You started your music career at a very young age, what inspired you to try music?
I discovered I could sing by accident, I was watching a show with my mom and I started singing opera with the performer on the television. It just was natural and I felt so good singing. Then I found the guitar, courtesy of Jack Black lol and the rest is history.
What made you decide to try out for Kandi Burruss’s television show on BRAVO TV – Kandi Factory?
I am friends with Phaedra Parks (Real Housewives of Atlanta), we met at an event I was singing at, she encouraged me to try out so I did. It was a grueling audition process (9 months). I am always on board to try new things, you never know where they might lead you.
What was that experience like for you & in what ways do you think that helped your singing career?
It was so great to work with music industry professionals. It was my first time in a studio and what a way to start your career having Kandi Burruss write you a song. It was super cool and I took away so much knowledge I will always be grateful. I won…so there was that lol… I got a chance to fly back to Atlanta and have Kandi and her team film my first music video.
How would you describe your musical style?
When I write and compose my originals I bring some rock and soul to the process. That is just who I am. I also have a big range and a theater background so that tends to lead me in my vision. I like big production.
What artists do you look up to right now?
I really dig Ed Sheeran because he is authentic. He is the whole package, what you see is what you get and that is who I am. I am not trying to emulate my idols I am just trying to be authentically me.
You recently released your new single “Blind In Love”, what has been your thought about the reaction of the new single?
It’s been pretty amazing and cool. I was nervous about this release because it is not so mainstream and so far the critics and my industry peers have been really on board. It is so great to have good feedback this song has a lot of love and heart poured into the writing, composition and production.
Can you tell us the meaning behind “Blind In Love”?
It is an ode to the challenges we face, I face in the dating world. I am not a swipe, text, snap kind of guy. I don’t think emoji’s should replace real life. So it’s challenging meeting girls and navigating dating outside of the fake internet world. I am that guy that wants to talk to you, find out how your day was and connect.
How did the idea for this song come about?
It just happened… usually when I write I have a melody in mind, I was really feeling soulful that day. The song wrote itself quickly. It even was an accidental recording, I wa sin the studio with my producer Wes Edmonds and we planned on recording another song but we were not feeling it that day. He asked if I had another song and my manager said, hey play Blind in Love. I really didn’t want to because I never planned to bring it to the studio but under duress I did it and my producer was floored… so we just went for it.
Do you plan on performing “Blind In Love” live anytime soon?
I play it live at gigs and I will be putting it on my youtube soon.
Whats your favorite song to perform live?
Original – Everybody Sing (releasing soon) & Cover – Wanted Dead or Alive by Bon Jovi
What does it feel like to perform your own music live in front of your fans?
Awesome. Especially when they like it lol.
Can we expect any new music soon?
Yes will be releasing a new single almost every two months from here on out… have been in the studio for a year working.
Are there any other projects in the works you can tell us about?
Yes I am a part of a group collaboration song and video for a cool organization called To Write Love on Her Arms. I am working on my single releases and a music video.
What’s the process of writing one of your songs?
I can write on command, I am pretty lucky that way. I typically store melodies that I come up with on my guitar and get inspired from the composition.
Does your fanbase have a name?
Not yet.. I never really asked them to name themselves. I am so grateful for them though…thanks for the idea haha!
How do you want your relationship to be with your fans?
I want them to know how much I am driven by their support. I am real so I enjoy really getting to know my fans individually.
What was the craziest fan encounter you have had?
I was working at Walmart a few years ago part time and this woman recognized me and started screaming on the line… I was so embarrassed. Then she asked me for my autograph and a picture. The people in line were not amused hahaha.
What social media platform do you use most to stay connected to your fans?
Instagram, facebook and twitter although I am not great at twitter, its overwhelming to me
What goals have you set out for yourself in your career and in your personal life?
In my personal life I am in a step out of my comfort zone space at the moment, making cool music and I recently conquered my fear of heights I went skydiving it was so dope. I am going out again in a few weeks. Professionally, I am very focused on my songwriting and continuing to make great recordings
How has this whole music career experience been?
Hard work but I really am dedicated to continuing and growing in my career.
Do you have any advice for aspiring music artists?
Yes set goals, work hard and I mean work. Practice, write, hustle. You have to put 1000 percent into this and never expect others to do it for you. Also treat the industry professionals with respect. I see artist be so rude and ungrateful and I am personally so grateful for anyone who is willing to get behind me and my music. Never give up
Do you have any last things you want to tell your supporters?
Can’t wait to get to know you all… thanks for reading about me and make sure to reach out to me.
