Coast 2 Coast Feat The Fantastic Gems
Back in 1968, at Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey, a music group called The Fantastic Gems was born. After graduation, the talented musicians went off to college, the military, and new careers. Years later, two of the original members reformed in Washington D.C. as "Coast2Coast" and began recording and performing from 1986 to 1990. In 2016, The Fantastic Gems got back together to fulfill a promise they made to each other when they were young students in New Jersey. The result of their reunion was the release of The New Old Skool. The project took three years from conception to completion. The album is a tribute to their musical roots, and was made in recognition of the community who encouraged, supported and shaped their musical spirit. The New Old Skool features 11 great songs that fans of R & B,Gospel, Pop, and Jazz will love.
For fans who have never heard your music, can you pick three words to describe it?! If three words just aren't enough then tell us more!!
Soulful – Inspirational – Authentic
What is your favorite part about being an artist? Is it songwriting, performing, recording, something else?) Tell us why.
My favorite part about being an artist is watching the way our music and songs affects people. I greatly appreciate it when fans tell us how much our music connects with their spirit.
Can you tell us what being in the recording studio is like for you?
Recording is one of my favorite aspects of being a musician. Being in the studio is magical. This is where the ideas, visions and concepts come together to tell the musical story of each song.
Okay, this a fun question. When you are not doing music, what else do you enjoy doing?
I’d be doing what I’ve always done, coaching, teaching, singing in the church choir, fishing, hitting some golf balls, hanging out with my kids and anything else my wife wants me to do.
Who do you admire most in the music scene today and why?
Gotta be my nephew Matthew Whitaker, an up and coming jazz pianist. He just released his 3rd album “Stop Fighting”. Oh and did I mention he happens to be totally blind. Truly an inspiration for all.
Can you tell us what song you've written that is the most emotional and describe the meaning behind it?
Our song “Thank You Lord” is a uniquely written love ballad that gives an uplifting message to the greatest love of all. Gratitude is a gift and Coast2Coast has much to be grateful for. It all started with a promise made by some talented teenagers back in 1968 that came into full fruition in 2019. The result of that promise is great music with a great message that fans of all generations and genres can enjoy.
Are you working on any new material right now or what's in the works for the upcoming year?
We are currently back in the studio. Just finished up the video for our Jazz version of Marvin Gaye’s “Save The Children”. Looking to release our next album Fall of 2021.
Tell us where fans can access your music.
Connect on Facebook
Stream on Spotify
For more information, visit Coast 2 Coast's website