INTERVIEW: Zitro

INTERVIEW:

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Zitro

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IT is has been great speaking with Zitro…

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about his upbringing and influences. He talks to me about his new track, DVD, and taking control of the music video. I ask about the origins of the track and whether he is planning ahead regarding future material – Zitro discusses his touring plans and how he unwind away from music.

I ask the songwriter whether he has goals to achieve before the year-end; what advice he would give to fellow songwriters emerging; a new act we should check out and investigate – he reveals three albums that mean a lot to him.

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Hi, Zitro. How are you? How has your week been?

My week has been painful and stressful - like every other week. It’s been a rough year. Trying my best to get to where I need to be, mentally.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I go by the name, ‘Zitro’. I write tunes for the broken, the weak and the silent in the styles of R&B, Pop and Soul. I produce my own music, therefore every note and sound you hear is 100% my own.

DVD is out. Can you reveal the inspiration behind the song?

It’s actually a summary to the theme of my sophomore album, Cult Classic. The world is one big bystander to people’s pain and struggles and, in most cases, the world finds them entertaining. I talk about how they are “cult classic” T.V. shows/movies to society. Social media plays a big role in this as well.

I believe you directed and edited the music video. What was it like putting the video together?!

It gave me a lot of confidence - just the fact that I could bring my vision to reality without paying thousands of dollars to do it. I love working on film and I regret not thinking of it sooner.

Is there more material coming? Are you working on more material?

First comes my sophomore album, then a couple of E.P.s along with various collaborations. I’ve also had some cool film ideas, including one I thought of last night before bed.

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How important are The Bronx and its people regarding your music?

My music is directed towards the whole world and society, not just The Bronx. I hope The Bronx can get on board with the message that I’m giving and, hopefully, then it’ll be a more peaceful place to live in.

Which artists did you grow up around? When did music come into your life?

In elementary school, teachers would assemble us students in some classroom and have us watch Michael Jackson tapes on V.H.S. and then that’s when I knew what I wanted to do in life.

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What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

As much as I can...

More films, more songs; more live performances and maybe even something different.

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

The first chance I get to go touring, I’m jumping on that opportunity - AND it will start in the U.K.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

The show that I did at The Delancey was a show I’ll never forget; although I could’ve done it more differently. I still strive to create better memories. There’s more I want to do.

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Which three albums mean the most to you would you say?

Janet Jackson - The Velvet Rope

Prince - Come

Gallant - Ology

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

It would change my life if I opened for Gallant, or worked with him at all. I’ve met him a few times but we’ve never discussed a collaboration. Hopefully, next time, I won’t be such a chicken about it.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Everyone’s a critic - but be your worst one. See everything wrong with your craft from the harshest critic’s eye and perfect it afterwards.

Also; don’t sign anything without reading it first.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Joshua Morata

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Joshua Morata, a brilliant songwriter and filmmaker. He’s the one who actually influenced me to make my own video. His new album, Somewhere, just came out this summer and I feature on one of the songs.

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Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Playing some good ole Fortnite! I haven’t had so much fun playing a game since World of Warcraft. Season 5 blew my mind.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Ladies and gentlemen, this is Belinda Carlisle’s Heaven Is a Place on Earth. A song that I’ve kept close to me this year to get me through depression and anxiety. I hope it’s your favorite, too

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INTERVIEW: KROWNS

INTERVIEW:

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KROWNS

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I’M starting off the week by speaking with Kyle of KROWNS…

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who has been telling me about the band’s new track, High While the World Ends. I ask whether there is more material coming in the future and the sort of sounds that influence KROWNS; if there are any new artists we should get involved with – he reveals the gigs coming up for the guys.

Kyle tells me about Calgary and how supportive the city is; the advice upcoming artists should take to heart; how he manages to relax away from music – the band members each choose a song to end the interview with.

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Hi, guys. How are you? How has your week been? 

Sup. We’re stoked after releasing High While the World End and appreciate all the support. 

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourselves, please?

My name is Kyle McKearney. I sing and play guitar. My brother Shade McKearney is on bass and sings (and provides samples). Adam is on drums; he sings and plays keys. 

 

High While the World Ends is your debut single. What is the story behind the song?

There’s a lot going on in the world. Sometimes, we need to set aside all the bullsh*t and just be humans together. We wanted to come out swinging and High' was the best fit for that. 

How did KROWNS get together? When did you start playing together?

Shade and I are brothers and have been playing together since we were young kids. Adam was with us in a previous band and has been a third brother for years. KROWNS was birthed when I started writing down my story and started getting right with my past. 

Is there more material coming from you guys? What are you working on?

We’ve got more songs ready: we’re in it for the long haul. 

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Can you give me a sense of the artists who inspired you all to get into music?

We had to sneak music. Our parents were very strict regards what we listened to. We sneaked Eminem, Nirvana; Green Day, N.W.A.; The Offspring, Marilyn Manson; Metallica, lots of mixtapes. We loved The Beatles anthologies.

Shade: Misfits, Lauryn Hill; Rancid and Sublime.

Adam: Michael Jackson, Nirvana and Punk bands like Bad Religion. 

How supportive are the people and venues of Calgary? Is it a great area to make music in?

People have been super-supportive of KROWNS. I wouldn’t say Calgary is easy: it’s a conservative city and most people don’t care about original music. There is some great support from venues like The Blind Beggar but it’s honestly like most cities. Some good some sh*t. 

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What do you hope to achieve before the end of 2018?

We wanna have a tour schedule set up and have a few more songs released. We wanna go play in Germany and Australia.  

Have you all got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

That’s a tough one. It seems like the hard times stick out - the bus breaking down and a trailer flying off, rolling through the ditch. The suffering is always memorable and enjoyable when you’re grinding with your boys. 

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

We’d love to open for Post Malone. His shows are fire and the crowds have such a good vibe. Drake, 21 Pilots and Imagine Dragons would be sick as well. 

Our rider would have a bottle of Jameson’s, a box of IPA; a box of Cubans and whatever else.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just be honest. Don’t pander - and keep writing till you don’t suck. 

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

We just finished a single release show in Calgary but only pending shows at this point. Nothing else has been announced. 

Might you come to the U.K. down the line? Do you like British music?

I love British music. I’ve actually had the pleasure of meeting and writing with Roger Taylor of Queen. Amazing dude. We’d love to come if you’d have us. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Swae Lee

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been listening to Swae Lee and Lil Pump. Check out Dermot Kennedy from Ireland; he’s dope! 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Dermot Kennedy

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I build relic Fender replicas as something to focus on while I’m not busy with KROWNS. I love it. We’ve had a bit of time with the release happening and it’s always nice but we can’t wait to get to work. 

