Category: Interviews

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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Dirty D – Chromatose [Interview]

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Read our discussion with Dubl A, the composer of the album who plays the Bass and many of the instruments on the tracks.

How would you describe the musical journey of the EP?

First of all, thank you for interviewing us, much appreciated. We’re utilizing a wide range of musical soundscapes and music theory techniques, particularly the chromatic scale, in order to describe a particular moment in time. To me, each song puts you in a day or night in the life of Junk.

How does “Chromatose” differ from your previous works?

It’s even more eclectic than usual, and I was a person who already used a lot of eclecticism. It’s rooted in jazz, but it’s funky as hell, and has a lot of influence from hip hop. Not to mention, we got to add in some really aggressive punk rock (possibly metal) and even a classical section. That’s probably my favorite part of the album.

Which song of the EP represents you the most?

Chromatose. It runs the gamut in terms of my influences and I got to play 5 different instruments on it. I had a blast playing those heavy guitar parts and then had a really emotional time layering the double basses at the end. The song also has an important, personal meaning to me.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

Lou Reed, The Clash, Jaco Pastorius, Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Erik Satie, The Beatles, The Cure, NOFX, Matt Freeman, Notorious BIG, Jay Z

What would you change in the music industry?

I would make Junk much more well known.

What do you hope people will feel when listening to “Chromatose”?

That’s really not for me to say. Music is an interactive artform, so whatever reaction people have, that’s their reaction.

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

Enough trouble that there’s no way I can answer that here.

Thank you!

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6ixth Element – Spiritual Form [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Boom-Bap Dad Shit

Can you discuss the inspiration behind the single “Spiritual Form”?

“Spiritual Form” is about freeing yourself from your materialistic ego and acknowledging that there is more to this life that we understand. The impact that we make on this planet and those around us is more important than the money we have made.

Tell us a few things about the mind-bending lyricism featured in the song. What is the main idea behind it?

My goal is to make people think. I don’t use complicated rhyme structure just to do it. “Spiritual Form” is a song that is meant to be introspective. I want the listener to have to look inside themselves and decide how to interpret my messege.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

Emcee: Masta Ace, Lyricist: Canibus or RJ Payne, Producer: DJ Premier or Apollo Brown

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

The expression of knowledge of self.

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

With your third-eye open.

What is one message you would give to your fans?

Quit your job and do what you love! ✌

Thank you!

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SV – Chill N’ Vibe [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

90s, Chill, RnB

Can you tell us a bit about the creation process of “Chill N’ Vibe”?

Made the beat and it was pretty open sonically. I added my own oooos in there that are layered way in the back. Alyssa Jane rocked a whole vocal track beautifly. I thought some sax would sound great with her. Once I added it all together it sounded a bit busy, so I dialed back the vocals and sax to create some more breathing room in the track. I wanted it to be chill, laid back. Like the end of the night, just let the drum machine go and musicians vibe out.

How did you come to collaborate with Alyssa Jane and Kevon Scott on this song?

I have worked with both of them in the past and always loved our collaborations. They are both so talented.

What role did each artist play in bringing “Chill N’ Vibe” to life?

Alyssa Jane rocks the vocals and takes you in and out journey with her soulful chops. Kevon Scott does the same with his sax, smoothes it all out and glues everything together. I made the beat & produced it.

What do you hope listeners take away from the song, both musically and emotionally?

I hope they get a bit of a timeless, oldschool vibe, that can calm them down, bring stress relief. Basically Chill N’ Vibe 🙂

One last thing we should know about you?

Jim’s Pool Room! That is the label. We have so many amazing hip hop acts, primarily from St. Louis, MO. Check us out jimspoolroom.com

Thank you!

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Proklaim – Priceless [Interview]

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Can you tell us about your inspiration for “Priceless”?

I’m always perusing through beats online and it was on one of these routine exercises that I stumbled across the beat and liked it. I got straight to writing what it inspired in me and recorded the song. The message was one of keeping moving forward through life’s seasons aware that there are reasons you go through stuff baring in mind that Providence and a Guiding hand are often at play.

What is the message you aim to convey through the song?

Have faith through life’s seasons. We’re all on unique journeys and often yours in designed specifically for you.

How does this release compare to your previous work in terms of style and message?

I do believe the message is.in line with alot of my other material leading up to where I am right now. It’s a message of hope and trusting that there are seasons and purpose to all things.

How has your background and upbringing influenced your music?

It has been fundamental to all things that I do creatively.

