Meet Ra’Quan Washington | Keyboardist, Pianist, Organist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ra’Quan Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ra’Quan, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
Growing up I always wanted to be a professional musician, but family would always criticize. Once I reached 18 graduating high school, I was playing in various venues, churches, funeral, and wedding halls. College is not the only way to be successful. I’m not saying don’t go to college but if you find a gig that plays well to provide for you and family why not take the risk being a full-time musician. Pursue your dream no matter what anybody has to say, and you will be amazed what the outcome is.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey happened because of the people God put in my life. The first band I ever was a part of was called Branch Station and my profession as a musician took off from there. Wherever I play the common question is What church do you play for? I laugh because I try not to mix secular and gospel, but I guess how I play and carry myself itself, it’s obvious I grew up in church. I’m amazed of all the gigs I’ve been a part of, and I look forward to going on tour with my favorite gospel artist one day Kirk Franklin. Three words that describe me, humble, punctual, and character. My journey began because I keep these words in mind no matter who I’m dealing with. God gets all the glory and honor because if it wasn’t for his grace and mercy, I would not be a musician today. The most important lesson in the music industry is first impressions. I can’t how many times people appreciate my humility. In conclusion working with me I teach and perform. I would be more than happy to work with you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my friend to a music spot in Philly like Time, Hook Reel, and World Cafe Live. I love museums and would take them to museum of Illusions. Lastly, I would show the good spots for drinks and party music. If I’m not working, going to downtown Philly hearing live music and museums is cool.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would give thanks to God for giving me the gift to play music. I also want to get a shoutout to my grandmother I don’t know where I would be without her. She’s the reason why I started playing the piano at the age of 4 and that was the best decision I ever made listening to her.

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