What do you do in your free time with your music?

I enjoy writing. I'm always starting some idea that could become a song or composition. Also, I'm currently expanding my programming/production chops by learning/adding new programs to my arsenal - trying to grow.

Do you play music in your community? 

I want to do more volunteering, musically speaking. To share some of what I've learned over the years.

Do you teach yourself new instruments?

I really need to get into the guitar more. It's really a unique instrument, and offers different colors than piano or bass - especially when it comes to writing.

Is there a song you wish you would have written?

"After the Love is Gone" by Earth, Wind, and Fire.

What's in hot rotation on your iPod?

"Hurricane" by Eric Benet - I think it's one of the best and most underrated CD's I've heard in years!

Last movie you saw? 

Fun with Dick and Jane (I need to get out more).

In what direction would you like to see Smooth Jazz head? 

Less homogeneous, more thoughtful.

What's your favorite destination? 

Rome/Kenya (can't just pick one :)

You're involved in a lot of different projects, what's the latest haps in the Smooth Jazz world?

As far as the Smooth Jazz world- I'm playing on the new Brian Simpson "It's All Good" (acoustic bass) Ronny Jordan's "A Brighter Day" (acoustic bass), I have played with Euge Groove just before Barry for over 2 years. Other's: Mindi Abair, Marion Medows, Norman Connors, Angela
Bofil, etc...

What's it like being in Barry Manilow's band?

Playing with Barry Manilow has been one of the highlights of my career. I've learned-and still am learning so much by being around him. He's such an accomplished musician; arranger, singer/songwriter, performer. I'm in awe of his instincts, and work ethic. He never settles for less than 100 from himself and those around him. Also, with the unexpected success of his new album (debut at Billboard at #1) it's a very exciting time to be in this camp. Things change so often; additional dates get added weekly and now there's a lot of TV publicity. Between Barry and getting my project off the ground, I'm very busy.

The access that someone like Barry Manilow has is incredible. He can get in touch with almost anyone in the music industry with just a phone call-very few musicians can do that! You may have also seen Barry on American Idol. He was working with the contestants, which he had a great time doing. So not only does he have his loyal fans from the 70's, he's still making new ones. How many artists do you know with that kind of access!