What do you think about the UAE’s jazz audience?
I am beyond pleased with the audiences in the UAE and the response has been so welcoming. I love it because you get some pure jazz fans who are locals or travelling. It is a thrill for me when people have never heard the repertoire or jazz before and they end up having an amazing experience.
How do audiences here differ from those in the US?
The audience in the US generally tends to be older because it is the popular music of their generation. Here in the UAE we have a wide age range because it is more about being social and having a unique experience.
Can you tell us more about your upcoming album, Off Beat?
It’s my second album featuring some of my favourite songs. The core of it features myself on voice, Matt Witek on drums and Justin Kauflin on piano. On some tracks, Ken Peplowski and Roger Neumann join me who are some of the world’s best saxophonists.
Who are the jazz performers that you look up to?
My favourite jazz singers are Ella Fitzgerald, Anita O’Day, June Christy, Tierney Sutton and, of course, Frank Sinatra. My biggest musical inspiration is the late bassist Ray Brown.
Tell us your favourite spots in the UAE
I am blown away by Palazzo Versace Dubai. The food at Enigma and Vanitas is, in truth, the best food I’ve eaten. Moreover, it is the people here that amaze me and the amount of respect that everyone has for each other is beautiful to see. I’m planning to visit the outdoor markets and historic parts of the UAE.
