First of all, congratulations for not only winning the ‘Hot New Artist of 2013’ award from PDS Entertainment, but also being one of the finalists of this year’s EOTM award. What was it like to be nominated alongside talented musicians like Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and others before even releasing your first official full album?
There’s a lot to be said about it all. I’m so blessed to be nominated amongst such talented artists as Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, particularly considering the undeniable fact that I’m an enormous fan of them. It’s been incredible what they’ve accomplished in the music industry this year, so it is an honor to be in the top 4 with them. I’m looking forward to putting out a full album, so my fans can really see what my music is all about. It will be a distinctive blend of many genres both today and the last few decades.
Recently, you had two singles out. One is a cover of Rihanna ‘Stay’ ft. Alessia Guarnera, and the second is a remix version of ‘Right Here Wrong Time’ ft David Rush. What is it about your music that you think reaches your fans the most?
All of my music has truth and meaning behind it. Everything I put out has been connected to something in my life. ‘Right Heart Wrong Time’ for example was written to capture the emotion and desire of falling in love with someone you can’t meet because of life circumstances. These scenarios and everyday emotions are what my fans connect with too.
Your ‘Stay’ cover has an acoustic & orchestral vibe, which stands out compared to other completed cover versions. What inspired you to take this unique route with your version?
I want it to be both emotional and sexy! Armando Guarnera was the producer who not only remixed the version, but captured the added emotion of the song with his rearrangement adding nylon strings, lively violins and orchestral sounds. I’m so excited to be working on this project and could not be happier with the result. I feel that if I did a duet with Alessia, it would provide a cool vocal contrast. Her charming, amazing raw high vocals together with my low baritone style are perfect for this version.
You’ve done many collaborations with different artists from Jim Jones to Alessia Guarnera. Is there anything about collaborating on tracks with other artists versus solo tracks that stands out to you?
To be honest, I actually enjoy working with other talented artists. This brings a completely unique sound to the track, something that was impossible through the solo version. But I do enjoy doing solo tracks where I can escape and put my all into my music. I have been blessed with the ability to record with artists whose work I enjoy.
As you dominate ReverbNation and reach millions of views on your YouTube videos, what have you been working on behind the scenes? What can we expect from you in the future, whether it be 6 months, to a year, to a few years from now?
I’m currently focused on completing my first full album. I have a lot in store for my fans, including more collabs and surprises that I know they will love. My goal is to release my album in Jan 2014. As I continue to grow as an artist and artist, a few years from now I want to be recognized as an artist making a mark in the music industry. My online buzz has been incredible, and that I thank all of my family, friends, and fans who made it all occur with me!
