How has your father influenced your music career?
I think more as a man he’s influenced me in his approach to life, than just the music that he’s written, or the music that he’s created. Although he’s a legend in jazz and a master piano player, my relationship with him has always been a father and son first. When I brought [the EP] to him, he said, “You know, it is done. I can’t do anything else you’ve done a great job with it.”
What do you hope listeners get from your new EP?
I pray the Spirit of the Lord is in each and every song. … I grew up listening to hip-hop, new jack swing, Earth, Wind & Fire, Michael Jackson [and] Prince. And so I wanted to create songs for the Lord that made me want to bob my head and dance and sing like those songs. So, I pray that people hear those kinds of influences.
Name three people who have inspired you in your life or your music.
I’d have to say Earth, Wind & Fire, Prince, Jay-Z and Teddy Riley.
