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?