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Hurt to Look - Swae Lee (ft. Rae Sremmurd, Slim Jxmmi)

Clint Eastwood – Gorillaz

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All Apologies - Nirvana

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INTERVIEW: Dragonz

INTERVIEW:

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Dragonz

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I have been chatting with producer Dragonz…

about his new single, Dream Days, and working with singer Joe Bateman. He reveals how he came to meet the singer and whether he is working with Bateman again; the sort of music that drives his own creativity; what he hopes to achieve before the end of the year – Dragonz reveals three albums that mean a lot to him.

I ask the producer whether there will be any tour dates coming up and what advice he would give to new artists emerging; if there is an upcoming musician we need to get behind – I ask whether Dragonz gets any time to chill away from music.

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Hi, Dragonz. How are you? How has your week been?

Pretty good. I have been busy with the launch of our single, Dream Days, which came out on 6th July - and also been working on some new tracks.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m a producer and songwriter based in North London. I write melodic Pop tracks and work with various featured artists.

Dream Days is the new song. What is the tale behind it?

These are pretty dark times for the world and I just wanted to write a positive, happy love song.

Was it easy putting it all together? Was the creation quite natural and fast?

The writing of the song was fairly straightforward, yes, but it took some time to get the production sounding right.

Joe Bateman is on the track. How did you come to meet him? How did you react to hearing his vocal back?

I met Joe online. He’s very talented as well as having a great voice; he plays guitar, piano; violin, mandolin and drums to a high level. I was delighted with the vocal he did on the track. It’s very beautiful and I think it is reminiscent of Sam Smith at his best.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Joe Bateman

Which musicians are most important regarding your own sound? Did you get into music quite young?

Yes. I took piano lessons from an early age and did up to Grade 8 on it. I also taught myself the guitar and music production. I’ve always been a huge lover of music and have a very wide range of music that I like, from the 1950s to the present-day.

Is there going to be more material coming later this year do you think?

Yes. I’ve already recorded another track with Joe and hoping to bring that out a month or two after Dream Days comes out.

Are there going to be any tour dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

There are no tour dates arranged as yet, but would be great to be able to do that.

Is the stage somewhere you enjoy being? Is there a different sensation being out among the people as opposed to the space of the studio?

I prefer the studio myself, that’s my natural habitat, but I do enjoy playing live as well.

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

I would love Dream Days and its follow up to become a success.

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Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I haven’t got one particular memory, but my favourite part of the songwriting and production process is when I hear vocalists singing my songs and bringing them to life - never tire of that

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

That’s a difficult one because I like a huge amount of music - and also much of the music I like these days tends to be single-based. But, if pressed, I would have to say:

London Calling by The Clash; Very by the Pet Shop Boys and Hot Fuss by The Killers.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Work hard at improving your skills and never give up. It’s a very tough business and you are probably going to need to handle a lot of knock-backs before you become successful.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Jon Sine/PHOTO CREDIT: KIDKUTSMEDIA l Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been listening a lot to a producer called Jon Sine recently. I like his style. He also has a great YouTube channel documenting his musical journey.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I’m very into travelling. I’ve been to Taiwan and Hong Kong recently. I also like sports.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Here’s a song I really like by Max Jury (Little Jean Jacket) - remixed by Jon Sine, who I mentioned before

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INTERVIEW: Sharkmuffin

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Kelly Knapp  

Sharkmuffin

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IT has been a ball speaking with Sharkmuffin…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Kelly Knapp   

about their sound and the vibe in camp. They have a new song, Your Stupid Life, out but I speak to them about their previous cut, Liz Taylor. The band discuss their tastes and which new artists we should keep an eye out for – they reveal some U.K. dates and talk about their love for the country.

I ask Sharkmuffin about their early musical experiences and whether they feel women in modern music are told how to play and look; how they all unwind away from music; if they have any advice for artists coming through – the band each select a song to end things with.

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Hi, guys. How are you? How has your week been?

Tarra Thiessen: Good! I was at the Jersey shore for the fourth of July and ate some Taco Bell on the way back from the beach - and my insides are feeling a little weird now.

Natalie Kirch: Great! Very full! I finished teaching for the year and pretty much went straight to the beach to relax with my family and BBQ; then, hopped to another beach to spend some time with friends and listen to some music.

Jordyn Blakely: I’m good. Drinking my first coffee of today, which is one of my favorite moments of the day! I went to the beach a lot last week with a friend, and my mom visited me over the weekend. I love summer because I get to see friends more often.

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IMAGE CREDIT: Cult Days

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourselves, please?

TT: I'm Tarra - I sing and play guitar.

NK: I’m Natalie - I sing harmonies and play bass guitar.

JB: I’m Jordyn and I play drums! I sing backup vox sometimes, too.

Can you talk about Liz Taylor and the song’s origins? How did it come together?

TT: My mom has been wearing Liz Taylor’s white diamonds perfume since I was a child and it’s impossible to wash that smell out of clothing, so everything always smells like that when I go home. But, she actually she texted me the other day and said she’s going to start wearing less of it! So, that was an unexpected result of the new song.

When did Sharkmuffin get together? How did you meet? Is there a story behind the band name, too?

Natalie and I met and began playing with each other six years ago and we met Jordyn while she was drumming for a band called Butter the Children in 2012. Sharkmuffin has had a very colorful cast of drummers over the years (you can find all of their faces, including Jordyn’s, on the cover of our first record, Chartreuse) and we’re so happy to be playing and touring with her again!

NK: Tarra came up with the band name and since we have heard of many associations and rumors that came along with it. Even if none of them is true; it’s fun to hear what our friends, fans and critics come up with - so I don’t want to burst any bubbles! Tarra and I are about to celebrate the sixth year since our first show together (and my first show ever) on July 14th, 2018. Jordyn was one of the first few friends to drum for us and we are thrilled that she’s back in the band and able to tour and record with us now.

JB: I’ve played with Sharkmuffin off and on over the years and have been friends with them since I was new to the music scene in N.Y.C.; so it’s exciting to be more involved with them musically and get to know them better!

It seems you have plenty of ambition, drive and spunk. Do you think too many female artists are told how to play/look? Do you think changes need to come in?

TT: I don’t have any specific memories of anyone directly telling me how to look/play but I feel like social media, in general, can breed an anxiety that everyone else is doing better than you – which can seep into your unconscious and influence your aesthetic in a way that it may not have gone. But, it’s definitely positive to be inspired by your peers and to feel like we’re all in it together.

We’re the first generation of musicians to have such a direct way to promote our shows and music and create a community around it - and that change in the music industry itself is really positive and leaves room for everyone to have a unique voice. Everyone in the music community we’re a part of has been super-supportive of us and I’m really grateful for that!

NK: I agree with Tarra! I think that, being a woman, you will most likely encounter some subtle attempts to subdue or reconstruct your ‘image’ or tone. However, we have been lucky enough to perform how we want to and create what we want to and, for the most part, we have been surrounded by positive and proactive people.

