We were lucky to catch up with Adam Hawley recently and have shared our conversation below.
Adam, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?
Yes, but only by being involved in several different aspects of the music entertainment industry. Earlier in my career I gigged around town, played at church, taught in lesson studios. Later I toured almost exclusively as a “guitarist to the stars” traveling with Jennifer Lopez, Brian McKnight, Natalie Cole, Backstreet Boys, Lalah Hathaway, to name just a few. Then I started teaching music at the collegiate level. Finally I released my debut record in 2016 and now tour full-time as a solo artist. Additionally I stay very busy in the studio as a producer, and in the last year have expanded my record label to sign multiple artists.
Adam, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Guitarist and Producer Adam Hawley has burst on to the scene as a celebrated and innovative artist, composer and band leader. Handpicked by Maurice White (founder of Earth, Wind, & Fire) he first debuted on the legend’s label Kalimba Music. In all, Adam’s four albums and work as a producer has spawned an incredible 16 Billboard #1 Hits. In it’s first week, the 3rd record “Escape” was the #1 Selling Album in the Nation, outselling every other contemporary jazz album as per Nielsen. The debut single went on to become the Billboard and Smooth Jazz Network Song of the Year for 2020. He followed this up with the 4th album “Risin’ Up;” it’s title track again reached the top of the Billboard charts in late ’21. 2022 was particularly successful including four more #1’s, culminating with 2022 song of the year. Coupling this with a robust touring schedule throughout the world, the best is yet to come.
In addition to touring as a leader, he has also played for Jennifer Lopez, Natalie Cole, Lalah Hathaway, The Manhattan Transfer, Brian McKnight, and appeared on American Idol in the house band to name a few. He also is an educator holding a Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
I am most proud of the work I’ve been doing with my record label, launching new artists, and working on fresh/new music to provide to the listening public.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I’ve been fortunate to stay in the music industry my entire career, but I have had to pivot the primary focus or primary source of income. From 2003-2008 I mostly worked around town in Los Angeles. from 2008-2013 almost completely on the road touring. From 2013-19 a combination of teaching college, some touring, and starting my artist career. 2019-2024 only touring as a solo artist, music production, and expanding my record label.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Waking up each day either working on new music with amazing artists or traveling around the world to share my music. It never gets old!
Contact Info:
- Website: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/adamhawleymusic
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/adamhawleymusic
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/adamhawleymusic
- Youtube: https://YouTube.com/adamhawleymusic
Image Credits
images by Dan Boissy