You grew up in Pasadena, California... how would you say that experience fueled your interest in music?

Actually, growing up in Pasadena wasn't the experience that fueled my interest in music. My mother did. I was fortunate to be raised in an extremely musical family. My mother sings and plays, she and her sisters had a group that traveled and performed with greats like Mahalia Jackson, etc., when they were teenagers. A cousin on my paternal grandmother's side (the one and only Ms. Lena Horne) is a legend and trailblazer of her time in Black entertainment and paved the way for artists like myself. However, my mother is the reason I sang my first note and began playing, reading and writing music. She actually fueled my interest; correction, passion for music. My roots are deep in music and art appreciation. Growing up in Pasadena and attending the Pasadena primary schools helped that interest grow. Fortunately, when I was growing up, music was a part of our regular school curriculum. It helped me to be disciplined and a better student. I started playing the violin in my elementary school orchestra in the 4th grade in Pasadena and continued until my sophomore year in college. I played the piano as well and then played around with the acoustic guitar. Perhaps on my next project I'll record one or two instrumentals!

Your new, self-titled CD features all original songs, can you share with us your approach to writing your own music?

For some strange reason, I believe I have something to say! I don't know what gave me that impression! Just kidding! But really, I have a constant need to be in touch with and share my emotions, my lessons and experiences and the experiences of others as a life learning tool. So, I search to find my inner-muse and there begins the writing process. My writing and performing is an outlet for self-expression, or my introduction to the universe, so-to-speak. Here is when I am the most vulnerable, because art is subjective so I can only pray for the acceptance and validation of a world that doesn't fully know me, YET! So my writing process is me sharing my spiritual/soulful journey!

Besides singing, do you also play an instrument?

Yes, I can play the violin, piano and will probably record a couple of instrumentals on my next CD, which I'm working on as we speak!

Who are some of your all time favorite singers?

Minnie Riperton, Nancy Wilson, Roberta Flack, Sara Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Chaka Kahn,

Where is your favorite California destination (when you're not working)?

I LOVE Monterey, CA!

What direction would you like to see the format of Smooth Jazz head?

II would like to see Smooth Jazz open up to vocal artists. I have found that it's difficult to get my vocal project on air because some stations cater only to instrumentalists, failing to keep in mind that that the vocal instrument is the hardest to play and requires the most skill and talent. Because of that, a vocalist deserves the proper consideration on other Smooth Jazz stations. That brings me to my next point, thank you SmoothJazz.com for being such an open forum for Smooth Jazz vocalists and giving my artistry a chance.