MIDDLETOWN - While attending last month’s Hall and Oates gig at the Oakdale, the opening act caught my attention. His name is Mutlu, a 35-year-old artist from Philly with a sound all his own--soulful and uplifting. He is currently busy winding down the Hall and Oates tour and plans to continue working on lots of local projects. We chatted on the phone last week and I ran the 20 by him.

      

       What is the origin of the of your name?

       I come from a Turkish background. My family moved to Philadelphia in the 70’s after they graduated college.

      

       Top three musical influences?

       Hall and Oates has been a blast to tour with and it’s been very educational. Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye.

      

       How did you develop your sound?

       I started playing guitar in high school and college. I’ve never had any lessons. I was just drawn to the guitar and learned to play by ear. Eventually I gravitated towards acoustic and R&B.

      

       What was the first song you ever learned?

       I learned a Beatles tune, not sure which one it was but it was from The White Album.

      

       What was the first song you ever performed in public?

       In my college years I went to lots of open mic’s. I played Beatles tunes and occasionally some Bill Withers.

      

       How have you changed as an artist over the years?

       I’ve gained much more confidence. Found a more intuitive sense of my own music, which gave me a better sense of which songs will connect with my audience.

      

       Who would you collaborate with if you had the chance?

       The one and only Stevie Wonder.

      

       Which is the most/least rewarding part of your job?

       I love being on stage and having the crowd with you and connecting with them through music. I get frustrated sometimes with the unpredictable nature of the job. I’m constantly trying to keep up and make a living off of music.

      

       What has been your most signifiant accomplishment to date?

       Being given the opportunity to work with some of my heroes and artists who have influenced me. Performing on Daryl Hall’s â€�"Live from Daryl’s House” show, being produced by T-Bone Wolf and recording for EMI have all been unforgettable opportunities.

      

       In today’s world, how important is image?

       Image is very important. It’s been a challenge for me because I’m a low-key dude so I grapple with it a bit. I’m learning to just be honest to who I am as an artist and mindful of what I do. In this business there’s a fine line between image and honesty, so long as I keep it real.

      

       What is your definition of the term ‘rockstar?’

       A true â€�"rockstar” is an artist who can connect with a broad audience, and maintain that audience for the long haul and not compromise the integrity of what they do.

      

       What advice would you give your younger self about getting into the business?

       I would tell the younger Mutlu to try and stay even keel and not get caught up in the moment. Keep your eye on the big picture. I’d tell myself that I’m going to take some hits and be disappointed, but keep on weathering that storm into the sun.

      

       What skills/personal attributes are most important to being a successful artist?

       You must maintain a good work ethic. Make a commitment to yourself to keep improving your performance and constantly work on your writing skills and give yourself the gift of patience.

      

       What song do you wish you had written?

       â€�"Yesterday” by the Beatles.

      

       What is your go-to karaoke song?

       The ladies seem to like â€�"Let’s Get it On” by Marvin Gaye.

      

       What is something about you that would surprise your fans?

       I think they’d be surprised to know that when I was young I was an athlete and played baseball and basketball.

      

       You’re dead…What is the one song that you want to be played at your memorial?

       Hmm… let me think about that. That would be Sam Cooke, â€�"A Change is Gonna Come.”

      

       Find out more about Mutlu on Facebook and www.mutlusounds.com .