As the One Voyage cruise prepares to set sail, R&B fans can expect a heavy dose of romance from a familiar voice. Q Parker, a founding member of the multi-platinum group 112, recently spoke with D.L. Hughley about his upcoming performance on the cruise, marking a significant milestone in his solo career.
During the conversation, Hughley welcomed Parker as a fellow “shipmate,” and the two shared a lighthearted exchange about convertibles and open windows before turning to the main topic. Parker confirmed that while he has attended the One Voyage cruise as a passenger before, this will be his first time performing on board. He joked with Hughley about packing motion sickness medicine, acknowledging the unique challenges of singing at sea.
R&B Veteran Q Parker Joins D.L. Hughley
Three Decades in the Industry
Parker reflected on his long run in music, noting that 112 launched in 1996 and that this year marks his 30th anniversary in the industry. After more than two decades with the group, he has spent the last six or seven years building the Q Parker brand as a solo artist. He explained that his creative focus is a “romance movement,” promising that every time he shows up, he represents love and intimacy through his music. Touring and releasing new material, Parker wants his performances to feel like a celebration of romance for audiences on land and now at sea.
Thirty Years In, A Romance Movement
The ‘Q Versions’ Concept
In the interview, Parker described himself as not just an artist but a songwriter, producer, and genuine lover of music. When he hears a song that hits all the right points, he often wishes he had written or sung it himself, which inspired his “Q Versions” concept. These performances are his take on other artists’ songs, sometimes reimagined as duets, and he posts them to his YouTube page for fans. He mentioned flipping Summer Walker’s “Heart of a Woman,” an October London record, and a Coco Jones track into Q Versions, while Hughley teasingly called it “very advanced karaoke.”
This approach is a common strategy for independent artists looking to maintain visibility between album cycles. By reinterpreting popular songs, Parker keeps his name in rotation while showcasing his vocal range and production skills. It also allows him to connect with younger audiences who may be more familiar with the original artists he covers.
Favorite Artists And Cruise Expectations
Current Favorites and What’s Next
When asked about his favorite artist right now, Parker named Chris Brown, praising his consistency and talent. As the conversation wrapped, Hughley confirmed Parker’s appearance on the One Voyage cruise and hoped to hear a live Q Version on the boat. Parker said he could not wait to join the fans and crew, promising a great time filled with romance and music. Hughley signed off with his trademark humor, urging listeners to keep it locked to The D.L. Hughley Show.
For fans of 112 and R&B in general, Parker’s solo work represents a continuation of the sound that defined a generation. His focus on romance and intimacy is a deliberate counterpoint to much of today’s more explicit lyrical content, and his willingness to perform at sea underscores his commitment to bringing that experience directly to his audience.