Gene Noble: Liberation

Let’s hop right into this lead single, “Whatever It Is” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?

My bro, Smiley, sent me this guitar riff, and I immediately started singing the chorus when I first heard it. The lyrics came pretty quickly after that. I started performing it live a while ago, and the response was always the same; entire crowd singing the chorus by the second time around, so I knew it was special.

Of course “ Whatever It Is” comes courtesy of your brand new LP, Feel A Way — Conceptually, what does this title represent both to and for you?

My philosophy with music is that it should make you feel something. If it doesn’t, I don’t feel like the job has been done. Feel A Way is a group of songs that just make you feel something. Whether it’s a relatable emotion or just a melodic vibe…my goal is to make you feel a way.

How then does Feel A Way either differ and / or compare to previous Gene Noble entries?

I believe I’m just getting my stride as far as stamping songs with my signature approach. This is the beginning of me completely freely expressing myself musically.

Feel A Way is a Foreground Ent. Grp release — What particular string of events actually led to this inking?

Foreground Entertainment is my own company with my partner, LP. I’ve famously been in the background for many of the world’s biggest artists, and this is me stepping into the foreground. I hope to expand the company by helping more artists make that transition.

As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics, where do you draw your inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from every single thing. Life…movies…conversations…dreams…any and everything inspires me.

Reflecting, 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 don’t remember not being heavily obsessed with music. It has always been a sanctuary for me. I grew up in church…singing…my mom is an amazing singer, and I’d be with her in all the rehearsals and concerts. I’d bang on the piano at home until she finally got me lessons. I always gravitated towards music…writing…singing…performing…playing instruments. I was always doing that.

Now you’re a native New Yorker, correct? So growing up in ‘The Empire State,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

I am a New Yorker, but I specifically grew up in Long Island…when I was a kid, Mariah Carey and Billy Joel, who are both Long Islanders, ruled much of the airwaves and influenced me heavily…I was also very heavily influenced by Melonie Daniels, and other singers around me. Hip Hop’s influence came naturally…I was a huge Fugees / Lauryn Hill fan…I was super into the Neo-Soul movement…. D’Angelo, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Musiq Soulchild. The Bad Boy era was super important to me, as well as guy groups like Jodeci, Dru Hill, Boyz II Men.

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

I classify it as unique and versatile. I’ve toured the entire world repeatedly with artists in many different genres, and those experiences have certainly shaped my sound. I draw on all of that when I’m creating. My goal is to push the art forward, while still being a part of the current conversation.

Photo Credit: Cloudy Thoughts

Switching gears here…

What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?

Consistency. I constantly push myself to be better. Better to me means more tapped in. That’s always the goal, to allow the music to be channeled through. I’m not afraid to take a backseat to that.

What do you want people to get from your music?

Whatever I’m trying to express at the time. If it’s a dance song…I want you to dance…if it’s a sex song…have some good sex. If I’m doing my job, the music should lead you to something.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?

I’m happy that people now have control of their expression. No one has to wait for a label anymore to decide what people want to hear. That gives us the opportunity to sing about love and emotions. I think execs turned away from black love somewhere along the line, and now we’re taking it back. It’s beautiful and inspiring to see all the amazing artists singing about human connection beyond the club and street life.

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

I love to cook! I eventually want a restaurant / venue. I’m a cannabis enthusiast, and that’s something in the works for me as well. I am going to provide more kids with the opportunity to travel and see the world, because what it does for perspective is unmatched. I’m also going to work with widows and military families to provide resources. My dad passed when I was 3 in the military active duty, and I don’t think there is enough support for families that go through that. I’m also pretty politically active. I could see that becoming something pretty soon as well. Not sure what form it will take, but…something.

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

Greatest moments…selling out solo shows…performing for Quincy Jones at his home…being the voice of an animated Disney character…being acknowledged by some of my favorite artists growing up….but truly just randomly hearing someone bumping my music somewhere unexpected is the best feeling ever.

Photo Credit: Cloudy Thoughts

What’s an average day like for you?

Right now… I’m touring the world on the ‘My Songs’ tour with Sting. So, most of my days are traveling to a new country, and doing a show which has been amazing…and on every single break from this tour, I’ve been releasing my own music and doing shows to support the album.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I always just try to remember myself being a fan. What it means to me when those whose music I love show me love back. It’s easy for me to be grateful. I can be introverted at times, but I definitely make sure people feel my appreciation!

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

Least favorite part is some people seem to think every part of you is theirs. It’s still work, and we all still need our personal time away. My most favorite is seeing the world, and how music connects us all.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Don’t follow in my footsteps. Create your own.

Lastly, what’s next for Gene Noble?

More music, more shows and touring, acting, Broadway and more mentorship.

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

Feel A Way out now on all platforms. The best friend of an indie artist is word of mouth, so send that album link to 10 people.