Why music as a career path? I chose music because I feel that I can express myself, without words, which allows me to connect with people. To me, music is the language of the spirit.

Why Jazz? All music is connected in many ways, but jazz, for me, is reminiscent of the church, which is where I first started playing music as a kid.

What are your short-term goals? Starting my LLC, exploring the world of songwriting, and arranging for other artists as well as film scoring, touring, and recording more music.

What are your long-term goals? To have my record label and publishing company; be a professor and run my jazzstudies program so I can mentor the next generation of artists and educators.

What are your career highlights to date? Being able to share the stage with artists such as Rodney Whitaker, Terri Lyne Carrington, Patrice Rushen, Wycliffe Gordon, and

Dwight Adams, just to name a few.

Who inspires you musically, and why? Musically, I am inspired by so many artists like Greg Hutchinson, Eric Harland, Rodney Whitaker, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Geri Allen,  because they give so much of themselves to the music but also because they remained accessible and open, to impart wisdom and advice,  to help make younger jazz artists grow.