I was born in South East D.C.
Let's call it "ChocolateCity" for that time ...
When I grew up was right about the end of "forced bussing?" So I missed that thankfully!
Growing up in Arlington, VA. meant that as a child, you not only had bomb drills but you were very aware of the bomb shelters underneath the buildings that you were living in.
I used to call where I live "10 Minutes from Ground Zero" because we were that close to the Pentagon.
Here's the thing about this era that you might not understand ... The DMV was not only rocking go-go but it also was rocking punk, new wave, funk, soul, classical and gospel all at the same time.
It just so happened that I was a part this artistic aspect that happened in Arlington.
It also just so happened that the church that I attended growing up (Lomax AME Zion) which my Dad's parents were "higher ups" there, were in attendance on the morning when Martin Luther King gave a sermon before his "I have a dream " speech!
Yes! I understand that it's not normal to say that Robertta Flack attended my church, let alone to say that my Mom's choir was affiliated with the James Cleveland workshop, but it's all true!
I can't hide it!
So ...
Yes, I know gospel (I actually played at the Carter Baron Amphitheater when I was 14)
I also know Rock because a couple of hall-of-famers actually lived up the street from me. I know Black Sabbath because my uncle thought it was a church band and I also know about Earth, Wind & Fire because he wore that album out so much, he had to get a new one.
What you're listening to right now is an absolute culmination off all the sounds I have studied through extensive research!
Some folks call me a walking musical encyclopedia ... I"m like? "Nahh ... not really "
My music is MY DIARY and I sincerely hope that whatever I compose is a benefit to you!
Blessings!