JB: Totally. I feel there is intense pressure for women to be ‘hot’ and that that is more important than their talents, thoughts and feelings they’re trying to communicate through their work. In the entertainment industry, this is especially emphasized but I think you just have to believe in yourself and believe in what you’re doing and know that what you’re creating is more important than how much you appeal, sexually, to a group of people. If the right audience is listening, then your appearance shouldn’t be the most important thing.

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PHOTO CREDIT: @mixtapemyheart

I get a sense you mix a love of the West Coast sounds of the 1960s; bits of Riot Girrrl and the Grunge movement of the 1990s. Is that a reflection of the artists you grew up around?

TT: Yes ! I grew up listening to The Ventures, Dick Dale; Nirvana, Bikini Kill and The Beach Boys. I also love '70s classic rock like Led Zeppelin and the Garage-Rock bands in the early-'00s like The White Stripes and The Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

NK: Definitely! My parents played a lot of Classic Rock like The Rolling Stones, The Beatles; Beach Boys and David Bowie growing up but also Motown/female-fronted Pop acts like The Supremes or The Shirelles. I discovered a lot of the Grunge and Punk-era bands like Nirvana, Bikini Kill; Blondie, Hole; Sleater-Kinney, Sonic Youth; Pixies, The New York Dolls/Johnny Thunders (and so forth) on my own.

I don’t like listing bands like that because I always forget some huge influences, but oh well! I also really like The White Stripes and Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Tarra and I realized early on that we had very similar tastes; although I think she adds more of a surf tone to the guitar inspired by some of the Cali acts - and I add a lot of raw simple sludge like the East Coast Punk artists.

JB: I also was obsessed with Nirvana and Led Zeppelin when I started playing drums and loved Classic Rock stuff like Jimi Hendrix, Queen; The Doors, The Beatles; Janis Joplin, Black Sabbath…I also loved Punk and Pop-Punk when I was new to playing music like Rancid, Operation Ivy; The Distillers, The Casualties; NOFX,  MXPX and Minor Threat. It’s been fun to revisit these earlier influences in my playing – plus, Sharkmuffin introduces me to new music and bands that I wasn’t aware of back then.

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PHOTO CREDIT: @mixtapemyheart

Is there a pretty varied scene in Brooklyn right now? How does it compare to the other New York boroughs in terms of sound and tone?

NK: I think it’s varied in terms of genre but we would like to see some more of a convergence between different types of music and more cultural diversity within the genres.

JB: It’s such a large environment with so many participants, so it’s kinda like a lot of smaller circles that Venn diagram into one another and all connect since we’re all in the same place, sharing the same venues and audiences. I like that because it gives ‘the scene’ some diversity and it feels like there is a sense of togetherness. I guess it varies in terms of different genres or instrumentation. I’m not around there enough to know, but it seems like Manhattan has a more D.J.-oriented scene with less prominence of live performance.

What do you hope to achieve before the end of 2018?

TT: Write and record our third L.P.!

NK: Ditto that!

JB: Yay. I’m down!

Have you all got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

TT: It was really amazing playing last year at Mello Fest in the U.K. and we met Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin backstage. That was nuts! Also; our first record release at Shea Stadium in Brooklyn was one of my favorite shows ever.

NK: Both of those times were incredible moments for me! Also; recording at the Record Plant (everyone treated us like queens there) and with Patty was a definite highlight. She was a big inspiration to us growing up, so it was cool to play with her. She was also very down-to-earth and easy-going.

JB: We played a show opening for HINDS earlier this year and it’s always exhilarating to play a big show like that; it still feels new. The audience was really fun and welcoming. I love meeting new people. It was a learning experience for me to be in such a different setting. Also; playing Brooklyn Bazaar with Gym Shorts was cool. I got so hyped on that band after seeing them! There was someone giving free tattoos during the show, which was hilarious and weird and I love playing shows that are weird.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Kelly Knapp   

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

TT: The Breeders. I just want a bowl of unwrapped fruit punch Starbursts to eat after our set.

NK: The Breeders, for sure! Lots of sparkling water, chips; hummus and hot sauce to add to that.

JB: The Breeders would be amazing! Autolux would be a dream come true. Lots of candy, beer and cheese backstage, please! That sounds kinda gross all together - but I love those things individually.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

TT: Do not take anything (criticism, inter-band drama etc.) personally. Appreciate everyone’s time and energy involved in your project, no matter how small.

NK: it sounds cliché but clichés exist for a reason - believe that you can do it. Always be grateful to the people that support you, both within your band and in the wider scheme of things.

JB: Yes I agree with those! Try to keep going even if you feel discouraged or encounter rejection, which will happen. Listen to yourself regarding what you want: you won’t please everybody and you can’t control what people think of you.

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IMAGE CREDIT: Megan Mosher

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

Our U.K. dates are:

#SHARKMUFFINUKINVASION2018TOUR

7/27 PORT ELLIOT FESTIVAL

7/28 THE COTSWOLD INN, CHELTENHAM

7/31 GWIDHW, CARDIFF

8/1 AL'S DIME BAR, BRADFORD

8/2 THE CRYPT, NORWICH

8/3 THE GREEN DOOR STORE, BRIGHTON

8/4 THE ANGEL, NOTTINGHAM

8/6 THE UNDERGROUND, STOKE

8/7 THE LOCK KEEPER, CHESTER

8/8 NIGHT & DAY, MANCHESTER

8/9 THE PARISH, HUDDERSFIELD

8/10 SEBRIGHT ARMS, LONDON

8/11 THE SWAN, IPSWICH

I believe you are coming to the U.K. to perform. Are you quite prepared for our stiff upper lips, weak beer and dissolving Government?!

TT: I like whiskey. Do you have whiskey there?! You know who our President is so I think we’re ready for anything!

NK: We love the U.K.! Everyone was so kind to us our first round there and the country is really beautiful.

JB: I’m really excited to explore new cities in the U.K. I haven’t visited before. I feel I have a lot to learn in regards to the mannerisms there; British are always so polite but I can’t tell if they just secretly hate you. Haha. But, I can understand why everyone would hate Americans right now, sadly.

Have you performed over here? Do you like British sounds?

TT: Natalie and I came last year with a different Sharkmuffin line-up and we loved a lot of the bands we played with. We played The Great Escape last year in Brighton with PINS and played again on our last night of tour with Pussy Liquor at Green Door Store. We’re playing at Green Door Store again on August 3rd!

NK: Yes. We had such an amazing time meeting everyone over there and traveling around the country.

