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Family
Maxwell was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, on May 23 1973.
His mother is of Puerto Rican descent and his father was West Indian.
Sadly, his father died in a plane crash when Maxwell was just 3 years old.
Growing up
Maxwell spent much of his youth alone, since he found it difficult mixing with children in his own neighbourhood.
His fellow classmates nicknamed him 'Maxwell House Coffee' and often referred to him as "the quiet nerd who sat at the back of the classroom".
A tribute to his father
Maxwell decided to change his first name to his middle in honour of his late father - who, no doubt, would've been extremely proud of his son's achievements had he been alive today.
His first keyboard
It was not until music entered Maxwell's life that he began to feel more comfortable with himself, and who he was.
A friend of his gave him a keyboard to borrow at the age of 16, and he applied his own tutelage by locking himself in his bedroom where he'd practise for hours at a time.
Working two jobs
In order to support himself through studies and extend his collection of musical instruments, Maxwell held down 2 jobs - one in a movie theatre and the other working as a waiter.
It was whilst working as a waiter that Maxwell learnt to develop his social skills, improving significantly in the essence of 'people communication' and interacting with others on a more personal level.
A self taught musician
Having slowly developed a 4-track studio, Maxwell purchased numerous other instruments and went on to become a self-taught musician.
He was primarily a musician to begin with, but became a singer later, since he didn't know anyone else who could sing.
Playing the club scene
At the age of 19, Maxwell had recorded several demos' that had gained a lot of interest from the press and public alike.
He began playing the NYC club circuit scene, though usually in front of modest crowds.
However, this, too, went some way in helping him increase his confidence and overcome his bashfulness.
By the time he was 22, Maxwell had written over 300 original songs, and what's more, people were beginning to take notice of his writing, singing and musical talents.
The truth behind urban hang suite
Urban Hang Suite is based on an experience close to Maxwell's heart. The story goes he was at a club one evening when he saw a beautiful and mysterious lady, with whom he was instantly attracted to.
Having gradually built up the courage to speak with her, she at first politely rebuffed his advances. However, after much perseverance, the once quiet and sensitive Maxwell got his girl.
The smitten Maxwell fell in love, and after sharing a romantic weekend with his "dream girl" he proposed to her, only to be turned down. The lady in question still remains a mystery to this day.
