Category: Interviews

Desarae Dee – Your Energy [Interview]

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

People often equate the word ‘energy’ to experiences they’ve had with building a solid connection with another person and the feelings that come when the energy between them is positive. That’s what I’ve tried to accomplish in my song “Your Energy” – a song that inspires us to create and manifest connections that bring a positive energy that is enriching to our lives, allows us to feel safe and be our true selves, and gives way to have moments of transparency and vulnerability.

How would you describe your musical progress over the years?

My progress has definitely grown over the last 7 years that I’ve been an artist. My sound has changed along the way from being more Jazz/Gospel based to now being a fusion artist that combines multiple genres together to create something new. I’ve also grown as a producer and took it more seriously over the last 3 years. Overall, I’m always in evolution mode: always evolving and growing as the years go by.

What first got you into music?

My parents were actually the ones who pushed me to do music because they recognized that I had a musical gift and they wanted to bring it out. I didn’t start to enjoy it until I got to high school and saw that it was something that I could be great at and pursue further.

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

I really enjoy playing my music live and connecting with my audience in person. It has been one of the hardest things during this pandemic to not be able to perform live in front of crowds, but I’m glad that things are getting back to some sort of normal. I love the process of preparing for a live show and playing with my band.

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

The biggest challenge I’ve faced was getting my music played on radio stations in Canada, as well as playing at certain events. Being a fusion artist, sometimes it’s hard to get performance opportunities because my music is not only instrumental, but it’s so unique, different and not the norm.

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

I pour out all my emotions and I put a lot of passion into my music, so I want people to have an open mind to understand and to connect with the feelings and the message that my music portrays. I want people to be inspired to dig deep into themselves when they listen.

What would you say is your biggest vice?

My biggest vice would have to be my pickiness when it comes to my music. I’m very particular about what I want and if it’s not done in the way I need it to be, it bothers me.

Thank you!

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Giorgos Tabakis – HEre NOw TheN [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Contemporary, solid, maximal

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

Very interesting question! I believe yes! As a listener, i always search for music that surprises me, music that challenges me in any way and puts me in a position of artistic redefinition, aesthetic expansion, in contact with new ideas, thoughts, feelings. These are the interesting and magic elements that music as a form of art is giving to the listener. In my view, there is no point otherwise.

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

I like it a lot and fortunately i have collaborated with many wonderful musicians. Some of my previous cd releases were for trios, quartet etc and my 2020 album ‘Dual Nature’ was for duo with the German clarinetist Rebecca Trescher.

Although it’s entirely different to compose for a solo instrument or for an ensemble, the process is still the same in most cases. It’s a lonely and wonderful process of experimentation, testing, connecting even more with the instrument, while trying to transfer deeper Ideas into music. It is something very interesting, essential to my general balance and i enjoy it very much.

Do you have an artist that you would describe as a hidden gem that we should know about?

I don’t have any particular in mind right now but Greece is full with “hidden jem” artists.

What would you change in the music industry?

I m not the person who wishes things were different and tries to change them. I feel more like i m trying my best in the current circumstances and in the world as it is, including music business and industry. Of course i would prefer many things to be different but after all these years i don’t think about it so much.

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

Many people have said to me that they are listening to hEre nOw theN cd, in their cars, in the office, while relaxing at night with a glass of wine etc. I m very happy to see that my music gives something to people in whatever state of mind they are and that they can listen to it as part of their daily life.

What is the most useless talent you have?

What an unexpected question!
My wife says that my most useless talent is drawing sketches on the sand during our summer vacations.

Thank you!

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Sonia Aimy – Reconnect [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Fusion, Unique, Soothing

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

Is to make people aware there is strength, knowledge, health, wealth, happiness, and a true miracle when we create the necessary time to connect oneself, through our mind, body and soul. This deep connection allows us to see beyond our sights, to here even the smallest insect crawling on the ground and to feel every vibration around us.

Which song of the album reflects you the most?

Every single song in the album reflects me as they are all conceived by me, each track bears my legacy. However, “Life Nah Jeje” reflects actualized ME. it depicts my realization of life in a more holistic manner thanks to the healthy free time of reconnect with myself. Life is not about the quantity but the quality of what we understand and live of it, it is not about what we behold but the mystery it reserves.
Understanding of some of these aspects allows us to craft our life bearing in mind the answer to everything is beyond human comprehension. We know of our born, but we do not know of dawn. It is the enigma that is LIFE!