JB: I’ve played in the U.K. with a band called Wardell and another time with Kino Kimino. My favorite show was at Sneaky Pete’s in Edinburgh (with K.K.). The bands were all great and the audience and the venue were so friendly! This is my first time with Sharkmuffin though. It blows my mind how ancient some of the castles there are; they were so well-built!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Lola Pistola/PHOTO CREDIT: Kaya Yvsi

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

TT: There are so many great bands in N.Y.C. right now like Def.Grls, Tall Juan; Lola Pistola, Sloppy Jane and Fruit & Flowers (who just came to the U.K. last month as well).

NK: All of those bands are great. Also; Lost Boy ?, Kino Kimino (that Tarra and Jordyn also play in); Haybaby, The Big Drops; THICK, Grim Streaker; Holy Tunics, Sic Tic; BIG UPS, Gustaf; New Myths, Dentist; The Off White. So many more. SO MANY!

JB: Big Cheese, The 94 Knicks; Poppies, NOICE; Free $$$, Yazan; Ovlov, Sean Henry and Anna Altman!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Kino Kimmino/PHOTO CREDIT: Thomas Ignatius

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

TT: Natalie’s family has a really lovely house at the Jersey Shore. Last time I was there I found a baby praying mantis on a donut pool tube and that was magical. I drank a glass of wine while floating around the pool for like an hour after that.

NK: Yes. That house is our place of zen. My cats and my parents’ cats also roam free on the lawn so there’s also adorable fluffies in addition to the water. I saw a baby seagull today - he was really cute and I was worried about him but then he made his fledgeling flight. The original house was destroyed in Hurricane Sandy in 2012 but some of Tarra and my first collaborations were in my old room at the original house.

JB: Not lately, but I’m really enjoying everything I’m doing musically! When I’m trying to tune out I watch movies or T.V. with friends, go on walks; cook with my roommates, play in my backyard with my cat; read books, color in coloring books. Going to shows and jamming with friends is a big way that I unwind, so, maybe I need more hobbies. Haha.

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

TT: DRINKS - Real Outside

NK: Lost Boy ? - Taste Butter

JB: Cleaners from Venus - Only a Shadow

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INTERVIEW: Tennyson King

INTERVIEW:

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Tennyson King

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THE fantastic Tennyson King…

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has been discussing his new single, Coast, and where it draws inspiration from. I ask the songwriter about his upcoming album and what we can expect; how his Canadian and Hong Kong roots affect and influence him; which artists have made an impression on him – he recommends some upcoming artists to seek out.

King talks about three albums that mean a lot to him; how he spends time away from music; what tour dates are coming up – King explains exactly what music means to him.

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Hi, Tennyson. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m great! Thanks for asking. My week has been great. I just started my Western Canadian tour last week in Whistler, BC. I’ve had some shows in the Okanagan valley and, currently, I’m on Vancouver Island for five days with shows all over. It’s been great to be in the beautiful nature of British Columbia and play music all over.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

My name is Tennyson King; a singer-songwriter based out of Toronto, ON and originally from Hong Kong. I play and write what I describe as ‘Psychedelic-Folk-Rock-driven by guitar and vocals’.

Coast is your new single. Is there a story behind the song?

Coast was written with lots of inspiration from my two tours in Australia during 2017. I spent most of the year there playing music and when I wasn’t playing music; I was living out of my van and cruising around the country. One specific area I dug was in Queensland between the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. The song talks a bit about the adventures and experience I had while there and, musically, emulate living life on the beach.

I know there is an album coming. Can you reveal the sort of thing we might hear? What themes and ideas did you explore?

The tunes on the upcoming album have a similar chill vibe like Coast. It’s music for the everyday person who is working hard doing whatever they do but craving, dreaming or reminiscing about the love of travel, nature and the beach. The overall tone is very care-free but, lyrically, touches on very self-reflective thoughts that I believe many of us have.

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You have Hong Kong and Canadian roots. Where do you spend most of your time? What are the main differences in terms of the music scene?

When I’m not on the road, I usually spend my time in Toronto, Ontario though, in the coming year, I’ll be spending some time in Hong Kong and doing my first tour out in Hong Kong and China which I’m really looking forward to.

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Which artists were you inspired by growing up? Who do you count as idols?

Growing up, I was inspired by bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica; The Beatles, David Bowie; Bob Dylan, Pearl Jam; Tom Waits, Rage Against the Machine and so many more. Idols…I’d say John Frusciante from R.H.C.P., David Bowie; Tim Buckley, Eddie Vedder and  Anthony Keidis…and I’m sure there are other ones, too.

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What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

Just as long as I’m still playing music and travelling by the end of this year I’ll be happy.

Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

I’m currently at the start of a two-month tour of Western Canada - with shows in British Columbia all the way back to Ontario. My tour dates are on my website. I’ll then be heading over to China for a tour in October and back to Australia for another tour in November.

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Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

One that comes to mind right now…

I was playing a show in Darwin, Northern Territory in Australia last year. I started one of my songs and a dude who worked for a reptile place at the festival came on stage and put a giant 9ft snake around me; so, I ended up playing the rest of the tune with it wrapped around my neck and body. You can watch it on Facebook. It was my Britney Spears moment.

Is it possible to convey what music does to you and the power it holds?

Music makes me feel everything. It’s crazy how it can make you feel sad, happy and so many more all in one shot. For me, it’s a type of therapy: when I listen and when I write as well as when I perform. It’s a new high that nothing else has been able to replace in the past years of my life.

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Which three albums mean the most to you would you say?

Tough question…

In the past year: 1. Bahamas – Barchords; 2. Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros - Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros and 3. Eddie Vedder – Into the Wild.          

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros. 

Rider: probably just a sweet cheese spread for after my show.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Work hard, be yourself and be nice.

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               IN THIS PHOTO: Iskwé/PHOTO CREDIT: Cass K M Rudolph

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Iskwé, This Way North; James Hickey, Candice McLeod and Corey Theatre.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Candice McLeod

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Lately, I haven’t had much downtime but I like to go for a motorcycle ride, going for cottage/lake getaways; swim and beach chills.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Play Life Is Hard by Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros

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Follow Tennyson King

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IN THIS PHOTO: Cesar Barbosa 

Official:

http://tennysonking.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/tennysonkingmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/tennysonking

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/tennysonking/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/tennysonking

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/tennysonking

ALL PHOTOS OF TENNYSON KING (unless credited otherwise):

Jen Squires

INTERVIEW: Polar Youth

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Guillaume Kayacan

Polar Youth

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FROM a Saudi Arabian artist…

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IMAGE CREDIT: Florent Hauchard

I now head to Belgium to interview the fantastic Polar Youth. She has been talking about her latest single, All Night, and working with DJ Fresh and Georgie Allen on the track – Polar Youth talks about future material and signing to Virgin EMI.

