If you haven’t heard of Daniel Jones musician, producer, MD extraordinaire, you might be surprised that you have actually heard his music.
Jones is a remarkable musician who plays the keys, piano, organ and anything dealing with the blacks and whites as he puts it. He’s also a musical director and producer. He attended Booker T. Washington high school of performing visual arts in Dallas, and New School University in New York as a jazz piano major. He has toured with some of the top artists in the industry including, 50 Cent, Eve, Lauren Hill, Timbaland, Dr. Dre, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, and Jay-Z. Rolling out got a chance to sit down with Jones before he went back on tour with Justin Timberlake.
What inspired you to make a career in music? Everybody in my family is musically inclined. My Grandmother and Grandfather, cousins, Aunts and Uncles. I grew up listening to Steely Dan, and Michael Franks, and Prince. They were my inspiration early on and continue to inspire me to do greater things.
You are on tour with Justin Timberlake, how did you land such a cool gig? I Worked with Tim [Timbaland] on a gig years ago, JT was one of the special guests, he liked my skills and remembered me and my sound. It also helps that I worked with the producer of his album. I’ve never had to audition for a gig. I show up on time and deliver, and people remember that.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft? How do you stay relevant? In my senior book, I wrote that I wanted to be playing for Joe, and to have an endorsement by Korg [instrument company]. In five-six years I had accomplished both. It’s a mind-set. Know what you want, know who and where you want to play, go after it, but stay focused. Surround yourself around greatness and stay connected to young artists to keep it fresh. Create balance. I pay my bills, tithes and taxes. I’m not worried about home, therefore I keep my mind fresh so fresh ideas can flow.
What do you do for fun or to unwind? … I keep my ear to the ground, listen to some good live music, and I like to read conspiracy theory books. I’m reading a great book now, Beyond the Pale White Horse. I also enjoy spending time with my young son. I love sports, but most of all I love to cook.
Check out Jones’ Korg endorsement video below:
