After much anticipation, “My Signature” the long-awaited CD from music legend and critically acclaimed producer, singer, songwriter and jazz man Johnny Scott — has been released.
As the first African American to host a soul music variety show bearing his own name, the multi-faceted artist has played a large role in breaking the color barrier, while making history.
With the release of his new album, Scott is ready to give the “boomers” something to groove to once again. -christian johnson
What was it like hosting a TV show in the south at the tail end of the Civil Rights movement?
It was difficult, I happen to have grown up in the south, in Memphis. I tried to achieve and accomplish something that no blacks had done. I was accepted, but it was difficult getting and holding sponsors, but I managed from 1968 to 1973 so it was good.
Why do you think it is important to speak to that generation and make new music for them?
Well put it this way, I’m a little older than the boomers, but I thought that it was time for them to sit down and look at the music situation, and realize that they don’t have to try to shake and move like the youngsters. They can get up and dance like we used to dance or just do a little small two-step while looking and feeling good.
What can we expect from your latest project?
I expect to have a good CD for the older generation, for them to look back and remember songs, because I have five cover songs and five original songs, and hopefully they can reminisce with one of the five songs and hopefully enjoy some of the newer material.
How long have you been working on this project?
I started working on this album a year and a half ago, but I had set backs surrounding illnesses and surgeries. This is an old folks CD, I used a few young musicians, but it was recorded mostly with the older guys.
Do you think Europeans have a different, or better, appreciation for music?
I certainly do. Their appreciation for the music and artists is greater than here in the U.S. They are very serious about their music, if you’re gonna sing the blues you better sing the blues.
Do you mentor younger artists?
The only thing I suggest to young artist is that they get an education and find something they can do other than music. If you want to be a musician, let another career be the primary objective and let music be secondary. If it does take off then good for you, but if it doesn’t then you have something to fall back on.
