With his original new single ‘Livin' My Life 4 Luv’ rapidly climbing the charts, Curtis Styles and his unique brand of well-honed R&B is rapidly becoming a musical success story thanks in large part to his impeccable melodic instincts.
Like R&B? Many do, perhaps in yearning for a return to great musicianship and melody. Here is an artist that ably serves the sentiment. Originating from Teaneck, New Jersey, Curtis Styles has quickly risen on the strength of his new award-winning single ‘Livin' My Life 4 Luv’. Recently, the critics had this to say about his work: ‘A classic R&B rhythm, swelling horns and gorgeous vocals make this R&B rock jam shine brilliantly.’ With his new single steadily climbing the charts, Curtis Styles seems destined for the global limelight. Reporter Lauren Thompson recently caught up with the talented artist to learn more about what inspires him to create his unique brand of R&B music and what we can expect from Curtis Styles in the near future.
LAUREN: When did you first get that feeling that your music career was gaining momentum?
CURTIS STYLES: After releasing the song independently on the internet, various satellite radio stations as well as syndicated radio shows played my songs and added them into their regular rotation.
LAUREN: Your song’Livin' My Life 4 Luv’is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
CURTIS STYLES: Overjoyed, grateful, blessed, humbled, and relieved all at once! Knowing that your creation and talent as an artist is recognized....it's a great feeling! Overwhelming!
LAUREN: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
CURTIS STYLES: My relationship with my girlfriend for the past 4 years......knowing that we get what it means to be in love! Also setting a universal trend for others that have found the same!
LAUREN: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
CURTIS STYLES: My desire to follow in the shoes of mentoring successful artists and carry on what they have built in the music business without losing my own sense of originality.
LAUREN: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
CURTIS STYLES: Hard working, diligent, serious but with a sense of humor.
LAUREN: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
CURTIS STYLES: My personal team who helped me create my music are amazing people and we believe in each other. My Akademia team, Anwar and Ken Wilson have been available to answer any questions I have had thus far. Very pleasant guys!
LAUREN: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
CURTIS STYLES: Yes....my late Grandfather "Arthur Bowie" was a renowned professional pianist and organist in Harlem NYC during the 40s and 50s.
LAUREN: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
CURTIS STYLES: Listening to my completed work and knowing that my music will be heard and enjoyed by others. Also finally getting a chance to perform my music live to a large audience! The most challenging aspect is to get my completed music heard and into the hands of the right people that can make things happen.
LAUREN: Who are your role models in music?
CURTIS STYLES: Wow....there are so many....but to name a few...the late George Duke, Quincy Jones, Maurice White, Duke Ellington, Prince, etc.
LAUREN: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
CURTIS STYLES: Wow...another hard one! The most recent is sometimes the best one to look back on....in 2013 as a member of the BB&Q Band we traveled to Vienne, France to perform for the "Grande Nuit De La Funk". Awesome venue with an audience of over 3,000 who were amazing and knew the words to all the songs in English! LOL!
LAUREN: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
CURTIS STYLES: The music business is highly competitive, and unforgiving! You must be extremely patient! If you have thin skin and cannot take criticism and rejection...do something else! Cold but true!!!!
LAUREN: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
CURTIS STYLES: Next up is the launching of the group ..."The Vintage SOUL Experience"....currently completing 6 song EP with the title cut and have released a new single and music video titled "Can We Flow".
LAUREN: That's wonderful! Thank you so much for letting us get to know you a little better. We wish you the best of luck and continued success.
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