most proud of the fact that through sheer will and determination, I have been able to ascend from a very meager childhood, worked extremely hard all of my life, put myself through college, learned from failure, never quit at anything I wanted to do, and went on to have a very successful career in business and music. All in all, lets just say that I am most proud of being a kid from the hood that followed his dreams, and did good.
I would have to say that my Mother was the person that pushed and cajoled me the most. She lectured me often to find my own way in life, be the best at whatever path I chose, be successful in everything I did, and build a better life for me and my family. I have passed that advice on to my own seed.
Musically... Miles Davis, Sports, and Muhammed Ali.
Politically... Barack Obama, Historically, andMartin Luther King Jr.
At this point in my life, what gets me excited and fillfills me most is the love I get from my great grand son and great grand daughter. They are four (4) and three (3) years old... Whenever they see me, they holler "Big Poppi!!!" and run and jump up in my arms and hug me tight. They show me unconditional love, and respect. I have taught them to be respectful since they were old enough to understand. I have spoiled them to the point that they think Big Poppi can do anything, and they can get anything they want just by asking. I try to connect their wants and needs with how they act...I reward them when they are good, and wil tell them calmly but sternly "NO", when they pout and cry if they don't get their way. I always explain to them that nothing in life is promised to you, and you only get what you earn. At this point though, all they have to do is be good, mannerly kids, continue to show love and respect, and Big Poppi will always be a positive force in their lives.