Myron's Interview

It's been a while since we last heard Myron's music. The Cleveland, Ohio native was about to blow up in a major way and was in the middle of promoting his debut album 'Destiny' when his then label (Island) just folded. Shocked and surprised that he was now unemployed, it gave him a reality check and with the lords prayer a major belief and focus, Myron is now back with a new label (his own) and a new album (Free). I recently caught up with Myron by phone in his studio as he took the time to answer some questions I had.

Sir TY: First of all let me say, thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this tonight, I really appreciate it as do your fans.
Myron: No problem, more than happy to do this.

Sir TY: You started singing at an early age, was singing something you always wanted to do?
Myron: I always loved music. My mother and father taught me to appreciate It in various forms. I never aspired to be some sort of national artist. I did realize the joy that came from playing and singing, so that's all I set out to do: Just make music!

Sir TY: You write and produce as well, how do you go about it do you separate yourself in a room or does it comes to you at any given time?
Myron: When I get inspiration to write, it comes unexpectedly. Some people write all the time, I write when the words come. The "Free" album came about after extensive prayer. I had a "two year drought" and I thought it might be time to focus on something other than music, but God had other plans for me.

Sir TY: During the release of your debut album your label (Island Records) folded, what are your thoughts about this and your future at that point?
Myron: As you can imagine, losing your job is a distressing feeling, however it was more of a reality check for me. I realized that I had lost my focus and started making music for all the wrong reasons. This set back was more divine revelation, than anything. I needed to return to my first love.

Sir TY: With 'Free' being your sophomore album what do you feel separates it from your debut album?
Myron: The title itself describes the difference. This album is a collection of work that sought no approval from some big corporation, so the music is more sincere. "I once was bound, but now I'm Free."

Sir TY: You mentioned Donnie Hathaway as a major influence, who were your
influences, growing up?
Myron: Of course Stevie Wonder was one of the major influences. Curtis Mayfield, James Brown, Quincy Jones and a host of gospel artist, including Commissioned, the Clark Sisters and Andre Crouch

Sir TY: What do you think of today's neo-soul artists and the state of R&B music
Myron: I support positive music. I try not to divide music into categories. Good music is what we need today, yesterday and tomorrow.

Sir TY: Did you have a strict upbringing growing up?
Myron: No. I was spoiled. I have three older sisters that got it pretty bad. My brother and I were somewhat sheltered, as we grew up, but that was when we learned to play music, so it was a fair trade.

Sir TY: Is there anyone in the industry whom you'd like to work with and why?
Myron: Raphael Saadiq has always been an artist that I admire. To me, he (as Tony, Toni, Tone) was the first to make what's now called "Neo-Soul." I've always been a fan. I ultimately would like to at least meet Mr. Wonder in this lifetime. He has given so much to the world as far as music goes, that it would be a true honor to have the chance to thank him, in person.

Sir TY: Who did you work with on this album?
Myron: Josh and I produced the record. No big budget, No big names, No big Deal. We knew what we wanted to hear and we worked until we got it right. Josh (Honigstock) has an incredible ear and he didn't allow us to give anything less than our best. He's exceptionally talented. We also had some friends to play various instruments.

Sir TY: Do your brother and sisters appear on the album?
Myron: No. Although they all are gifted in music, we haven't worked together on a project, yet. I would like to work on that for the future.

Sir TY: Who's in your CD rack at the present time who do you enjoy listening to?
Myron: I've been listening to a lot of jazz, recently. Wayne Shorter's new one and Chick Corea. I always keep Curtis close by. I also like this Gospel artist, Byron Cage.

Sir TY: To date, what's been your biggest achievement?
Myron: My biggest achievement would have to be stepping out on faith and putting out a record independently. Going back to my roots, writing and producing music that makes me feel good in the end. The Moja Music vision is a great achievement. But honestly, I feel I've done nothing more than anyone else would do in my shoes.

Sir TY: Are you touring now and where will you be performing next?
Myron: 10 room, London, Monday March 1st. 0207 734 9990 (short set) Café de Paris, London, Tuesday March 2nd. Celebrity Showcase filmed for Bravo TV. 020 7395 5806 www.cafedeparis.com (short set) Jazzcafe, London, Thursday March 4th 020 7916 6060. www.jazzcafe.co.uk www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Sir TY: What advice can you give a youngster aiming to take on the career of a singer/songwriter?
Myron: "Keep On, Keepin' On." Don't be discouraged. All the great songs come from joy, heart ache and pain.

Sir TY: Is there anything you'd like to say to your fans?
Myron: "What does it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul?" Thank you for your love and support. Check the website www.myroncd.com for updates.

Sir TY: Myron, it's been a pleasure, much continued success with the album and all the best in the future ....oh, sell a million, mate
Myron: Thanks TY, I'll try

Listen to Myron's latest hit 'Heaven'

Listen to Myron's classic track 'Destiny'