In order to fully devote my life to being an artist out of graduate school, spurning potentially lucrative jobs and a chance at a "normal" and life, I had to commit to two infallible habits:

1. Devoting the necessary resources to continually and rigorously improve my technical skills
2. Crafting songs and projects that most accurately reflect the music and messages that I hold dear

Having never before studied music prior to this decision, here I am (three years later), having committed unending hours of practice, lessons, and research into honing my craft, and I wake up every day loving all the possibilities the day holds. I am undoubtedly happier and more fulfilled than back before the days of that decision.

I grew up raised by a father utterly consumed by the work habits of the post-industrial revolution and a mother of untethered enthusiasm, whose career ambitions were subdued and second to the education and rearing of thoughtful and empathetic children. I was, and continue to be, loved and supported in all of my endeavors by all of my family members.

While my father exposed me to the work ethic it takes to achieve success as well as artists like Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen,  it was my mother who had the greatest influence on my musical influences and affinity for groove based music. From Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson all the way to Led Zeppelin, my auditory musical education was vast and all-inclusive. I seek to draw inspiration from all of the artists of my youth and present in my work. 

Barista marks a seminal moment as it is a modest representation of both the work I have put in as well as the future that I hope to conceive. The music is meant to feel good, like the way Erykah Badu or Jill Scott ease me in with steady but relaxed beats and soft vocal melodies. However, the lyrics are crafted for more, resembling the way I reflect when listening to Luther Vandross or Whitney Houston sing a line. I have also tried my best to emulate the moments of delicate and melodic guitar playing of John Mayer and Robert Cray and use this tool to drive the songwriting process. The process of my creation is one all my own and ever-growing.

Come with an open mind and an open heart and there should be something to gain.

Stay a while and let me know if I can get you anything...