Interview: Singer-Songwriter Jafar Curry Discusses His New Song "On The Low"
We connected with the well traveled and respected singer-songwriter, pianist, and entertainer Jafar Curry for an exclusive interview to discuss his latest single "On The Low”. We also got to pick Jafar’s brain about his upcoming album, “The Tuxedo Bartender”, his favorite travel destination, what he does during his spare time, and much more.
After reading our Q&A with Jafar, be sure to connect with him on his website and social media, and check out some more of his music on Spotify.
Congratulations on the release of your single "On the Low". Who produced the song and what inspired you to write it? Is the song's scenario based on personal experience?
Thanks. I produced the song and had a handful of my colleagues around the world play live instruments that I've performed with and recorded with including Trevoris Scott from Sarasota, Florida, Luis Alicea Jersey City, New Jersey, Keni Michaels from Washington, D.C. and Tuure Mäkinen from Tampere, Finland. This song is most definitely based on personal experiences and those of others that I've known in my life. lol
What motivated you to release a remix of the song and who produced that version?
When we wrapped in the studio we had several good takes in different styles but settled on the guitar solo version and the rap verse version. The production is identical but we wanted to give a version with more hip-hop.
Tell us about your upcoming album “The Tuxedo Bartender”. When do you expect to release it and will there be any featured artists on it?
Oh this new album is pretty exciting. I'm very proud of it. It is a cool fusion of R&B, Jazz, Blues, Hip-Hop and Rock music. The new album speaks to most if not everyone. We've all been down these roads. I'm looking forward to everyone hearing it. There is one tune at the intro called "Coke Run". I'm really holding no punches. haha. Real f****** stories guys!
We are looking at a mid April release date. As far as features I've got several instrumental features on sax, guitar and possibly some rap and vocal features but not sure. I'll know this week. Can't wait!
How would you say that your travels within the United States, and internationally, have impacted you as an artist? Also, where is your favorite travel destination?
I'll answer the last question first. There are things I like about different places in the world. Thailand is easily a favorite but I'm also in love with New Zealand. South America and the Caribbean are right up there as well.
My travels over the last several years through performing and recording have had a huge impact on my music and my sound. Working with different artists and listening to music from other cultures and in other languages has as well. A big thing is hearing foreign interpretations of American Soul, Jazz and Blues. Everyone seems to hear them a bit differently.
I've channeled what I believe to be the best of what I've learned in my travels into this new album both emotionally and musically. However, the basis of my sound and my musical thought I owe to my American musical forefathers from Blues - Soul - Jazz. I'm also keen on a lot of 90s and 70s music.
I love D'Angelo, Deep Purple, Curtis Mayfield, Prince, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Sly and The Family Stone and my favorite Stevie Wonder.
When you are not creating new music, what do you enjoy doing for leisure?
When I'm not writing these days, I kick it with my family. I am very active. I do some boxing 2-3 days per week and I weight train a bit.