Category: Interviews

Jasper Williamson x Cenk Esen – Medley [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

(J) Our sound in 3 words would be esoteric, playful, and emotive
(C) Experimental – Projectional – Improvisational

Medley feels as an actual medley of numerous songs indeed. What is the story behind it? What is your creative process like?

(J) Medley came to fruition when we had stitched several ideas together from a session we did together in London, at Jomy’s place. We just played together for a few hours with no predetermined direction… just improvising, and we recorded it all. A few weeks later, I started sorting through the session and began picking out the bits that I thought made the best loops, like you would find in a hip-hop sample for instance, and I found about 10. We wanted to share these somehow so we picked the ones that we liked the best and smashed them together, adding a few things on top as well, like the piano solo. So really, Medley is 4 different pieces that we originally had named: Smoke, Jump, Moment 2, and Delicate… in that order.

What first got you into music?

(C) My parents are both serious musicians so that is definitely the main factor… Even when I was a baby and very young, there was always music playing in our house. I would be taken to my father’s concerts and I believe growing up surrounded with all these sounds subconsciously prepared me to get into music.

(J) What first got me into music was listening to cd’s on my walkman as a kid. And playing drums in the elementary school band, where my teacher gifted me a drum kit and I played it with pencils until I got a pair of sticks.

Favourite album of the past year?

(J) Tough question. Two I really love are “Where I’m Meant To Be” by Ezra Collective and “Damage” by Kim Doeon.

(C) There have not been many albums that I was extremely drawn to this year, but I really enjoyed some of the tracks in Domi & JD Beck’s album “Not Tight” (especially the mixing). Have also been checking the band and album Azimuth recently, even though it is a few decades old…

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

(J) To me, hip hop symbolizes self expression and celebration of life. It is also home to a massive range of emotions and perspectives, and it’s an outlet where people can express both of these things.

(C) I feel like hip hop symbolizes the ability the be laid back rhythmically – in a literal and metaphorical sense. The music’s also really open to unique,personal statements that strive for self expression both with lyrics and instruments.

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

(C) I think our music has the vibe to be listened to in any emotional state – whether being upset, excited, joyful, disappointed, melancholic etc… Philosophically speaking, I think the tracks go great with a mind state of contemplation, curiosity about where sounds & art can go as well as being okay with surprises and unexpected turns that the music may take!

(J) I think that people would connect most with our music when they are in a state of mind that is open, self-reflective, and curious.

What is the most useless talent you have?

(C) I am one of the best FIFA (video game) players you can find!! Can also say the same thing about Poker, been very good with the card games since a young age.

(J) I like this question because it makes you realize how many things you can do are actually useful. I am very very good at Mario Kart.. and that’s not super useful.

Thank you!

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J-Luv Da Prince – Come 2 Terms [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Happiness. Passion. Hurt.

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

The entire project, “Come 2 Terms,” is aimed at removing whatever anguish I have built up over the past few years. I speak about a time when a close friend chooses betrayal over loyalty on “Right Here.” “Ahead” is about a man who begs another woman for her hand, but at the same time, he knows that he can’t give her what she wants because he hasn’t closed the door on past pain himself. “Come 2 Terms” depicts a man who gives his all to his city, only for the city to denounce the talent he brings. However, he still cannot let the passion he has for this certain place go. All types of emotion flow through these three components.

How do you deal with a friend’s betrayal?

I believe that acknowledging the betrayal is a good start. Your emotions can only take you so far, you need a clear mind. Take a moment to be yourself. Do not let anger or disappointment control you. The good and bad of the entire ordeal should be highlighted. Who was to blame? Did you play a part in the betrayal? I don’t believe that people stop and think enough when they feel they’ve been wronged. They often blame the other person. I still belong to that group. Ultimately, it is about trying to change.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

To say that I have a favorite is to say that I model my music after someone, especially when that is not the case. It’s more like a time period. The 90s will always be a part of my music. You listen to my music, you hear it. For producers that channel that time, I have two. They are Obrian and Smidi Beats. They are worth checking out. You will not be disappointed.

