"There's just me ... One is the magic number," says one wise Jill from Philly.
And, yes, that's me on all vocals AND trumpet on "Unconditionally."
Influences
I appreciate the ethereal voice of Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder's beautiful, all-seeing "third" eye, Bill Withers' downhome soul and Nina Simone's fearless activist artistry.
I respect and am inspired to keep "doin' me" by the fierce, honest lyricism and vocal dexerity of artists who thrive outside the mainstream, including but not limited to Amel Larrieux, Ledisi, Frank McComb, Rachelle Ferrell, Rahsaan Patterson, Trina Broussard, Meshell Ndegeocello, Donnie, Joi, Rahbi, Lalah Hathaway, Ulali, Zap Mama, Eric Benet, Lina, Jaguar Wright, Jazmine Sullivan and Lizz Wright.
Jazmine Sullivan's "Need U Bad" video (Enjoy!)
Then there are the torchbearers who don't let the "neosoul" label box them in: Erykah Badu, Maxwell, Jill Scott, D'Angelo (don't sleep on him; he's coming back, ya'll).
Like most of those I've listed so far, my roots are in gospel, and I sing from a soul rooted in faith. I learned the power of perfect harmony from the Clark Sisters and the life-changing impact of the Creator's words in verses that groups led by James Cleveland, Donald Lawrence, Kirk Franklin, John P. Kee, Edwin Hawkins and Hezekiah Walker brought to life. The Winans (all of Mom & Pop's children) are a staple in my life, Mary Mary has made faith-based music fun to listen to again, and Tonex continues to wow me.
Southern-fried, church-stirred soul peppered with 70s lyricism and funk and futuristic ideals.
I live and breathe music and poetry of the Nikki Giovanni-Amiri Baraka-Rita Dove-Sonia Sanchez-Haki Madhubuti ilk.
My focus is creating meaningful and edutaining music that encourages all of us to love one another unconditionally, serve God and humanity.
Wssup my man just stopping in to say hello. And bro the musivc you produceing is off the hook. So send yo boy a copy email me and when can talk. Holla at you later Love ya.
Hey Shug!!! Just wanted to wish you a happy New Year!! How's VA treating you? Give me your e-mail b/c i want to send you some stuff i've been working on. Love you!!!
