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C. Allen: First let me say I’m one of your biggest fans it truly a pleasure and honor to have you take time out of your busy schedule for this interview. First let me start by giving our readers a little back ground information I found on you, you was headlined in one Texas largest magazines the, “Texas Monthly”, also featured in the “The Houston Chronicle”; in the “Zest Magazine”, and received an award from the “Houston Press” for the best Blues and Zydeco Singer in 1994. You have also been featured on TV Channels Fox 26; ABC 13; CBS 11; and have performed at such events as the Houston International Festival and the French Market Festival in New Orleans just to name a few. You have also performed on shows with such artists as Buckwheat; Beau Jocque; Rockin Sidney; Boo Zoo Chavis; Clifton Chenier and the list goes on and on, very impressive I must say.

C. Allen: Now with that being said let’s talk about Jabo “Texas Prince of Zydeco” hot new CD that’s got people talking and blowing up the charts.

Jabo: Thank you, the title of the new CD is “Southern Choice/Zydeco & Blues.”

C. Allen: Why did you title it that and what all does it consists of?

Jabo: Well, it’s titled that because it has such a wide variety of music ranging from original and traditional style Zydeco, Blues, Southern Soul, Country and a new version of Zydeco that is being performed by Lil Jabb and Zachary Shaw both are 19 years old and up and coming new artists.

C. Allen: Wow! It sounds like it has something for everybody; did you write all the songs?

Jabo: Yes, all except for (2) songs “Choking Kind” an original tune that was performed by Joe Simon and “Get On the Floor” which was written and performed by Lil Jabb.

C. Allen: You also told me that you never write any of your songs on paper tell me about that and how you are able to keep track of everything?

Jabo: Well, some things are unexplainable I say that it’s by the anointing and that it’s a gift from God. I never know what neither the words nor the title of a CD is going to be until I get into the studio.

C. Allen: When you are in the studio putting together a new project where does the inspiration come from and what type of mood and frame of mind is you generally in?

Jabo: It’s like a spiritual and a supernatural state comes upon me, it’s like I go into a complete other zone and my inspiration comes from everyday life experiences, family and friends.

C. Allen: I can tell you are a religious man just by your answers and your demeanor, but do you consider yourself as a role model to new and up coming artists?

Jabo: Yes most definitely, I try to carry myself with respect, give respect, be a positive mentor because I know the pro’s and con’s of what it’s like trying to get into this industry. But, not only that I feel my music is a ministry because I really try to teach love and unity also be motivating and encouraging to everyone I come in contact with.

C. Allen: Is it harder for you to create a song or record a song?

Jabo: I would say for me it’s harder to record a song because of all the technicalities and the process of recording; it’s easier for me to create because I am always creating something new in my performing and shows.

C. Allen: Tell me what is your favorite song on the new CD and why

Jabo: “Going Down Slow” because I felt myself going to a higher level with this CD but I still wanted to keep myself on a lower level to keep myself humble that I don’t get caught up in the glitz and glamour and lose sight of God’s direction for my life.

C. Allen: How would you rate this CD compared to others that you’ve done?

Jabo: Although, the last CD was great and did very well, I do think that this is by far the best I’ve ever done.

C. Allen: Who are some of the artists that are featured on this CD?

Jabo: The legendary and multi-talented Rue Davis; also national recording artists and great producer Carl Marshall, Donna Nash and Sherman Robinson as well as new and upcoming artists Lil Jabb; Zachary Shaw; Roger Valentine and Lady V.

C. Allen: This CD has only been out for a couple of weeks and it’s already blowing up the charts; how does that make you feel?

Jabo: We are working hard to put it out there, I feel very fortunate and blessed that it’s being received so well in such a short period of time.

C. Allen: Where are some of the area’s your new CD is being played in?

Jabo: Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Ohio

C. Allen: I understand that you recently signed with a new record label?

Jabo: Yes, Southern Choice Record Label in Lake Charles, LA

C. Allen: Again, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this interview, congratulations on the success of your new CD. I wish you much continued success it’s always a pleasure speaking with you, this is our second interview together and each time I must I say I find you more intriguing. Do you have any closing remarks?

Jabo: Yes, I would like to say a special thank you for this interview and your constant support also God who is the head of my life, for blessing me with a special gift of singing and for guiding me through the rough times. My band the Southside Playboys for their continuous professionalism and loyalty, my fans for buying my music and coming to my shows, radio DJ’s who play my music, and promoters who book me for shows, friends and family, LaQuanta (Q-Beauty) (wife), Wanda Tower (mother), Janice Glenn (sister) for their constant dedication and support!!

Special Thanks to: · Carolyn Baker - Jamsource Magazine-(Publisher)-Houston, TX · Cullen Washington-CCW Productions-(Executive Producer) “Southern Choice/Zydeco & Blues” & (Booking Agent)-Lake Charles, LA. · Cynthia Allen – C. Allen Productions (Management & Booking)-Houston, TX · Jim Davis–(Engineer & Recording)-Diamond Gem Studio-Houston, TX · Zydeblues and Mo Show Productions – (Promotions) Houston, TX · Frank-O-Smooth – (Promotions) Columbus, OH · Joe Norman –Zydeco Events (Promotions) – Houston, TX · LT & Zydeco Mobb /Bon-Ton Mickey/J. Paul

 

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