When I recently sat down with The Art of ZHänrę, our conversation naturally shifted to music, memory, and all the emotions that come with both. His sound is grounded in soul and R&B, sultry and smooth, yet layered with purpose. But before the groove and sensuality of his current work, his journey started in an unexpected place: the orchestra pit. He first picked up a cello, even though it wasn’t his first choice. He wanted to play the violin, but his father insisted on something “bigger and burlier.” So, he played the cello. What no one expected, including himself, was how naturally it would come to him. His teacher even asked if he’d played before. Turns out, it may have been in his blood—his mother also played stringed instruments. That spark led to choir, solos, and eventually to songwriting and the stage.

Fast forward to today, and The Art of ZHänrę has recently released his debut single, “Foreplay,” featuring Aye West, a track that oozes sensuality and sets the tone for what’s to come. The full-length album is already in the works and is expected to drop this October at his upcoming concert on 10/18/2025. The concert will be titled “Welcome to Planet T.A.O.Z.” Where ZHänrę plans to take his listeners into his world of music. With each release of his records, he wants listeners not only to hear the music but also to feel it.

 

 

The Art of ZHänrę describes his sound as “unKhänshus music.” It’s the kind of sound that transports you somewhere else without you realizing it. His goal? To remind people that real music still exists—that music should make you feel something before you even try to understand the lyrics or the beat. It’s emotional. It’s spiritual. It’s meant to be an escape, even if just for a moment—a portal to another place, and then gently back again. 

 

 

When asked about his influences, he named the greats—Chaka Khan, Whitney Houston, Earth, Wind & Fire—and modern soul giants like Lucky Daye and Musiq Soulchild. He listens to them not just for nostalgia but to find inspiration to build on in his own way. His dream? To take over Tennessee and its neighboring states, one soulful performance at a time. Check out the recipe below—and don’t forget to stream “Foreplay” on all platforms. Let the music carry you somewhere else for a while. You’ll be glad you went.

 

The Art of ZHänrę Website

 

 

Naturally, our conversation turned to food, because what pairs better with a sensual soul than something indulgent and comforting? “ ‘Foreplay’, if it were a meal, would be chocolate-covered strawberries,” he said without hesitation. A little sweet, a little seductive. He also threw out baked salmon with creamed potatoes and asparagus as the perfect entrée. Sensual, smooth, and satisfying, just like the song. But ZHänrę’s food preferences aren’t all aphrodisiacs and flair. When it comes to everyday meals, he’s a Southern guy through and through. Think baked chicken with collard greens and hot water cornbread, or even a simple plate of Hamburger Helper served with love. For him, comfort food means nostalgia—meals that remind him of family, childhood, and warmth.

His go-to comfort dish? Chicken Tetrazzini. It’s the one meal he not only loves to eat but also loves to cook, especially from scratch. He usually pairs it with a spring mix salad (Mariner’s Ranch, of course—he’s a little bougie like that) and a crispy slice of garlic toast. Whether it’s Mother’s Day or a random Friday, he’s the type to whip up a meat-and-three meal and enjoy it all weekend. And then there’s dessert. His signature? A cold, creamy banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers, topped with crumbled Biscoff cookies and a drizzle of salted caramel. It’s classic Southern meets elevated twist—comforting with just the right crunch.

As for the foods he avoids? Green peas, black-eyed peas, cabbage, and shrimp are all hard no’s. He’ll take beans or spinach any day, but don’t come near him with a spoonful of peas. Snack-wise, he keeps it simple: plain or sour cream & onion chips, green apples, and bananas. Easy, satisfying, and full of flavor—just like his music.

Inspired by his story and that irresistible love for Chicken Tetrazzini, I decided to give the dish a summer twist for this feature, adding lemon zest, chopped jalapeño, and a touch of Creole seasoning to a rich and creamy sauce. It’s comforting with a kick, much like The Art of ZHänrę’s music: smooth, soulful, and unforgettable. Check out the recipe below! 

 

 

Spicy Lemon-Cream Chicken Tetrazzini

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Cook pasta al dente, drain, and set aside.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Cajun seasoning and jalapeño; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add chicken and sprinkle garlic & onion powder; sauté until warmed.
  5. Lower heat, stir in both cans of soup, lemon zest, half and half, butter, lemon juice, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the pasta and toss to coat thoroughly in the sauce.
  7. Add the chicken spaghetti mixture to a 9×13” casserole dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Bake the chicken tetrazzini in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Make sure the dish is bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted.
  9. Garnish with parsley and serve. Enjoy!