Tention Free : Let’s talk a bit about your work and what is the secret behind your success ?
I’m basically a pianist turned producer turned artist. I just have a deep passion and respect for music, which is what helps so many different styles flow through my mind. I’m the head of a music collective called ‘38 Cartel,’ but what we do isn’t illegal. We’re very similar, yet very different people with different skills but the same passion for music. So it’s a beneficial partnership for all of us.
Tention Free : Can you please tell our readers about your latest project?
Absolutely. I’ve just dropped a single called ‘Grow Old,’ which is basically about reassuring the one I was with that no matter what we end up going through, I won’t walk away. It was really to write because it was honestly what I experienced. Every single song I write is based off of experience, whether personal or secondhand.
I do also have my group’s debut project in production, which is gonna sound completely different from my solo work, but still utilize certain vibes. I’m producing it all myself, not because I feel like my production is the best, but because I want to expand my knowledge and express myself through the music.
Tention Free : Any upcoming project?
I have my debut project ‘AREA38’ silently in the works. On this one I’m taking a very broad and expansive approach to what can truly be done musically. A lot of people do ask me what the ‘38’ in my name means, and I don’t really speak on it much, but this project will shed some light on every track. I plan to have it released by the end of the year on all platforms.
Tention Free : Please tell us more about your style ?
I intentionally set out to make something that sounds different. Experimental would be a better way to put it. What I’m doing is sparking a silent renaissance.
Tention Free : Who are your musical inspirations?
Top of the list would have to be Kanye. He doesn’t really need much of an introduction. Growing up in Chicago, I caught wind of him and his music at a young age, and I even spent time in chorus learning under his former teacher, Muzette Morgan, so after having conversations with her, I knew what I wanted to do growing up. Kanye defies the entire ‘politically correct’ approach and makes sure his voice is heard. He doesn’t care about who likes him or who doesn’t. He’s always pushing boundaries. And of course seeing Michael Jackson on tv for the first time left me in awe because of how much emotion he put into his music. He was a pure perfectionist, which is where I would always set the bar. As crazy as it sounds, I either want to top ‘Thriller’ one day, or inspire the artist that does. And that’s no disrespect to Michael. But I’m competitive, as I’m sure he was, so I always look to top the best at anything I do.
Tention Free : Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to be a professional pianist ?
One thing I would say is to open your mind and welcome new ideas inside. There’s no magic formula to learning an instrument. I began learning by reading sheet music, but started shifting towards playing-by-ear much easier, so that was my stylistic approach. What works for me may not work for you. But two things EVERYONE needs to be successful at playing piano are patience and curiosity.
Tention Free : Have you set some goals to achieve ?
I do plan to collaborate with many more artists in the South Florida region and just grow from there. Instead of stepping over my neighbor just to reach the next step of the ladder, I’d rather us all link up and elevate each other to the top. Palm Beach is up next for sure.
Tention Free : If you could perform anywhere, in the world, where would it have to be?
Chicago. That might not seem so lavish and breathtaking to some, but that’s my hometown. I’ve always dreamt of headlining a show where I was born. I’m always gonna be a Chicago kid.
Tention Free : Please share with us your proudest moments ?
Graduating Navy boot camp is definitely at the top. Because doing that after high school wasn’t easy at all, and there weren’t any guarantees you’d make it through, so becoming a sailor showed what hard work could do.
Tention Free : Are you active on social media?
Relatively speaking. I stick to posting Instagram stories as opposed to posts. I try to keep certain aspects of my life private cause that’s just how I am, but it’s always cool connecting with new people. You can follow me @realzay38 to keep up with me.
And every now and then I post music that won’t ever go up anywhere else on my soundcloud account:
