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C. Allen: Let me start this interview by saying thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule and that I have become a huge fan from the first time I heard your music, you have one of those voices that if you hear one songs you become a fan.

Wendell B: Thank you, I really appreciate the compliment and the opportunity for this interview.

C. Allen: Would you began by giving our readers a little background information on yourself?

Wendell B: Yes, I was born in St. Louis, MO., I was fortunate enough to be raised in a two parent household with four brothers and one sister.

C. Allen: Who would you consider to be a role model and the most influential person(s) in making you the individual you are today?

Wendell B: I would have to say my Dad because he was an in-home Dad, he was super intelligent, he raised all his kids, taught us right from wrong and gave us knowledge and wisdom. Also, my Mom because she gave us spirituality she didn't just send us to church she took us there and kept us well grounded.

C. Allen: When did you realize you had this super magnificent gift and talent to sing and when did you start performing?

Wendell B: I would say early childhood and I started professionally in 1983 and nationally in 1997.

C. Allen: How many albums have you released and which one brought you national recognition?

Wendell B: I've done 6 albums and the first two brought me national recognition, the first one was done on Raw Deal Records (Mercury Records) and the second one was done on Warner Bro.

C. Allen: I know your voice and music has been often compared to such greats as Luther Vandross, Barry White and Freddie Jackson as an artist how does that make you feel?

Wendell B: I think it's one of the highest compliments I could receive because they all have inspired me and have had wonderful careers and music that will never be forgotten. I consider each of them favorites with such greatness to follow they set the standard in helping me to form Wendell B.

C. Allen: In 2010 you release two albums at the same time that's really blowing up the R&B Charts and the Blues Charts titled "Back Ta Bid'ness" and "In Touch With My Southern Soul" why did you do that?

Wendell B: One reason was to show my versiltility as an artist, also because I'm known as an R&B singer and I didn't want my fans to think I was giving up on them. Another reason is as a recording artist I am always looking to expand and increase my fan base and also become known in new markets.

C. Allen: Do you write, produce and arrange all of your songs or do you work with other producers and writers?

Wendell B: Yes for the most part I do but from time to time I will work with other producers.

C. Allen: Do you play any instruments?

Wendell B: Yes, the piano, bass guitar and drums.

C. Allen: Would you ever consider doing a duet with another artist if so who would it be and if not why not?

Wendell B: Yes if it's a quality and a hit project, currently I am working on an upcoming project with Sir Charles Jones.

C. Allen: Where do you get your inspiration and ideas when it comes to writing a song is it from personal or every day life experiences?

Wendell B: Both and also from artists such as Babyface and Johnnie Taylor which had very different backgrounds and styles but each had

C. Allen: Are you currently signed with a Record Label?

Wendell B: Yes, I have my own label.

C. Allen: What is the name and how do you distribute your your music?

Wendell B: Smooth My label is SmoothWay Music, and I distribute through Music Access and internet sites such as CD Baby, Amazon and a host of others.

C. Allen: Do you think the internet has a positive or negative influence on the music industry?

Wendell B: Both it can be a positive thing because it allows artist without a big marketing budget to promote themselves to thousands of people. Also it can be a negative thing because it can hurt an artist due to downloading and bootlegging music because of profitability and money income.

C. Allen: What are the advantages and disadvantages of having your own label?

Wendell B: One major advantage of being independent is you have more creative control of your music in every aspect. The disadvantage of being an independent is the cost of marketing and promoting because it cost a lot to distribute and promote. The major advantage of being with a major label is they can reach bigger markets and get an artist known much faster. The disadvantage of being with a major label is the negotiating and having to give up so much control of your hard work.

C. Allen: What is the best and worst thing you like about being a recording artist?

Wendell B: The best thing is being able to reach and change lives and knowing that my music has touched and impacted someone. The worst is the business itself because it's not as feasible and profitable as it once was.

C. Allen: What has been some of your biggest challenges and how were you able to overcome them?

Wendell B: Egos, envy and jealousy, I've learned to over come through my faith and trusting in God by staying focused, positive mindset. Also, knowing what it takes to succeed by having the knowledge and confidence in knowing who I am and what it takes to deliver quality music.

C. Allen: What advice would you give to aspiring and upcoming artists trying to get discovered with the way the music industry is today?

Wendell B: I can't stress it strong enough but educate yourself and understand that the music industry is based on 95% business and 5% talent; also know that it's not going to be an easy road and know who you are targeting your music too.

C. Allen: What is the ultimate goal for your career?

Wendell B: To be a household know that is recognizable and everybody knows who I am also be able to help others to succeed in reaching their goals.

C. Allen: One last question what do you like to do when you have time off to relax?

Wendell B: I like doing electrician and mechanical work, carpentry, plumbing, and going fishing.

C. Allen: Again I would like to thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule and congratulation on the success of your 2 new albums. I wish you much continued success it's been a pleasure speaking with you and we want everyone to go out and buy your music I assure they will become huge fans just as I have. Do you have any closing remarks?

Wendell B: Yes thank God for giving me the talent and gift to sing and all my family and friends you have constantly supported me over the years. Also, thank my band members for their continuous professionalism and loyalty, my fans for buying my music and supporting me by coming to the concerts, radio DJ's who play my music and the promoters who book me for concerts.

 

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