Author: Admin

Stephen James Orr – Ceramic [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Playful, iridescent, depth

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

Ceramic started as a full instrumental I wrote while on a 70’s soul kick. It started as just a slow jam drum beat with those big echoing chords and grew from there! Danny heard it and vibed with it so he wrote & sang the lyrics/vocals that you hear. Here’s his snippet on the lyrics!

“Ceramic explores the aftermath of a broken relationship, being left with painful happy memories that surface when the mind wanders, and wondering whether the person you once loved is haunted by the same thoughts.”

I had originally envisioned the song as more of a sexy love track but love the mood Danny took it too.

Do you like the idea of collaborating? Is songwriting a lonely process?

I love the idea of collaborating, in the same sense as I love improv comedy. The best thing about music is feeding off each other’s creative ideas/energy and when with the right people it becomes magical!

I love songwriting as it is a release / escape from everything, where your mind can just be with the music. Releasing songs under your own name as a DIY musician can be a bit of a lonely process though as it can become a bit of a silo in terms of doing it all yourself but that’s where working with the right people comes into play (not paying big bucks to hire these people I mean finding other people that are passionate about the tunes). You know when you’ve found your people, be it other musicians, video/graphic artists, management etc. as it’ll become a team effort

What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?

Performing live is definitely the most enthralling part of it. Seeing an audience react to your songs in a positive way is one of the best feelings on the planet. Also improvising with other musicians in front of an audience is scary at first but quickly becomes the most addicting part of it all.

Writing music has it’s place as well in terms of discovering sounds and the feeling of when a song comes together, but the live bit after is the cherry on top.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?

Would definitely be the PR aspect of it. There’s a lot of business people in the music industry that don’t see it through an artist lens and prey on up and coming artists with promises of exposure at a high cost and have no responsibility on if anything comes of it. But I guess it’s twofold that when you encounter someone who really connects from the artist perspective then it’s like finding gold.

Which book should we read while listening to your music?

As I write a lot with different musicians and segue between different styles of music I’d say one where there’s multiple characters telling their stories and there’s a common thread between them where they all connect. One that comes to mind that I read awhile ago is Bright Shiny Morning by James Frey.

You’d give up making music for…

to be a photographer for National Geographic! I recently read The Dolphins Tooth by Bruce Kirkby, which is an incredible account of all the trips he has done before/during working for National Geographic. You’ve gotta read the book to get a sense of it but as I love music so much it would only be these adventures of a lifetime that could get me to give it up.

Thank you!

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SABRINA – Drive [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Empowering, Open and Passionate.

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

It’s a “fuck you” to anyone who makes you feel like you’re not good enough or makes you wait around for them when they are just playing a game. The main hook “Boy get in your car and drive” is basically saying, “Boy, get lost and go”. Getting rid of any negative energy that you were feeling!

Do you like the idea of collaborating? Is songwriting a lonely process?

I love collaborating when I can. I enjoy working with others, I know I can learn more about my songwriting process and production so when I get the chance to collab with someone I always try and say yes. I personally don’t find songwriting lonely because it’s my way of getting out my emotions and feelings that I sometimes don’t know how else to journal, so songwriting to me is that open journal.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

James Blake – his music is just something else. Old music by strong females like Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Etta James. Indie artists that I randomly find on Spotify which I end up playing on repeat, day to day tasks, hearing others conversations whilst on a bus, my own experiences that I’ve had during my time.. SOOOOO many things inspire me.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?

My biggest challenge so far…. hmm, I think that has to be standing out amongst so many amazing artists. It’s hard to feel like you’re doing well as so many other talented people are doing the same thing. I just hope I have a unique voice or unique sound that people just know it’s me.

Favorite film ever?

Favourite film… I have too many.

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

Ooooh, this is a good question. I honestly don’t know. I love interior design so perhaps something to do with that?

Thank you!

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Jü – All The Time feat Valerie Lighthart [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Sensual/Melodic/Euphoric

Your music has an experimental tone. Should music as a form of art always challenge the listener?

I believe however you express your art and want your listener to experience. Should be whatever it is YOU feel is YOUR sound. The listener is with you on that journey, up to you to lead em to your destination.

For which lyric you are most proud of?

That’s a tough one because all these songs are like my babies. I would say in this song in particular. It would be its opening lines “Trouble… trouble…I’m fascinated by you. Damn you trouble. Trouble. Might have to risk it for you.”

What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?

Surprisingly I haven’t performed just yet. But I plan on performing at Summerfest 9.16 with Valerie Lighthart. But writing will always be my first love.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?

A challenge would be always trying to come out with something fresh. I try to use so many different elements, to always keep my listeners guessing.

Favorite film ever?

Anything Marvel…maybe Avengers Endgame. I went at least 5 times to the theaters to see it.

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

Maybe I would be using my college degree. In some aspect probably.

Thank you!

