Tag: Urban

GC – Dangerous [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Dynamic, energetic, & experimental

In Dangerous you blend RnB with Hip Hop elements. Tell us a few things about your creative process

Hip Hop has been the most influential genre to me throughout my life even though I’m also passionate about other genre. When I create melodies and lyrics I create whatever comes natural to me. This track in particular I made the melody/ flow in one take. It just felt right.

What is the main topic of your lyrics?

The lyrics in “Dangerous” actually reflect a situation I’ve been through. In life the relationships we have aren’t always so black and white. They can be complex. So this track illustrates how I have a relationship with a girl that is open because an open relationship is all that I’m willing to accept. Because of this she goes to someone else for what I’m not willing to provide. By doing this she is misleading this other person because at the end of the day she is just chasing a more intimate relationship with me and being unfaithful to him.

Main influences?

My main influences come from a wide range of artists. From Drake, Kanye, & Wayne to Frank Sinatra, Elvis and The Weekend.

What would be your dream performance venue?

I would love to perform at Red Rocks or MSG.

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

If it weren’t for music I would probably train to be a pro athlete or pursuit a job in sales. But music is what I’m most passionate about.

One last thing we should know about you?

I want to make a big impact in the music scene. For me I’m going to keep making music no matter what the outcome is. I have a lot of new music coming out in the near future.

Thank you!

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Phehello – We Both Know [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words:

Intimate, adventurous, mellodious

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

“We Both Know” is written about friendship that has all the signs of developing into something more, but being afraid to take things to the next level, for whatever reason. It’s an honest conversation from the perspective of the person who wants to explore what things could be.

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

Collaborating can be fun! I used to be part of a band, and I found that we would often get the best ideas out of each other, and it helps to have someone there to immediately bounce off what sounds good and what doesn’t. I also featured an amazing guitarist named Uli Vinckers on my second single.

Right now, though, the songs I’m writing are contemplative and personal, and I like to get into a headspace where I’m digging deep to try and channel the raw emotion into a song. So, that often requires some alone time.

Favourite album of the past year?

Nectar by Joji. I feel like he somehow manages to weave in a sense of optimism amidst the melancholic impression that you might initially get from his music. The way he uses vocals to add different textures and non-traditional sounds – harnessing the instrumental power of the voice. I also enjoy albums where it feels like there was thoughtful intention behind how the songs flow from one song to the next.

Can you share something funny that happened during one of your gigs? And what would be your dream performance venue?

One time, we were playing at a venue in Cape Town, and a fan that had had a little too much to drink, climbed up on to the stage and started “twerking” on me, I guess – while my girlfriend was in the front row! I kept trying to move out of the way, but she was very persistent and even grabbed the mic to try and sing with me at one point.

Wembley Stadium! It’s on my vision board, and I will sell out my own show there one day.

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

Producing music for other artists. I’m in love with music production, and when I’m not working on my own music, I take on projects with talented artists that want me to help them bring their sound to life.

As far as hobbies outside of music, I’m a sucker for a good series. Recently. binged all three seasons of Stranger Things.

What is one message you would give to your fans?

Try to create a life that you look forward to when you wake up everyday

Thank you!

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Taylor B-W – I’m So Broke [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words:

Soulful, funky, colourful

Tell us a few things about your new song “I’m So Broke”. It certainly has a playful vibe. What is the story behind it?

The song originated from writing about my own mental health issues: depression and anxiety. I can sometimes feel up or down or round or backwards – anything goes! It’s about feeling a little ‘unhinged’ in your mind.

However, I didn’t want to write just another typical sad and woeful tune, so I made the music playful and cheeky instead, to lift the spirits of those who might relate to the sentiment behind the lyrics.

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

Only in the past 3 years have I begun collaborating – for me, songwriting is such an intimate, personal experience that it was hard to express such vulnerability with others at first. However, when I began expanding my bubble and collaborating with various songwriters and producers, it really helped to deepen my lyrical and production skills so now I love collaborating too. I don’t find songwriting is a lonely process at all. Very comforting, in fact.

Favourite album of the past decade?

Yikes, that is a tough one. It would have to either be Lana Del Rey’s ‘Born To Die’, or Vera Blue’s ‘Perennial’. Both struck a magical, positive chord with me and I’m obsessed with both artists!

Is Spotify the music industry’s new Gatekeepers?

I don’t think so. Although I do love Spotify, and I appreciate how it has established a different, accessible pathway for people to discover new indie artists, I do not agree with how it pays the artists. They need to improve their royalty payment system dramatically in order to be taken seriously and respected by all artists in this business.

What was the best film you have watched during the quarantine?

Having not been someone who watched any streaming channels pre-COVID, I had A LOT of catching up to do on the streaming TV show front when Australia first went into lockdown in 2020. And I’d have to say ‘Schitt’s Creek’ and ‘Atypical’ helped to keep me sane and happy during that initial time. I highly recommend!

One last thing we should know about you?

Something that people might not know about me is that I’m actually passionate about wildlife and became a qualified zookeeper in 2017. Although music eventually called me back, and I’ve never actually been employed as a keeper, I’m still a huge supporter for wildlife conservation and will do whatever possible to improve the lives of endangered animals where I can.

