THE ROCK: What was the motivation to start Fertile Ground?

Fertile Ground: Fertile Ground wasn't really started. It just began. We were all working musicians and this gig I booked for my pick-up jazz combo needed a vocalist. So, I called Navasha and ...

THE ROCK: What are some of your future goals?

Fertile Ground: To continue to grow musically and increase our presence and visibility in the music market.

THE ROCK: Where does Fertile Ground want to be in 5 years?

Fertile Ground: I'm not sure that I know what 5 years from now looks like. I just hope that we can accomplish as much in the next five years as we have been able to accomplish over the past five years. I hope our artistic identity continues to grow, and we are in a position to significantly contribute to the fabric of contemporary black music.

THE ROCK: How do you classify your music?

Fertile Ground: Simply good music. Taught by jazz, inspired by hip-hop, grounded in soul and flavored with world rhythms.

THE ROCK: Who are your favorite artists and why?

Fertile Ground: The Roots, best Black band on the scene today. Julie Dexter, very inspiring and very creative. Lady Alma, great feel on stage and really strong vocalist. Donnie, India Eyrie, Jill Scott and Erykah Bydu. Awesome songwriters, great voices and a refreshing sound.

Too many legendary artists to name. I like Stevie Wonder, Lee Morgan, Hendricks, Bob, Fela, Dizzy, Randy Weston, Zap Mama, Prince, Miriam Makeba and on and on.

THE ROCK: Any new projects or events?

Fertile Ground: Well, we just completed our fourth album entitled "Black Is". The album will be in stores on August 24, 2004 and will be available online at
www.dustygroove.com. Get all the latest info on Fertile Ground at www.blackoutstudios.com

THE ROCK: Thank you FG.