As one-fourth of R&B supergroup 112, Quinnes Parker charmed listeners around world with his good looks and smooth vocals. But with six ASCAP awards to his credit, few of 112's legions of fans are aware that in addition to singing lyrics, Parker has a panache for penning them too.
Parker's musical resume includes a string of hits that made 112 a staple on R&B scene including "Cupid," "Anywhere," and "Peaches & Cream." In addition, Parker's talents have helped artists like Keyshia Cole (on her platinum single "I Should Have Cheated,") and the soca sensation Kevin Lyttle ("Turn Me On," an international dance hit) reach the top of the charts.
Having spent the past decade as part of a dynamic quartet, "Q" reemerged in 2007 ready to step out as a solo artist and entrepreneur — handling CEO duties for NeWFAM Entertainment, while preparing Real Talk, his first independent release.
Upon review of Real Talk, Quinnes Parker managed to squeeze some time out of his busy schedule and settle down for an interview with Clayton Perry — reflecting on 112, fatherhood and the current state of R&B.
Looking back at the liner notes from the first 112 album, I saw that you thanked your brother and sisters for "putting up with you," since you would sing all day, everyday. Is there a particular moment from your childhood that stands out?
Man, I used to walk around singing almost anything. My mom would say, "Go get me some milk." I'm like, "I'm going to get Mom some milk [singing]." Anybody that knows me will tell you that I am just a hummingbird. I've been doing this for so long, not realizing that I'm humming or I'm singing something. If you talk to anybody that knows me and you ask them what Quinnes does all the time, they will say, "He never shuts up. He's always humming something." I just have music in me and I have to get it out.
Is there a specific instance in which you became fully aware of your talent?
I would say around age eight. During that time, I got to sing the lead solo in elementary school and the lead solo in the church choir. At the time, I was in the Atlanta Boys Choir, which was equivalent to the Harlem Boys Choir in New York. Just being in those choirs in church and elementary school made me realize, "Maybe I'm onto something," because I would always be chosen to sing the lead on the songs.
Article comments
1 - jpharraway
Hello Mr. Q, I'm still proud of your success. You may still remember me but if you have forgotton, I want hold it against you. Love ya, Mrs. Pharr, Long Middle School