Thank you!

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Irini Mando – Outlaw [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

diary of melodies

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

‘Outlaw’ is a tale of a young woman finding her path and channeling her drive and passion into what she wants to achieve, no matter the consequence. It’s part love letter to self, part affirmation. It was important to me to lead with this single as a sort of prequel to the love story unfolding on the upcoming EP, it really explains my philosophy on life and where I’m coming from as an artist.

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

I think a lot of my writing starts with me writing on my own, but I love getting in the studio with people I trust and end up crafting something from those initial thoughts together.

‘Outlaw’ was written in a session in LA with Carson Thatcher (Orkid, Jesse Saint John) and Warholla. It was later produced by one of my producers in London, Mafro W. (Ghetts, Shakka, Bibi Bourelly, Fuse ODG), and mixed&mastered by Jonas Westling (Lady Gaga, James Arthur, Mel C).

There’s truly no way to describe that connection you have when writing together, but if you know you know.

Even beyond writing, every part of my creative process is collaborative to me. This includes the creation of the music, the visuals, the content, the merch.

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

I grew up in a Greek household in Germany, so I was influenced by many different styles of music from an early age. I was always drawn to RnB, Pop and Hip Hop artists from the States. Albums I remember playing a lot in my childhood home include Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Tina Turner, Britney Spears and The Backstreet Boys. Once I was old enough to beg my mama to buy me CDs, I loved Britney, Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, Joss Stone, Alicia Keys, JLo.. an endless list of female power houses paving the way.

Living in London and working with people from all over the world, my musical education never really stopped. I am surrounded and influenced by everything from Dancehall to Afrobeats, Eastern Scales to Jazz.

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

Producing the four consecutive music videos we shot in Greece in September last year. ‘Outlaw’ is the first of the series. We were supposed to shoot in April and had rescheduled due to restrictions, but I was still very nervous about our crew flying in from four airports in three countries. Luckily it all worked out, but the challenge of being the talent, the producer, the driver, AND the only person speaking the language was definitely the hardest thing I have accomplished to date.

Favorite film ever?

I started watching and re-watching loads of early 2000s movies since the first lockdown. They provide me with a strange sense of security, probably because they are reminiscent of my childhood.

What is the most useless talent you have?

Oh I can assure you, I make use of all my talents.

Thank you!

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Frogmorton – I Just Wanna Dance [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Chill grooves fam

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

The main idea behind this one was to create a sort of ever-evolving dance tune. I was trying to create a sonic environment that ebbs and flows that ultimately comes back to something lighthearted and fun that builds on itself throughout the song.

What first got you into music?

I’ve been a music lover my whole life, but I picked up the guitar when I was 15, and the rest is history!

Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?

Way too many to count! A couple people that are constant sources of inspiration for me would be the GOATs Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock.

What would be your dream performance venue?

The Amphitheatre of Pompeii – Pink Floyd style 🙂

Which book should we read while listening to your music?

Lord of the Rings baby

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

I honestly can’t remember, which I suppose means that it is deeply repressed into my subconscious.

Thank you!

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Kubota – Sunday Vibes [Interview]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Not sure if this is accurate but I’d like to think that my sound is described as “genuine, relatable, and chill”… does that count as four or three?

Tell us a few things about your new work “Sunday Vibes”.

Sunday Vibes was actually conceived during the Spring of 2020. I’ve been sitting on it for some time and felt that we need some uplifting music after a rough year due to the pandemic. I lined up four singles for 2021 to be released with an EP at the end of the year so I made the decision of dropping this particular song out of the four for the summer as it fits the mood of the season.

What is the main topic of your lyrics?

The main topic is just taking some time away from work or whatever might be consuming your energy and relaxing for a bit. It’s mainly a reminder to take things a bit slower.

I’ve gone through burnouts numerous times, and in all honesty, the stress I placed on myself to get as many things done as soon as possible really didn’t need to be there. The reality is, the work you do will always remain but the way in which you complete it can heavily affect your experience. I’m still trying to take my own advice but I try my best to live by the lyrics in this song. I’m hoping that Sunday Vibes will help at least one person through a tough time and remind someone to have a much-needed moment to breathe.

Favourite album of the past decade?

At the moment, I think I’ve got to give it up to Joji’s Nectar. But honestly, this answer will change in a few weeks.

What would be your dream performance venue?

I think my dream performance venue might be somewhere like Fonda Theater in Los Angeles with a fully packed audience. It’s large enough to have a good crowd but small enough to keep it very intimate between the artist and the crowd. I don’t think I can consider anything larger at the moment although it would be nice to perform at a stadium or something someday in the future.

What was the best film you have watched during the quarantine?

I’m definitely late on this but I watched “Train to Busan” during the quarantine. That opened my eyes to a bunch of Korean movies that are absolutely amazing. These aren’t films but the new Marvel shows on Disney Plus are great as well.

Future plans?

As of right now, I have another single ready to be released. We’re shooting to drop it in the Fall season and then ending the year with an EP. I’m also performing at Joy Ruckus Club’s virtual festival on the Asian Hip Hop stage which is on September 5th. Aside from that, I’ll continue making music, videos, and hopefully, get involved in bigger projects down the line.

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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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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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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