Q Parker speaks about his path from 112 to his solo work in this conversation drawn from Evolution of Romance Volume 1. He reflects on the move to stand on his own, the return to themes he says R&B has drifted from, and the focus that guides his plans for more volumes.
Let’s start from the beginning. You’ve been a cornerstone of R&B since the 1990s with 112. How has that journey shaped your solo work?
My journey has shaped who I am today in every way. My journey shaped who I am now as a solo artist. A lot of the things I apply as Q Parker, going into my 30th year, come from what I was taught and what I learned in my early years. As I’ve grown and matured, there’s a more grown-up approach, but the foundation of who I am was birthed during my years in 112.
Looking back, what moment in your career defined your growth as an artist?
I would say 2010, when I made the decision to go on a solo journey. It was an adjustment because I was accustomed to participating in my role in the group and knowing where I fit. I had to tell myself I believed I could do it and push myself into uncharted territory. It was uncomfortable, but I’m glad I took the chance. During that time alone, I learned about my instrument, my gifts, and my talents. I no longer had the crutch of leaning on my brothers or tagging someone else in. I had to drive the entire vehicle myself. I was afraid because I wasn’t sure how I would do it or what it would sound like. That period taught me a lot about how I wanted to grow and what I wanted a Q Parker sound to be.
You’ve spoken about redefining the concept of “begging” in R&B. How does that carry into Evolution of Romance Volume 1?
Begging is the foundation of Evolution of Romance Volume 1. There are certain things that happen in relationships, and when we decided to do this project, we wanted to fill a void I felt male R&B artists were leaving open. That included romance, begging, courting, and dating. “Beg” was the first single to usher in this thought process of bringing romance back to the records. It was a bold statement because it wasn’t being done publicly. I wanted to stand firm in the objective: bringing love back to the music, bringing sensuality, sexuality, passion, and romance back.
How do you balance nostalgia with innovation when creating music that honors classic R&B but speaks to today’s audience?
I show up as my authentic self. That means keeping my ears connected to the pulse of the culture and where music is going and creating a hybrid. When you hear me, you hear the influence of my 1990s era mixed with today’s sonics. I put it all together and deliver it as Q Parker.
What inspired the title Evolution of Romance Volume 1? What story are you telling?
The story is romance. A lot of people have grown up with me, and I’ve evolved in how I define romance, brotherhood, and manhood. I’ve evolved as a songwriter, storyteller, and poet. As I evolve, my definition of romance evolves. I’m putting that on record.
Walk us through the creative process behind one of the standout tracks. What sparked it?
I’ll go back to “Beg.” It started with a conversation among my partners about guys not begging anymore. Women want to feel the love that sometimes shows through a good old beg. But it wasn’t just about men begging for women. We wanted to set the tone that relationships are inclusive. Everyone has a role. We defined “beg” as bringing endless gratitude to your partner. Men beg for your women; women beg for your men.
You collaborated with artists including Dondria Nicole and Rico Love. How did those partnerships influence the album?
I’m particular about who I choose as collaborators. I knew I needed a female voice on “Keep On Loving.” These artists are friends, and we have real relationships. I knew Dondria was the one because of her tone and the way she delivers passion in her vocals. She was a strong addition to “Keep On Loving.”
What themes or emotions do you hope listeners take from this volume, especially in today’s relationship culture?
Just being real, being authentic, and not being afraid to be vulnerable. A relationship isn’t a contest. It’s not about who’s strongest or toughest. It’s a sacrifice for both parties. If both commit, the relationship can flourish. If people are measuring and competing, it suffers. The music is meant to ignite conversation, smooth the relationship, and reduce confrontation. It leans on love and the subtleties of romance.
With more than 13 million Spotify streams and multiple awards, how do you define your legacy?
Legacy is everything to me. I think we work the way we do so that years later, people are still talking about us. Having all these records means I’ve reached the hearts and homes of people all over the world. I’m a grandfather now, and it matters that if my grandchildren look through the legacy of R&B, they see their GP’s name as a contributor to R&B and hip-hop. That’s why I stay consistent in creating records with longevity, not records tied to trends.
What’s next after Volume 1? Do you see future volumes or other ventures ahead?
Absolutely. I intentionally added “Volume 1” because there will be a Volume 2, a Volume 3, and possibly a Volume 4. If romance is what people want, I’ve coined myself the Romance Dealer. I’m out here dealing romance, and I’m not going anywhere. More volumes are coming.
Thank you for your time. I’ve been a fan since your early years with 112, and I look forward to more music.
Thank you.
Be’n Original
