Interview: Karina Pasian – Singer and Classical Pianist

Date of Interview: 08/27/2008

© 2008 Clayton Perry

When Quincy Jones goes out of his way to support a new, budding artist, the world would be wise to grant an audience to the apple of his eye: Karina Pasian.

On May 16, 2004, Jones invited Pasian to perform in Rome for his “We Are the Future” benefit concert, which was concerned about children in war-ravaged cities.  Shortly thereafter, Pasian earned a place in history, by becoming the first person of Dominican descent to perform at the White House, at the age of 15.

A classically trained pianist, Pasian also sings in seven different languages.  And while her Def Jam debut, First Love, only makes use of two, English and Spanish, Pasian’s music has transcended language barriers and inspired thousands of fans around the world.

Her first single, “16 @ War,” is a powerful introduction that resonates with female empowerment and expresses the day-to-day hardships that many young females face.  Upon review of First Love, Karina Pasian managed to squeeze some time out of her busy schedule and settle down for an interview with Clayton Perry — reflecting on Ella Fitzgerald, her professional relationship with Quincy Jones, and society’s need for positive music.

Interview: Quinnes Parker – Singer and Songwriter

Date of Interview: 08/07/2008

© 2008 Clayton Perry

As one-fourth of R&B supergroup 112, Quinnes Parker charmed listeners around world with his good looks and smooth vocals. But with six ASCAP awards to his credit, few of 112’s legions of fans are aware that in addition to singing lyrics, Parker has a panache for penning them too.

Parker’s musical resume includes a string of hits that made 112 a staple on R&B scene including “Cupid,” “Anywhere” and “Peaches & Cream.” In addition, Parker’s talents have helped artists like Keyshia Cole (on her platinum single “I Should Have Cheated,”) and the soca sensation Kevin Lyttle (“Turn Me On,” an international dance hit) reach the top of the charts.

Having spent the past decade as part of a dynamic quartet, “Q” reemerged in 2007 ready to step out as a solo artist and entrepreneur—handling CEO duties for NeWFAM Entertainment, while preparing Real Talk, his first independent release.

Upon review of Real Talk, Quinnes Parker managed to squeeze some time out of his busy schedule and settle down for an interview with Clayton Perry — reflecting on 112, fatherhood and the current state of R&B.