I ask which artists inspired her growing up and what the differences are between music in Belgium and the U.K.; whether there are tour dates coming up – Polar Youth ends the interview by selecting a cool track.

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Hi, Polar Youth. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey! I’m good, thank you. Hectic! I’m moving into my new place and I forgot how much time goes into that…and, of course, I’m very busy promoting my new single.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

Like it’s written on my social media: I’m ‘’a 23-year-old girl from Belgium who makes music she likes”. I’ve been producing music on my laptop since I was twelve. I learned to play the guitar before that and, at the age of sixteen, I learned to play the drums – but, most of all, I love to play the piano. My music is mainly inspired by Electronic music and Hip-Hop. I live in the beautiful city of Ghent where I love to hang out with my friends in the many clubs and cafés in the city.

All Night is your new track. Is there a tale behind the song?

I was fortunate enough that some of my earlier music was picked up by DJ Fresh. I met him at a concert in Ghent and, after I had sent him a few of my tracks, he was so kind to invite me in his studio in the U.K.  

One of the demos I had sent him was an early version of All Night.

It is a big and bold song. Was it a challenge putting it all together? How do you approach producing a track like All Night?

I had been working on that track for some time. Initially, the tempo was slower than it is now. For some time, it was just one of those tracks sitting on my hard-drive but, when DJ Fresh asked me to play him some of my music, I also chose that track because I really felt it had something. Playing that track to Dan (DJ Fresh) was exactly the right time to take it out of my hard-drive.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Guillaume Kayacan

His first idea was to make it more up-tempo. He also invited the amazing singer Georgie Allen to do the vocals on that song to make it into the final version. We were in his studio for four days and we worked really hard on the track. We had a great time - and I was learning so much from DJ Fresh.

Do you have more material planned for later in the year?

I just released an official remix for Sarai a couple of days ago. Sarai is an amazing artist from Australia. When she asked me to remix her latest single, Get to You, I immediately said ‘yes’. As for other plans, even though it’s very hot and beautiful outside, you’ll mostly find me in the studio during this summer…that’s all I can say for now.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Guillaume Kayacan

You just signed to Virgin EMI here in the U.K. How excited were you when that happened? How supportive have they been?

This was all new to me, so it took me a while before I realised how big this was going to be for my career; to be able to work together with Virgin EMI. To be honest, I couldn’t have thought of a better company to work with. They have been so supportive and they have such a great team. They really listen to what I have to say instead of just seeing me as a money-making machine. They care about the artist; they care about the music and they are professional – it has been a great experience.

You are unique but I wonder whether you have music idols? Who do you count as inspirations?

It surprises quite a lot of my friends every time I say this, but my biggest idols are Nicki Minaj and Post Malone. They make amazing music and are (so) unique in their own ways. Very often, I am also inspired by my fellow producer buddies from all over the world. We listen to each other’s music, talk about it…it’s a great source of inspiration and feedback.

Originally from Belgium; what are the main differences between the music scenes there and in the U.K.?

I really noticed how open-minded the music scene in the U.K. is. I talked about this too with Dan (DJ Fresh) when I was with him. I feel like U.K. radio shows are more focused on good music instead of what’s charting in the top-50 - and they give new up-and-coming producers a lot of support too. In Belgium, the music scene is great too and I have worked with some of the finest artists here but, sometimes, I have the impression that people here are a bit less bold and less daring with respect to new music and new styles.

Having said this, it is great for a young artist like me to be able to work in so many different environments.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Guillaume Kayacan

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

Lately, I’ve been very focused on getting tracks done, more than anything else, and as I said I will also spend the better part of the summer in the studio - but you will certainly be able to see me later this year.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope that, in 2018, I will be able to touch a lot of people with my music. I am also working hard to finalise the new tracks and I am putting together a show for later this year. I hope to see my fans there and thank them for their support.

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IMAGE CREDIT: Florent Hauchard

 Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

The time I was in the studio with Dan (DJ Fresh) and his team was absolutely magical. These four days were hard work but also a lot of fun. I learned a lot about music and about the industry. Sometimes, other producers would just come by to say hello and then we let them listen to our progress of All Night. Their input and encouragements gave me a boost to finish the track. We were all in such high spirits and we worked day and night. I will never forget this.

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Definitely, Post Malone, I’ve never seen him live but his music is amazing and he’s such a down-to-earth person.

My rider would contain fruits like kiwis and bananas for before the show and a delicious pack of fries with mayo for after the show.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The most important thing is to keep working and don’t give up. I know a lot of people say this but that’s because it’s 100% true.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Lani Rose

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My dude Lani Rose from the U.S.A. He’s an amazing producer AND also a top-notch singer-songwriter. A huge shout out to Laxcity. He’s an awesome producer from the U.K. and I hope one day more people will recognise how talented he is. Also; check out SARAI and The Endorphins (yes, I know, I made a remix for them).

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 IMAGE CREDIT: Laxcity

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I have two cats which help me to relax during breaks. I also go out with my friends in Ghent. A big hobby of mine is gaming, so that’s also how I spend some of my time not working on music. I’m also passionate about motorcycles. Riding around on my bike after a day of work is one of my favourite ways to wind down and clear my mind.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

People say what they want about her, but I think she’s an amazing artist.

Bhad Bhabie - Mama Dont Worry

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Follow Polar Youth

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INTERVIEW: tamtam

INTERVIEW:

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tamtam

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THIS might be the first time I…

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have featured someone from Saudi Arabia on my site. It has been fascinating speaking with tamtam about her experiences of Saudi and spending time in L.A. She talks about her new single, Drive, and filming its video; how liberating its themes and story is – I ask whether Saudi Arabia’s strict laws regarding women and visibility have impacted her in any way.

Tamtam talks to me about a pivotal moment that changed her life; which artists were inspiring to her growing up; whether there are any tour dates in the calendar; the advice she would provide upcoming artists – tamtam selects a musician we should all follow.

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Hi, tamtam. How are you? How has your week been?

It’s been great, thank you!

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

Yes. My moniker for my music is ‘tamtam’. I was born and raised in Saudi Arabia; I am currently living in L.A. and making music but I go back to Saudi as much as I can to visit my family and home. A lot of my music is inspired by Saudi.

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I don’t have a choice but, to be genuine in my lyrics, especially in songs that I write on my own - being brought up in one culture and then moving to another country with a completely different culture - has had a really powerful impact on me that I hope I reflect in my music: no matter where we are from, or how we are brought up, or what we believe in, we have the most important thing in common, our humanity, and that, alone, should unite us.

Drive is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

I wrote this song last year when I heard the news that Saudi was lifting the ban on women driving. I was so happy and inspired! I wrote the song right away...

The video sees you driving around with girlfriends through Orange County. How much fun was it to shoot?!

