AI has been heavily discussed in the music industry, with the first AI artist to debut on radio charts and sign a major deal. While this feels like a major shift in music creation to many, multiple artists like CJ Emmons are not threatened by AI; they embrace it, proving that nothing can replace natural talent. 

For over a decade, the Grammy & Emmy-Nominated powerhouse, CJ Emmons, has been the voice you hear but rarely see—the Principal Singer for the dazzling spectacle of Dancing with the Stars. He is the bedrock upon which every waltz and cha-cha rests. But now, in his one-man show, I'm Freaking Talented at the Hobby Center, Emmons steps away from the background and into his rightful, brilliant center stage, offering a performance that is less a concert and more a joyous, comedic, and deeply inspiring testimony.

The show is a captivating journey through Emmons’ 23-year career, blending world-class singing with engaging storytelling and sharp comedy. For those who love music, theatre, and the triumphant arc of an artist's life, this production is a must-see.

The Houston Roots of a Hollywood Star

The story of how Emmons became "freaking talented" is a testament to perseverance and the power of dedicated community theatre. Emmons credits Houston’s The Ensemble Theatre, the largest professional African American theatre in the Southwest, for much of his success. But he didn’t get his foundational start there; the foundation was laid at home. He was born with a musical talent that his mother helped him cultivate before joining Beyonce, Kelly, LaToya, and LaTavia in the theatres' Young Performers (YP) Program. This local springboard launched him onto a truly remarkable global path.

CJ’s resume reads like a music industry fantasy. Working with legends like Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Usher, Bobby Womack, and many more. His journey has taken him from his humble Houston upbringing to sharing laughs and popcorn with Patti LaBelle and even conquering the rigorous stage of Britain's Got Talent, where his performance of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” earned him the semi-finals and was lauded by Simon Cowell as a "vocal masterclass."

CJ’s talent operates like his shadow; he doesn’t have to do much, it’s simply just a part of him. Even while interviewing him, there were moments where he would sing his words, and you are instantly taken into another world. For example, when explaining how he got the call for DWTS, he was told to return to the audition room multiple times to sing styles, like Spanish and opera. While recalling the story, he began singing a Selena song that would make her proud!

A Message for the Creative Heart