What does hip hop symbolise in your opinion?

A lifestyle. It gives artists a chance to be creative and let loose. I use it to cope with everyday life. I would like to say that it is an expression of free speech, but it is becoming much different these days. You can’t even express your opinion anymore without someone taking offense to it. But I suppose it has always been that way. These days, I see it more often. No matter the future of it, it will always be an inspiration to me.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Please stop giving a damn about what people think of you. I could have overcome so many obstacles if I had stuck to that motto. Make sure that you are doing what is best for you and the people you care about. Watch those who are close to you. You should pursue what you are passionate about. It won’t come to you. People will be negative. That seems to be all they know. Use your hands more. Skilled hands can make a difference. The list can go on for a long time. There are numerous things I wish I had done differently 20 years ago. But then I think that the person I was, made me into the person I am. So, I’m where I’m supposed to be. No doubt.

What is one message you would give to your fans?

Be your own person. Although you probably hear that often, I’m speaking differently. Regardless of what society expects you to do, you should do the opposite. Don’t be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. Don’t waste your energy on the wrong people. You find those who deserve it, and you cherish them.

Thank you!

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Eagle Owl – INFINITY [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Unique, Expanding, Experimenting

Tell us a few things about your fresh EP INFINITY. What is the story behind it?

INFINITY is about the Infinite possibilities in our lives. The EP is an experimental Dark Hip-Hop/Dark Pop/Rnb piece with new experiences with some catchy hooks mixed into it. For instance, ‘LET GO’ is about letting go of someone special in your life. Each song has a different meaning that might represent best for someone if their dealing with hard times right now.

Which song of the EP represents you the most?

Ever since I finished the EP I’ve been really repeating listening to ‘Gray’. Gray is about how life can be sometimes gray in our lives for everyone. I’ve been seen as an outcast my whole life so ‘Gray’ helps tells that story and shows people I’m gonna be here for awhile and in this industry.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

Funny enough my music is Christian based as I talk a lot about god, and my story but then My favourite rappers and musicans arnt Christian. My favourite rappers have to be G-Eazy, Future, 6LACK, 12AM, Josh A at the moment. But if we’re going for favourite lyricists/artists I would have to say Ben Burnley (Breaking Benjamin), Noah Sebastian (Bad Omens), Billie Eilish, Trevor McNevan (Thousand Foot Krutch), and Chad Kroeger (Nickelback) to name a few to represents what my music taste comes from.

Your sound incorporates many dark elements. Does this reflect you as a personality as well?

No honesty. I’m very much a quiet, shy person when you first meet me but I tend to open up after we talk alittle bit about how we got to where we are at that moment. I love meeting new people and going out to shows, new places, etc. I don’t usually tend to talk about my problems to people cause no one actually asks me like how are you doing. It’s usually the other way around people tell me their dark elements, what’s going on in their lives and I try my best to help in some way. I don’t have many friends in my life that I can go out and have a drink, just talk. It’s hard having someone you can go to for that now adays as who can you really trust.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

That’s a good question. If I had to tell my younger self something. It would be you are going to deal with some hard battles along the way, shift with friends, family and everything. But know that you will find something you enjoy and stick to it and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it.

Future plans?

INFINITY will be out January Probably have a few singles this year including maybe B-Sides from the EP at some point. My main goal for 2023 is to perform as much as possible, get my fan base grown more. Maybe possibly do a few shows in America if the timing is right. We’ll see what 2023 has to offer.

Thank you!

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Jen Ash – No Lover Lover [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Old School : I’m trying to bring the 90’s R&B back , I miss this time .
Soulful : I’ve been gifted with this soulful voice and I am so grateful for it
Real : My music comes from true experiences and true stories and I want to make sure people feel it . I want to tell them that they are not alone and I’m here to share with them the good and the bad life put us through .

