Diva Zone ™ Magazine DZ_NovDec2017_Mag_Final_Printer_Version

18 schools have them. Mostly charter schools. It’s a shame that the powers that be do not see the value of the arts as it relates to overall development. BH: All year I am doing some writing, but, the Springtime is the best for me. The newness, the blooming, is helpful to my process. DZ: If you had to sum up your life priorities in ﬁ ve words or less, what would they be? With one being the greatest priority. DZ: What has been your biggest lesson as an artist? BH: 1. God, 2. Family/Friends. 3. Music, 4. Fraternities. I have no regrets for how I value my priorities, however, now that my children are almost grown and I am retired, I am more focused on my music. There was a time when my fraternity organizations (Kappas / Masons) were taking up much of my time and I got away from my music. Now, I am truly living life according to my priorities. No regrets; it feels right. BH: I would have settled in New York instead of Newark. It seems that because we are so close to the city, it’s difﬁ cult to have establishments and venues get the type of support needed to stay open when New York is an option. Also, I would have to say I learned how important marketing is to a musician’s success; or any business success for that matter. I learned how to be DZ: My favorite songs on ‘The Jazz Life’ are Holistic Invention and The Desert. When I hear them they both make me feel so happy. What is your favorite track; if you can choose one? DZ: How long have you been married? BH: For twenty-eight years. My wife and I have a great friendship. No marriage is perfect, but over the years I have learned that reasonable compromising, biting my tongue, explaining myself, my thoughts, what’s on my heart, staying true to our southern morals and values, and honoring each other’s family as our own have been the glue for us. We are very close. I’m blessed. Our families are very close too. BH: Bianca’s Dance and My Sons are the tunes I love most because they were inspired by my children. DZ: Are you working on any new music? BH: Yes. I’m working on a new project now. I’m getting all of the elements in place. It’s exciting. DZ: What advice would you give men preparing for marriage? BH: Become your mate’s best friend. Don’t marry for sex or emotions only. All of that newness wears off and you better like each other regardless. Marriage is a lifetime commitment. Don’t marry for money, to have bills paid, or because of any other superﬁ cial reason. Talk things out. Forgive and do not go to bed mad. My wife and I have stayed true to that and again, while no relationship is perfect; we have learned that communication and loyalty are key to us staying together through thick and thin. We dated for 4 years before we married. We got to know each other well ﬁ rst. That’s important. DZ: So, on your CD, ‘The Jazz Life’ is it safe to guess that track two entitled Carolyn is named after your wife? BH: Yes, it is. In fact, the entire CD is a tribute to my family and good friends. They inspire me. DZ: What is your favorite season to write music? BH: Women are the backbone to society when they want to be. I was taught old school. It used to be an honor for women to care for and nurture their families. They took pride in preparing healthy meals not buying fast-food or going out often. Women are multi-taskers and amazing. I just wish more young ladies were being taught how much they are needed to nurture while pursuing careers or other interests. In my opinion, men should take care of yard work, take out the trash, work hard to provide for the family, and protect them. Take care of the women. Unfortunately, things have changed, but, some still get it (this way of thinking). There is hope. my own publicist and to get exposure my projects. Otherwise, how will they know? Hear? Support? Very important element to the puzzle. DZ: What has been your biggest lesson as a man? BH: I was raised by my uncle (who would have turned 103 this year). He had a third- grade education yet, he was so wise. He would share wisdom daily that just made so much sense. He taught me about saving my money, being responsible, being respectful of others and made it a point to teach me to help as many people as I could in this life. That’s one of the reasons I became a teacher; to help shape young people the way I was taught. I grew up old. My guardians were old and that has shaped the way I think and live. It’s a good thing. DZ: In your eyes, how important are women to society? DZ: Is there a musical stage you aspire to grace in the near future? Any particular venue that you feel is a must-have? BH: I would love to play at the Detroit Jazz Festival as well as the Montreal Jazz Festival. DZ: Where can our audience purchase your music? BH: They can purchase CDs at www. cdbaby.com and they can learn more about my artistry on my website www. bradfordhayes.com DZ: I’m excited that you are going to be playing for us at The DIVA Zone’s relaunch celebration on December 9th and I am grateful that you have granted us the interview for this issue. This conversation has been like ‘soul food’ and I am thankful. I wish you continued success my friend. BH: Thank you, Najiyyah. Congratulations on this wonderful work. I am looking forward to the event as well.

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