It was honestly one of the best days! I will never ever forget it. I was with my friends (who are in the video) which was amazing. The director, Mackenzie Mccullough, is such a wonderful, creative and humble person to work with. It really was a blast - especially driving that perfect, vintage yellow car!

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As a Saudi woman; do you feel even revealing your face and making a video is a brave step?! How does life for a Saudi woman differ when you are in America, as opposed to your home nation?!

When I first started doing music seven years ago, I would say definitely ‘yes’. At that time, I had released my first single, Little Girl, where my face was blurred in the video because I didn’t want anyone to know I was doing music. But, now, Saudi is really adapting in a positive way: women can drive; the first movie theatres just opened a few months ago; live concerts are slowly happening more frequently and are more socially-accepted than before.

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Because I’m in music, life in L.A. as a Saudi woman is different for me because there are so many musicians, producers and songwriters to work with and to collaborate with - that’s what I love about being in L.A. as a musician. I can also perform live anytime I want: there are more concert venues here and smaller ones too; not just huge stages. The talent that is growing out of Saudi is amazing and I know that the music there is going to grow so much more with the new laws.

Liberation and women’s rights play a big part in your overall ethos. Do you think it is vital these issues are introduced into music?

Yes, I do, because this is what the youth is listening to. They love music. Anything with a melody and a beat is more interesting to listen to than someone who is just talking; so, more people can engage with music and I believe, as musicians, we need to start sending positive messages through this power that we have.

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Do you think there will be more material later this year?

Yes! I have so much more music coming out, including a collaboration with producer/D.J. Accidental Muse, which will be more of an E.D.M. project, that I’m super-excited about as well.

I believe a green Jeep and a unique experience when you were eighteen changed everything. Was that moment of independence pivotal to you?

Yes, it was. No matter where you are in the world, whether in the U.S. or Saudi Arabia, it changes everything when you know you can walk out the door and go anywhere you want. To be honest, when I first started driving here, I was terrified of the road. I wouldn’t take any freeways and I wouldn’t go very far. But, I knew that, with patience and practice, I would get used to driving…and that’s what I did.

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Do you recall the musicians who inspired and motivated you when you were growing up?

Michael Jackson is always my number-one. I also loved listening to No Doubt, the Spice Girls; Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake (I still love him) (smiles). I went through an Aerosmith phase. My love for music is not specific to any genre, as you can see.  

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

I don’t have tour dates set yet but I’m definitely going soon and will keep you posted!

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Do you think you’ll come to the U.K. and perform?

Yes! I’ll probably do a show in London first. I can’t wait (smiles).

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope my music reaches more and more people. I love connecting with my fans; they are so important to me.

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Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I just did a show in Kuwait in April for a concert called Kuwait Rising and it was amazing! I love performing live and I love feeling the energy of the crowd - it is definitely an unforgettable memory.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Patience, patience; patience…and listen to your gut.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Smoke Season/PHOTO CREDIT: Natalie Neal

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Smoke Season.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I love going hiking. Being with nature really helps me unwind and keeps me grounded.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Florence + the Machine - No Choir and Hunger

INTERVIEW: Chasing Jonah

INTERVIEW:

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Chasing Jonah

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THE fabulous Chasing Jonah…

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has been telling me about the video for her new single, Feel So High, and whether the song holds personal relevance. The Florida-based artist talks about the music scene in St. Petersburg and tells me whether more material will come later in the year – she picks a promising artist we should get our ears around.

I ask Chasing Jonah whether touring, and U.K. dates, are a possibility and how important it is being up on the stage; how she spends her downtime; the advice she would give to artists coming through – she ends the interview by selecting an amazing track!

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Hi, Chasing Jonah. How are you? How has your week been?

It's been chaotic, but fun! Just finished filming another music video and I'm so tired that I'm not even sure how I'm still forming coherent sentences. 

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I'm an Alternative Electro-Pop artist and songwriter currently living in St. Petersburg, Florida. My lyrics tend to be introspective and vulnerable and I tend to pair them with cinematic and electronic sounds to help drive their stories. All of my writings have been inspired by personal experiences and internal battles.  

I also love dogs and key lime pie. 

Feel So High is your new song. What inspired the lyrics? Does it hold personal relevance?

It does hold personal relevance. I know it comes off as a flirty and seductive song at first, but it's really about being caught in an unhealthy and, yet, addictive relationship; something you keep getting sucked back into even though you know it keeps hurting you. 

It is an instant and memorable song. Did you know, once it was recorded, it would be an instant earworm?

It is definitely one of my personal favorites. It's so much fun to play and I love the synth sounds in it. You never know how other people will feel though. Releasing your art into the world is always a vulnerable process no matter how confident you might be in what you've created. 

What inspired the fun music video for Feel So High?

It started as a joke in the studio between myself and the producers. We were making up preposterous scenes that involved a cat. I decided I would actually bring it to life as a joke and everyone on my team ended up loving it. 

Is there more material coming later in the year, perhaps?

Absolutely!  We've got a few more singles and music videos on the way!

The music video for War Paint has taken on a life of its own! Has it been strange seeing how far it has gone?!

The music video for War Paint started as a collaborative concept with some of my fire-spinner friends based out of Orlando, Florida. It was a lot of fun to create - and they even taught me how to use poi, fans and a little dragon staff so I could play with them. The song itself ended up being featured on the second season of the T.V. show, Lucifer, and that also really helped to draw attention to the video!

 

Being based out of Florida; what is the music scene like where you are? Are there a lot of great local artists?

I love the music scene in Florida. I currently live in St. Pete and I love that there is always a good show happening somewhere. I've also found a lot of great acts in Orlando and Jacksonville as well. A lot of us really enjoy trading shows with each other, which really helps the community. 

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Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

This fall, I will be mostly touring through the East Coast of the U.S. and part of the Midwest. Some of my favorite cities that I look forward to going back to are New York, Philadelphia; Atlanta, Asheville and of some cities throughout Florida. I'm also planning on visiting some new places like Austin, Dallas; Chicago and more! 

Might you be heading to the U.K. at all? Do you like British music?

I would absolutely love to! We will see where these single releases bring us! I would love to head to the U.K. next year and, yes, I love a lot of British music. Daughter has been one of my biggest inspirations as well as James Blake, Labrinth and Florence + the Machine.  

Is the stage the place you feel the strongest and most free? How important is it being up there and performing to the crowd?

I definitely try to make the stage my home when I'm there. It can be terrifying sometimes, especially when it's a new audience that doesn't know you. You're basically getting naked in front of people that can judge you, shame you and/or be rude to you if they wanted - or they could love you. But, when it's an audience that already likes you, it feels as though you're inviting loved ones into your home and connecting with them on a deep level.  

