Quick & Dirty: Zain Stephen Answers Random Questions

Driven by a personal quest for belonging, Zain Stephen steps out of the zone, exhibiting a fresh, soulful R&B. Zain showcases an undeniable lyrical talent to promote social awareness and foster equality with his debut single, “The Perfect Man.”

“The Perfect Man” reveals an extensive view of inequity that’s haunted minorities in linger. The debut also serves as a reflection of broader struggles within the African-American community, which aims to resonate with anyone facing similar challenges who continues to suffer in silence. The introduction highlights Zain’s opposition to senseless violence, clinging to his faith for hope, and reliance on music for solace.

With a tasteful blend of musical instruments, “The Perfect Man” conjures a mix reminiscent of Eryn Allen Kane, Aja Monet, and PJ Morton. Beyond the powerful message the single provokes, the exuding fresh and soulful R&B, along with its chill vibes, appeals to listeners of all generations. The compelling piece had us sitting down with Zain Smith to get to know him and get a perception of his creative prowess.

What do you think is your greatest accomplishment?

Zain Stephen: “Just being who I am today, and this applies to everyone. If I were to meet the five-year-old younger version of myself, he would think I was the coolest dude ever, seeing all the work I have done and the places my talents have taken me at such a young age. We sometimes are so focused on what our life should look like when we have become ‘successful’ that we forget to acknowledge and appreciate the journey and celebrate who we are today for the trials we’ve been through.”

What’s something you know isn’t real but wish existed?

“This is gonna be a very nerdy answer, but a 73-key semi-weighted (premium feeling) action midi controller with a Roland style combo pitch bend/modulation wheel, separate pitch bend and mod wheel, nine faders, eight knobs, foot switch and foot control ports, and polyphonic aftertouch. That may not have been the type of answer you wanted. But something like that would be the perfect main brain for my keys rigs.”

What is one thing that you’re good at that people don’t expect?

“I am X’s best sports analyst. Put me as a manager of any team, basketball, football, or NFL, and I’d have us hoisting a trophy in two years.”

Cover Art for “The Perfect Man” by Zain Stephen, photo by Jaden Durand

What’s a fear of yours that you think is fully justified?

“Sky diving. I cannot rule out that I won’t be the .0000027 percent of people who are unalive due to sky diving.”

What’s the most random fact you know?

“Pizza was not invented with cheese. As a vegan, I pull this fact out every time I get ‘the look’ from my friends when I order pizza without cheese.”

Cats or Dogs?

“Dogs. Dogs reflect on the fact that their owner feeds them, cleans them, and shelters them and thinks, ‘They must be God.’ On the other hand, cats reflect on the fact that their owner feeds them, cleans and shelters them, and thinks, ‘I must be God!’”

What are three words that describe you?

“Dedicated: Once I put my mind to something, my perfectionism kicks in, and I have to do it to the best of my ability.

“Weird: I may seem quiet when you first meet me, but once I put the wall down, I am a complete fool.

“Tired: I take every opportunity to sleep that I get, no matter where I am.”

If you could have anything as a pet, what would it be?

“An elephant. We could grow old together, and he/she might even outlive me. I also saw a video of an elephant doing yoga on Instagram a few weeks ago and I immediately wanted to adopt one.”

If you could have dinner with any musician (dead or alive), who would it be?

“Leonard Ray Jarman, Jr. (keys player) has been one of my biggest influences of late. As a contemporary musician, he has one of the most unique minds when it comes to sound design and selection. If I were to have dinner with him, I would pick his brain as to what his creative process is and find ways to develop myself as a musician.”

Favourite childhood musical memory?

“When I was about seven or eight years old, I had the opportunity to play at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts in Belize. This is a pretty large venue and the main performing arts theatre in Belize. Although I was a nervous wreck leading up to my performance in front of hundreds of people, I did really great.

“I walked away from that experience thinking, ‘Hmm, I guess I could go somewhere with this music thing.’”