Gene Noble: Future Soul

Tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Gene Noble?

I come from a musical family; my mom sang and played our piano, which was her piano when she was 5. I don’t remember not singing or playing keys. I definitely started taking it more seriously when I started to get reactions from my voice in school. I used to sing Boyz II Men or Usher on command for the girls in school.

Now you’re from Manhattan, Kansas, correct? So growing up in ‘The Sunflower State,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest influences?

I was born in Manhattan Kansas…an army brat, but were ultimately settled in Long Island New York, which is where I really grew up; about 40 minutes outside of Manhattan New York.

At what point in time, specifically, did you even opt to pursue music on a professional basis?

I started frequenting Night Clubs in NYC while I was in college and singing wherever I could get on a mic. Meeting people in those settings is really what switched it from hobby to me…writing and touring for other artists.

What particular string of events actually led to your current signing with Hidden Beach?

I was just about finished with my project when Hidden Beach reached out wanting to partner to release it. The crazy thing is I was on tour with Sting in Europe and just about to start touring with Jill Scott…before Covid. It’s incredible to have the support of a label steeped in a history of quality projects.

Your recently unleashed new single is entitled “Matching Tattoos” — Tell me about this particular composition; how did it come to fruition?

I thought about being asked to get a matching tattoo, and being so damn glad I didn’t go through with getting it. After that, the song was just the story around it. It flowed easily. It’s a good intro to the Noble Vibe – Future Soul; many layers to my voice and my pen and my experience. This is a great way to bring people into my storytelling.

Now this is the first time the masses have heard from you in quite a lil awhile — That said, what all have / had you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during this musical hiatus?

Well, I did a LOT of living! Since my last release, I’ve been on the road with Usher, Sting, The Roots, 21 Savage, etcetera. I was writing and recording these songs all over the world. I even did some videos overseas. Covid has been the longest I’ve been in one place for a decade. It’s been incredible for my creativity, and just reconnecting with real life and real relationships.

You’re also a revered songwriter having contributed to high profile projects for the likes of Jason Derulo, Chris Brown, Faith Evans, Usher, CeeLo Green and Jay-Z, to name some — In having said that, what’s the actual process like when crafting for other artists versus your own bodies of work?

A lot of times I just write! I allow myself to just be inspired. Other times, I think to myself as a fan what I would want to hear that artists say or sing. In some cases I’m writing with the artists, but in most the song gets to them after the process is finished. I always record melodies first if i start with a beat, then mumble until the words come. I always have hella concepts floating around in my head, and in my phone.

Take me through a typical studio session; whether it’s for your own music and / or other acts…

Low lights…candles…probably some herb…and just honesty and freedom.

That said, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

Future Soul. My voice draws on a lot of soul singers and crooners, but also pushes music forward. I have the unique experience of having backed some of the best male voices in the world, so I have picked up a lot from all over and combined it. I have a big range, and I use all of it! That’s kinda part of my signature, and my vocal agility.

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?

FEEL. That’s really all I care about is people feeling something. Songs that make you feel LAST. I’m try’na be in as many playlists and lives as possible. I want my songs attached to special moments in people’s life. I also like that I bring a level of musicality and musicianship to my craft. I use my voice in some unique ways. I want to be trusted to take people on a journey in whichever direction knowing they’ll get quality and feel.

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Prince…I feel like his grandkid in a lot ways… D’Angelo is a big inspiration, and Prince earlier than that. I think we woulda had a blast in the studio and onstage.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?

Madison Square Garden is most important because it’s THE NYC venue! I’ve performed there with other artists…but solo will be a moment for sure!

In terms of longevity, what do you feel it is that will continue to sustain you in this grueling industry?

Quality, and my ability to perform live. I’ve also been fortunate enough to have more experience than mostly any new artist, because I’ve toured with so many massive artists. If I can’t figure out longevity after working with some of the longest careers, then this just wasn’t meant for me!

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

Definitely! I have a big heart for activism and my community and my people, so in addition to the work I’m already doing I’ll be pushing a lot more in that direction. I’m also planning to work with more artists, and put some out on my own…restaurants…I love cooking. Pretty good at it, too! Family…kids…a few books. Pretty much limitless. The music is just the first launch pad.

To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

Performing for Quincy Jones at his home in Bel Air…singing a duet with Sting nightly on tour…my song “Only Love” with Shaggy and Pitbull going Top 20, and being on radio everywhere.

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

Touring…being the change…releasing more music…scoring Film and TV…some acting…couple businesses…expanding my territory from all sides!

As for the immediate, what’s next for you, Gene?

The EP is coming out…that’s ALL I’m thinking about right now!! I’m excited to give my supporters an entire project to live with and rock to. It’s been way too long!! It’s honestly really unique, and I’m proud of the work.

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?

Nope! Just tell the people where to find me at, and that I can’t wait to see them in person when I can tour again!