Mike Hammond

   By: Tabitha aka SunShyne
       Host/Producer/Promoter/A&R
       A FiveOh4 CreoleGyrl Production
       DaNawlinzGroove.com
       SpokenRythmz.com

 

Sexy vocals and intricate harmonies set the stage for the exploration of love lost and lust on this self-titled debut by Mike Hammond.

Being a prolific writer and daring vocal arranger, Mike has worked with the hottest new producers and seasoned musicians to create a fresh but familiar R&B experience. His easy, free-flowing vocals will have you from the first note to the last. 

With urban beats and live instrumentation, Mike Hammond presents an eclectic mix of R&B flavors ranging from hip-hop to classic R&B inspired grooves. There’s a little something for everyone.

He takes the listener from having a little fun in “One Time Romance”; to exploring the intimacies of making love in “Inside You”, and losing love altogether in “How Could You Do This to Me”. Mike Hammond is indeed an artist the world should hear.

Sunshyne: Hi Mike! I'm so happy to have this opportunity to chat with you
again!

Mike: Sunshyne, it is always a pleasure speaking with you.

Sunshyne:  Where are you from and how did you get started in the music industry?

Mike: I'm from Hollis Queens NY , which is a part of Jamaica Queens where so many
Musicians / Creative types were either born and raised or have lived at one
point of their lives (Run DMC & Jam Master Jay, LL Cool J. Tom Browne just
to name a few), I started singing in church (tiny tot choir) which is (I
feel) the best place to start because not only did I learn my voice there
but it's also where Spiritually I became grounded.

Sunshyne: When growing up did you ever think you would be where you are right now?

Mike: Honestly I've always had hopes and dreams of entertaining but I could've
never imagined this road. I've been blessed to have done the things I've
done so far.

Sunshyne: Musically, whom have you looked up to in your career? Who has inspired
you to push on musically as an artist?

Mike: I look to the legends for inspiration. Sammy Davis Jr., Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Donnie Hathaway, Luther Vandross and the list goes on and on.

Sunshyne: When did you first start writing?

Mike: I started writing maybe around 12 years old, I was in the studio doing a project with a guy name Hollis Stone and he inspired me to write and the first song I wrote was called "The Birthday Song", I'll never forget because my family laughed at me but I was proud of it.

 
Sunshyne: What advice would you give to an artist just starting out?

Mike: Stand strong, know that this is what you want and don't stop until you get it.

Sunshyne: What is your favorite track from your CD "(Mike Hammond) and why?

Mike: Wow, that's like saying which one of my children do I like the best.... Because
I wrote them, they all have a place for me but if I have to pick one right
now I would have to say "Dance for Me" (Cause I like to watch, wink wink)

Sunshyne:  What has been the response to your CD?

Mike: I have gotten some great responses, some good responses, some okay responses, the okay responses come from people that know me and felt I held back too much and didn't show the world me But that's going to change soon (hmmm).

Sunshyne: My favorite track on your CD would most definitely be "How Could You Do
This To Me"?  What was the inspiration behind it?

Mike: That song was the end for me; I was in a bad relationship. Christmas I had a nice evening planned and got stood up. So, I put my headphones on let the track run and wrote the song. When I put the pen down I also put the relationship down too.

Sunshyne: In your opinion how important is it for parents to encourage their
child's love for the arts? 

Mike: It allows the child to be free mentally and you learn to be more expressive.  I think it's very important to be able to have an escape and that's what the arts was for me....

Sunshyne:  What advice would you give to a kid who's constantly being fed
negativity about their dreams? 

Mike: Ignore everyone that puts negativity in your way and push harder to do what's in your heart.

Sunshyne: If there was one thing you would like the world to know about (Mike)
that we may not already know, what would it be? 

Mike: That he loves to laugh, really I do.

 

Sunshyne: Give me 3 words to describe your style as a singer.

Mike: I'll give you one "ANOMALY".

Sunshyne: Well, I have to agree you definitely stand alone.  Your voice is what we all need more of.  Besides singing what are some other passions/talents you have?

Mike: I write, I'm developing some things for television and I have an Idea for a book I'm
working on. And as for other talents (hmmm) those are just for my baby.....
(smiling devilishly).

 

Sunshyne: If given the chance would you sign to a major label or would you rather
remain an Indie artist?

Mike: Well, this is a business and if the right deal comes along I just might (who knows) But I love the indie scene.

 

Sunshyne:  What legacy do you wish to leave behind and what can we expect from
you in the near future?

Mike: I would love to leave behind some great work that people will enjoy for generations to come, Music, Television, and Literature, whatever it is.

 

Sunshyne:  Mike, I wish you so much success!  Thank you for sharing your
time and love for what you do with us!

 

Mike: Thank you my Sunshyne...... (Big Hug)

 

For more information on this artist visit:

myspace.com/mikehammondmusic