Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest album, and what themes or stories you aimed to convey through your music?

For my latest release, I was inspired by a powerful sermon at church. During the sermon the minister expressed how he’d lost his way for a while but was able to renew his faith in God and was drawn back to his ministry. He was grateful God granted him forgiveness and restoration. This particular song has a story of redemption, forgiveness and second chances. The title came to me while at church, and when I got home, I began to write lyrics. I believe in God and my hope is that my songs will serve as a beacon of hope and peace to light a pathway to Christ.

Music often has the power to transport people to different places and times. Can you describe a moment in your life when a particular song or album had a profound impact on you?

In 1995 when I lost one of my older brothers, the song I leaned on was Anita Baker “Only for a While”. In the early 2000’s when I was caring for my dad (The late Pastor Charles Edison) were difficult times as I traveled through rain, sleet and snow 60 miles one way to help care for him during his illness. Songs that I remember leaning on during that time was Yolanda Adams “Mountain High Valley Low” album. Two songs in particular were replayed several times. The songs were “In the Midst of it All” and “Through the Storm”. There were many stormy days, literally, no pun intended. I will always be grateful to God for those days and the times spent helping my dad.

Many artists have rituals or routines they follow before performing or recording. Do you have any unique or quirky pre-show or pre-recording rituals that you find help you get in the zone?

I always say a silent prayer before I start any song. I pray that God gets the Glory. I drink throat coat tea with honey. I do vocal warmups either in studio or before I get there to expedite time. I like the lights low or out because I don’t like anyone seeing me when I record, plus it relaxes me.

Your lyrics often tell a story or convey a message. Can you share the story behind one of your songs and the inspiration that led to its creation?

My previous project titled “We Owe It All to You” released in 2022 was the album and single title. That song came after I was delivered from Covid in 2020. I lost a sister and a niece within weeks of each other. During that time, I also had at least 6 to 8 other family members hospitalized with dire conditions. Not just my family, the entire world was tossed around and severely affected. There was no vaccine. Healthcare professionals were overwhelmed and had no clue what to do, or how to manage this massive outbreak.
“When everything seemed cloudy and gray, when we couldn’t see our way” The song is a testimony of some of the trials I have gone through. This experience has renewed my purpose in life by redirecting my path.

If you could curate a music festival with a lineup of your dream artists, who would be the headliners, and what would the theme of the festival be?
A Gospel Revelation: featuring the late Walter Hawkins, the late Andre Crouch, the late Aretha Franklin, Tamela Mann, Yolanda Adams, Marvin Winans, Shirley Caesar, Dottie Peoples and the Chicago Mass Choir

Music can be a powerful tool for advocacy and change. Are there any social or political causes that you’re passionate about, and how does your music play a role in promoting these issues? I want to reach people on a spiritual level. I’d like my music to resonate soul to soul of each individual to make change. I would also like to see music creators being fairly compensated for their works and contributions to the music industry.

The music industry has evolved significantly with technology. How do you see artificial intelligence and emerging technologies impacting the creation and distribution of music in the future?

I feel Artificial intelligence will revolutionize the music industry in several ways. Let’s start with the creation of music. AI can assist with the songwriting process, the creation of instrumental music and so much more. The more we learn about it, the better we are able to adapt to the changes it brings. I do believe there are pros and cons with this evolving technology. Nevertheless, AI will eventually transform the way music is experienced and enjoyed.

Many recording artists evolve over time. How do you see your musical journey changing and growing in the next decade?

I will explore new genres, collaborate with other artists, continue to improve my craft, reach a wider audience, inspire-emerging talents, hear choirs across the globe singing my songs and continue to create timeless music that resonates with listeners globally.