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Northside Rocky – Do What I Want [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Top Tier Vibes

How many beats do you listen to before you end up using one? Tell us a few things about your creative process.

There isnt a set number. However many it takes to catch my ear.

What is the main topic of your lyrics?

The beat dictates the topic. Its more of a feeling not a calculated decision.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

Fav rapper – Wale, Fav Lyricist- Kendrick Lamar, Fav Producer- Sean Da Firzt

What would be your dream performance venue?

Madison Square Garden, The venue has a rich history and all of the greatest performers give their best shows at MSG.

Favorite music related film?

Brown Sugar

One last thing we should know about you?

The music making process is very important to me. I want to be the best artist I can be and share my story with the world. No matter how long it takes I’m determined to make the best music I can and give every listener a look into who I am as a person not only as an artist.

Thank you!

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Quincy Valentine – Daydreams ft. Shamyra [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Soulful, Vintage, Warm

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

The concept for Daydreams was derived from my personality. I’m known as a fairly nonchalant person and some have expressed me bing hard to read. So the song talks about this in regards to developing feelings for someone. Of course looking back now, this song unintentionally describes a particular experience I had with someone I avoided expressing feelings for. I happened to be beta testing a subscription service at the time, Reason +, and most of the sounds I used on this song were part of the sound set for it. Once I finished producing the track, I felt the vibe of mysticism and so the title as well as many of the themes in the verses reflects that from astrology to physics, and mythology.

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

I have more music that gets a bit more personal on the way, but as of current releases it would likely be in Daydreams. I say “played it off like it ain’t a big deal, but I was just frontin’ like Jay. I’m being Pha-real.” That pretty much sums up the song.

Your music has an old school vibe. Are you into today’s Hip Hop? Or do you prefer to listen to old classics?

I’m definitely a child of the 90’s so today’s Hiphop honestly doesn’t hit the same. There’s some modern songs that still catch my attention though.

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

Hiphop is art. It’s a culture. It’s also an effective means of spreading a message.

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

A lot of my current music tends to lean towards a chill vibe. So I imagine most listeners are in some kind of relaxed mood or even a romantic one considering the content.

You’d give up making music for…

I honestly can’t see me giving up music. It’s been a pat of my life for my entire life from growing up hearing my mother play piano and my uncle dj and rap, to being in a church choir and playing in bands through high school and college. Whether it would be my primary career or not, I think it will always be a large part of my life.

Thank you!

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Cydney McQuillan-Grace – Waves [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words:

Soulful
Hypnotic
Heartfelt

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

There’s light and dark to every relationship. Waves is about the darker side. Sometimes tumultuous relationships can seem like an addiction. You get the highest of the highs, and the lowest of the lows. I was trying to capture that “push, pull” feeling.

Do you like the idea of collaborating? Is songwriting a lonely process?

I love collaborating! Waves was actually co-written with my friend Carrie Busuttil who lives in London. Co-writing been a great way to keep connected during COVID. I actually helped run an international songwriting group that banded together artists from around the world during lockdown. Now I have this huge network of artists that I never would have met or been able to work with. I think a project only gets stronger when you have more than one head in the game.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

There have been so so many! My biggest influences growing up were Bonnie Raitt, The Police, Madonna, and Whitney Houston. I knew every word and every vocal embellishment. They have definitely shaped my style, but music would not have been possible without the support of my family. They have always been my biggest inspirations and my biggest cheerleaders. I think it’s much easier as an artist to take risks when you have that kind of support behind you.

What would you change in the music industry?

I would make it easier for new artists to break in. It’s so hard to get your music heard as an independent artist unless you have a label or lot of money backing you. If you need an example just turn on the radio- you’ll hear the same 15-20 artists on almost every station.

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

On a long drive, a walk, making dinner, or if they’re just feeling a bit sentimental.

When was the last time you danced?

This morning in the shower haha 🙂

Thank you!

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Lewca – Geezer Pop (EP) [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Punky Genre Bender

Tell us a few things about your new EP Geezer Pop

It’s a summer EP, I wanted to venture away from the punk vibe of the previous EP “Walking the Hedgehog” and try a alt pop sound with a bit of trap & 90’s dance music thrown in for good measure… it was a lot of fun 🙂

Which song of the album reflects you the most?

That’s a tough question, « My story » is the most personal, hopefully all the songs represent different facets of my persona, that was the idea anyway.

Which track is your favorite, absolute sumeer banger you wish you had composed yourself?

« She’s a rainbow » by the rolling stones, it’s my ultimate summer tune !

What would be your dream performance venue?

Gotta say Reading festival, there are tons of great venues but I do like playing outdoors and that festival has a mythical vibe to it.

What is the most useless talent you have?

I don’t tend to ever do anything useful really, Art is essential obviously but not very useful to be honest… um… I’m pretty good at ping pong?

Future plans?

