Issue Three- February 2019:

By Mercedes Barreto

What inspires you to create and play jazz music? How did this start?

“I’m inspired by mainly emotional things, like love, beauty, and travel. Also, I get inspired by beautiful music I might hear on the radio. I love beautiful tunes.

How did this start? I really loved jazz music when I was in high school.

Since then jazz has been my calling.

It’s not easy being a jazz musician but I’ve been hanging in there for a while now…”

If you could pick one major influence, in life, or influentially, who would that person be?

“One of my main influences was my guitar teacher, mentor, producer, and friend Melvin Sparks.

He produced my album, Flubby Dubby. He took me under his wing I moved to NYC when I was 23. He recommended me to other great musicians and recording sessions. He was an incredible guitarist who never really got his due. He passed away in 2011.”

How would you describe it when you play jazz live and on tour?

Is there a certain feel, or vibe, when it comes to you or the audience?

“I feel wonderful playing in front of audiences in all parts of the world.

It gives me a feeling of completeness and fulfillment as an artist. Most of the time, I can feel when the audience is into the music. Sometimes, however, I think the crowd is not into it, but they are, or vice-versa.”

Which performance would, ultimately, be considered your favorite show, which you’ve ever performed at?

“One of my favorite performances was at the Old Town Jazz festival in Warsaw, Poland, where 5000 people attended to see me play.”

What does music mean to you?

“Music is my life. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do as a kid. It’s the only thing that I know how to do…”

What would be the main message to individuals who love jazz music, who just want to have a good time and a good experience?

“My main message is to please enjoy the music when you listen to it on the radio, internet, and live.

Also support jazz music and musicians by seeing us perform live, following us on social media, and buying our music.”

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