By Maya Quinn, managing editor
In support of the Black Belt Community Foundation and Levitt AMP Series Selma, The Democrat secured an exclusive Q&A with headliner Eric Essix. Essix is well known for his indie label Essential Recordings and hits such as “Sweet Tea,” “Shuttlesworth Drive,” and “Foot Soldiers.” His music honors those who have fallen victim to injustice as well as his Southern roots.
Q&A
How long have you been performing?
“I started playing the guitar at age 10 after years of begging my parents and grandparents for a guitar. My grandfather was the one who finally stepped in and got my first electric guitar and a little amp with one condition: That I would actually learn how to play!”
What drew you to jazz? Were there any other forms of art that intrigued you?
“I wanted to play the guitar after seeing the Beatles on television at 4 years old. However, I grew up in the church, so gospel music was my first love, along with Stevie Wonder, The Jackson Five, and Al Green. I was also inspired by blues legends like B.B. King and rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix, who I was obsessed with in my high school years. But I was exposed to jazz through the music of Wes Montgomery and his California Dreamin’ album as well as George Benson’s Breezin in 1977.”
Who or what is your guiding inspiration?
“My faith guides me musically and in every aspect of my life. I still have so much growing to do, and I’m certainly not perfect, but my music is deeply inspired by that faith in God, devotion to Christ, and recognition of His sacrifice for me. I am learning to be a vessel for however God wants to use me through art and my daily walk.”
Why did you choose to perform for the Levitt series?
“It has been almost 25 years since I’ve performed in Selma, and I thought I am way overdue to come back and share with the people in this community. I am so grateful for this opportunity.”
Do you have any advice for young and emerging artists?
“I always encourage young artists to follow their hearts along the path to becoming artists with passion, honesty, truth, conviction, and commitment. Always allow the very best inside you to be your compass and let God be your guiding force along the way. Offer your gifts to Him, and He will not let you fail or not reach your goals.”
I have heard that music is freedom, and jazz is liberation. Do you agree with this statement? If so, why?
“I agree with that statement completely. It has been the most liberating way for me to personally express my deepest emotions through writing music, recording it in the studio, and performing it onstage.”
See Eric Essix live on Saturday, July 25th at the Selma Riverfront Amphitheater and Park. Admission is free, and gates open at 7:00pm.
To learn more about Eric Essix and his latest releases, visit: ericessix.net
Featured Image: Eric Essix with guitar (DokkSavagePhotography)
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