Chris Henderson

What are your most recent projects and what do you think people are responding to the most?
Recently, I worked on Jamie Foxx's next hit single featuring T Pain entitled "Blame It." It was chosen because the clubs across the country responded to it so strongly as he went on promotional tour for the new album. I think what people are responding to the most is the track and the sing-along, infectious hook. The track mixes the simple beat and tempo of southern style club joints with post disco R&B chord changes expressed using techno-style synths. It's fuller than most current club tracks without sounding crowded. The stutter and screw of the word 'alcohol' in the hook makes the song easy to follow and remember. It's simplicity with the right touch of complexity to make it stand out as something fresh and new.

What and where are you planning to work on next?
Although I'm gaining better access to bigger projects in my R&B/Hip Hop field, this year I really hope to spread my wings into the pop field as well. Also I'm developing a young female singer/ songwriter/ instrumentalist from Detroit named Charity Ward. I'll continue to work out of Atlanta and build up my project studio, Deep Recording House.

Where are you from originally and where do you live now?
I was born and raised in the Detroit area but started my musical career in Hampton, Virginia. I moved to the Atlanta metro area 3 years ago.

What was your first project as a musician that you really felt was important?
My first credited placement was also my first hit, Case's "Happily Ever After." It means so much to me, not only of its chart success but what it's meant to me financially as both the lyric writer and producer of the record. It also earned an ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Award for me that year. Many people told me they were touched by the song: couples told me they were married to my song and the musicians have told me that they've learned from the song.

Who do you look to as a mentor in your career, and what have they helped you to learn?
Unfortunately as an independent all this time, I never had a real chance to work under any producers for a significant amount of time. I was able to work with Teddy Riley and Richard "Younglord" Frierson early in my development. I believe Younglord taught me by example that it doesn't take greed to succeed in this business. When you share your knowledge and resources more freely, you continue to learn as you teach. Creating opportunities for others while you create opportunities for yourself will extend your life and significance in this business.