Not your “Average Joe" : Q&A with the American crooner

March 31^st, 2012-- American RnB sensation, Joe Thomas openly confesses his love for women. True to his word, majority of his songs are in praise of the fairer sex. With multiple Grammy awards and a stellar record of albums, the prolific singer/producer is set to rock Nairobi this Saturday in a concert dubbed, “Experience Tusker Lite with Joe Thomas”.

Although Joe has been singing songs for women over the years, at 39 years he is still a single man looking for that woman whose story is “completely written” to his, he says. Rocking a diamond stud of his left ear, several tattoos on his arms including one of a guitar and seemingly joyous, Joe talked to UP about how to salvage RnB, success and what Kenyans should expect from his premiere show in this land.

UP: In your musical years you’ve collaborated with various acclaimed artists including Nas, Mystikal, Nsync, G-Unit and Mariah Carey. Who was your best and why?

Joe: I hold closely to my heart the collaboration I did with Big Pun on ‘Still not a playa’, God rest his soul in peace. He was a great Latin hip-hop artist and the song did very well internationally. However, working with Mariah Carey has been the best alliance in my career. She’s very professional and I learnt a lot from her during our tours. In essence, my affiliation to her was what changed the world’s perspective of me as an RnB artist. All our records became international hits.

UP: With a resume of nine studio albums and seven Grammy awards among others, you are also a sought after record producer. What has been the greatest contribution to your success?

Joe: I don’t know (chuckles). I can’t point to anything other than the fact that I am real and my fans love me for that. Other musicians have personas to keep up with, but I on the other hand just live in reality, it’s what RnB music entails.

UP: RnB music took over the 90’s. Now contemporary music has been taken over by pop, what’s your take on the way forward for the once monstrous RnB genre?

Joe: I love RnB because it’s utmost passionate and how it talks about real issues. It’s been overshadowed by pop but it’s still undeniably strong and relevant. For an ultimate solution, young and upcoming artists need to embrace RnB.

UP: What do you love about Kenya and what should Kenyans expect from your debut show in the country?

Joe: Haven’t been here long enough but I’ve been around the world and I can tell you that Nairobi is made of beautiful weather! I also love the people. Since my arrival at the airport, hotel and at the radio station that hosted me, I’ve received nothing but love from phenomenal people. I will leave with a big smile, and hope to return soon. As for my show, Kenyans should expect to have so much fun! I will leave everyone feeling something from my world as I am here to touch people, and to share my culture with them. It’ll be a 100% rocking, so you better get ready!

Joe and his band are expected to perform on Saturday, March 31^st 2012 in a concert dubbed “Experience Tusker Lite with Joe” organized by EABL in conjunction with Capital FM. Kenyan acts Jazz/ soul singer June Gachui, DJ’s Adrian and Andre will curtain raise. The concert set to kick off at 5.00 pm will go on till early morning and will be held at the Bomas of Kenya, off Langata Road.

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