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

It is hard to say or choose. I enjoy doing both equally. The writing moment is what I call a haunted moment, it can invade me anytime, any day and any where. That moment is indescribable, it’s moment which there is you, the song and everything the song speaks about. I see, I live I feel every character and scenario that makes the song. That moment on is own is magical. That feeling of relief when I am done, like, I have just given voice to someone or people that has been speaking within me is a healing.
Performance is holy or ritual moment where every character in my lyrics manifests in it entire form, is it that moment of between the physical and soulfulness or spiritual-ness or better still TRANCE mode for those who can understand what it is.
A moment that once again I am not in control and that when I am done, I feel like a child who just came into the world. It is a very beautiful feeling no amount of money or compromise can take away from me.
I feel this because I understand this is my purpose in life. I am a channel from which messages and healings, or soothing are convened to others. Therefore, writing and performance weigh equally for me.

Your music has lovely grooves. Tell us a song with a groove you wish you had composed yourself.

Thanks for that! It’s nice to hear my songs have lovely grooves.
Every song has its soul, context, and purpose for me. I do not really plan to write for the sake of groove but from within my heart and leave the judgment to God who gave me the gift and the people to determine.
Because every composer, creator has their unique stories, live experiences and context I cannot wish to have been in their position, I can only enjoy their grooves and appreciate God for their talents and efforts. I spend time to learn more about similar artists such as Fela Kuti, Victor Uwaifo, King Sunny Ade and others who inspires me.
I have learned from them that not only it is good to create groove or lend voices to raise awareness but caring for those around us also matters a lot which is why I have an amazing musician from Nigeria I have maintained and invested in over the years, and we are one family. That beauty of togetherness I believe strongly contributes to make some beautiful grooves while juggle between physical and soul in my creation processes!

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

I love to share some good time with family members and friends, I like to go for long walks in the nature or waterfront, I love to shop gift for close relatives and friends, and I love to cook my favorite specialties for people. I also just like to live by myself in silence sometimes.

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

I would be a nurse or a social worker. Being able to help someone in need just makes me so happy, it is a healing for me. I still do it with my music based on testimonials I receive but yes, I would be either of the two above so happily.

Thank you!

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Jordan Bakewell – Get Funky [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Smooth Melodic Vibes

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

I started writing this song in the very first covid lockdown period. It was a time of uncertainty and fear for everyone so I wanted to write something up Beat and happy for people to escape and enjoy and smile for a moment. I feel at that time any sort of pick me up was needed so a song like this should of hopefully lifted your spirits a little.

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

I would absolutely love to collaborate with more artists and producers. It’s always so good to connect with more artists and learn from them also. If anyone is reading this and would potentially like to work with me then hit me up 🤙🏻

I really enjoy songwriting and it naturally comes quite easy for me when I hear a beat I like. If I can hear a catchy chorus then the rest of the song just follows. Some songs take longer than others to write but generally it all comes really natural to me. I definitely say I take more time now when I am writing and go back and forth with the song to see if I can add more depth and Elevation to the composition.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

My main influences definitely include Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, Chris brown, Ne – yo, Mario etc. Naturally I have always been drawn towards the soft R&B side to music and feel that definitely fits my voice well. Singing along to MJ and the Jackson 5 when I was younger has definitely helped my voice and range growing up. MJ has been the most biggest and prominent influence in my career.

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

The biggest challenge I have faced as an artist so far would be the fact that I am an independent artist. Being an independent artist can be difficult at times as your solely relying on yourself to promote and pay for your tracks and promotion etc. Money can be a issue sometimes as you always want the best product, but obviously that can sometimes come at a cost as I don’t mix and master my own song’s. But if I keep pushing and believing I am sure everything will fall into place and the right people will hear my music.

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

I think I have a variation of music in my repertoire from R&B, Dance, Funk & Soul etc. So I think I can appeal to a wide range of audience to be honest. Generally though most of music is quite up beat and happy. Definitely party vibes.

When was the last time you danced?

Currently I am touring with a boyband show called “Boyz Beyond” so I am always dancing and singing every weekend when we gig around the UK.

Thank you!

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Luca Gasperoni – Album 02 — Superfly [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Raw meat and champagne

Tell us a few things about your new work. What is the story behind it? Which track of the album represents you the most?