First being born to Ugandan parents in the UK and raised in Southern Africa and traveling shaped my sonic tastes.

My first language is English and I was not raised speaking my parents language hence I gravitated to music that was primarily English.

I went to an International school and got exposed to various cultures and people’s that further shapes my world view with hiphop being the global language of the last 3 generations and still going strong I became a fan of it and it shaped alot of what I do.

What do you hope listeners take away from this song?

Hope and faith in a purpose for their existence and in A Source to all things relating to why they are here.

Biggest fear?

Not exploring and exhausting all my potential.

Can you give us a sneak peek into what fans can expect from your future releases

I’m currently looking to work on collaborative efforts with artists that I respect and inspire me whether past or currently trending acts.

Thank you!

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Major Kami – Burns In The Barns [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

DE : Obsessive; conceptual alternative electropop; provocative

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

MK :Burns in the Barns is based on the suicide of David Bowie’s half brother Terry Burns.
Terry was a huge influence in his brother’s life but sadly, he suffered with schizophrenia and eventually ended his life on The Coulson South train tracks.
Anxiety, paranoia, frantic feelings…All of these thoughts and feelings went into this song…The frantic, moody music inspired these words along with the story of TB…
 
For which lyric you are most proud of?

MK :”Shadows inside my head. Voices speaking Kerouac. Inside this addled brain, voices conspire. Coulsdon tracks are calling me, snowy silent enemy.”

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

DE : Major Kami has many imaginations, his influences are numerous ! 🙂
For my part I would say Kae Tempest; David Bowie in “1 Outside”.

How do you balance the expression of powerful emotions while maintaining accessibility and accessibility and ease of listening in your music?

MK : Major Kami is a collaboration.Every single track is created by and/or influenced by three people.I think with this process a natural balance occurs as each artist contributes.

DE : three people : Major Kami (performer, co-writer and author of Burns in the Barns) Denis Expert (DAMde8’s independent producer, co-writer and co-composer), Dan Burkhart (co-composer, arranger and sound engineer) .
In short, this chemistry happened for us, for Burns In Th Barns but also for all our songs!

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

MK : This track is all about unease.It’s a sad song…I imagine someone listening to it, may be able to relate to some of the feelings and fears.Sometimes listening to a sad song when you are feeling sad, just lets you get the emotion out…I would hope someone walks away feeling better after listening.
 
One last thing we should know about you?

DE: I met Major Kami (real name Camille Miller), 11,000 kilometres away from where I live (I’m in Bordeaux, she’s in Singapore) through social networks. In the middle of COVID 19, I came to her and asked her to collaborate with me and the collective DAMde8 (France), to create songs and an album.
Because she believed in this fabulous story, she dared to say yes and this album took shape; 11 songs were born from this trust. I wish all artists to live these extraordinary moments and to consider that it is possible that art, music, brings you this happiness to go further than you think.

Thank you!

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Liv-id – Big Tech [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Vibrant, Energetic, Thrilling

What inspired you to create music with a positive message?

I’ve always been a person that’s grounded in reality and my music is a reflection of that. I don’t aim to always be overtly positive but logically my lyrics are always going to portray what makes sense to me good or bad.

How does your hometown of Ocean City, MD influence your music?

Ocean City has influenced my music by shaping my life through my experiences. These experiences has molded my view of life which is what is portrayed through my music. Sonically there are certain vibes that mesh with where I come from, being raised by the water it’s a place with vibes in the air.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

I wouldn’t say I have a favorite, I am a student however and I see how people go about things in their own ways which I appreciate.

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

To me Hip-hop symbolizes the story beneath the polished surface.

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

In all states of mind, I make a variety of different styles of music and most of my songs are waves that can be enjoyed in many settings, whether you’re looking for a boost, riding around with your friends or just vibing on your own.

What do you have planned for the future, both in terms of your music and your Tech Hoodie product?

I have more singles lined up for release, so I’ll continue to push Big Tech and my other songs I already have out. A lot of great content shot and ready to be released on my social media platforms and Music Videos as well. The Big Tech Music Video is on the Way as well as others. I also dropped an innovative product in the Technology Space called the TechHoodie allowing people to connect with others easier than ever before. Head to http://www.theoutercontrol.com/store to purchase one now, they’re limited and sold out during the pre-sale so I expect it to sell out again as well.
I have other tech products in the works as well so follow me on Instagram Facebook &TikTok @lividonce. Twitter @jusLivid, and subscribe to my Youtube @liv-id to stay informed on everything I have going on. Stay Blessed.

Thank you!

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