There must transpire in every life that transcendental instant when for the first time a total awareness of the 'living now' arrests every impatient urge of the mind. 'Sitting on a Park Bench' is the narrative of that singular moment in Blues/Pop musician Darnell Scott's life, and the power of the experience is superbly rendered through his long-practiced talents as a guitarist and singer. The summertime setting is vividly inscribed by glowing references to sun, children, birds and best friends, and the almost dreamlike reverie that overtakes him through the verses is shaped by a circular refrain that links the most distant and recent affairs of life into a carefree whole - child and man united at last. Songs like this hail from the deepest territories of the human heart, and Scott has an obvious talent for sincerely emotional communication; his other new single 'Where was my Father' is just as affecting. Independent reporter Lauren Thompson recently caught up with the thoughtful musician to talk about his work and his plans for the next year.
LAUREN: When did you first discover your love of music?
DARNELL: As a youngster, I can remember coming home from school in the second and third grades and hearing such artists as Santana, War and Jimi Hendrix around the house. Some of it was music you could dance to, like Aretha Franklin. My crazy uncle also turned us onto new music and experiences LOL!
LAUREN: Your song ‘Sitting on a Park Bench’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
DARNELL: I had never heard any of my songs on the radio before, so when I heard 'Sitting on a Park Bench' for the first time it made me feel grateful and blessed that people around the world would be hearing my message of love and joy. It was humbling. Pretty exciting stuff!
LAUREN: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
DARNELL: Most of the time, the beat and the rhythm will come to me first. In this case, the words came much later. Now this might sound a bit corny, but I was literally sitting on a bench at a local park here in town. Started to look around, noticing what was going on around me, and it made for a lovely day. I just wrote about the things that were happening in the moment. Sometimes inspiration comes when you least expect it.
LAUREN: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as ‘Sitting On A Park Bench’?
DARNELL: I mostly write about things that have happened to me in life, from childhood to the present day. During that time there have been many twist and turns, and my music reflects my life’s journey. The moods have been many, but the vein has remained the same.
LAUREN: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
DARNELL: I’m open minded as an artist, never put myself in a box or acknowledge any limitations on what I do. I think it is important, especially in the business, to always be exploring the boundaries of where music can take you... and yes, having some fun along the way makes it all worthwhile.
LAUREN: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
DARNELL Looking back now, there were talented people in the family. A brother that plays a mean bass and some gifted cousins. One of my uncles (who passed away a while back) was a serious keyboard player in Seattle. He had a big influence on many of his fellow musicians in the community as well as myself. I would say music has been a constant in my life. Before I formally learned how to express myself in song the foundation for doing so had already been laid.
LAUREN: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
DARNELL: Making a connection with the audience is very rewarding. Music comes from a love that is deep inside you, and when it is appreciated by others... that is the best feeling in the world. As artists, we all want to be noticed and relevant; I face my challenges head on. And I keep a positive attitude because I believe love is the force that overcomes all obstacles.
LAUREN: Who are your role models in music?
DARNELL: The ones that give back; the artists that remember where they came from and offer a constructive word to those in need of guidance. We all should be doing our part in giving others a hand up when the opportunity presents itself. Music is the 'great communicator' - it has the ability to bring us all together.
LAUREN: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
DARNELL: There have been many performances over the years, but the one that stands out for me was the time my brother and I had the privilege of playing an original song I wrote (Where Was My Father) on Mother's Day in church. I remember looking out upon the congregation and seeing tears roll down mom's face. I think they were tears of pride and joy. As a single parent it was not easy for her. Keeping a roof over our heads, food on the table, working full time... but she did it. It's a day I will never forget.
LAUREN: Do you have a music video for your hit single? If so, what can you tell us about it?
DARNELL: I’m happy to announce there is a video in the making for my hit single 'Sitting on a Park Bench'. It will coming out in May or June. It’s in the early stages right now, but when it's done I think it will be something my fans will enjoy.
LAUREN: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
DARNELL: The music business can be a tricky thing sometimes. It would be easy to give up if you do not see the results you want right away. I would tell them 'believe in yourself'. Don’t let anything get in the way of your dreams. Most of all, have no regrets. You only go through this world once. Be confident. Be your 'heart's' desire.
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?
DARNELL: I’ve been doing some song writing, and right now I’m focusing my attention on getting into the recording studio in November and playing live venues this summer. There is nothing like forming new, lasting relationships. I plan to broaden my horizons and reach out to new fans. I’m all about keeping it alive and real. Keep a song in your heart and joy in your soul. We are all made from the stuff of stars.
LAUREN: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us Darnell. Here's to another hit like 'Sitting on a Park Bench'!
http://www.darnellscottblues.com
