Rodney Patterson

Rodney Patterson

The axial notion behind 'Just Relax' is a sagacious sentiment about modern living that heralded from someone in a position to speak with authority on the matter. Patterson's articulation of the concept into song is pure genius.

It's funny how even the most self-evidently wise maxims are subject to deconstruction and repudiation in the cynical atmosphere of modern intellectuality. We are more concerned with who said what than what was actually said, and we won't be told to do anything - even relax - without establishing the cultural or professional authority of the adviser. How many of us have ignored this simple prescription from our own doctors, even? No... the argument for tranquility requires something more than logic now; it needs art. Just listen to this new single from Rodney Patterson and you'll find the rational apparatus of self-governance relenting to the ancient wiles of his craft. You will relax... and you will be better for it. Independent reporter Lily Clark recently caught up with the talented pianist and composer to talk about his life experiences, the music career that now occupies his time, and his ambitions for the coming days.

LILY: Let's just get this out in the open - What is the craziest thing that has happened to you in your music career?
RODNEY: The craziest thing that has ever happen during my musical journey was meeting Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis in person at the Target Center in Minneapolis. They gave me some good advice and insight into the business.

LILY: Your song ‘Just Relax' is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
RODNEY: My first reaction to hearing my song 'Just Relax' on the radio was complete excitement. I’m pretty sure I had the biggest smile on my face too! It was such a great feeling.

LILY: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
RODNEY: The inspiration for my new single came from talking to a good friend of mine. He told me that the best advice he’d ever received was from his brother who had a mental illness; in your pursuit of the American Dream, don’t forget to take time to just relax.

LILY: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
RODNEY: I typically get my inspiration to create music from just talking to people and hearing what they are going through. Anything can trigger my creative mindset! Sometimes I use my own life experiences to create an idea for a song.

LILY: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
RODNEY: I would characterize myself as a calm and down-to-earth person.

LILY: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
RODNEY: I enjoy working with other talented musicians and coming up with creative ideas for a song.

LILY: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
RODNEY: I actually had an uncle who played the piano - and he was blind. Several cousins in our family are amazing singers too.

LILY: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
RODNEY: Being an artist is rewarding because it gives you a way to express yourself through music. On top of that, you have the opportunity to inspire different people and change lives in the process.

LILY: Who are your role models in music?
RODNEY: The people that have influenced me in music would have to be Quincy Jones, George Duke, and Jim Brickman.

LILY: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
RODNEY: The best and most memorable performance would have to be at the Key City R&B Festival in Abilene, Texas. Playing on the same stage as Ruthie Foster and Marcia Ball was something I will never forget. They both are super amazing people!

LILY: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
RODNEY: My advice to aspiring artists would be to learn from past artists and stay on your humble hustle. Don’t let the fear of failure get in the way of following your dreams!

LILY: 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?
RODNEY: I’m actually back in the studio working on a new EP. This project will have a different feel to it.

LILY: Thank you so much Rodney for taking the time to speak with us about your life and burgeoning music career. We're impressed with 'Just Relax' and anticipate that we'll be hearing your name more and more frequently as the months advance!

http://www.rodney-patterson.com