Pj Morton

Biography

PJ Morton, born Paul Sylvester Morton Jr. on March 29, 1981, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a Grammy-winning musician, singer, songwriter, and producer celebrated for his distinctive blend of neo soul, R&B, gospel, and funk. Raised in a deeply musical household—his father is a renowned pastor and gospel singer—Morton learned to play instruments by ear from a young age, starting with drums before gravitating to the piano, which became his primary instrument. The vibrant musical culture of New Orleans, with its gospel roots and second line parades, profoundly shaped his artistic sensibilities.

Morton's career began to flourish with the release of his debut solo EP, 'Following My First Mind,' in 2012, followed by his major-label debut album 'New Orleans' in 2013. He gained widespread recognition as the keyboardist for Maroon 5, initially joining as a touring member in 2010 and becoming an official member in 2012. His solo work, particularly the critically acclaimed albums 'Gumbo' (2017) and 'Watch The Sun' (2022), has earned him multiple Grammy Awards and nominations, cementing his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary soul and R&B. Morton is also known for his collaborations with artists across genres and his efforts to preserve New Orleans' musical heritage, such as his project to restore jazz pioneer Buddy Bolden's home.

Morton's music is characterized by its soulful authenticity, genre-blurring arrangements, and deeply personal lyricism. He draws inspiration from the spiritual and communal aspects of soul music, often weaving themes of hope, resilience, and love into his work. As both a solo artist and a member of Maroon 5, Morton has left a lasting legacy, influencing a new generation of musicians while honoring the traditions of his hometown.

Fun Facts

• PJ Morton is the son of Bishop Paul S. Morton, a prominent pastor and gospel singer, and grew up immersed in church music.
• He learned to play instruments entirely by ear, never receiving formal musical training.
• Morton is deeply involved in preserving New Orleans’ musical history and has led efforts to restore the home of jazz pioneer Buddy Bolden.
• He runs his own independent record label and has been recognized for his work as a producer as well as a performer.

Associated Acts

• Maroon 5 - background vocals (2012–present)
• Maroon 5 - keyboard (2012–present)

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Paul S. Morton Sr. - PJ Morton's father, a pastor and gospel singer, provided foundational musical and spiritual guidance. (Early gospel performances and church music) [1980s–present]
• Stevie Wonder - Major stylistic influence; later became a collaborator and mentor figure. (Influence on vocal and keyboard style; collaboration on 'Watch The Sun') [1990s–present]

Key Collaborators

• Maroon 5 - Keyboardist and backing vocalist; official band member since 2012. (Albums and tours with Maroon 5) [2010–present]
• JoJo - Frequent duet partner; collaborated on Grammy-winning tracks. ('Say So', 'My Peace') [2019–present]
• Stevie Wonder - Featured artist and collaborator on solo projects. ('Watch The Sun') [2022]
• Nas - Collaborated on genre-blending tracks. ('Watch The Sun') [2022]
• Lil Wayne - Collaborated on solo projects. (Various tracks including on 'Gumbo') [2017]
• Erykah Badu - Collaborated on solo projects. (Various tracks) [2010s]

Artists Influenced

• Jon Batiste - Collaborated and contributed to Batiste's Grammy-winning album; Morton’s style and mentorship have influenced Batiste’s approach to blending genres. ('We Are' (Album of the Year, 2022 Grammys)) [2021–2022]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. How Deep Is Your Love (feat. Yebba) - Live (Gumbo Unplugged (Live))
2. How Deep Is Your Love (Gumbo)
3. Good Morning (feat. Susan Carol)
4. SAY SO (feat. JoJo) (PAUL)
5. BUILT FOR LOVE (feat. Jazmine Sullivan) (PAUL)
6. I Can't Wait
7. READY - Acoustic Version (The Piano Album)
8. Over and Over
9. First Began (Gumbo)
10. Hope & Love

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #soul