Tell us a few things about No Lover Lover. What is the main idea behind it?

No Lover Lover , is about recovering after a toxic relationship , and realizing that being on our own can be a good thing. It give us room to explore ourselves without being distracted by an other person . Toxic relationships are experienced by so many of us , It take us on a Rocky road that is not meant for us and we forget who we are because of Love . But when we get out of it , It feels like a weight have been lifted and we are finally free to be ourselves and follow our purpose.

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

So many of my songs are very personal , it comes from my own experience , starting with “All Alone” “I’m Dreaming of You” , “Ride Or Die” , “I Stand Without You” , “Hollywood” , “No lover lover” … I try to be as transparent as possible because I want people to relate to it . And each line of each song is a feeling or a moment I have experienced .
I would say the most personal song would be I stand without you . It was hard to write , I realized in the writing process that I was emotionally miserable , and I was ashamed of it .Putting it into a song made me so vulnerable it was difficult .
The beginning of the song start with : “You left me , here empty , crying down on my knees … ” I still remember this heartbreaking moment .

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

I’m really inspired by Jennifer Lopez , she has turned herself into a Brand ,. She is in charge of her career. multitasking music , acting , producing , creating her products … She is an icon and every woman , artistically should look at her path and learn form it . She created an empire and I would love for my career to get to that point as well .
In term of music , Amy Winehouse and Christian Aguilera are my top 2 . I enjoy their Unique and Powerful voices . There is so much soul in their sounds .

You are a former pro basketball player. Do basketball and the music industry have anything in common?

They have . I wouldn’t be the same artist if I didn’t play basketball . Sport teach you self-discipline , hard-work and perseverance . You learn how to work with others and make a group of people go in the same direction . It helped me take criticism as an opportunity to learn and become better . The music industry is not easy and an artist needs all the qualities I’ve learned while I played basketball . It made me mentally strong and I am forever grateful for that .

Favorite film ever?

Ok I am a Big Disney Fan their animated movies are absolutely stunning and I really enjoy the Music. I would Love to work with them and sing for one of their production in the future. it’s so hard to pick only one !!!
My favorites are Hercules , Pocahontas, Mulan and Aladdin. Just saw Aladdin’s Broadway Show in NYC . The Cast was fabulous . The costume were absolutely wonderful. It was a magical time for me . Loved it from beginning to end .

What is the most useless talent you have?

I would say the ability to touch my nose with my tong but I can’t even do that . Talent is definitely not useless , in my opinion Every talent is worth exploring.

Thank you!

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Diamond Blacc – DEMONS [Interview]

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Tell us a few things about DEMONS. What is the story behind it?

“DEMONS” is the song of my life. It is the summation of the adversity I had to overcome to live. I had to fight and overcome a lot of “DEMONS” to get where I am. I thank God I’m not where I used to be.

How do you get your inner demons out?

God! I was never able to conquer anything without my faith. I believe we all have had moments of adversity where we had to rely on hope or something greater than ourselves to make it through!

What first got you into music?

Honestly, it was during a period of my life when I was fighting my “DEMONS” that I found music ironically! Music pulled me out of dark and hopeless places and brought such light into my life. I’m so grateful!

Do you think there is a true underground hip hop sound today?

Absolutely! Sound is so vast and universal and reaches pretty much every point of the universe. I believe the same could be said for underground hip hop sound today.

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

The biggest challenge I have faced as an artist so far is trust. In this industry and life in general, adversity is at every corner. Not everyone has good intentions. I’ve learned to TRUST when people show you who they are. Most importantly, I’ve learned to trust MYSELF.

Favorite music related film?

I recently watched “The Wiz” and its sheer magic!

What would you say is your biggest vice?

Vaping……vaping…….vaping :/

Thank you!

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Into the Outside Box – Turn It Around [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Found it tomorrow

Too new to be old and too old to be new. Tell us a few things about your creative process and the main idea behind Turn It Around.

