Journey to the Depths of the Trumpet with Philip Lassiter

Your journey in your music career has been quite diverse and successful. Can you tell us a bit more about your experiences working with famous artists in different musical styles?

I began my career with gospel artist, Kirk Franklin. This was the first time I was in the studio with 1 of my heroes. I was such a big fan of his work with God’s Property. He was great to work with and gave me complete freedom. Since then we have made 5 records together, each one winning Grammys. Some other highlights for me include The Isley Brothers, Queen Latifah and of course, Prince. It’s so inspiring to be around these creative geniuses & learn from them!

2. You mentioned your musical origins and the different genres you have been influenced by. How do you think these various musical influences have affected your musical style?

Gospel, jazz, funk, soul...these are my main influences and will forever be with me & oozing out automatically.

3. Can you share with us your experience of working with an iconic band like Prince and the New Power Generation? How do you think working with Prince gave you a perspective on your musical career?

Work ethic! Prince’s work ethic was unprecedented. Also, he was humble when he created with others. He wanted the best idea to win, no HIS idea. He led the band with maturity, a sense of calm & poise. Every moment was a lesson.

4. Can you talk about your biggest achievements and biggest challenges in your musical career?

My biggest achievements in my musical journey have been more personal ones than obvious accolades. I’m happiest with my work itself, as a composer, songwriter & producer. Arranging for others is fun and

sometimes rewarding, but nothing beats feeling a sense of accomplishment from ones own creation. That being said, I’d have to mention my performance at the 2023 North Sea Jazz festival for a 10k audience. This was a dream come true and a very pivotal moment for me as I transition from arranger & behind the scenes worker to full blown artist and frontman/bandleader in my own right.

5. What do you think about the importance of digital platforms in the music world? How do you use these platforms in your own music career?

I’m a bit old school. I like to sell vinyl to my fans hand to hand. LOL But I am embracing the new music model as one should. I try to stay active on IG and FB, while using Youtube as well. This is the best way to cultivate a vibrant, active audience.

6. Can you share with us the most memorable moment in your musical career?

That’s tricky, as there have been many. But I do remember a moment at the Superdome in New Orleans after a show when Prince was shooting his fingers at me and saying “OKAY!!”. Later I realized he was complimenting me on my just then released album “DreamZzz” that I had passed along to his bouncer. That was a great feeling.

7. What is the most important advice you can give to young musicians and those who want to pursue a career in music?

You are your best investment. Ya gotta love this thing & do it for the right reasons. Otherwise it’s all bs. Work on yourself, as well as your music because noone else will stand in the way of success and opportunity more than YOU. Make sure to BELIEVE that success is FOR you and failure is NOT an option. Live by that and treat others with lots of patience and love.

8. Can you give us some information about your future projects and goals? What are your musical plans and dreams?

I am always writing and recording new songs. This keeps me fulfilled, excited and creative.I have enough material to release 2 more records. Just trying to be strategic about releases in the future. So I am making plans for these. I plan to do some massive collaborations with the WDR Big Band soon. I hope to do more large ensemble recordings and shows. The music just keeps getting better in my opinion so it only makes sense to keep developing it. The sky is the limit and besides, what else would I rather be doing?