Genres, stereotypes and the so-called norm be damned. While most artists strive to be the ultimate connoisseurs of their musical fields-be it rap, rock or the ever-happy pop-musician Zach Deputy strives for a much different goal: Deputy wants to be the best of the unexplainable.

“[My music is] mutt music,” Deputy said. “I don’t want people to put us in a box. I don’t set out to make a certain type of song; I just go with the flow. It’s very eclectic. I play what I love to play, which is good for me, but bad for marketing.”

Deputy’s musical interest sparked at a young age. When he picked up his first guitar at 14, the Georgia-native was already a pro at producing beats.

“I don’t know the exact time I started making music,” Deputy said. “I started to make noises at such a young age and started singing so young. I actually began to be-bop in the first grade, I think.”

Influenced by the likes of James Brown, Bobby McFerrin, Michael Jackson, Ray Charles and B.B. King, Deputy had quite the musical upbringing. His greatest influence, however, came from his own family.

“My mom came to the United States [from the Virgin Islands] in her late teens,” Deputy said. “My grandmother would always have [calypso music] playing. I grew up listening to it, and it became a part of me. I don’t know the name of the guys I was listening to, but they really influenced me. It’s in my soul and it’s there, but I don’t know who exactly I got it from.”

With numerous influences and musical samplings at hand, Deputy’s self-proclaimed “mutt music” is exemplified in his live performances.

“It’s different every night,” Deputy said. “I get into these moods, and I go from there. Music is a reflection of emotion. I search for those moments of euphoric experience during which I create something so perfect.”

Deputy’s inspiration comes from everything he encounters-but don’t expect an angst-ridden ballad anytime soon.

“I hate sappy music and hate the whining,” Deputy said. “I want to teach people to not be so uptight, timid or reserved. I want to help them express themselves.”

Never one to stick to the beaten path, Deputy hopes that, through his music, others will find their own road to happiness-even if one has to pave the way themselves.

Deputy will be in St. Louis Tuesday, Jan. 29, at Venice Café, 1903 Pestalozzi St. Tickets cost $3, and the show begins at 9 p.m.