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It's definitely a challenge when circumstances are always changing. When you start out, you can play to a handful of people or a few hundred people on different nights. Some people are so drunk that they try and talk over you and you wonder why you're there - and then some people are there because they really love the music. Sometimes, you have a sound-system that doesn't work well and you can't hear yourself, so you're just hoping that you're on-pitch the entire time and sometimes everything sounds and feel so perfect it's like you're floating on a cloud.  

My goal has been to stay consistent no matter what the circumstance is; to perform like it's the best show every time. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I'd really love to just have great and successful releases and a really fun tour. Maybe, a few more T.V./film placements as well.  Right now, I'm also working on trying to finish my new album by the end of the year.  

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

One of the most moving experiences I've ever had was sitting in a room with an incredible chamber orchestra that was recording the strings for a few of my songs (that will be on the next album). David Campbell had arranged the strings and he was also there conducting. I asked if I could sit inside the tracking room as they were going through the songs before they started recording. I sat on the floor and just wept. It was the most beautiful sound and feeling I had ever experienced. 

I thought to myself: ‘If not a single person downloads these songs or cares to listen, everything I've been through and worked for is still worth this experience’.  Even now, when I'm feeling discouraged, it helps to put myself back in that moment and envision it happening again. 

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Well; a few of my favorite musicians/artists right now are Janelle Monáe, Aurora and Regina Spektor but, if I stood in the same room as them, I would probably just pass out.

As for a rider, since I constantly forget to eat, my rider would have it so my green room had tons of healthy food before and after the show. That's the one thing I haven't gotten the hang of just yet: making sure I have consistent and healthy food on the road. I would also like a box of puppies, maybe from a shelter. Maybe I could even help get them adopted at the shows. There is something so magical and calming about new life, specifically in the form of puppies. That's, like, way down the road though; when I get to the point where I'm allowed to ask for ridiculous things. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

My advice would be to strive to be the most authentic versions of themselves. People respond well to honesty and it really shows in your art. It's easy to get discouraged, but when you really put yourself out there, those who resonate with what you are doing will support you. It takes time, but being able to create your unique art that really impacts people is so much better than being a flash in the pan.

Not everyone will like what you're doing and that's ok. The point is to be able to do what makes you happy and what helps you become a better person. If people really connect with what you're doing along the way, then that is a great plus. 

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

At this moment, I've got a slight obsession with Aisha Badru. I discovered her by chance on Instagram and I can't stop listening to her. Her lyrics are so deep and I also love her music videos. 

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I really don't get much time, especially before new releases. I do have this bad habit of working myself until I mentally and physically just crash. Luckily, I live about fifteen minutes from the beach and another ten minutes from a bay where you can see dolphins. Being in those environments really helps me re-center when I remember to take the time for myself.    

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Bridges by Aisha Badru. The music video for that song is a masterpiece. 

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Follow Chasing Jonah

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INTERVIEW: Nia Orea

INTERVIEW:

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Nia Orea

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TAKING us towards the weekend…

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with a sense of calm and magic is Nia Orea. I have been speaking with the songwriter about her debut E.P., Gifted, and what it was like putting it together. She gives me a flavour of the artists who inspire her own work; how important her fans’ support is – I ask whether there are any gigs coming up.

Orea talks about her uncle managing Bob Marley and the impact that had on her; what she hopes to achieve before the end of this year; which upcoming act we should follow – she ends the interview by selecting a rather good song.

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Hi, Nia. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m great! My week’s been awesome! Soaking in most of the sun: the weather here in London is fantastic right now. Go heat wave! 

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please? 

My name is Nia Orea and I make Electronic music. I love E.D.M., Trap and Futurebass - and my mission is to take your ears and mind into my journey. 

Gifted is your debut E.P. Has it been exciting putting the songs together and completing it? 

Yes! This project is extra-special to me because, during the process, there were setbacks and tribulations, but the magic pulled through in the end. I also got to work with some inspiring people.

The songs mix different genres and sounds. Are you quite eclectic in your tastes? Which artists inspire you? 

The sound-system was always on in our house! I grew up listening to different types of Electronic music and Soft Rock. My dad was Electronic and Dance music whilst my mom was obsessed with the '80s artists like Madonna and Janet Jackson. Our household blasted an array of genres - we had record players, tapes and huge C.D. collection. As a kid, I was also obsessed with theatrical music and soundtracks. Guess it all rubbed off on me! 

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Your tracks have received a lot of love online. Is the support you get from fans important? Do they give you a lot of drive and confidence? 

Oh, yes! I love my fans and I love how they let me know how they feel when they listen to my tracks. Critics are also important to me: it helps me improve so that I can make sure that I hit you with something great, always.

Do you recall when music came into your life? Did you learn an instrument when you were a child? 

Yes. From a very young age, I was in my school choirs and plays! I self-taught myself how to play the recorder and I did a few lessons in piano and guitar. 

Is it true your uncle managed Bob Marley?! Did he instil a love of the Reggae in you? 

Yes. My uncle is a legend (R.I.P.) but his motivation and true love for Reggae music and Bob are what inspired me. He worked hard, very hard, and been through so much during his time working with Bob. But, those hurdles didn’t stop him from assisting Bob in following his dreams. Music was his life, as it is mine!

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

Where do you guys wanna see me play? You’ll, possibly, catch me touring in the U.S. very soon. We’re working on something there and, of course, Europe. I would also love to tour Japan! 

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How important is it being on stage and delivering to the audience? Can you describe that feeling? 

It feels great - making that connection with the people that listen to your music and story! I’m there to put on a show and make sure you guys have a great time. I wanna make sure it’s a performance you’ll always remember.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I would love to tour or perform with the musicians I admire and that I look up to…or even just meeting them. That would be good enough. 

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music - the one that sticks in the mind? 

That time I performed Hero for my high-school and I sang my heart out. Yes, I can sing and, yes, I’m shy but I could not see a damn thing when I was on that stage! The person controlling the lights sucked, it was all up in my eyes. But, that was good for me cause I couldn’t see the crowd and I wasn’t nervous. Haha. I was like twelve or something.

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Haha. Nice question. Skittles, but only blue and red ones. Cheetos - loads of Cheetos -, olives and feta cheese. Cans of Ting; jerk chicken and rice and peas with loads of fried plantain on the side! 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through? 

Stay focused and don’t rush! It’s ok to take a break and collect your mind. Identify areas where you’re weak and work on it. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Tune (Keys N Krates)

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

Keys N Krates is a talented band! Check 'em out as they are making waves right now. 

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Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind? 

I’m a gamer so, if I’m not making music, I’m probably playing Fortnite or some other game! I also love hanging with my friends on day outs, good food and vibes.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Flume (ft. Kai) - Never Be Like You

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Follow Nia Orea

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INTERVIEW: Rob Dickson

INTERVIEW:

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 Rob Dickson

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I have been talking with Rob Dickson…

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about his new single, Water Rushing In, and what sort of themes are discussed and explored in the upcoming album, Looking Through Your Window. Dickson talks about his musical tastes and the scene in Yukon (Canada) – he recommends some upcoming artists we should keep our eyes peeled for.