This Album is born because i believe introvert can make big things too, in a world dominated by images and icons, it feels like theres no place for those who just cant manage the spotlight, i believe that is not right.
The album mixes a variety of genres, united by a common street taste. As a person i experiment different feelings and i don’t want to limit the album to a genre with would mainly reflect just part of those, a person is a complicated mix of feelings, and the balance of those feelings define the person, so should an album.

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

Songwriting is kinda lonely, but at the same time collaborative, lately, collaborations became a lot easier thanks to fast internet and strong social networks on the net, this is creating huge opportunities for artists to collaborate with anyone in the world, without gettin out of the studio.
Finally, even small artists are able to link up and work on massive album projects, on a small budget. 
Watchout music superstars, we gonna kick your asses.

Do you have an artist that you would describe as a hidden gem that we should know about?

Uh yes, I have many of them, ADESSSO, Hollyspleef, Bluid, Ev. to name a few…

What would you change in the music industry?

Music industry is just like everything else in the world, those who are on top, are unable to take risks, and that somehow slows down culture, but hey, you can’t really stop underground culture from growing.

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

This album is quite a large spectrum of moods, as I am experimenting mixed feeling the most of the time…So I would say, its a shapeshifting album depending on the mood you approach the album with, but no real correct or incorrect state of mind needed.

You’d give up making music for…

Have 10 kids, grow em like an herd of wolves, beach wolves, and skate with them.

Thank you!

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Vince Chinaski – Never Painted Black [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Organic, poignant, cinematic

Tell us a few things about your new work “Never Painted Black”. What is the main idea behind it?

Ultimately the song is about finding truth and beauty in accepting the simplicity of existence and rolling with the flow of things just like children do.
It started as an improvised lullaby for my sleepless boy who struggled terribly into the night and yet joyfully relished every single moment of the day; all the little discoveries, every new feeling. Life being awe-inspiring just like that; no need for all the constructs that come later on when we harden.
During those endless baby-walking nights, having no soothing aid to spare but my voice, I couldn’t use my hands to jot down lyrics so I would croon the melody over and over in the dark. Night after night, ideas came and went, and the song evolved spontaneously.

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

I reckon all my lyrics are. I mainly write about existential themes filtered through my personal experience, feelings and political views. I always strive for authenticity. No gimmicks here.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

I’d say all of them but definitely classics like David Crosby, Stephen Stills, The Band, Joe Strummer, R.L. Burnside, Fleetwood Mac, The Beatles

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

well, the struggle is real for a lot of us and there’s a lot of dirt in the world but somehow I always manage to turn it around in my head and have a laugh about it.

Which book should we read while listening to your music?

that’s a hard one… maybe “The Unbearable Lightness of Being” by Milan Kundera on weekends and “The Monkey Wrench Gang” by Edward Abbey on weekdays

You’d give up making music for…

here we’re getting into life and death territory…

Thank you!

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Avaraj – Everything I’ve Known [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Vibey, chill, thoughtful

What is your creative process like?

I started creating music because I had a difficult time understanding how I felt about situations, and writing lyrics gave me a way to dig deeper and understand my emotions, so that’s where I start usually. I write lyrics first. Sometimes I’ll listen to some moody instrumentals to get the creative juices flowing, then write something that fits the mood and reflects how I feel. After that I create music for it. I usually want the music and the lyrics to speak to what emotions the listener should feel when listening to the song. I have a tendency to listen to songs on repeat that reflect the mood I’m in, so that’s what I want to offer the listener, something they can really vibe out to and get lost in.

For which lyric you are most proud of?

Wow. That’s a tough one. Most of my lyrics speak to me very strongly at some point, but of the songs I’ve released I think the song World so Cold best reflects my tendencies. The devil on my shoulder is always whispering “life is unfair” and “people are selfish”. That song embodies those thoughts. It’s a feeling everyone has in their darkest days—feeling alone and empty, like no one cares. It’s relatable to anyone and everyone, and that’s why those are the lyrics I’m most proud of.

“World so cold heart so warm/beautiful rose covered in thorns/hurt before defense is up/everyone’s indifferent”

Favourite album of the past decade?

The music I listen to is constantly changing depending on what’s going on in my life, but right now I’ve been really enjoying Kevin Garrett’s Hoax. It’s rare for me to find an album where I don’t skip at least one song, and I never skip anything on this album.

What would be your dream performance venue?

