The brilliance of Christopher-Lawson Palmer is nearly indescribable. The multi-hyphenate genius’ talent across a myriad of arts has led many to believe he may be the most complete artist since Prince. When offered the opportunity to introduce him to the world, we couldn’t pass on it.
You have been widely recognized as a prodigy. When did your exploration of music begin?
Music exploration began in my mother’s womb. I inherited her talents, and she groomed me by exposing me to Jazz and Opera. I was surrounded by instruments in my house and had the freedom to explore all of them until I discovered I shined at playing the piano, trumpet and singing opera. By age 10, I was supported/sponsored by organizations, and formal training with legends gave me the tools to land roles with Opera companies and gain acceptance into a high school conservatory called Booker T Washington HSPVA, where I currently study Jazz Piano.
Name some of the artists who have inspired or influenced you?
My mom, Muntazz Palmer, initially inspired me to play the piano, sing, and act. To help elevate my sound, she connected me with artists who had careers, and they prepared me to pursue a career in Jazz and Opera. Jason Marsalis, Donald Brown, and Ben Maney gave me a solid foundation when I started playing jazz piano. Reginald ‘’Reggie” Wooten added colors to my playing. I received the best vocal coaching and advice from Grace Bumbry, Rachel De Trejo, Matthew Marriott, Key W Murrah, Clifford Smith, and Dr. Stephen Austin. I had the best trumpet teachers on the planet: Valery Ponomarev, Ashlin Parker, and Wynton Marsalis. And my mentor, Mark Gross (Director of Jazz Instruction at NJPAC), opened many doors for me.
The range of your creativity is quite diverse. How would you describe your approach to songwriting?
My journey as a composer began at age 12 on a film set. I was given the opportunity to compose for a horror film. I thought about the mood and how I wanted the audience to feel in the scenes. I researched horror movies and paid attention to the music that worked. I followed that formula and composed all night. The next day I pitched my compositions to the director, who accepted them into the film. That gave me the confidence to continue, and I pursued training. Composition programs through Rutgers University, Christian McBride’s Jazz House Kids, and Louis Satchmo Armstrong Jazz Camp helped me hone my skills as a composer.
Describe the hardest part of your artistic journey so far?
The hardest part of my artistic journey was when I hit puberty, and my voice changed. I had a soaring treble voice, and then suddenly, my voice was gone on my 14th birthday. I sounded like a croaking frog. I was mentally and emotionally destroyed. I consulted with multiple teachers to help me get through it. I was advised to be patient and give my voice time to settle so I didn’t damage it. During this transition, I focused on strengthening my skills as a pianist and trumpeter.
With so many musical creatives emerging daily, do you take steps to ensure you stand out?
Yes, I have taken the steps to stand out as an artist. My talents can reach diverse audiences. I’m not just a trained artist, I’m also innovative. I create all the time. I can play by ear and read scores, essential skills in this industry. My training and experience in Opera, Acting, and Jazz have also prepared me to embark on and explore other disciplines. Based on my resume, I recently received a scholarship to attend The Conducting Institute.
It’s just a matter of time before you start receiving offers. What specific things would you look for when choosing a label?
I want to sign with a label with a track record of grooming, nurturing, and supporting artists. I’m ready to work and reach a wider audience with my artistry and want the freedom to express ALL my talents. Because I wear many hats, I want a partnership with a label that has my best interest at heart and supports my vision of becoming an international opera singer, jazz pianist, and actor.
Social media is becoming a vital part of building a following and engaging with fans. How do you plan to implement it to your advantage?
The goal is to have a strong marketing team. I want fan access through a Podcast or Jam Session/Show to connect and share the who, what, where, and why of what I’m doing as an artist. And I want to be able to express gratitude to my fans. I believe focusing on mastering my God-given talents has and will continue to attract and engage my fans.
Where can our readers find out more about you?
Follow me on Instagram: @christopherlawson_musician
Follow me on Facebook: Christopher-Lawson Palmer
Support my upcoming films and singing engagements: www.marblesandbullets.com (Lead Role: Jeremiah)
www.sherlockholmesmareofthenight.com (Role: Opera Singer)
www.allamericantenniscup.com (Singing the National Anthem December 15-17 in Austin, TX)
