Author: Admin

Dorian – Blast Off (Radio Edit) [Interview]

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What inspired you to release your EP ‘33′ and what is the significance behind the title?

I turned 33 last July, and I really wanted to mark where I am personally, spiritually and sonically as an artist!

How did you approach blending R&B and Drill styles in your track “Blast Off”?

I was inspired by artists like Chris Brown who have found awesome ways to blend the genres. I wanted the song to have the energetic feel that drill brings, but also bring a more smooth and soulful R&B style vocal to it; while writing an inspiring message to it!

How do you see the R&B and Drill music scenes evolving in the future?

I definitely see the two worlds blending more and more in music. I see drill continuing to take off as its own sub-genre around the world. And R&B is going nowhere, it’s here to stay!

What sets your music apart from other artists in the same genre?

I think it’s that it’s hard to actually pinpoint me to a particular genre. There’s a blending of so many influences. I think while many mainstream acts fit into a particular mold as far as song subject matters and style; I definitely march to the beat of my own drum. I want to be sure my songs are filled with substance, Soul, and my life experiences. That makes it unique to me.

How do you handle criticism and negative feedback on your music?

I think we all have opinions and our own tastes. I respect it to a degree. But there’s definitely a difference between negative feedback and constructive criticism, in which I appreciate the latter. Lol

How do you balance your personal and professional life as a musician?

It’s very hard and it’s something I’m still learning to do!
But I say it starts with patience, and pacing. Everything doesn’t have to get done everyday. Do what you can and compartmentalize the rest!

In your opinion, what role does music play in shaping and reflecting culture and society?

It plays one of the hugest roles in society and culture. Music helps shape and move the culture. It’s one of the most powerful mediums in the world; something we can’t see necessarily but can feel. It can set the tone for an entire decade or era of time!

Thank you!

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Complexive – Dewdrops [Review]

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Complexive’s new single “Dewdrops” is a remarkable display of the artist’s talents as a keyboardist, producer, and performer. Hailing from Madison, WI, Complexive showcases a unique mix of hypnotic chord progressions with a jazzy vibe that is sure to enthral the listener. The track’s exciting, bass-driven beat provides a solid foundation for the rest of the production to build upon. The numerous synth sounds used throughout the song provide a rich and textured soundscape, while the elegant piano melodic lines add warmth and contrast to the overall composition. A sophisticated and well-crafted work that will be appreciated by those who are into more complex and nuanced productions. Enjoy below!

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H.O.M.A – Nubian

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H.O.M.A flatters honestly on magical r&b single titled “Nubian”.

H.O.M.A pays a powerful homage to women of colour with a new single titled “Nubian”. It is a song which celebrates women of color in a heartfelt and empowering manner.
He showers worthwhile praises in poetic nuances towards a love interest who is symbolic of women of colour in general.

Nubian captures H.O.M.A in a super flattery but honest state, painting vivid pictures of the awe, beauty and sensuality of a modern day Nubian princess. Graced with a magical sonic contribution from Nigerian based producer Clogz, the record was created in between the lines of contemporary R&B and highly eccentric alternative music. It is a sensual, percussive and progressive alternative R&B song.

COMPILATION 2 is a seven-track mixtape by impressive alternative artist H.O.M.A, an ardent effort in reflective exploration of sonics and subject matter. He sings about amorous feelings and relationships in different contexts on soulful r&b, pop and eclectic alternative compositions.

Creating a body of work like COMPILATION 2, H.O.M.A has also developed the talent for evoking strong emotions and moods in his listeners through his music and it can be why the music he creates leaves a mark on his ever-increasing blend of unique audience.
Scheduled for official release on the 22nd July, COMPILATION 2 welcomes listeners into the deep waters of musical potential H.O.M.A possesses and sets the tone nicely for everything else he offers.

Judah Dub – Miles Away [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

I would say, creative, experimental, and powerful

Tell us a few things about your new song. What is the main idea behind it?

The main idea behind the song is about everyone’s general experience about “simping” or crushing on someone that deserve better. This has happened to me so I am just telling it from my point of view. How I felt at the time. Really just understanding why someone would fall for the wrong person over and over again, while there are others who are willing to treat them better.

This ep tells the story about your past, current, and future outlook of your relationships. Is songwriting a form of communication?

In a nutshell, it is a form of communication. “Miles Away” is a taste of that story. It is a prologue. My experiences with relationships shape this narrative about one girl, but in reality, it is more of a generelization of how relationships can mirror each other. And with the same approach, courtship, relationships, and breakups can feel like its the exact same process, even if its with a different person.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

That feels like a loaded question lol It honestly varies every single day. But as of right now, I want to say (but obviously its multiple artist, lyricists, and producers) Kendrick, Jcole, and Hitboy. Bonus, Fave artist is Drake.

