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Life & Work with Jamaal Wicks

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamaal Wicks.

JAMAAL WICKS

Jamaal, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hmmm, I officially got my start in Memphis, TN, at Ford Road Elementary playing the violin from 4th-6th grade. It was during this time that I met weekly with an instructor who showed me the essentials of violin playing and the beauty in being able to create music. I really enjoyed those years.

When starting 7th grade at Bishop Byrne High School, they unfortunately had no orchestra, only a small pep band, so I knew I was going to choose a new instrument, and I was cool with that. I wanted to play the percussion, but the director said, “Either you’ll play trumpet or not be in the band. Sooo lol, I stuck it out because I genuinely loved being able to create music. Around the 9th grade, I discovered jazz and classical virtuoso trumpeter, Wynton Marsalis. I was captivated. He was the epitome of everything that so many trumpeters aspired to be. He had a beautiful tone, great melodic lines, flawless execution, and never-ending ideas. With that inspiration, I joined the jazz band during my 10th grade year at Overton High School of the Performing Arts. The passion of our music directors and the discipline that they required allowed us to be recognized around the country at various exhibitions and competitions. Much respect to directors Jackie Thomas (jazz), Chris Piecugh, and O’Neal Douglas (both concert band directors).

My love of music carried over to my time at the University of Memphis, where I learned under many new directors and private teachers (saxophonist Dr. Jack Cooper, bassist Dr. Tim Goodwin, and trumpeter Dr. David Spencer, to name a few). It was here that i began performing in small jazz combos, trying to emulate how the big wigs did it. This was such a great experience. It was also during this time that I begin performing in other genres, such as R&B, blues, gospel, and hip-hop, etc. I was like a kid in a candy store, sitting in with every band that needed a trumpet player. It was great. At one point, I was performing about 10 times a month.
Between 2013-2014, I accepted an opportunity to perform with the BB King Blues Club Allstars. We performed on the Holland America Cruise Line throughout many parts of the world. I thoroughly enjoyed this eye-opening cultural experience. We saw some very beautiful places. And being able to sit on the deck every night after our show, feeling like you could see every star ever created, was beyond words. It was indeed a spiritual experience. I needed that.
When all of that wrapped up, I transitioned to Abilene, Texas, where I attended Hardin-Simmons University. I really enjoyed the people there; very warm and welcoming. I could not go without mentioning Dr. Wayne Dorothy, Dr. Leigh Ann Hunsaker, Dr. Jeff Cottrell, Dr. Robert Tucker, Dr. Bernie Scherr, and the Abilene Jazz Collective. They assisted me greatly. Thank you. There’s many more I wish I had time to mention that were very hospitable during my time there.
I moved to DFW in 2021 and have appreciated the many creative outlets provided here. I most often frequent the Balcony Club in Dallas and Scat Jazz Lounge in Fort Worth, where I sit on their jam session nights. I love the level of musicianship and opportunities here, and everyone has been really cool.

I’ve released a few projects over the years, combining my singing, trumpet, and keyboard playing, as well as my compositions. Previous projects have been a combination of contemporary jazz and Christian themes. I’ve done a lot more writing, so when the time is right, more projects will come. I’m not sure what the future holds, but God-willing, music will always have a significant part of it.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

For me, I don’t think it’s ever been easy, per se. Sometimes I feel like a late bloomer in some aspects. Like some things clicked just a little bit later than I would’ve preferred, both as a player and in understanding some things about life. Regarding challenges, I think the ability to stay passionate about anything over a long period of time is a challenge in itself. You will have to reinvent yourself. Your commitment will be tested and there will be seasons where you must regroup, reassess where you are and what you’re working towards, and make the necessary adjustments so progress can continue. In truth, this is a rinse and repeat cycle that continuously applies to many parts of my life, be it in music, my career, relationships as they come and go, and my growth as a complete person in general.
As a trumpeter, I’ve tried various playing setups, meaning mouthpieces and horns, trying to find what is most suitable for where I am at that time. Beyond that, I’ve had seasons where I felt that I wasn’t improving as a player and was just going in circles. It takes a lot to work toward being a well-rounded player. First, there’s being proficient at playing the horn itself. Then there’s the work it takes to develop your creative voice. I’ve always compared being a trumpet player to a high-maintenance relationship. It takes daily nurturing and routines that develop the relationship properly. But I’m thankful that the fire still burns. I’m still learning. There’s still something left in the tank. I am thankful. I am blessed.

Deciding to leave Memphis in 2014 was a big challenge for me; leaving the comfort of everything I’d ever known. It was during this time that I adopted the lion-over-lamb mentality. Knowing that I was going into the world of the unknown, it was my goal to accept the challenge head-on, approaching life with the confidence and fierceness of a lion, not the meekness of the lamb. Good things have happened. I’ve learned a lot about myself and the world around me. I’ve had successes. I’ve had some less than desirable experiences, but I’m still here. I am blessed. I am thankful.

I’ve married and divorced and have learned a lot from that journey. That season produced an amazing little soccer playing five-year-old. He’s the coolest. That’s my guy. His smile has been literal fuel and encouragement.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve done a lot of writing in recent years and have been actively thinking on what the next project will look like. Trying to be clear on:
  • What I’m trying to say
  • What I want the project to feel like
  • What is the desired instrumentation and formatting that will convey exactly that, without trying to say too much
When all of these components come together and the timing is right, the next project will be born, hopefully soon. I’m looking forward to it.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My biggest cheerleader is my older brother, Terrence. He’s been watching me all of my life, so he really understands my mindset, and he’s seen the growth. He’s also the only somebody I personally know that randomly plays my music throughout the day. Lol

I have a circle of musician friends from my hometown that I group chat with regularly. They’re a great group of guys and supporters. Clifton Brady (sax) – we’ve been tight since junior high. Sidney “Busta” Kirk IV (drums), Aaron Johnson (piano), and Chris “Styles” Davis (bass). These are my brothers. We will work together again one day.

One of my musical mentors is Johnny Yancey of Memphis, TN. He’s a trumpeter as well. I’ve admired him through various perspectives, from his creative approach as an improvisor and bandleader to his role as a family man. Just a really good guy.

And I could not go without mentioning my mom, Josephine Norman. She bought my first violin, trumpet, and keyboard, as well as paid for private lessons. Thanks mom. Can you believe that I’m still at it after all this time?? Money well spent.

There are many that fall in the category of supporters. Too many to name. But to all of you, thank you with the whole of my heart. You’ve been my fuel and encouragement. I am blessed because of you. More good music is coming.

Pricing:

  • I most recently released a 16 minute relaxation track called 4U2Relax on all digital platforms. It only runs about .99 cent.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Terrence Wicks

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