I don’t really have a dream performance venue. I haven’t had a show yet, and I don’t know if I ever will. I get the most enjoyment out of writing lyrics and creating music, so I don’t know if the performance aspect of being an artist is something I’m interested in.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

As cliché as it sounds, chase your dreams. It’s something you hear all the time, but few people do it. I was so worried about what people would think about my music or if their opinion of me would change, and it held me back. I think the most beneficial lesson I’ve had in life is stop basing what you do on the opinion of others. It’s important to care about and understand what others think from an empathetic and self-aware aspect, but don’t let those opinions decide what you do with your time. It’s your life.

What would you say is your biggest vice?

I try not to have vices since they’re a negative behavior, but I do have a tendency to procrastinate, so I guess sloth would be most accurate.

Thank you!

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Luch Stefano – Night Ride [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

British, Pop, Stories

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

Night Ride was written just after I passed my driving test, it was a great feeling to finally have that freedom. I had a lot of happy memories driving around with somebody and this song came out when I was playing around on the guitar. I think I had been listening to a lot of FINNEAS and some of those melodies were floating around. I wanted this track to be one I could drive to and just feel good.

For which lyric you are most proud of?

Probably, ‘I ain’t no genie, but I could sweep you off your feet if you just fly with me’ Aladin vibes.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

FINNEAS, Ed Sheeran, Raleigh Ritchie, Eminem, Stormzy are all very random but true inspirations.

What would you change in the music industry?

Apologies, I’m not sure I understand the question. I wouldn’t change anything about the music industry!

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

The best advice I’ve been given is to put my ego aside, a lot of musicians get trapped in trying to be better than others or thinking they’re above things (which as a younger teen I admittedly did) but I’ve learned a lot in working hard and staying humble.

What is the most useless talent you have?

I went viral on TikTok for impersonating a character called Jim from the UK television series ‘Friday Night Dinner’ I hit around 6 million views and that’s probably… my most useless talent haha.

Thank you!

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Medy Lema – Fresh’n’nu [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words.

Funky, Groovy, Energetic

Tell us a few things about your new song “Fresh’n’nu”. What is the main idea behind it?

Fresh’n’nu is basically about finding that one person that makes you feel special. Could be a lover, family, friend, it doesn’t matter. We all have that one person in life that makes us hopeful in life and makes us want to do better.

What first for you into music?

Music is in my bones. I’ve been performing and entertaining crowds since age 3 so music is all I’ve known. I love how it makes me feel.

Favourite album of the year?

I’d have to give the flowers to Silk Sonic for best album of the year although I could cheat and give the award to Lil Nas X too.

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

My biggest challenge is honestly the same challenge every year and that’s financial strain with paying budgets out of my own pockets with everything included from videos to photo shoots to studio sessions

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

My music is very diverse but if I’d use one word only it’d be Feel Good

When is the last time you danced?

The last time I danced was last night in my kitchen. Hahaha. I dance every day. Even if it’s just a small move.

Thank you!

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Janelle Sy’mone – AllNight [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words.

Pop. Soul. Loud

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

“AllNight” was written about a crush I had back when I first started doing music. He was a musician and we did a few shows together. Of course , with business being the way that it is, we had to keep everything hush, hush. As it said in second verse, “ Keep our little secret baby….”

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

My most personal and honest lyric actually comes from a song I wrote called “Prove It To Me”. In it I write, “who’s gonna dry these tears of mine, when I’m crying alone in my room. So I’ll guess I try and sacrifice and do something I’m not that use to.” Essentially, the song was about letting go of control and allowing yourself to fall in love.

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

Performing live is the best thing in the world to me! Better than anything I can think of—when I’m on that stage, something takes over and I’m invincible— The paradox is the stage becomes the most scariest and the most safest place on earth. There’s nothing like it.

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

My biggest challenge as an indie artist is ultimately—the investment . It takes real work and real money to build your brand and to market yourself correctly. But I look at it like this…. I read once that sometimes the Universe will not move without the proof of your unyielding faith in your destiny. And what’s more unyielding than throwing every extra dollar into a dream that may or may not give you an adequate return?

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I’d tell my younger self that the results are derived from the belief. If you believe in your inadequacy, then the results still validate that belief. My younger self was way more doubtful and critical than I am now, and I would’ve love to help break her free of that negative belief system a long time ago.

When was the last time you danced?

Yesterday. I’m a daily dancer, so it’s an everyday thing for me. Moving my body just reminds me that I’m still here…I’m still alive and blessed.

Thank you!

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