Independent Media Magazine recently caught up with Wayne Brown, Mr. Pianoman, via email.
He talks about his group The Notorious Band, being the house band on BET’s 106 and Park, how he got his moniker and much more.
Indie Media Mag: What made you wanna jump on board as the house band for 106 and Park?
Wayne Brown: It was an opportunity presented to me at the end of a show. We were performing at the Sugar Bar (Ashford & Simpson’s Restaurant) in NYC and The writer for the 106 and Park Show was there. He loved the band and asked did we want to be on the show. Four months later I received the call and it’s been two years going strong. Our next appearance is Jan 4th 2012.
IMM: What’s next for Wayne Brown and The Notorious Band?
WB: Well for Wayne Brown, That’s Me, I would like to pursue more as an entertainer and Producer. I love to sing and make music. I also wanna do a little acting, so whatever the cards are that are dealt to me I will play them. As for The Notorious Band, I would like to do more TV. Being a TV band is difficult but challenging. I believe we can take on any role being that we can play all types and genres of music. We will be working on original material sometime in 2012 so look out for the Notorious Band’s CD featuring the many different artists we have played for over the years.
IMM: Where did the name Mr.Pianoman coming from?
WB: I was in a recording studio playing the piano on a track. An artist walked in and said listened to the piano man play. Ever since then I’ve been going by Mr. Pianoman.
IMM: What would you consider the highlight of your career right now?
WB: Right now being on live TV. It’s definitely one of the most astonishing accolades thus far. As an artist I’ve opened up and met recording artists such as The Dream, Trey Songz, Charlie Wilson, Ne-yo, The list goes on. But secure my own spot in the spot light is a dream come true.
IMM: What would you like to say is the highlight of your career when you’re ready to call it quits?
I’m no quitter. I’m locked in for life. Even when I’m old I’m going to make music, entertain, do something to put smiles on people’s faces.
IMM: Who has influenced you the most over the years?
WB: Jay-Z for his entrepreneurship and determination. Rodney Jerkins, Teddy Riley, Dr. Dre, Timbaland are some of the producers I look up to and hope to meet soon. They are the reason I started producing. Stevie Wonder, Donnie Hathaway, Jamie Foxx for their sultry voices and styles like no other. And Finally the legend himself, Michael Jackson. He paved the way for so many of us you. Man, I miss you Michael.
IMM: What stage do you want to play on the most?
WB: Whatever God has for me, it doesn’t matter whether I’m behind the scenes or in the spotlight….
IMM: If you weren’t doing music, what do you think you’d be doing?
WB: That’s simple, teaching or instructing. I’m doing music and part time, I teach music to high school students. So I’m into to music all around lol.
