DEF JAM Introduces Sterling Simms

Listening to this newly signed DEF JAM Artist, it is hard to believe that he is all of 24 years of age. He speaks with an air of confidence and seems to have a "swagger" that is reserved for seasoned professionals. As I listened to his newly released single "Nasty Girl" I was reminded of the days when Teddy Riley, New Edition & Brian McKnight created timeless music. Perhaps that's because Sterling Simms credits those artists as being part of his musical upbringing. He confesses that he is an "80's Baby" who wants to create "music we can groove to (in a club) years from now."

During my interview with Sterling, I wanted to know more about his life and how he has stayed true to his craft. I also wanted to talk to him a little bit about his sense of maturity and the voice of experience that shines through his sound. Sterling says that his "Grandpa was a Composer and had a record studio in his basement. He recorded me when I was 6 years old. I truly admired how he would put his thoughts to CD." As we continued our conversation, he revealed that music runs deep in his family. He has a cousin that plays with Jazz Musician Wynton Marsalis and another that plays the trumpet. Music to him is a form of art that is free flowing and ballads should be written with life long meaning. Regarding his recent success with DEF JAM, Sterling says "that Grandpa would be extremely proud. It is One for the Simms."

So in this interview, I introduce you to Sterling Simms, the artist, the writer and most importantly the person. Sterling's story is like most who have a dream to succeed. The only difference seemingly is the intensity of work and depth of passion.

Saba, Ink: Sterling, I notice that you are a Cancer, born in July.
Sterling: Yes I am.
Saba,Ink: Well, I have a household filled with Cancers. I know how moody y'all can get, so, I'll try to keep this on point so you don't have to go through any changes (laughing).
Sterling: No, I'm not one of those Cancers... you should be alright (laughing).
Saba, Ink: Sterling, seriously, I thank you for speaking with me and am very interested in learning more about you.
Sterling: Thank you for having me!
Saba,Ink: Tell me what it has been like working with greats like LA Reid? What have you learned in this process?
Sterling: Well, I come from Philly and have sometimes seen the worst of the worst. So being around LA (Reid), I have learned to appreciate the finer things. He along with Mr. Gamble (Gamble & Huff), have been like mentors to me. It's been great to learn the persona of these legends outside of the music industry. I am learning so much from them.
Saba,Ink: Anything you care to share?
Sterling: Well, LA (Reid) always tells me; "don't lose your drive" and "always be prepared to strap on your seat belt." Mr. Gamble is a very philosophical man and so he says stuff like "those with the fewest facts have the fastest answers."
Saba,Ink: Wow! Those are great words of advice. My Dad always used to say "empty barrel makes the loudest noise.....(lol)"
Sterling: That is a good one. I'll have to use that one......(laughing).
Saba,Ink: As long as you credit my Dad for giving it to you...(laughing)

The one thing I noticed about Sterling is that he appeared very humble in the midst of his whole "Star" experience. He seemed grounded in a way that was quite calming and almost unexpected.

Saba, Ink: On yesterday's OPRAH, Songwriter Dianne Warren talked about her passion for music and how her mother did not support her. In fact, she says her mom advised her to not sing at all. Her mother suggested that she become a secretary of sorts. Her father was always a great supporter of her vision. She actually wrote the song "Because You Love Me" sung by Celine Dion for her Father. Dianne said that her passion for music/songwriting is so strong that she would probably DIE without it. Is that the same for you?
Sterling: Well, coming from a musical family, they always supported me. I was in talent shows and plays since I was 12 and 13 years old. During the rough times they would ask me what I was going to do with my life. But this is what I breathe. This is a world that you have to be in to understand. I have sacrificed so much! I missed family events and many other personal things. However, anything that you are passionate about, you go after.
Saba,Ink: That is truly inspiring. It is definitely about pursuing your passion and as Russell Simmons' new book says "Do You!"
Sterling: You've gotta "Do You!"
Sterling: There were times when I was broke without a dime to my name but I was happy just to be doing my music. I was sleeping in studios, cleaning up in public places and my closet was in the trunk of my car. I used to joke that MTV would do a Cribs On Wheels about me (laughing).
Saba,Ink: What was your turning point?
Sterling: About 2 years ago, me and some of my boys began writing at night. We had day jobs and it seemed like our best writing came around 10-11at night. Sometimes we'd be up until 6 am in the morning. It was crazy but because of this, we named ourselves the Knightwritaz.
Sterling: Then we hooked up with Mario. He enjoyed our energy and sound so much that we ended up extending our time together. It was a fun experience. Hey, when it starts to feel like work it's not good. So we are having fun!
Saba,Ink: Ok, talk to me about "Nasty Girl"
Sterling: It is a sexy tune. It is tantric..... It is sexy... but not too much. We had a great time filming that video. The young lady in the video Carla was really great to work with.
Saba,Ink: What about "Jump Off?"
Sterling: (laughing). Wow that is was my first born! LA (Reid) heard that and went crazy! I wrote that with my partner Stezo of Knightwritaz. I did not expect it to be such a hit. ..but I guess when it is right it comes easily. It was like a party making that video. We rented the house and filmed until 4:00am....we just had fun doing the video. Big shout out to Knightwritaz!
Saba,Ink: What's next for Sterling?
Sterling: I'm currently looking at some scripts. I want to get back into my acting. You know I used to do plays. I am working on a clothing line called "Selfish" because you know, sometimes you just gotta be selfish.
Saba,Ink: You mean "Do You?!?" (laughing)
Sterling: Yes! must definately....Do You. Then I also am working on a women's lingerie line....YES Intimates.
Saba,Ink: Now that sounds interesting. Will it be along the lines of Victoria's Secret or Frederick's of Hollywood?
Sterling: It will definitely be along the lines of Vickie's Secret! I want it to be so sexy that during those times when a couple is alone, all he will be able to do is bite his knuckles and say YES (laughing).
Saba,Ink: That is really great. I can't wait to see it.
Saba, Ink: So tell me about you and the special woman/women in your life.
Sterling: I am definitely SINGLE. I am a family man helping to take care of my Mom. She has been taking care of 5 kids and working very hard all her life. I want to make sure I can take care of her so that she can relax. So right now, I'm married to my career.
Saba,Ink: So what have you done for her so far?
Sterling: I took my advance money and bought her a house. She has not really had anything to call her own so I wanted to do that for her. It made me feel really good.
Saba,Ink: You're looking to retire her?
Sterling: That is what I intend to do. I want to call her when this record does well and tell her she doesn't have to work anymore.
Saba,Ink: That is a wonderful thing! Congratulations and we'll try to help you retire Mom soon (smiling).
Sterling: Thank you....Saba....

Sterling Simms is truly an example of following one's passion and living life to it's fullest. He is a believer in the phrase "DO YOU" and proves that this is a great formula for success! Sterling Simms' Album "Worth Your While" is scheduled for release on One Recording/DEF JAM.