All time, Tupac, Eminem, and Pharell. Artist: Outkast

But honestly, don’t mean to be indecisive but it changes. I love Lil Baby right now. Even a sprinkle of K-Pop here and there as well.

How Important are political statements by music artists? Can music have an impact on politics?

HUGE. I think it def should be exercised more. But on that note, I feel like the topics discussed or expressed should be thoroughly examined. I just feel as if people just use political statements in music to get clout or sometimes it’s just a reaction to the first thing they see. I think people just react to hastily to the first thing they see and hear, which becomes their bias. I’m not saying that those reactions are incorrect, what I am saying though is knowing the full facts definitely helps us express our opinions better and more fully with engaging thoughts. IF it’s done that way, I feel like you can really feel the authenticity of the person making those statements.

In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?

Honestly, everyone. I think my music is about the generalization of everyday life. Everyone can relate to love, heartbreak, disappointments, some type of bullying, anxiety, rejection, etc. My music is about life and the stories behind my eyes. Its the stories that makes each individual unique. But we all go down the same road to find success, love, or self-fulfillment. Same path, but different houses.

What is the story behind your name?

Judah came from one of my favorite boxers and Waterfalls is a name that was given to me because of how wildly I played (basketball). I was just non-stop lol. But the Dub version of Judah Dub obviously is a shortened version of Waterfalls.

Thank you!

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Arxhie Low – Motion [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Unique, wavy, newgen

Tell us a few things about your new song Motion. What is the main idea behind it?

Motion is a feel good song inspired by my first ever sold out show and how far I have made it in the music industry so far. The main idea for this song was too inspire and touch people using my own unique genre of dnb/dance beats with rap over the top.

What inspired you to experiment with the melodic rap genre and infuse it with dance instrumentals?

These two genres have always been my favourite things and to mix them together has been a dream that has been long time coming for me. Original inspired by riovaz, I decided to give my own take on this type of genre. I believe also the realisations of I am not going to make it where I want to be just by following the trends and copying what’s already out helped me try and create and experiment with this genre.

What was the experience like selling out your first show, and how did it inspire the creation of this song?

The experience of performing at my first ever show and it being sold out was like no other. The tickets selling out 4 days after announcement was definitely the craziest feeling ever. But, performing was a even better feeling. The excitement and rush of feelings from the show truly inspire ‘Motion’. It’s quite an amazing feeling having the crowd scream your name, much like what I mention within the song.

What would be your dream performance venue?

I don’t believe I have a dream venue to perform at. But, it’s always been a dream of mine since I was 12 to perform at Rolling Loud festival. The crowds there always go so crazy and I feel like it would match my style of performing perfectly. I’m working every day to be able to reach this goal of mine.

When not writing music, how do you spend your time?

Music usually seems to be my whole life to be honest. I’m always either listening, making, writing, or working on marketing for music. But other then music, I enjoy going to the gym, skateboarding, and just chilling with my friends. My friends play a big role within my music and have always supported my dream.

When was the last time you danced?

I don’t know if this is embarrassing or not, but every night I dance in front of my mirror to music. Whether it’s imagining that I’m playing at a huge show or rolling loud, or just vibing to music. I’m always doing something to hype myself up to music at night.

Thank you!

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Bad Indigo – DIY [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Etheric surprising heartful

Tell us a few things about your new song. What is the main idea behind it?

Looking for home, the search and meaning of what home is to us- the ideal and the reality. That which changes and that which stays the same. In a way it’s like your fantasy about love or life, and what is really happening. Or like you grow up and hopefully develop as a person, but when your mom calls , It’s like nothing changed, to her you’re just a small kid, in a way . There’s a mystery about what home is whether it’s on the inside or out.

How have you managed to maintain the DIY ethos in your creative process, and what does it mean to you?

Well, we are a two piece project right now, and we’re basically doing it all by ourselves music wise . The whole album was done together, luckily our creative energy meshes good to create this sound and the world we bring in bad indigo , in the process there’s no deadlines, just our desire to progress , this is totally diy one on one.

Favourite album of the past year?

Kendrick Lamar – Mr. Morale & The big Steppers

What role has the Tel Aviv indie scene played in your musical journey, and how has it influenced your work?

Well the placing and surroundings mosdef has influence on the music and vibes. TLV is a cool city and we kinda grew up with the first wave of indie bands here, mostly for us, like diy it’s finding a creative home in all of this, something that will make sense to us.

Favorite music related film?

A Scanner Darkly, Tora Tora Tora , Angles Heart , Twin Peaks

One last thing we should know about you?

We love dancing

Thank you!

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Nawafinity – Breath Of Life [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words.

Dreamy – Emotional – Mature

What inspired you to write “Breathe of Life”?

Breath of life came at point in my life where I had to battle clinical depression again. Yet that time, it felt different. I felt strong, self-loving and guided by God. I knew that my voice is supposed to heal others, but I didn’t know that Breath of Life would come to say so.

