How would you describe yourself and your music to someone learning of Justin for the first time?

That's a more complex question than one would think.  I've always had a hard time exacting a label for my music, partially because it's a mix of things and partially because I started really young and I've evolved over the years. I guess the music I've released in Hawai'i is most succinctly described as "island pop" (whatever that means) and my last album, One Foot On Sand,  was more on the hawaiian tip. Iv'e also been working on new stuff that's nothing like any of that.

I recently heard someone once dub you “The Brian Mcknight” of Hawaii.  How does the comparison make you feel?

Obviously I'm flattered. I've been a HUGE fan since his first album and have every album he's released since. It's kind of embarrassing though, because I know how silly it is to be compared in any way to such an amazing musician.

 

You’ve had the opportunity to combine musical talents with many local and national artists.  Comment on some of your more memorable collaborations.

You learn something from everyone you work with, especially the producers and the musicians (who are the real talent). I've had the good fortune to work with many people I've admired and respected for a long time. When you have Cyril Pahinui or John Cruz or Bitty Mclean playing on your record you definitely have a real moment of gratitude. It's actually even more fun sometimes gigging with people because you have that instantaneous live creative interaction.

On your website you list many musical inspirations.  If you had to choose one person who would you say is you biggest musical influence?

Although it's become a clique, I have to say Stevie Wonder. What an incredible person. And his songs will last forever. I discovered his music around 8th grade and I was the only kid I knew coming home from the music store with old Stevie Wonder tapes every weekend.

Who would you consider your biggest non-musical influence?

Probably my mom. I'm an only child and she's a single parent. We obviously had a small tight-knit household. She's probably the person who's opinion has the most weight in my life.

Your music has been featured in motion pictures such as “Shallow Hal” (Never Forget Where I’m From)  and “Uninvited guest (Sip Your Wine).”  Are there any other songs of yours being considered or being created for upcoming soundtracks?

Nope. I'd love to do more though. I'm a real fan of cinema. A quality film to me is a treasure and I'd love to be a part of that in any small way.

Do you have any aspirations of crossing over into acting?

Hehe. Well, everyone has aspirations of being an actor here in LA. I can say I have no aspirations of being a "movie star". I've taken improv and scene study classes for fun and I really enjoyed it. I respect it enough though, to know that it's a real art and it takes years of dedication to it to be good at it with any consistency. Someday I'd like to do maybe some supporting parts in like small indie projects. I'm also I big fan of documentary film and that is something I'm interested in attempting at some point. For now though it's only music.

Your debut album “No Better Time Than Now” was fruit of your hard labor after winning a writing contest in 1995.  How important is presenting original compositions to you as an artist?

It's hard to listen to that record now. I mean I was only 17 at the time. Maybe someday I'll listen to it affectionately, but for now it's cringe time. Anyway,  I'm not a great singer or musician but I can offer my uniqueness through my personal experiences and how I view the world. Now, people say life is filled with paradox and here is one of them. The more personal the song - it seems the more universal it is. It's amazing how many people can relate to even the smallest detail of something you've experienced. I also think great songs out last great performances. Great songs are timeless. My constant wish is to create something beautiful.

Where’s your favorite venue to play music?

In LA I really enjoy my Burbank Bar and Grille gig. The staff there is sooo wonderful. Really, anywhere that the sound system is good is cool with me. The college lu'au gigs are fun too because they really appreciate anything from Hawai'i and I can relate to what they're going through.

Throughout your career you’ve presented a few religious songs over the span of 8 albums.  In what way does your Faith influence your music?

Religion does not excite me as much as Spirituality. I prefer mine to be a personal journey. I think many religions have some beautiful truths to them, as do other teachers and philosophers. Whenever I come across a morsel of spiritual wisdom I feel like it reverberates and awakes something in me. That's what inspires me and shapes who I am, thus influencing my music. I also have been writing more directly about things I believe in. I just finish a song called "Never Strangers" partially inspired by Alexander Pope's An Essay On Man.

Is there a full length Gospel album in the future for Justin?

No, but I can recommend one that a good friend of mine just finished. His name is Jon Paul Lam (www.jonpaullam.com). The kid is amazing! I did some work on the album too.

On behalf of all the beautiful wahine listeners of Pipeline 2 Paradise around the world I must ask your status.  (single, dating, married, etc.??)

I have a lovely girlfriend of 2+ years.

Do you have any strange hidden talents?

Yes, but I think they're hidden from me too.

Share one thing your fans don’t know about you? (give us the juicy stuff!)

 
My favorite color is blue. Hehe. I don't know. Hmmm...I hate to wear shoes. All about the slippers - everywhere I can. I wish I had some juice.

Choose one:
FM100 or Star 98.7?  - Public radio.
Waikiki Beach or Venice Beach? - Kailua baby!
Birthday Bash or Wango Tango? - Anyone that invites me to play.
Singing or Composing? - Singing my own compositions.
Football or Basketball? - Nothing better in life then watching a Bear's game.

Any last words of wisdom you want to share?
Be good.
"Be Good!"