JoyJuice: Why do they call you Gramps?
Gramps: Well, when I was born, I looked like my father's Grandfather ... so from birth they stuck me with Grampa.
JoyJuice: Okay, so the last time I saw you perform was with Morgan Heritage in Atlanta with Beres Hammond. What's new for Gramps?
Gramps: Well coming up is a tour with India Arie. That I am looking forward to! In September we finished a tour with John Legend.
JoyJuice: Are you serious? How was that?
Gramps: Amazing! John Legend is a fantastic performer. He has a great personality as well. It was a great learning experience.
JoyJuice: What was one thing you can take away from John?
Gramps: I think his work ethic and professionalism. He also encouraged me to keep striving to improve.
JoyJuice: I know you opened up for Buju (Banton) as well. How was that?
Gramps: Just great. He as well said he wants me to get better. Working with people like them has really opened up my eyes.
JoyJuice: So I know you are on the road a lot. What do you miss the most when you are away from home?
Gramps: I miss touring with Morgan Heritage, bringing out albums together and spending that family time. We all understand though and still are strong for each other.
JoyJuice: So is Morgan Heritage over?
Gramps: On no man, we are just spreading our wings a bit. It was always a dream to see see how versatile we are. That's all.
JoyJuice: I see you have an album out already - "Two Sides of My Heart"
Gramps: Well it's a form of expression, that's all! You can find more on it and my music on my website at www.grampsmorgan.com
JoyJuice: With all this touring and all the food you must have tried, you have to tell me, what is your favorite?
Gramps: Italian! I love Italian food.
JoyJuice: Have you ever been to Italy?
Gramps: Yes, many times. My favorite place is Florence actually.
JoyJuice: Where is one place you would like to perform that you have not has yet?
Gramps: That's easy ... India and Ethiopia! But I want to do it with the family ... with Morgan Heritage.
JoyJuice: Really. What's the reason?
Gramps: Well we all talked about it but it is an experience for us to enjoy. People love us and I can just imagine the reception.
JoyJuice: Anything in particular you miss with the Morgan Heritage family?
Gramps: Oh yes; praying together, seeing all my siblings and just spending time with them.
JoyJuice: What's the most difficult thing performing as Gramps?
Gramps: You may not believe me but it's staying in shape. Carrying a show solo is exhausting but rewarding.
JoyJuice: I can imagine
JoyJuice: I was also happy to see you on the Red Carpet at the BET Soul Train Awards. What was that like?
Gramps: Well, it wasn't my first one. The 1st one was the International Festival, but I was happy that they recognized Reggae. Seeing Serani, Sean Paul and others was in itself a momentous occasion.
JoyJuice: Who have been some artists that have been influential in your development as an artist?
Gramps: That's easy, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.
JoyJuice: And what about your biggest challenge when on the road?
Gramps: Obviously staying healthy with eating the right foods. Also, praying often.
JoyJuice: And as for the younger Morgan's, any advice?
Gramps: Yes man. Stay hungry for the music and to stay grounded in prayer. It is the best formula for everything we do.
JoyJuice: Gramps, thanks for the time man.... Keep the music coming!
Gramps: Thanks to you as well.
As Always,
JoyJuice .... Out and About!
You can learn more about Gramps Heritage at www.grampsmorgan.com.