How does incorporating the Tabla instruments add to the overall vibe of the song?

Adding the Tabla was a fun experimental (I know ! Me too I am shocked) We laughed at how beautiful and playful it did to the song. Which is a reference to the fighting spirit inside me.

How does your Arabic Culture influence your music?

This is only the beginning to witness the influence of my Saudi Arabian Culture on my music, but so far, I would definitely say ! The spirit and character. ! My Lyrics are expressive, direct, honest, collectivist based and have exquisite associations we have.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

Oooh That’s a tough question !! Hahahah. What comes on top of my mind are: Utada Hikaru, Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child), Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Sam Cooke, Faith Evans, Kelly Price and so much more !

In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?

I try as much as I can, or I intend to, to release music that can be heard at 9 AM and 9 PM with the same feeling. Yet what I have released so far can be heard when someone feels introspective, dreamy, future forward thinking, grateful or reminiscing.

What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?

Hahahah. Not a trouble maker to be honest. I am the nerd kid in school.

Thank you!

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BIAS – Amsterdam [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Eclectic. Spontaneous. Anarchic.

What inspired you to rework the track “Phone Call” from the “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” soundtrack?

Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind is one of my favourite films and sometimes I really feel the need to see it again. It is somehow therapeutic. The story it tells, enhanced by the soundtrack, makes me shed all the tears I usually hold back. When the guitar arpeggio of ‘Phone Call’ starts, I can’t stop myself. When I wrote the lyrics to AMSTERDAM I had not yet thought about the music and I would tell you that the creative process happened casually and spontaneously. But actually if you listen to the words of the song and think about the plot of the film, you realise that there is a connection that certainly cannot be accidental.

What first got you into music?

My love for music was initially transmitted to me by my father, playing guitar and sending me to piano lessons when I was 6 years old. Then I studied guitar, drums, moving on to computer music. For more than 10 years I played in several underground punk/hc/crossover bands, then I released 2 solo records under the pseudonym Ex Novo, and finally this new project BIAS.

What other musical styles and artists have inspired your work?

I prefer to tell you the artists in general that have influenced me (the first ones that come to mind and in no particular order):
Joy Division, Poison The Well, Deftones, Banksy, Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Lars Von Trier, Paolo Sorrentino, Prodigy, Bjšrk, Fabri Fibra, At the Drive In, Charles Bukowski, Jamiroquai, Satanic Surfers, Propagandhi, U?ur Gallenku?, Lucio Battisti, Pino Daniele, Marina Abramovi?.

What would you change in the music industry?

I am interested in music, not the music industry.

In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?

In general, my music mostly stems from an emotional outburst and the creative phase is a very intimate moment in my life. So I imagine a person listening to my songs in a room, alone, pausing to think about the words, letting the sound take over and focusing on the emotions that arise.

How do you see your music evolving in the future?

I don’t know. In fact, I don’t think about it at all. I like to renew myself, experiment and always explore new styles and genres of music. Music has always accompanied me by following my changes as a person. So it is impossible to say in which direction it will go because life itself is unpredictable.

Thank you!

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Adub Nati – Emerging [Interview]

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Tell us a few things about Emerging. What is the main idea behind it?

Emerging as a more conscious/christian hip hop artist

Where do you draw inspiration from? Tell us a few things about your creative process.

Jesus Christ

Which song of the EP reflects you the most?

Get Me

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

Bizzle, Chance the rapper, Tupac

What would you change in the music industry?

I would take out the negativity in it.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Work on YOUR legacy.

One last thing we should know about you?

That I love God and my people.

Thank you!

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Ben Flexin – Angel Year EP, Vol. 1 [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Truth, Raw, Epiphany

Tell us a few things about Angel Year EP, Vol. What is the main idea behind it?

Angel Year was my first official release and my first self produced project. I approached it with no expectations or template. I simply wanted to express this F**ked up life of mine with music that felt good to me. As I made each beat the lyrics would come to me before I finished (that’s how I knew I was on the right track). God spoke to me

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

“I buried my own father, ain’t no other n**gah sonning me”

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

A) Method Man B) Mos Def C) The Alchemist

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

The realest thing to connect all those going through it in life, it’s pain- it’s love- it’s hate- just pure raw emotion. It’s the best way I know to express myself truly and positively and I can listen and connect with others as they express themselves as well. It’s pure beauty.

How has growing up in Long Island/NYC influenced your music?

It’s literally the Mecca of hiphop. The origin! Need I say more?

What is your definition of “doing it for the culture”?

I believe that global media has been controlled by various governments and promotes terrible representation of HipHop/Rap purposely for their benefit. I aim to properly represent the true essence and realness of hiphop with every song I make. Every ear I can get to makes a difference. It’s not all about twerking and killing each other (although they are aspects of it) but it’s so much more. I want to bring the full culture to the spotlight!

Thank you!

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