With his soulful sound and classic good looks, Russell Taylor is sure to be on the scene everywhere next year and beyond. If you don’t already know his music from The Fosters, or VH1, you’re sure to hear it come April when his new album drops. We chatted with Russell about all things TV, inspiration for his songs, what he’s listening to and what’s on his list of goals for 2014 and beyond. Check it out!
Young Adult: How were you approached to have song featured on The Fosters?
Russell Taylor: I work with a top notch music licensing company based in NYC.
YA: Have you watched The Fosters prior? What are your thoughts on the show?
RT: I have seen The Foster’s prior the feature, and I love it. I think that it is progressive and a reflection of our world: An inter-racial same sex couple, professionals that raise kids from all walks of life; and they deal with real world issues.
YA: Is this song about anyone or anything specific?
RT: War of Hearts was inspired by ABC’s show—Scandal, but includes sentiment from real life experiences of my own. Life and love can be quite a struggle…but love always wins.
YA: What has this experience done for your career?
RT: Well, first the exposure of the VH1 You Oughta’ Know platform has been amazing. But then the synergy of primetime TV shows using War Of Hearts (which is the first single from my upcoming record) is just the icing on the cake. All these great things are moving my career along. It has been awesome.
YA: What other shows would you like to hear your music featured?
RT: Scandal, Grey’s Anatomy, Pretty Little Liars, Being Mary Jane, House of Cards, Orange is the New Black, Revolution. ( I bet you were expecting a list…I have to have a list to focus on…).
YA: What has been your biggest success to date?
RT: My biggest break through thus far is being named a VH1 You Oughta’ Know artist. I share this honor with breakthrough artists like Bruno Mars, The Lumineers, and Adele, and so many more.
YA: Do you have a favorite music artist that you most relate to?
RT: It is difficult to narrow it down to one. It depends on the mood and moment. But I am currently listening to Bruno Mars, M83, Emile Sande, Lianne La Havas, Laura Mvula, Lalah Hathaway, James Blake.
YA: What else do you have coming up?
RT: I have a new video coming for the 2nd single, Electric, then I have my record release on April 22nd, and then a promo tour supporting the album.
YA: Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10 years?
RT: I see myself continuing with music, working to develop a few new artists—one of which is a brilliant World music artist named Ria Boss. And then…off into movies and tv. I was/am an actor first…I can’t wait to get back in front of that camera!
YA: What are some things you want your fans to know about you that they might not?
RT: I want them to know that I am addicted to instagram and twitter! LOL LOL. It is shameful how often I check. So feel free to say hi…@Rsoulstar
YA: What 5 songs are you currently listening to on your iPod?
RT: A tune called Snow Cold by Tiny Hearts, Drunk In Love by Beyonce, Happy by Pharrell, My next single Electric, Love and War by Tamar Braxton.