Black Pool of Genius with Brent Barnett

If being fully self contained is one of the benchmarks of creative genius, my guest today Frank McComb meets and exceeds the expectation. Over the last 35 years, Frank has built a career not only as a celebrated solo singer, piano virtuoso, songwriter and producer but has also collaborated with some of music’s brightest stars such as Stevie Wonder, Prince, Chaka Khan, Fred Hammond, John P. See, and many more. Black Pool of Genius host Brent Barnett sat down with Frank for a candid conversation about being an independent artist, working with his heroes, his relationship with the artistry of Donny Hathaway, and the difference between being underrated and underexposed.

Lil John Roberts has been drumming professionally since the age of 16, when he joined his Philadelphia music peers and future legends Joey DeFrancesco and Christian McBride on stage as a jazz trio. Since then, Roberts hasn't slowed down or looked back as he went on to record with George Duke, En Vouge, and many others. He may be best known as a musician for his time with Janet Jackson, serving as her tour drummer starting with the "Janet" World Tour in 1994. Recently Roberts brought his career full circle by joining the faculty of Berklee School of Music, where attended in the early 90's. On the eve of his 50th Birthday, Roberts and Black Pool of Genius Host Brent Barnett sat down for a candid conversation around legacy, the science of drumming, and how he balances all of his many hats.

Since his early 20's, Lawrence Watkins has been a part of building Multi-Million Dollar brands such as The Black Business School and Great Black Speakers. Alongside his brother, Dr. Boyce Watkins, Lawrence has enriched and empowered Black families and Entrepreneurs through his work and has created a living example of how Black families can build together for future generations. Lawrence joined Black Pool of Genius host Brent Barnett for a discussion around Venture Capital, the purpose of wealth, and how having a "master plan" can focus your family for success.