Exclusive Interview with Singer and Songwriter Blake Winters

Bringing the Sounds of Soulful Jazz to Q’s Bar, Dubai

For jazz lovers, Blake Winters takes the stage at Q’s Bar & Lounge at Palazzo Versace, Dubai. Known for his soulful voice and remarkable versatility, Blake’s journey is one of authenticity, creativity, and passion. Having collaborated with music titans such as Chris Brown and Sam Smith, he has carved out a unique path in music. In this exclusive interview with Art in the Middle, we explore his creative process, influences, and what audiences can expect from a night with him at Q’s Bar & Lounge.

Art in the Middle: Tell our readers a bit about yourself and what brings you to Dubai.

Blake Winters: I’m a lover of people, a lover of things—just a lover in general. Everything I do, I try to approach with love, genuine love. Musically, I wear many hats: artist, songwriter, producer, vocal producer, and engineer. I’m a blend of so many different influences.

Art in the Middle: Your sound is distinct. How do your personal experiences shape your music, both in production and vocals?

Blake Winters: My inspiration comes from honesty — real-life experiences. I gravitate towards vulnerability, even the things that feel uncomfortable or embarrassing, because those are the emotions we all share. It’s the unspoken truths that connect us.
Often, when I write something that resonates deeply, it’s a topic I was hesitant to address. That’s usually the sign that it will strike a chord with people. As for influences, they span across my lifetime — Stevie Wonder, rap, gospel, rock, pop—so many great artists. My sound is a reflection of all of that, combined with my own experiences and purpose.

Art in the Middle: Has this always been your approach to music, or was there a moment when you realised you needed to be more honest in your writing?

Blake Winters: Music has always been a part of me. My family tells me I was musical before I could even remember. As a child, if someone sang off-key, I’d instinctively correct it. Music, to me, has a sense of right and wrong—it’s not just subjective.
In terms of songwriting, I had a breakthrough after reading Saved by a Song by Mary Gauthier. It emphasises the importance of truth in songwriting—writing not just what people want to hear but what feels real to you. That shifted my perspective. Now, I focus on telling the truth rather than crafting something I think will be well received.

Art in the Middle: That sounds like confidence, too, doesn’t it?

Blake Winters: Absolutely—confidence in imperfection, in being human. Once you embrace the idea that something might not be perfect or even good at first, you unlock creativity. Instead of scrapping ideas because they’re not perfect, I trust the process.

Art in the Middle: Do you have a specific creative process in the studio?

Blake Winters: There are countless ways to approach making music, but after years in the industry, I’ve developed a method that works for me. I use the Pomodoro Technique — have you heard of it?

Art in the Middle: Yes, the method where you work for 25 minutes and then take a short break?

Blake Winters: Exactly! It’s a study on focus. You work for 25 minutes, then take a five-minute break—no exceptions, even if you’re in the zone. It builds discipline and helps with tasks that might feel daunting.

I apply this to recording, too. For the first 25 minutes, I create without judgement—no overthinking, no critiquing. When the timer goes off, I step away. Later, I return with a fresh perspective. Mixing creativity with self-criticism slows the process, so I keep them separate.

Art in the Middle: How do you shift between writing for others and performing your own work?

Blake Winters: Funny enough, I didn’t write for others for a long time. My manager encouraged me, but I was focused on my own music. If a song happened to work for someone else, I’d send it their way.

Now, when I write for another artist, I immerse myself in their work—their music, their interviews—but I still write from an honest place. It’s not about mimicking their style; it’s about tapping into emotions that resonate with them.

Art in the Middle: Your work on Chris Brown’s Even and Sam Smith’s Love Me More showcased your versatility. How do you balance staying true to your artistic identity while adapting to different genres?

Blake Winters: First, huge thanks to Sam Smith for having me on Love Me More, and to Chris Brown, who gave me one of my first big opportunities.

I’ve worked across multiple genres—gospel, pop, rock—and I appreciate good music in any form. The key is that your signature style will always come through, no matter the genre. You don’t have to force it.

Art in the Middle: For those who have never visited Q’s Bar, what can they expect from a night with you?

Blake Winters: First of all, Q’s is Quincy Jones’ venue, which speaks volumes. He personally selected the musicians, and Dante Kennedy, the music director, is a genius. Every musician at Q’s is exceptional. When you come to see me, expect an immersive experience. I love interacting with the audience—learning names, shaking hands, making real connections. It’s more than just a performance; it’s a shared moment. The music is top-tier, and the atmosphere is intimate yet electric.