Describe your sound in 3 words
Jazzy, soulful, natural.
Tell us a few things about your new song ‘Living My Life’. What is the story behind it?
I was writing a song for a friend’s milestone birthday about how life is for living, as he is such a bon vivant. During that process, this song appeared from my subconscious but it was blues-based and seemed to carry a message, so I ran with it. The song conjures an image of a guy in a bar telling a lady with troubles on her mind (a sister) and then a gent (a brother) and then everyone in the bar, to just get on with life as best you can. For, it’s a waste of energy to fret over things you can’t change or control. So just live your life, like the singer tries to do.
Do you like the idea of collaborating? Is songwriting a lonely process?
In songwriting, I apply the Pareto principle. It’s 80% alone and 20% in collaboration. I conjure songs from alone time coming up with the melody and lyrics first of all. I don’t find this to be lonely as the brain is stimulated by creative juices. Then I enjoy collaborating with a producer/musical director on enhanced arrangements for the original song structure. Receiving someone’s feedback and input at this last stage is rewarding and fun.
Favourite album of the past year?
I’ll take this as the favorite album I’ve enjoyed in the past year, rather than an album produced during that period. And that would be: “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” which is an extraordinary blast from the past.
What would you change in the music industry?
I’d like to see more local venues for live music open and thrive. People should be able to go and see a music show as if they were going out to a movie. I’d also like to see a subscription-based business model introduced in this regard. The venue would offer me a packaged or unlimited number of shows for a monthly price. That way I’d use it or lose it and I’d end up discovering much more music than if I just showed up ad hoc for artists I already knew. It would be a win-win as the customer would get cheaper shows than on a per ticket basis, the music venue would get loyal, recurring customers, and musicians would get discovered and paid out of the proceeds.
When not writing music, how do you spend your time?
I like to cook, eat and drink good wine with family and friends. I spend time walking and exercising to keep my mind and body in good health and spirits. I also like to travel and read to learn and experience new things.
What is the best concert you have ever been to?
The Kenny Barron & Dave Holland Trio at the Monterey Jazz Festival 2019. They were the warm-up act for Diana Krall in the Arena. Their playing was so pure, heartfelt, and in the pocket.
Thank you!
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