Get to Know: Duane Scott

The one thing that I can say and honestly admire about this next artist in our Get to Know series is that not only is he passionate about his music, but he is one of the hardest working people I know when it comes to self-promotion. With the release of his sophomore album slated for the beginning of 2011, Duane Scott is continuing to not only hone his craft, but also charm us with his southern hospitality. Get to Know: Duane Scott

Tell me a little bit about the new album. How did you come up with the name Sycamore & Riley?
I came up with the name Sycamore and Riley because that’s where I grew up in Clarksdale, MS. That’s the corner my friends and I use to hang out at. It’s sort of me paying homage to my roots; where I came from and where it all started. And I’m really excited about the direction this album is going. I have the pleasure of working with a super producer, Jonathan Davenport, who has my sound right where it needs to be. I’m very proud and excited about this project. It’s going to be hot. I am about 6 songs into the project with maybe 6 more to go. I’ve taken my time with this one because I want it to be just right.
So when can we expect this new album to drop?

I have a tentative release of January 2010 and the reason why is that I really want this one to hit home with my fans. I want you to be able to put it on from track one to track whatever and not skip a song. I really want to take my time to ensure that each song flows from one into the next.

Are there any featured artists on this album?

Right now it’s just me. I listened to some features from some major artists, but right now it isn’t feasible for the production budget. But we’ll see because you never know, maybe someone will come through and do a feature that will fit within the budget.

Can we expect any promotional stops or possible tour dates?

It’s funny that you ask me that because I just got a call from some people in Alaska who want me to come up there and do a show. They heard my single and absolutely love it and are basically playing it out of style, which is amazing. There trying to bring other artists like Snoop Dogg there as well so I feel like the response is great. I’m also getting a big response from Florida and Atlanta as well. Trying to work it from all angles.

Have you done any songwriting or guest featuring for other artists?

I’ve done some songwriting, but I’m really just now putting myself out there to do some songwriting for others. I’ve had the opportunity to write for some local artists, but nothing that’s been released. I’m just more so keeping it all to myself for now. I want to wait until I really get out there to branch out.

Speaking of branching out I know that you were in a play a couple of months back, with good reviews. How do you juggle acting and music?

Actually that was the first play that I had done and I had a great time doing it and from doing that play I guess you could say that I was bitten by the acting bug. I would love to do more acting, but I am completely focused on my music right now. If an opportunity arises, then by all means I would consider it, but for now my main focus is on getting the D.Scott name and brand out there.

What motivates you in your creative/songwriting process?

Just everyday life and everyday things like relationships, being married. You have a lot of material there. Past relationships; things I’ve experienced and how they all tie together. For example my single, Luv U My Way, “I don’t have a dollar, I don’t have a dime… don’t even have spare change, but let me show you how I can love you.” Working with J Dav has really taken it up a notch and made me really step my game up because if it’s not HOT, it’s not coming out of the studio. It’s amazing what he can do, he makes you work. I also have a couple other writers on this new project as well.

What separates you from your typical R&B male artists?

I’m not trying to be like those guys. Much respect to their talent, but I’m just trying to be D. Scott and make great music. I feel like I have a voice and I can be the voice for that starving artist. Just representing the everyday man. I’m so pleased with the direction my career is starting to go and how this new album is shaping up.

Any new projects in the works besides completing the album?

I’m thinking about doing an all ballad album as my next project.

There are never enough ballads.

I want to make an album where you can run the bath water, light some candles, and just relax.

How has the transition been from your first album to this one?

I can honestly say that I’ve grown a lot between my albums. I did release a couple of mixtapes, but my development as an artist and carving my personal sound, you will definitely hear the change. I can’t stop saying how pleased I am with this new album. In the beginning, I was so green to the game I had so many people that just wanted to ride the bandwagon and were not being honest with me. With my new surroundings and my focus, I feel that this album will not only be something great for my fans, it will be something great for me as well.

Where can we find your music?
I’m all over the internet. My single Luv U My Way is available on iTunes, as well as my first album. Also CdBaby, Reverbnation, and my website, http://duanescott.net, where you can find the latest information about me and what I’m doing with the album.