It's about being comfortable.

George Porter Jr. taught me how to function in different musical environments. You adapt by having faith in the people you play with, trust in your upbringing and comfort knowing your ears will lead the way.

One of the songs that's been fun to play live is "Cocaine and Chicken Fricassee". It's got a great groove and it gets people moving. It's also fun to watch the audience's reaction to the opening lines. You can see it on their faces. "Did he say what I think he said?...

My vocal coach said, "There should be no change in your voice whether you're speaking or singing." I don't know if I'm there yet. But when "River's On Fire" came out, the biggest compliment I received was , "You sound like yourself." That was really good to hear.

We discussed: Being a sideman versus being a frontmanNew Orleans musicians and versatilityWork and education with Papa Grows Funk, George Porter, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, and Art NevilleAnd more https://youtu.be/aUiXtp-sYHs

Our approach comes from the New Orleans jazz tradition, where it is important to make sure the music is alive and reflects how we're feeling that day. If I'm excited one day and the songs are a little fast, well the songs are a little fast. If I'm struggling, have had...

"Her Love Can't Be Denied" is another song I enjoy playing live. It's a simple song with a thick, lush arrangement, which makes it a challenge to perform live. The risk / reward is high, so it's a great barometer as to how we are playing as a band.

When I'm coming out of the shower or driving in the car, if a musical idea came into my head, I would immediately sing and record it into my phone. If I'm sitting at the piano and happened across something, good or bad, I recorded it. I learned from Allen Toussaint...