Grammy Winning Producer, Vassal; Why I chose Jon

Multiple awards winning American producer, record executive and film producer, Vassal Gradington III, has confirmed reports making the rounds that he has shown interest to produce Ghanaian TV and singer, Jon Germain’s upcoming album.

Vassal confirmed the report to NEWS-ONE’s Francis Addo and explained the decision in an exclusive interview with the paper.

Vassal has produced a number of America artistes including Toni Braxton, Flo Rida and Queen Latifah among others.

In this interview Vassal spoke about his trip to Ghana, Jon Germain, the new Marvin Gaye biopic titled 'Sexual Healing' and his hope to work with 'The Nelson Mandela' foundation to help create benefit concerts and entertainment projects in Ghana and throughout Africa for children in need.

Good to hear you will be working in Ghana.

Ghana is fast becoming home to a lot of Americans. It’s a wonderful place with a wonderful people; I’m looking forward to cultivating the super-talented recording artiste and actors in that region, as I would like to meet the President.

Interesting to hear you will be working with Jon Germain for the first time. How did you get to know Jon?

I was introduced to Jon via a friend from Ghana, Kenny Andam. Kenny is a genius in the tech world who happens also to be a talented producer. After meeting Jon, I was captivated by his artistry and the sound of his recordings, and thought to myself this guy could be big.

What is the deal with him?

I would like to work with Jon on producing music for his upcoming albums and maybe make a record on him for the soundtrack of the upcoming Marvin Gaye Movie, as well as write hit songs with him on pop artiste here in the United States. I have a keen interest in taking artists from Ghana and introducing their music to the US.

Everybody will be interested in knowing why Jon Germain?

Very simple; Jon is a hit songwriter and a super awesome person…

How long have you been planning this with Jon?

There was no plan; this all just kind of happened.

Tell us about your career?

I am an American producer and record, and my career has won a Grammy. It has generated over $400 million in sales revenue for world class companies such as Universal, Sony, BMG, Warner Bros.

I have garnered 8 nominations, 13 film scores, 4 television syndications, and 57 platinum records awarded by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA Certified) Benford’s introduction to the 'fast track' of success started with music icons, Quincy Jones, Don Davis, Clarence Avant, and Universal Music Group record executive, Louil Silas, Jr.

How long have you been into music production?

Made my first hit record when I was 16.

Which favourite artistes have you worked with?

Toni Braxton, Flo Rida, Queen Latifah.

Was it all music production from day one or there was something else before music?

I have been playing music since age four (4) that all I know.

When are you finally touching down in Ghana?

My wish is to get there by November 2014.

What projects are you currently working on?

I just produced Flo-Rida in the studio, and I’m currently Executive producing and scoring the new Marvin Gaye biopic titled 'Sexual Healing'.

My hope is to work with 'The Nelson Mandela' foundation to help create benefit concerts and entertainment projects in Ghana and throughout Africa for children in need.