Rhyme Report

Published on July 30th, 2014 | by Jameelah "Just Jay" Wilkerson

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Russell Taylor: Soul Singer By Tradition, Popular By Practice

You were recently named one of VH-1’s 2014 You Oughta’ Know Artist(s), joining the ranks of such uber acts; as, Adele, Bruno Mars, Lorde’, among others — With that being said, how does it feel to be celebrated as so and included in such an elite class?

It is awesome and a great compliment. Each of these artists bring a unique energy to their music, which is my goal with my music. And, it seems like the You Oughta’ Know brand is a good luck charm.

Let’s hop right into this brand new third studio collection War Of Hearts — Conceptually, what does that title represent both to and for you?

War Of Hearts is a collection of  music meant to explore the range of human emotions based around love. Isn’t it said that love is really the only true and original emotion…Everything else comes from it, even hate? War Of Hearts–it’s about all triumphs and pitfalls of love.

How does War Of Hearts either differ and/or compare to previous Russell Taylor efforts?

I have grown up a lot with this record. I’ve had some very real moments in the vocal booth that I hope come through in the music. As this is my third effort, I am also becoming at peace with the sound of my voice and my individuality.

Reflecting, when did you first become interested in music? And, how did it all begin for Mr. Russell Taylor?

I have memories of being a toddler and singing into a toy bowling ball pin as a microphone. I have always been a performer. But, it wasn’t until I was in undergrad that I knew that I was meant to pursue a life in entertainment. Through a bunch of twist and turns, Broadway auditions, grad school etcetera, I found myself in New York City pursuing my dreams.

Now you are a native of where exactly? And growing up, who did/do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

I am a native of Philly and my parents started me young on the connection between emotion and music. My parents would play Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Ramsey Lewis, Dionne Warwick…But also, Seals & Crofts and Neil Young, Foreigner…

At what particular point in time did you actually opt to pursue music professionally?

This is a two part answer…One day, I realized that people actually liked my singing and personality. Then, once I accepted the fact that people wanted to hear me sing, I was primed for the next part…Life is full of major challenges and setbacks, and during one of the set LONGGGGGGGG back cycles *Taylor guffaws* there was a moment that I realized how miserable I’d be if I didn’t pursue my dreams. Suddenly, the long cycle wasn’t so bad considering the alternative.
 
How then would you describe and/or define the style of music that you create and perform?

I am a soul singer by tradition, popular by practice.

Ultimately, what has been the key to your success, thus far?

I wouldn’t say that I am successful quite yet…But, I have had some phenomenal things happen thus far. I believe, these stretches of great triumphs are brought on by these nuggets of wisdom I have picked up along the way: I know it sounds so “hocus pocus,” but never give up! Believe and trust your gut. ALWAYS be a student. And, let good and bad things go–Tomorrow hasn’t arrived, and yesterday is gone…Create the moment that you want now!

Do you have any other additional/outside aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?

Absolutely! There are so many: I am an actor, director and writer. I am reviewing  a few projects to become involved with now. I’m in love with the stage.
I am working on a program that mentors inner city young men of color in the Arts.  And, I am currently an ambassador for an anti-bullying campaign.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B/Soul music? And, where exactly do you “fit in” when it comes to the overall sound-scape of today’s “trending” music?

Well…*Russell laughs* Art is like feelings…Everyone has them. And as such, everyone’s feelings are valid. I don’t feel comfortable qualifying someone else’s Art. That said, I think that there is a strange moment happening when it comes to Race & Music; so much so I am working on a short OpEd on the “Color of Music.” Where do I fit in…Well…These days, I don’t think I quite  “fit” in anywhere. I am man, I am black, I am American and I have a soulful voice.  These things alone automatically put me into the R&B category. But, I believe my music is broader than just R&B. In my words–I believe myself to be “Soul-Pop.”

To date, what has been your biggest career moment?

It is tough to narrow all these great things down into one…I have had so many:  One, the VH-1 You Oughta’ Know title, singing on stage with my friend Lalah Hathaway, seeing my videos on TV, doing an encore at my show in Paris, hearing my song set the mood in a TV show…I can keep going. There are so many things happening…Life is getting better all the while.

Looking ahead, say five or even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

I will be an established recording artist, actor, philanthropist and label owner…That rehabs old homes in his spare time. *More laughter*

As for the immediate future, what’s next for Russell Taylor?

I just started working with Vincent Herbert and there are some great things on the horizon. I am ready to go full steam ahead…Now I am just waiting on the green-light!

Any closing “thought(s)” for our readers? 

Identify your life’s passions and pursue them. The universe is on our side to get what we want…We just have to do our part. I did my best with that and War Of Hearts — I hope you like it as much as I do.

Thanks so much to HYPE Magazine for wanting to include me in your family.

By: Todd Davis



About the Author

Publisher and CEO of The Hype Magazine. Follow me on Twitter @HypeJustJay


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