Morris "Butch" Stewart, Jr. (Finding Aid)

Morris "Butch" Stewart, Jr.

1953 -

Favorite Food: Indian Food

Favorite Time of Year: Summer

Favorite Vacation Spot: Jamaica

Interview Length: 100 minutes

Interview Date(s): April 8, 2003

Interview Location(s): Evanston, Illinois

Abstract

Music producer Morris "Butch" Stewart describes his family background, detailing the lives of his mother and father. Stewart recalls his childhood in Markham, Illinois, discussing his early interest in music and other childhood activities. Stewart also describes his life as an elementary school student. Producer and musician, Morris "Butch" Stewart details his rise in Chicago's music industry and several bumps along the way. He recalls the influence of mentor, Charles Stepney and how Stepney's death at a young age impacted him. Stewart moved into composing advertising jingles and eventually ended up working with Tom Burrell. From there, Stewart began his own company, Joy Art Music. Producer and composer Morris 'Butch' Stewart shares several highlights from his musical career in advertising. As the composer for the Oprah Winfrey Show, Tom Joyner Morning Show and several well known McDonalds and Coke commercials, Stewart recounts the creative process behind the music. He shares one major regret, that he had not spent more time with his children when they were younger. Producer and composer Morris 'Butch' Stewart details his current business venture, 'Uncle Butchie's Live House'. He also shares a fervent hope that the black community will return to God and learn to love and nuture itself. Stewart struggles to think of how he wants to be remembered. He settles on the notion of maintaining a constant presence by leaving a body of work and a legacy which will remain ever present.

24 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)