Raul Midon is into beating the odds, shattering stereotypes, and
making category-defying music. "I was told as a child, 'You're blind;
you can't do this,'" Midon told an interviewer in 2005. "I was told
when I moved to New York, 'You can't do that, you're not going to make
it.'" At 40, however, Midon has clearly made it.
After singing
backup vocals for stars like Shakira, Julio Iglesias, Jennifer Lopez
and Christina Aguilera, Midon released his major-label solo debut, State of Mind,
with help from guest artist Jason Mraz. Midon’s innovative songwriting
incorporates his lyrics, guitar handiwork (jazz, classical, flamenco,
R&B) and "vocal trumpet" improvisation. Though he draws comparisons
to Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway and Richie Havens, Midon is the rare
original in an industry of few.
"There
are times when you’re reminded of a sweet-voiced Ray Charles, or Nat
'King' Cole, but everything about Midon reveals a strong, individual
and totally musical mind at work."
The Guardian UK
Check this out:
http://www.ted.com/talks/raul_midon_plays_everybody_and_peace_on_earth.html