My creative process is a mysterious thing, with the only reliable comparison feeling something like a portal opening up above my head and funneling in a bunch of energy and ideas that somehow come together on the page, sometimes instantaneously. Turn It Around culminates the transformation and glimpses of self-awareness that got me to where I am today. Change is a difficult thing to accept, even if it involves becoming the very person you’ve always wanted to be. This song became a testament to that in its own playful, haunt you from your core kind of way.

What is the “key” to unlock unseen doors?

I think the key to unlocking unseen doors starts with being honest with yourself, no matter how uncomfortable that may feel at the time. When you can look at that without running away, you prove to yourself that you’re capable of handling more, and that’s when the doors start opening in surprising and creative ways.

Favourite album of the past year?

I honestly can’t name a favorite album of the past year…that’s part of the reason why I’ve been writing a lot of music lately. Rather than complaining about not being inspired, I like to create my own inspiration and see where it takes me.

What would you change in the music industry?

I think it’s easier to answer what I wouldn’t change about the music industry, and that would be the blending of different styles that we’re seeing across the board. Latin fusion is a perfect example of that, and I’m excited to see how the industry responds to this.

Which book should we read while listening to your music?

I’m usually doing one or the other, reading or listening to music, but if you like doing both at the same time, I’d go with Women Who Run With the Wolves.

What is the one habit/thing you cannot live without?

A part of me wants to say weed, but I know that doesn’t sound too responsible, so I’ll say meditation instead, which is honestly the best high, and I know it.

Thank you!

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Young God Blow – VERMILION! [Interview]

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Tell us a few thinsg about VERMILION!. What is the story behind it?

VERMILION! Doesn’t necessarily follow a linear story but what it lacks in absolute story telling it makes up for in sonic experience. With VERMILION! I tried my hardest to make sure every song conveyed a feeling that was unique so that every listener felt a euphoric experience while listening.

Where did you draw inspiration from?

The album itself was inspired by early 2000’s punk grunge and gangsta rap, both of these styles embodied how Y2K felt and I wanted listeners to feel that while playing the album.

What first got you into music?

Music has always been a huge factor in my life, my grandfather played in a band back in Puerto Rico and my father always loved freestyling. Add that plus my curious nature and it was bond for me to start creating. Always Tyler, The Creator was a huge factor & inspiration behind me going for it, his “I don’t care” demeanor really inspired me to let loose & go for it.

Do you think there is a true underground hip hop sound today?

I think the beautiful thing about underground music in this day and age is that there is no one true sound, yes there are a lot of people trying to mimic others but ultimately that general sound is so unique. Me personally I take pride in being unique so I feel right at home.

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

Being independent is extremely rough, I spend hours on end perfecting my craft and trying different ways to get myself heard. It’s a tough battle that takes a lot out of me but my passion never days and I keep going.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Just let go. I was really reserved growing up and doubted myself a lot but now looking back I realized the only thing holding me back from pursing what I love was my fear of what other people thought of me. That never mattered and it still doesn’t so I’d definitely encourage him to start early and shoot for the stars.

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

I’ve always been a good kid haha but I guess back in school I was a talkative person and that might’ve got me sent to the dean like 1 or 2 times, nothing crazy though. I’m an angel 🙂

Thank you!

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P.E.Petrov – Ch 4 The Roadwork [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Reflective, Emotional, Pop

There is a story behind your EP Ch 4 The Roadwork. Can you please share it with us?

The overall storyline of this EP is about the character Sadboi, who is on the cover art, and his experiences within his relationships. Dbl Yllw Lines starts off with the theme that Sadboi keeps people at bay in relationships for his own safety. Bridges continues the story with what the people he is keeping distant are saying back to him to get closer. Roadkill finalizes the EP with Sadboi answering back that they are not helping but making his life worse. All of these songs are based on real experiences and conversations in my life

Which track of the EP represents you the most?

Roadkill because at first it was supposed to be lyrically about something different, but then I had a close relationship in my life where someone claimed they were helping me even though they were clearly squashing my goals and dreams. It was the first time I wrote a song while experiencing in the moment what the song was about

Favourite album of the past year?

Rina Sawayama’s Hold The Girl. I find her truly inspirational as a pop-star that popped off later in life. Also a lot of the songs on her album deal with what she learned in therapy, which i was going through when writing this EP.

What are the signs you’re dealing with a toxic person?

When they squash your dreams or goals, when they complain so much, or they only speak in passive aggressive versus just saying whats wrong

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

When i was writing these songs, I remember I told one of the producers that I want it to sound like a rainy day, like everything in the world is telling you to stop and reflect and to not go anywhere. I want the listener to just listen and even cry as you let out what has been troubling you

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

I’ve been pretty good most of my life. However, there was just one time in high school that my friends told me it was free pancake day at IHOP before 1st period. My friends were gonna skip first period to go get free pancakes and I decided to go with them. Its funny because as we left the parking lot, the principal saw us and said bring some pancakes for me. We came back to make 2nd/3rd period, but he had started calling parents already so my parents were not happy.

Thank you!

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Mick J. Clark – Soldier Boy [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

What I say dosen’t matter, ‘the public rule and decide.

What is your creative process like?

Inspuration and hard work.

What is the main topic of your lyrics?

I write about everything.

Favourite album of the past decade?

I know it’s hard to believe but I don’t have time to listen to Albums.

For which moment in your carrer you are the most proud of?

My song, ‘Me My Body And I’ was put into all the Schools in Croydon Surrey. I really hope and believe in this song helping to stop a child self harming and worse, when you loose your child that way it must be tragic beyond belief.

Which book should we read while listening to your music?

That’s easy, the one book I wrote, ‘Message From A Star’. The Star is in the sky, it’s not me, but I got great reviews from Kirkus and Blue Ink, and 4/4 from book club. Published by Austin Macauley, it’s humorous with pathos !

Most Powerful Anti-War Film?

Yeah, you guessed it, ‘Don’t watch films, no time 🙂

Thank you!

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Jenn Vix – Mr. Strange [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Diverse, Vibey, Vocal driven

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

The track is about a woman who has basically given up on dating, and she has decided to fall in love with a plastic blow-up doll. Her fantasy becomes a bit too real, but it makes her happy. The bar for men is high, and the bar for women is too low; to put it mildly. The music video is cheeky; it’s not entirely serious. I want to show the world that even though there is a message in the track, that it’s good to not take ourselves so seriously all of the time.

Your sound has a pop sensibility blending trap grooves with indie pop elements. What is your creative process like?

I listen to and love many genres of music. I grew up listening to New Wave, early Rap, early Hip Hop, and arena rock. My creative process changes with my moods. Sometimes, I just get a hook stuck in my head, and I go into my studio and bang it out. Sometimes I collaborate with beat makers, and I take inspiration from their beats. I usually write my music on drums and synths. It could start with lyrics, music, or both. I’m in the moment with this.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

Lately, I’ve been very inspired by The Weeknd, Max Martin, and ILLANGELO! Some influences from my past are Annie Lennox, Portishead, Massive Attack, DJ Shadow, UNKLE, Michael Jackson; Off the Wall is a banger! Luther Vandross, The System, Robert Palmer, New Order, Rose Royce, Curtis Mayfield, Clyde Stubblefield, Marc Almond, Donna Summer, Phil Collins, Stewart Copeland, A Flock Of Seagulls, John Foxx, and a long list of classic rappers and DJs.

What would you change in the music industry?

Gatekeeping. If you have the cred, and you’ve put in the hard work, the industry should let you open up conversations, without you having to fight the music bouncers. That’s some bullshit!

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

I don’t think it’s as experimental as some might think it is. I like to mix genres, but so do a lot of other artists. I like the concept of having singles for your listeners, and the deeper cuts to let the weirdness out. I’m all about the balance.

When was the last time you danced?

This evening. I’m always dancing!

Thank you!

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