Soul artist Maxwell says he is still amazed at the reception he has received since releasing 2009’s BLACKsummers’night.
“I just thank people for not forgetting me,” he laughs, acknowledging the eight-years he took in between his last release, 2001’s Now.
He just wrapped up a two-month tour with fellow soul stars Jill Scott and Erykah Badu, and will continue touring next year with other artists.
Maxwell said his fans have helped him prove that soul music in 2010 can still hold its own in sales and radio play.
”[This is about] all these people who care and who have turned radio on its head,” said the neo-soulster, whose BLACKsummers’night earned him two Grammy awards, including best R&B album. “I’m grateful I can do what I do and not compromise my sound.”
In a brief interview with theGrio, Maxwell said he could leave music again for that long under one condition — to start a family.
”…I think I deserve that at this point in my life,” said Maxwell, 37. “I think also it would probably enrich my music and…you should be a good dad and a good husband if you can.”
Although he says it may seem like his latest successes won’t last since his album has been out nearly a year, Maxwell says he is also planning a European tour to “mix things up.”
“I made a promise to music when I was a kid,” Maxwell said. “And I just want to settle that score and see what else comes afterwards.”
Follow theGrio’s Todd Johnson on Twitter at @rantoddj