Toyota joined forces with Bryan-Michael Cox for a special pre-Grammy’s brunch.
Cox, the multi-award-winning producer, held the brunch to honor legends and fresh faces in the industry. The event specifically recognized the work of Maxwell, an R&B singer-songwriter, along with long-time songwriter Siedah Garrett. Maxwell has been called the “architect of the neo-soul sound,” and Garrett has helped to write many notable hits (including Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror”).
Beyond bringing musicians together, the brunch was also held for a cause. “Breakfast Club,” the name of the annual brunch, has consistently recognized the charity Music & Memory. The charity uses customized playlists to help those with cognitive and physical challenges. Cox himself has been an advocate of the charity for decades, speaking around the country on the charity’s behalf. Along with the recognition of the charity’s good work, Toyota presented Music & Memory with a $10,000 grant. Mia Phillips, Toyota’s national marketing manager, was there to present the grant. “At Toyota, we feel the gift to Music & Memory is a special way to ensure the celebration of music has a lasting and healthful impact in the lives of these patients,” said Phillips.
In addition to the honorees, the brunch gave special recognition to Guordan Banks. Banks recently hit the #1 music chart spot with his hit song “Keep You In Mind.” Banks struggled with a speech impediment as a child, using music to communicate more clearly.
The Knockturnal had the chance to talk with Siedah Garrett about her win at the event. “It’s always a joy,” said Garrett, “being honored in any room is always a responsibility and pleasure.” Garrett also spoke on how she stays relevant in the industry: “I think the key to longevity in any field is constantly reinventing yourself, and making yourself relevant to the time. I’m trying to stay relevant, get my music heard, get my messages delivered – I don’t know. It’s about being out there, and being available for things to happen, and people to see you and hear you.” When asked if that’s the advice she’d give to aspiring artists, Garret said “Absolutely. That, and get yourself on YouTube.” Garrett, who is probably best known for co-writing Michael Jackson’s hit “Man In The Mirror,” is excited about his daughter Paris heading into the entertainment industry. “I think it’s great. She should do whatever her heart desires because she can!”
Angeli Kakade contributed reporting.