CURTIS: It's pretty cool to me, at least. Seattle has always had that homegrown thing happening here. As early as "Louie Louie", this town has had the music scene. It's good that the pool gets replenished every few decades or so. That and the fact that no other city can claim Jimi Hendrix but Seattle, and that makes it way cool for me.

INTERVIEW: You don't worry about too much competition?

CURTIS: Why? If cats are on top of their craft, you're in the running. There's work out there if you have a good ethic and don't try to get over on people. I know musicians that work all the time, no problem. I've had dry spells,too..but that doesn't last long usually. I get calls to do production or writing, so if it's not happening live, I'll do a little networking in the community and create some opportunities.

INTERVIEW: How would you advise the musicians coming up?

CURTIS: I'd say learn your craft. That's a process in itself because you must constantly listen and be open. Musicians must be flexible, but solid in thier technique, whatever it is. Listen and play every style you can absorb, because you can learn from everything. I started in gospel, but my dad was always bumpin' tunes. I tried to find my voice in different settings, punk-rock, new wave, reggae, jazz, pop, and eventually, it all came together in developing my approach to music. You gotta be into what you're doing and not half-step, but you also have to be at least courteous and cool with co-workers and the audience. Why be a jerk to people because you can play "Giant Steps"? I say enjoy the journey. It's not about the hit record, it's about honing yourself, so you can say what you want musically. The late Miles Davis once said, "Sometimes it takes a long time to play like yourself". That's real, you know?