Mwalim DaPhunkeeProfessor
is a multifaceted soul artist. Pianist, singer, songwriter, arranger, producer, and band leader are a few of the credits this artist has earned in his career, on both his own projects as well as collaborations with other artists, in the studio and on stage.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Mwalim emerged on Boston's underground music scene in the mid 1990's, playing small bars, clubs, coffeehouses, and spoken-word venues.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
I play live where ever. I have performed throughout the east coast, as well as Canada. I love playing out!!! My favorite memory was my first real tour in 2000.
Your musical influences
Nina Simone, Billy Preston, Thelonius Monk, Horace Silver, Sly & The Family Stone, Marvin Gaye, Gil Scott Heron, Brian Jackson, Donny Hathaway, Charlie Palmeri, Herbie Hancock, King Britt, Parliament Funkadelic, James Brown, Ray Charles, The Funk Brothers (Motown Studio Band), Jeffery Osborne, Eart, Wind & Fire, Steely Dan, Larry Lavone, Pete Rock, Otis Redding, Ike & Tina Turner, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Alan Ginsberg, Amiri Baraka, Ishmael Reed, Askia Toure,
What equipment do you use?
Classic Rhodes stage, Korg X3, accoustic paino when available. Drums and (acoustic or electric. Fretted or Fretless) bass vary.
Anything else?
I love jam-band settings.
