Corey JonBrooklyn newcomer Corey Jon is releasing his EP this spring, and he looks set to become a big name in the industry.
Having already performed for people in the calibre of Madonna, Prince, Janet Jackson and President Obama, Corey is excited to take this next step in his career.
We got the chance to chat to Corey about his love for music, just how the past few months have been treating him and what we should expect when he hits the stage in London next month.
How would you describe yourself as an artist?
I'm an artist that speaks from the heart. I'm a risk taker. Fearless, bold, and unapologetic. Art should mean something and artists should bring something. Sounds kind of "old school" but I'm young and humble. I expect a lot of this life as an artist.
What is it about music that you love?
Music is universal. That's why I love it. It can heal, make you dance, inspire, and love. Music can literally save your life. Without music, we wouldn't exist.
Who, what and/or where do you draw inspiration from as an artist?
I draw inspiration from life. Life has a way of teaching you lessons. I try to use those experiences to remind others that we are human and we are worthy of love. I listen to all types of music. New and old, from P Funk to Rick James, trance and classical music. Traveling has had a big impact on me as a writer. Nature to me is like the song of life.
What are some of your earliest music-related memories?
As a kid I was always singing and making up dances. One day my third grade teacher asked me to sing a song. So I started singing and dancing. The kids in my class knew the song because I always did stuff like that. That same teacher enrolled me into a special school they built in Brooklyn for gifted and talented kids. I say to the youth, be fearless with your talent. You never know. Speaking up may help you get better at your craft.
Your background's in Broadway, and you appeared in Fela! - how did you find that whole experience?
Being able to be a part of Fela! was groundbreaking. Fela's music is powerful. Every night, eight times a week, we defied gravity. That experience changed the trajectory of my career. It brought me in the presence of every artist that I've ever admired. I was a featured artist and the choreographer and director, Bill T. Jones, allowed us all to tell a story through dance and song. Having the backing of Jay Z and Will and Jada Smith helped our show to be exposed to audiences that wouldn't normally come out to see a Broadway show. In between shows I recorded my EP.
You're also scheduled to appear in Tommy Mottola's Broadway debut Superfly - can you tell us anything about that show?
I cant disclose any details about premiere dates but shortly after Fela! closed on Broadway, Bill T. Jones asked me if I would be interested in doing Superfly with him. I immediately said yes. The experience of working with him again made sense. Tommy Matola's involvement was a big deal for me as well. He has been one of the most influential executives in the music industry, signing many artist that I loved. I played a junkie so it was real work as actor. I got a chance to sing Curtis Mayfield songs and dance. It inspired me to write songs fluidly. I had fun with the cast and creative team.
Your UK debut is to come with EP 'Crazy Glue' - scheduled for release this spring - what should we expect from this?
Expect to hear a new wave in sound. It's a personal side of my soul but it captures the beat of my heart. No samples, all original music and songs.
You'll also be performing at your first ever live UK show this April - what can fans coming to that show expect?
First off I'm really excited and incredibly blessed to have this opportunity to perform in the UK. To all of my fans that read this, come ready to be lifted from your seats and ready to be released from your worries. You will dance, you will sing, you will sweat. You will walk away feeling free.
Do you have any other projects in the pipeline that you can share some details about?
The UK is the first leg in an extensive tour of Europe. After the show in London, I will be performing at Art Otel in Amsterdam. Radio interviews.
I'll also be in Canada doing a special performance to raise funds to stop human trafficking in May. I'll be posting new dates constantly via social media and coreyjon.com.
Corey Jon's debut EP 'Crazy Glue' is out April 7.