PINE BLUFF, Ark. (KATV) — A Pine Bluff High School graduate is celebrating one of the biggest achievements in the music industry after earning his first Grammy Award.
Frank Moka, a producer, songwriter and musician with more than 25 years of experience, won a Grammy last Sunday for his work on an album by R&B and soul artist Durand Bernarr. The win marks a major milestone in a career that began with percussion at a young age and grew into decades of performing and producing music around the world.
“For me, music was never a phase,” Moka said. “It was a calling.”
Moka began playing percussion as a child and later studied music theory in college after graduating from Pine Bluff High School. Over the years, his dedication led to touring as a drummer with acclaimed artist Erykah Badu and expanding his work into writing and producing.
He credits support from his hometown for helping him through the journey.
“Everybody from Pine Bluff has really made me feel supported and loved,” Moka said. “They’re proud, man.”
As his career evolved, Moka said building trust and chemistry in the studio became a key part of his work as a producer and songwriter.
“You develop a relationship between artist, producer and songwriter,” he said. “That trust makes all the difference.”
Moka’s Grammy win came in the category of Best Progressive R&B Album. He said his role on the project went beyond what he typically does, ultimately qualifying him for the award.
The moment he learned about the win was unexpected. Moka said he was in his hotel room when a friend attending the Grammy Awards called him with the news.
“They just called your name,” Moka recalled. “You won a Grammy.”
Despite the recognition, Moka said the honor hasn’t changed his mindset, only sharpened it.
“I’d love to sit and celebrate, but I’ve got to get back to it,” he said.
Moka said new music is already in progress as he continues working on future projects, focused on what comes next after a career decades in the making.