Soul Train Awards 2022: Get to Know R&B/Soul’s Hidden Gem PJ Morton
Singer-songwriter PJ Morton is up for three nominations at the Soul Train Awards 2022. The veteran musician, best known as a member of the pop-rock band Maroon 5, has honed his musical talents since childhood as the son of a preacher man, and now the world is finally getting to know him better. Ahead of this year’s celebration of r&b and soul, all hosted by comedian and actor Deon Cole, we’re getting to know our nominees through their contribution to the industry and details you should know to be updated on the industry’s hidden gems. Check it out below.
He’s the son of a Preacher Man
PJ grew up in the church, as fans have seen with notable legendary musicians and singers. For the Soul Train Awards 2022 nominee, it was in his DNA as the son of gospel music legend Bishop Paul Morton Sr.
“He was a pastor and a gospel singer, and that was a big part of my upbringing,” he once told FLAUNT in an interview. “Learning how to play in church, the emotions that come up in church, you know, the energy. That shaped me and prepared me for this crazy industry; you have to be able to adjust.”
He’s written across genres
Not only has PJ written music, but in 200, PJ released his first book, Why Can't I Sing About Love?, thus adding author to his laundry list of titles.
He was in several bands
PJ is perhaps best known as a member of the pop-rock band Maroon 5. He served as the group’s temporary keyboardist/background vocalist after auditioning for the band in 2010 when M5 member Jesse Carmichael took a leave of absence. However, before joining the Los Angeles-based group in 2012, he was in his own ensemble, The PJ Morton Band. They released only one album titled Perfect Song In 2007.
He’s highly recognized in the industry
Since 2013, the multi-talented star has earned over a dozen Grammy Award nominations, winning 4, including “Album of the Year” at the 2022 event for his work on Jon Batiste's sixth studio album, We Are. He earned his first in 2003 for his production on Indie Arie's Voyage To India album, which won Best R&B Album.
He was once signed to Lil Wayne’s label imprint
In 2011, PJ signed with Lil Wayne's powerhouse label YMCMB. The pair collaborated on Morton's 2012 smash hit, "Lover.”
The Soul Train Awards 2022 premieres Saturday, November 26 at 8 pm ET/PT on BET and BET Her.
