Patrick Hayes, the producer behind Trey Songz's "Neighbors Know My Name," shows "On the Come Up" why his name is buzz-worthy.
What was your inspiration for your latest project?
Patrick Hayes: "Panty Droppa" on Trey Songz's album, Ready, was inspired by a conversation I had with producer, Troy Taylor. We conversed about inventing some eccentric, sexy, guitar chords. We then proceeded to add hard-hitting drums. Fans of the song wished that it was longer, though it leads into the intro of the second song that I produced on the album, "Neighbors Know My Name." This song is a very intricate, guitar-driven song. I am extremely proud of it. The third single that I produced [with Troy Taylor] off the album, "Yo Side of the Bed," was influenced by musical artist, Prince.
What are you working on, currently?
Patrick: I am presently working on multiple projects with several producers. Some of the records I am working on are for Rick Ross, T.I., Monica, Trey Songz, Jennifer Hudson, LeToya Luckett, Raheem DeVaughn, Bun B, Jamie Foxx, Toni Braxton, and The Rascal Flatts. I am collaborating with fellow producers, Troy Taylor, Blac Elvis, Harold Lily, Jazze Pha, Polow da Don, Sean Garrett, Lil' Ronnie, D.Clax, Tony Russel, Nate Walka, Slim, and Fernocious.
Where are you from, originally?
Patrick: I am from a small town by the name of Mendenhall in Mississippi.
Who is your musical mentor and why?
Patrick: My musical mentor is R. Kelly. I had the opportunity of playing guitar and producing for him during an 8-year period. I became more musically-inclined under his leadership. He taught me how to dissect and construct a song.
What was your first introduction into the music industry?
Patrick: My first introduction into the music industry derived from my family.
Most of my family members sing well and play various instruments. My grandfather, Henry Hayes, gave me my first guitar at the age of 5 and he taught me many blues guitar chords. My family formed a gospel group called "The Harmony Doves." They were given a rare opportunity to perform/tour with the famous Staples Singers. My grandmother, Bathsheba, was a lead vocalist and guitarist. She has a strong, heavy blues voice. My mother, Frankie, played bass guitar. She also sang country music. My brother, Lance, sang and played drums. I played lead, bass and acoustic guitar.