Smooth Artist Interviews

How did this new album and overall concept for it come about, and what are your ultimate goals with it?

Being a successful sideman as a bassplayer and singer is always very rewarding to me. But a few years back, at one point I could feel this need to express myself through my own music grow inside of me, and so one day I decided to let my spirits flow and make an album of original music.

What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of recording a new album?

I think to find topics lyrically and musically that people can relate to and to give them hope and something to think about.

How would you describe what inspires you to do what you do? 

I have this image in my head to make the world a better place in giving positive vibes, hope and great melodies. Simple as that.

What elements do you look for in a song that makes it especially satisfying for you to perform?

There are a few things I always look for in a song: Does the vibe, the groove, and the lyrics really speak to me, the melody and, of course, the bass!

What would you define as the most life-changing event so far in your musical career?

Well, that is easy! In 2016 I had the opportunity to play shows in spain with my biggest hero on bass, Nathan East! And to play second bass in his band was a dream came true. I knew Nathan since 1999 personally, and it took another 17 years till the moment arrived to share the stage with him. Even hear him play in my in ear system on stage was amazing! The best live gig I ever had!

What’s your absolute favorite part of the World, and why?

For more than one reason: I love the USA! This is the land where most of the modern Popmusic was invented (beside the UK), so many music styles came from here, Blues, Rock, Rock’n’Roll, Country, Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Fusion etc. And so many of my musical heroes are americans, like Nathan East, Marcus Miller, Chuck Loeb, George Duke, Quincy Jones, Kirk Whalum, Eric Marienthal etc.