Stanley Cunningham

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about Stanley

Phillip Stanley Cunningham Jr. (“STANLEY”) is an American entrepreneur, producer, and musician from Atlanta, GA. From an early age, Stanley’s infectious charisma and love for performance have been the heartbeats of his journey. A natural-born entertainer, he performed his first show in his parents’ driveway at just 5 years old, captivating audiences with his vibrant personality and boundless energy.

Raised in the performing arts world, Stanley faced challenges but remained passionate. He began playing piano in church at age 3, inspired by legends like Michael Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Prince, and quickly set out to master as many instruments as possible. By 9, he was training in jazz piano and founded a jazz quartet, “The Phaze,” performing around Atlanta. In 2011, he fronted an all-male R&B group and left traditional schooling for a work-study program at Ben Franklin Academy, sharpening his recording and production skills.

After building a following of 1.7 million fans, Stanley paused music to study at USC. That break helped him rediscover his artistry. In 2022, he returned as a songwriter, working with John Legend, Will Gittens, Kevin Ross, and more. His breakout year came in 2023 with his first Grammy nomination for Best Gospel Album, collaborating with Jonathan Reynolds on My Truth and co-writing “All Along” and “Smooth.” He also co-wrote “Views” for Chris Brown’s 11-11, earning his first Grammy.

In 2024, Stanley toured with Breland as the featured keyboardist and appeared as a guitarist in Doug Liman’s RoadHouse. His journey is far from over—he remains committed to inspiring generations through creativity, passion, and authentic expression.

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is that every student already possess ALL the tools he or she needs to be great within them. My job is to guide and nurture those tools and the process of using those tools to see that greatness realized. It is a partnership based on where the student is when they begin and where it is they want to go. Everyone has a different goal, path, and make up of human being. So I think it’s most important to connect as people first, to best understand the pathway to seeing those goals realized. If I teach nothing else, I want every student to know that the pursuit of greatness is lifelong, so long as they have the mentality to go after it – the mountain of greatness is theirs to climb.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career?

Headlining my first show at soho house and winning my first grammy

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?:

One that is driven, passionate, and has a genuine love and curiosity music. With that, we can find a way to get the necessary information where it needs to and build the brains neuroplasticity on the instrument. It doesn’t matter where you are

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?:

To be a mentor means to be an example, a confidant, a friend, and a coach. It is to put the needs of each mentee first and understand that everyone may need something a little different, and each individual person may need something different on different days. It means trying different approaches until we find the one that works best. It means creating an environment that is safe, where failure is just a stepping stone to growth. I’m just excited to be a part of others’ journeys as they get into what I hope will turn into a lifelong relationship with music.

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?:

Earth Wind And Fire, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Duke Ellington, Kirk Franklin, Chris Brown, Donny Hathaway, etc. It gave me such a wide scope of Motown soul, the church, jazz, and everything in between. I’m able to pull from all of those elements now in a way that feels like me.

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator