Tag: Hype

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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Piers James – K.K.O [Review]

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Rising British rapper Piers James, hailing from Ipswich, has once again demonstrated his unique sound and style with his latest offering from his forthcoming EP K.K.O. The track starts with playful and bouncy guitar work, before transitioning into an infectious riff that will get stuck in your head. The beat is energetic and will make you want to move. Piers James’ flow is confident and captivating, complementing the upbeat instrumentals perfectly. This track is a middle finger to all the commercial, generic music you hear on the radio, showcasing Piers James’ refusal to conform to expectations. Overall, this new offering from Piers James is a standout and will be sure to get fans excited for the rest of the K.K.O EP.

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ELI MONTANNA – Recovery [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Inspiring, Melodic, Persistent

Tell us a few things about your new work recovery

Recovery is me stepping out of my comfort zone and doing things I wouldn’t have done before in fear of failure.

Which song of the EP reflects you the most?

Down To Earth.

Which is/was the biggest healing obstacle you encountered?

Healing from depression and fear.

What does Hip Hop symbolize in your opinion?

Hip Hop symbolizes many different things but for me it symbolizes feeling. I like my music to captivate the listener.

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

Working or going out with family.

One last thing we should know about you?

I want to become a fashion designer one day.

Thank you!

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Zenodro – Ven Aqui Feat. Zano [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Eclectic, rich, and distinct.

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

I’ve been slowly developing my sound, and I wanted to try some different things. Wanted to work on my wordplay on a club sounding track. I think it came out pretty well!

How did you meet up with Zano? What is the most challenging part of letting others into your creative process?

I actually met Zano at a Hip-hop show where we were both opening. Great experience, he absolutely did an amazing job and I knew I had to work with him.

In regards to my creative process, it could be difficult to verbalize the ideas I have for certain songs. This is because with certain songs, I like to become more vulnerable and it could be hard to talk about those ideas with collaborators.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

My favorite rapper of all time is Eminem, my favorite lyricist is Kendrick Lamar, and my favorite producer is Dr. Dre.

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

Freedom of expression. I feel that hip-hop is an outlet that allows people to freely express themselves. Artists like Kendrick Lamar to Public Enemy to Tupac, have used hip-hop as a form of expression to help influence many people including myself.

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

I want my audience to be engaged when they listen to my tracks. By being engaged they’re able to comprehend some of the lyrics that may otherwise go over their heads.

One last thing we should know about you?

I actually have a new single coming out February 9th with another very talented hip-hop artist: Samuel Vincent. It will be produced by Sir Nicolas.

Thank you!

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V of 40M – PWR [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

A. Revolutionary
B. Gangsta’
C. Different

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

Most revolutionary rap song of the millennium, facts. 40M Tye, Hippie G and V of 40M, we got us a movie. Motion picture s***, heavy on the M. Arab Mxfia, whatup. Wanted an anthem for the movement and the Creator, the Universe and the Ancestors provided. We’re sowing the seeds of Black Power and Independence into one of, if not the, most influential components of our culture. If generations of our people can be pushed towards self genocide, etc through music and “entertainment” then we figure the same can work in reverse you feel me.

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

Most personal on PWR, “If you ain’t speaking truth to power, then I don’t even wanna talk” and I mean that s***. Anything else is just small talk or time passers. lol As far as honesty, they’re all honest to keep it a k but the ending bridge on PWR is high key fire for real. “Ain’t no gun factories in the hood, ain’t no pill factories in the hood, ain’t no coke factories in the hood, ain’t no dope factories in the hood – so how does it get here yeah?” We’ll let the gov’t answer that jawn.

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

Don’t really have a favorite beatmaker but I’m heavy on Afrobeats and Drill so if you’re a producer with a unique sound who’s trying to build something timeless – tap in! Fave rap flow besides the M’s? Rock with quite a few musically, including but not limited to Dusty, Meek, Lanez, Joyner, Polo and Sheff G. Got a thing for Ice Spicee too and if she ever reads this – link up shorty lol.

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

Our culture and our influence. They say we’re a or the “minority” but we know how bad them motherf***ers lie. With that being said and despite of it, the whole world follows our culture and is influenced by what we do – hiphop is an example you dig.

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

A revolutionary one. Motivated and inspired for real.

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

We’re grown, ain’t no such thing as “in trouble” – especially in regards to the opps and their nut a** laws. I have been “kidnapped” aka locked up quite a few times though, mostly for selling poison to my own people as a young bull. That of course being before my inner M was fully awakened but now – that’s a whole dub.

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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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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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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KEVIN BAILEY – Blue Devil Vol. 2 [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Innovative, Original, Never

Your sophomore EP Blue Devil Vol. 2 is already out. What it differs from Blue Devil Vol.1 and what is the main idea behind it?

It’s more of what I do sonically as an artist from the beat choices to the type of songs I can tap into. The “Blue Devil” represents a figment of myself in a creative way he represents coming from struggles to a better situation one day. Hince “Hell” is at the bottom first.

Which is your most personal and honest lyric?

“Supposed to be happy married settled down wit nice finances…but i’m struggling making round and rounds n door dashing…but i’m happy because i’m doing wtf i’m asking…and I dont need no one to tell me where the fuk my path is.” Thats from “Brighter Tunnel” Track 2 off Vol. 2 I really was going through that. And feel that way about life.

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

Jay-Z, Eminem, Kanye West

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

My creative expression as a black man but for all universe.

Which track from the EP, if any, represents you the most and why?

“Brighter Tunnel” again because those my family issues and struggles in one song. Especially at that time I was writing that song being broke doing door Dahses for real.

What would you say is your biggest vice?

Fuckin nothin I’m perfect. I would say the world could be better to me lol.

Thank you!

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Clou9 – Lonely/Rolling Loud [News]

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Lonely is a folk style Hiphop song mixed with pop style Melodies and sophisticated lyricism that can relate to all people all ages! Being alone is a feeling some can enjoy while others can find it discouraging but being lonely is a feeling one can find themselves falling victim to even when I’m a room full of people. Produced by L Marquee, this mainstream sound is definitely friendly to the ears while containing a substantial message that spreads awareness on human feelings and emotions.

Rolling Loud is your classic Banger with real traditional hip hop, Bars, word play and a story. Mixed with catchy melodies in the hook and a vibe of structure, this song goes out to the people who have finally reached a new high in life, re defining their level of success in the field they passionately work in to obtain personal gain..

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