By: Maha Khan
Neal Conway’s influence on dance and pop culture is widely recognized, with his iconic track Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless) often regarded as a staple in the history of house music. Reflecting on the enduring impact of his work, he humbly acknowledges its unexpected global reach.
“I am deeply honored that my music has made an impact on dance and pop cultures. I didn’t realize it would resonate so widely when I composed Gypsy Woman as an underground house track,” says Conway. He credits the influence of jazz, particularly Miles Davis’ So What, as one of the key inspirations behind the track. Conway shares his gratitude for the opportunity to touch generations of producers and composers with his music. “I thank God every day for the blessing of sharing my music with the world.”
Despite producing platinum records and helping to shape house music, Conway has often been somewhat of an unsung hero in the industry. He explains the complexities of recognition, citing a combination of timing and industry dynamics. “My earlier days were challenging. It was hard to advocate for my talents without some people interpreting self-confidence as arrogance.” Conway also notes the challenges of navigating the often competitive music industry, where even well-meaning colleagues can sometimes feel threatened by success. “You can unintentionally rub someone the wrong way if you achieve success or stand out among the main characters,” he reflects.
As house music has evolved, Conway has remained hopeful about its direction. He appreciates how the genre has grown, especially with the infusion of Afro and Latin American influences. “I am encouraged by the continuing evolution of house music,” he says. “These subgenres have helped bring back organic musicality and musicianship to the genre.”
Sampling has also played a role in keeping Conway’s music alive across generations. He expresses his appreciation for younger producers who continue to revisit his work, but also raises concerns about the increasing reliance on sampling in the industry. “Sampling music has sometimes diminished the musicianship in the music-creating process,” he observes. He advocates for learning the craft and understanding the theory behind music creation, urging aspiring producers to prioritize skill development over shortcuts.
For Conway, one of the most defining moments in his career was hearing his music played by world-renowned DJ Tony Humphries on WRKS 98.7 Kiss FM and the first time he heard Gypsy Woman on Baltimore’s WXVY V-103 FM. “The most defining moment was when my music reached Gold Record status during the summer of 1991,” he recalls. “That’s when I realized that my work was truly making an impact.”
With his extensive expertise in production and songwriting, Conway shares advice for young producers hoping to leave a lasting impact: “Learn your craft. Learn to play the piano. Take your time to develop your skills.” He emphasizes the importance of being original and confident in one’s creativity, rather than chasing trends solely for profit.
Looking ahead, Conway is excited about his upcoming projects, particularly the release of Neal Conway Presents the Urban Retropolitan Movement Album in the summer of 2025. This album will feature jazz, soulful house, Afro-Latin house, and neo-soul genres, focusing on technical quality and emotional expression. “It will be entertaining and thoughtful. You’ll get a ’60s and ’70s-style funk with lyrics that inspire reflection,” Conway says. “You will get the essence of Neal Conway.”
As he continues to contribute to the future of music, Conway’s legacy as a creator, mentor, and innovator in the world of dance and house music remains deeply influential.
Published by Joseph T.