World domination obviously. There’s a remix EP out soon & I’m currently working on two separate albums, one with my mate DJ sonofapitch who oversaw the production on the first 3 EP’s, the other with Ben Samama & a bunch of feats including The John Michie Collective, Oh Paolo, Shark Star, Chris James Willows, Orange G, Victory Flow, Ynes, Mick Swagger & Mondo Trasho… busy times. Both will be out in 2022 if everything goes according to plan.

Thank you!

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Nico Prince – D;E;M [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Soulful, Colorful, Eccentric

Tell us a few things about your new work.

Deus Ex Machiavelli (D;E;M) is an introspective reflection of my soul as discovered during my nomadic lifestyle traveling across the United States. Once I felt the inspiration pouring through me, I locked myself in an office and recorded 85% of the EP in the course of about 5 days. I drew a lot of inspiration for a myriad of different artists, like Anderson Paak, Drake, Steve Lacy, Childish Gambino, Daniel Caesar, and Cuco. My mission was to spread my brand of love through this project.

Which song of the EP is your favorite?

I love Hailstorm. It’s a bop. A cruising vibe for sure. I love them all though. There’s pieces of each track that I can point to and say “That’s one of my favorite parts of any song I’ve ever made.”

What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?

I love performing music live, purely because of the power of energy. There’s nothing like it. As much as I enjoy writing, the raw energy that comes from my heart is best shown through live performance. And there’s nothing like getting the crowd going. I love making people dance and smile.

Is Spotify the music industry’s new Gatekeepers?

Spotify is definitely a gatekeeper. To be honest, I don’t think the playlist gatekeepers on Spotify necessarily like me (yet). The people, the fans, they really do, but Spotify corporate not so much. I’m hoping one day the Spotify reps can put our differences aside and embrace me like I’ve embraced them.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

Some of the best advice I’ve ever been given is to be true to your soul and speak your truth, because your truth is the most unique slice of life you can offer.

When was the last time you danced?

I dance every night. I hit the club last night, Kuli Alma in Tel Aviv (one of the craziest clubs I’ve ever been to) and I couldn’t stop moving. They threw on the Work Remix by ASAP Ferg, and I found myself at the center of the dance floor, working it.

Thank you!

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Kilo Kami ft. Kashcpt & Tembipowers – Dreams (Remix) [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words.

I don’t think this describes my sound alone per se, but my goal as Kilo Kami is to be free, limitless and experimental.

How many beats do you listen to before you end up using one? Tell us a few things about your creative process.

I produce my own beats and tracks. I would normally reach out to a specific vocalist that I had in mind to feature on my song and to write with. Similar to artists such as Metro Boomin and Marshmello. They can collaborate with anyone across any genre and that’s what I’ve always wanted to do as a producer and songwriter.

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

There is a section that Kashcpt wrote that I really like in the hook of “Dreams.” The lyrics are: “Got me in a dream and tripping so far away, I been in a dream and it’s heading in a sorrow way.” This track is about escapism from reality and being stuck in an intoxicated dream state and I really love that part.

Who is your favorite beat maker and which rapper’s flow do you enjoy the most?

In terms of beat makers, I’ve been listening to a lot of artists such as Glaive, Midwxst and Eric Doa and there is a producer, Delta, that worked on many of their songs that I really like. I’m also a massive fan of the “Internet Money” producer crew.

In terms of rappers, that’s such a hard one to answer. I am inspired by so many rappers and singers across so many “genres”. I will always be a fan of the late JuiceWrld, and Drake of course. I watched an interview on Youtube the other day and someone said that Drake is like McDonalds. He serves everyone lol. That is true.

What would be your dream performance venue?

On a holiday to the states a couple of years ago, I went to watch a show at the The Novo in Los Angeles, next to the Staple Center. Speaking about the Staple Center, obviously that’s a big one to play at but I had such a great time at The Novo and that whole holiday had so many great memories, so I definitely want to do my own set at that venue some time.

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

I have received so many kind messages from people who have listened to my music in different state of minds. I really do love it when someone tells me that, when they feel down, they put on my music or it’s the first song they put on in their car, on their way to family and friends, my music makes their day. I just love those personal connections with music. That is all I ever wanted for my songs.

Should we expect an album in the near future?

Yes, definitely. I am working on an EP at the moment but the plan for the album is already laid out. I am very excited.

Thank you!

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J Nui – Old Faces [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

pushing sonic boundaries

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

This song was inspired by the first reason any artist does what they do.. to express themselves through creation. The song is about the divide between doing it for the art and doing it for the fame and money

For which lyric you are most proud of?

“I’ve been in the zone since, I quit keepin’ up with the Joneses’

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

Outkast, The Hives, Alan Parsons Project and my family

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

Hip-Hop is reinvention. Always in a state of flux. It is how it was conceived and it always will be.

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

Introspectively, in a window seat on the local bus or train.

What is the most useless talent you have?

I can do great impressions of my ex-girlfriend.

Thank you!

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