Hailing from Greensboro, North Carolina, Master Steve was practically born into music. As the son of a traveling gospel singer, he picked up the drums as his first instrument at just three years old. Growing up a self-taught musician, Steve was inspired to pick up the saxophone by John Coltrane, before eventually adding the piano and bass into his repertoire. Playing for numerous bands as a part-time instrument player, he began to pursue a solo career seriously after moving to Chicago, Illinois in 2021, where he cultivated his own sonic identity.
Steve dubs this identity as “Refreshing Retro,” blending nostalgic funk and jazz with modern sensibilities. As far as musical influences go, Steve gives credit where it is due; whether it’s naming John Coltrane as the reason he picked up the sax, incorporating multilayered harmonies inspired by Kirk Franklin’s gospel music, or combining his own singing with rapping in a style akin to Anderson .Paak. Going by the name of “Master,” it only makes sense that he’s mastered these multiple styles with skill and expertise. The sum of all these parts is exemplified in Master Steve’s forthcoming album, MASTERPEACE.
