Throughout his lengthy career in the industry, Quaye has been a guitarist and studio musician that has collaborated with such iconic artists as Elton John, Mick Jagger (of the Rolling Stones), Pete Townshend (of The Who), Paul McCartney from The Beatles, Hall & Oates, and he has also toured with folk-rock musician Shawn Phillips.
Regarding his film “A Voice Louder Than Rock, which is based off his book, he said, “It is a redemptive feature-length film that chronicles a life that has come full circle. I believe it will be inspirational to young aspiring musicians and artists as well as the older folk who may be familiar with my work. The film recently won ‘Best Pilot’ at the New Media Film Festival which was an honor. We’re excited the film is getting attention even before it’s finished.”
He has been praised by Eric Clapton as “the best guitar player in the world.” “What can I say, it is an honor to hear that from someone whom I have long admired! I still remember seeing him play with John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers at the Marquee club back in 1966 and was blown away,” he said.
In the ’70s, he toured with Elton John and Hall & Oates. “Touring with Elton was the real high point because that was the pinnacle of his career; it was stadiums every day, record-breaking crowds, it was very big! Back then, we used to do a four-hour show with a 20 minute break…unheard of these days,” he said.
He worked on engineering projects with Paul McCartney and Mick Jagger. “This was back in 1966 and 1967, and I was young, nervous and excited at the opportunity to work with the big boys in the business at that time. It was a tremendous learning experience,” he recalled.
On his plans for the future, he said, “I hope to be able to continue to be as creative a musician as I can be, always listening always learning!”
Each day, he is motivated by his faith in Christ, and “his goodness toward me is my constant source of strength and hope.”
For Quaye, the key to longevity in the music industry is for one to be aware of their own identity, in an effort to pursue their dreams. “There are fundamentally two kinds of artists, either very talented or mediocre. Both kinds of artists can last a long time! You have to know who you are and have the courage of your convictions to pursue your dreams,” he concluded.
To learn more about Quaye and his music, check out his Facebook page.