Interview
Where did your love for the Blues start ?
My love for the blues started when I was very young when my father used to play Miles Davis albums in the house . Then , when I went to school in Chicago at the American Conservatory of Music , I was able to immerse myself daily with education and performance in the Blues scene , surrounded by great Blues Men of Chicago .
GZ : You express your blues with so much depth and feeling . What does this wonderful music mean in your daily life ?
Playing Blues is a blessing to me and a great vehicle for expressing my emotions that words cannot always describe . I am very joyful when I use music as a way of communicating . On a daily basis , whether playing Blues or just listening to it , I am continually reminded of how blessed I am .
GZ : Which was your best recording session or the most enjoyable one ? Do you have any favorite blues song ?
I have two . The sessions for recording “ Offerings ” were filled with many great memories and good times with friends . My sessions with Shawn Kellerman for his CD “ Blues Without A Home ”, were very memorable and exciting because of the opportunity to record with Lucky Peterson playing the keyboards . To see his genious first hand was truly remarkable .
GZ : It is said that a soul without ego ... rises , how do you manage to keep your humbleness in the presence of so much applause and acclaim ? It is hard to keep your feet on the ground when you have been a prodigy since early age .
My talents are a gift from God . I give all the credit and glory to Him . I have also been blessed with a very supportive family and wonderful children that have helped me to stay humble and responsible for life issues that are more important than my professional gain .
GZ : Do you remember when was the first time you were paid for playing on a stage ? What did you buy with that money ?
The first time I played professionally for pay was on my upright for “ West Side Story ” at a civic theater when I was in high school . I didn ' t make much so I probably put gas in the car and bought junk food with the money .
GZ : What ' s your opinion about the fact that some people think that the blues exclusively belongs to the afroamerican musicians or it can be played by either a black musician or any race worldwide . Does the Blues have a unique owner or is it universal ?