An Interview with Jazz formerly of Dru Hill

Jazz, founding member of the award-winning and multi-platinum R&B group Dru Hill that brought the music world top forty hits such as "In My Bed", "How Deep Is Your Love", "Never Make a Promise", "I Should Be...", "Tell Me" to name a few, returns with his latest uplifting solo single "All Your Love" via his own label DigiGrind Unlimited/Incisive Entertainment. I caught up with Jazz to discuss the single, his upcoming EP, much talked-about departure from Dru Hill that led to his solo venture and much more in our exclusive interview.

TERRANCE: First off, congratulations on the release of your new single “All Your Love”. How are you feeling at the moment?

JAZZ: Thank you. I’m feeling great about everything thus far. I’m getting great reviews about the song. The love from my fans has been amazing. I’m truly blessed to have their support.

TERRANCE: Tell us about the song, how it came together and why people should go download it if they haven’t already.

JAZZ: The song is about how much you truly love the person you’re with and what you would do for her in the name of love. Writing this song came naturally. Once I heard the track, I was feeling the vibe and literally wrote the song in 20 minutes. If you haven’t downloaded “All Your Love” you’re truly missing a great record.  This is a feel-good song that will have you dancing and enjoying the moment. I guarantee you will sing along with this record as well. Everyone can relate to this song.

TERRANCE: Is there an album or EP in the works that we can look forward to? If so, what can we expect sonically?

JAZZ: An EP is definitely in the works. You can expect the same type of music from me that you’ve grown accustomed to. I’m in touch with my fanbase. I know what they want to hear and I will deliver a great product to them. They won’t be disappointed.

TERRANCE: How would you compare the Dru Hill studio process to recording as a solo artist?

JAZZ: The major difference is not having your brothers around. You create differently and it’s all on you. I’m enjoying the experience.

TERRANCE: You've been with major labels in the past, so what has the transition been like creating your own label DigiGrind Unlimited?

JAZZ: The transition been good. You must put the work in.  The grind is non-stop. You have to do everything on your own. You get a chance to see the other side of the music BUSINESS. That’s why it’s important to have a great team around you. For this song/venture, I partnered with Incisive Entertainment. Everything’s been good. No complaints

TERRANCE: On a scale from 1 to 10 with 10 being the highest, how pleased are you with the state of R&B right now?

JAZZ: In all actuality, R&B is good right now.  Thanks to publications like this, you keep the R&B fans informed of their favorite artist. Notice when you have an R&B show come to your town, it’s sold out. There’s still a place in the music industry for R&B. So, I would give the state of R&B an 8 right now.

TERRANCE: There's been conflicting reports regarding your departure from Dru Hill recently. Can you clear up any confusion?

JAZZ: First and foremost, I have love for my brothers. We’ve made great music, traveled the world, and sold millions of records. I’ve been afforded an opportunity that few of us can imagine. Dru Hill will always be family. We support each other endeavors. I just wanted to release some music. There’s no conflict with any of us.

TERRANCE: October marks the 20th anniversary of Dru Hill’s sophomore album Enter the Dru. What’s the most fondest memory about recording that album?

JAZZ: The creativity surrounding that album. We (Dru Hill) all participated in making a masterpiece. Along with household names such as Babyface, Daryl Simmons, Warryn Campbell, David Foster, Diane Warren. You also had producers such as David “Baby Dave” Evans, Ralph Stacy and Dutch. With all those elements involved, it helped the album go double platinum.

TERRANCE: What are your standout favorites from that album?

JAZZ: I really enjoy songs like “Holding You”, “Nowhere Without You”, “One Good Reason”, “Angel”, “What Do I Do With the Love”, “Beauty”, “These Are the Times”.

TERRANCE: Talk about your craziest fan encounter either solo or with your group.

JAZZ: My fans are very respectful. No wild stories. Thank GOD.

TERRANCE: Thus far in your career, what has been the greatest lesson learned?

JAZZ: The greatest lesson I’ve learned is you will have ups and downs in this business. Just keep faith in GOD and you will overcome any obstacles.

TERRANCE: Can we expect to see you on the road anytime soon? Any special appearances to look out for?

JAZZ: I’m getting things together. Just stay tuned.

TERRANCE: Anything else you would like to share with the readers and your fans?

JAZZ: I just want to say thanks to everyone for their continued support. Also, I would like to thank you for giving me this platform to engage with the readers. I truly appreciate you. You can follow me on Instagram @jazzdigigrind. Don’t forget to purchase my single “All Your Love”. Available on all digital outlets.