I ask whether tour dates are coming up and the possibility of U.K. dates; what advice he would give to artists emerging; the three albums that mean the most to him – Dickson talks about writing on the road and how he unwinds away from music.

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Hi, Rob. How are you? How has your week been?

Great. I'm traveling for work in a remote community and enjoying the sights and fresh air. I’m looking forward to getting home to my family, though.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I'm a songwriter, singer and guitarist based in Whitehorse, Yukon (Canada). I just finished my second album and I'm gearing up for its release and some touring this fall.

Water Rushing In is your new single. Is there a story behind the song?

There are a few stories embedded in that song. I wrote it in a few different parts and had to rework the lyrics a few times. It's sort of a portrait of a hybrid character I made up based on three individual characters.

One is an indigenous person, one is a dairy farmer and one is a logger. I was trying to imagine how different people experienced colonization and industrialization in Canada - and this portrait began to emerge in the form of a song.

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It is from the L.P., Looking Through Your Window. Are there consistent themes and stories that inspired the music?

On this record, I wanted to try a different approach. After writing, recording and performing the songs for my first record, Proof of Our Years, which was very introspective, I think I naturally wanted to look outwards for inspiration. I started grappling with how individuals interface with the world, how our experiences and memories shape our view of the world and form our predispositions and perspective.

I was looking out and was pretty horrified by what was happening around the world with the rise of nationalist groups, politics of fear; mistreatment of indigenous people and the environment. I think that made me want to examine the perspectives of myself and those around me through the songs.

Is it easy getting reception and opportunities where you are in Yukon (Canada)? What is the scene like there?

Canada and the Yukon, in particular, are pretty decent places to live as an artist. There are so many programs in place to support the making of creative work. It is very hard to tour profitably though due to the vast distances between cities - but I find audiences are really kind for the most part.

I get a sense travel and movement influences your music. Do you write a lot whilst commuting?

I have a pretty busy schedule at home so it can be hard to find minutes in the day to write at home. I also find my mind is a little clearer and less occupied by work and general tasks when I'm on the move. So, yeah, I definitely like to write a lot while traveling. I try to play guitar and play around with melodies every night at home too - but, I find it hard to get in the right headspace to write words at home.

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Which musicians inspired you when you were growing up? Did your parents open your eyes to lots of different sounds?

When I was a kid, I listened to a lot of records my dad had in the car: lots of '60s and '70s singer-songwriter music like Joan Armatrading, Billy Bragg; Neil Young and '70s and '80s Pop and New Wave like the Cure, Squeeze and The Kinks. I really liked listening to that music and imagining myself living in that world.

Will there be any live dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

I'll be playing a bunch of shows between Montreal and Toronto at the beginning of September which I'm really excited for!

Can we see you in the U.K. this year?

I don't have any dates in U.K. yet, but I'd really like to plan a U.K./Europe tour soon. I'd love to hear from anyone with an empty festival slot (smiles).

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Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

Plan a U.K./Europe tour for 2019!

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I got to play a show with John K. Sampson last year. That was pretty surreal and lovely.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

One Hundred Dollars - Songs of Man

The Barr Brothers - The Barr Brothers

Land of Talk - Some Are Lakes

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Focus on making the best music you can make - that's the most important thing. Work hard and be critical but have fun and remember music is a form of play. Be yourself and don't be afraid to reach out and ask people for help. Most people love to help people.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Ansley Simpson

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ansley Simpson is an incredible songwriter who is doing really great things with her music right now. I'm also really into Jennifer Castle, SUUNS; U.S. Girls and The Highest Order.

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IN THIS PHOTO: U.S. Girls

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I do try and make time to relax without thinking about my work. It can be hard to do, though; I have become a bit obsessive about it. I like getting outside and running or biking. I do those things regularly for fun and they help me clear my head and put things back into perspective. I also spend lots of time with my partner and our kids. They help ground me I think.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Where the Sparrows Drop - One Hundred Dollars

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INTERVIEW: Moderate Rebels

INTERVIEW:

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Moderate Rebels

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THE incredible Moderate Rebels have been talking with me…

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about their new track, Beyond Hidden Words, and how it came together. They tell me about their forthcoming album and what we can expect in terms of themes and stories – I discover how Moderate Rebels got together and what the secret to their sound/music is.

I ask how important it is getting on stage and performing; which upcoming artists we should have a listen to; whether there is any time to unwind – they reveal what gigs are coming up and pick some cool songs to end the interview with.

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Hi, Moderate Rebels. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello. Good, thanks. We’ve had a good week. People have been kind enough to play the new Moderate Rebels song on the radio and also write encouraging things about it…so; we’ll smell the flowers along the way, why not?

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourselves, please?

Moderate Rebels is a collective of friends, based in London, that get together to make music that hopefully is of its time (i.e. now). We call ourselves ‘anti-music’ as the emphasis is on feeling and ideas rather than technique or cultivating musical skill. We work with our limitations and look to make music we like - that’s it, really.

Beyond Hidden Words is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

Uses of language, generally, seems to be a running theme in Moderate Rebels songs: what words are used to justify all kinds of behaviour and their different potential meanings – and, also, what is and isn’t said is part of that too. But, we feel this is a really hopeful song…maybe about breaking through all of that; getting past those slippery words, and what’s not said, and into strong feelings and people joining together…to look to put a stop to things that they don’t feel should be going on.

It is from your forthcoming album. Can you reveal any titles and themes that are explored?

How language can be used and misused is certainly in there. Also; how the energy and glorious noise of music can genuinely lift up your feelings and, therefore, from that start to make a better day, perhaps…

It lifts us - so that’s why it’s coming out into the world, really.

Do you think there is a secret ingredient in your music? How would you define the ethos and sound of Moderate Rebels?

It’s not a secret as such, but actively not thinking is a really big part of what’s going on for us. The music seems to arrive in an unconscious way: we don’t try to write it. We didn’t try to record this album or the last; they just arrived. Embracing our limitations is important, as is simplicity: “Use as few words and chords as possible” we say. Around the first album, someone said Moderate Rebels were “simple but complicated” which we liked.

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How did you two find one another? Was there an instant spark?

There are many members of Moderate Rebels - but only some people will show up for photos…others only play at gigs; others do artwork or go to the studio etc. We found each other the usual way, really: friends, other music groups; parties, friends of friends etc. Some people will be involved in some things but not others.

It’s a fluid set up, which suits everyone.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Not to be funny here, but we don’t hope to achieve anything, really: we’d like people to hear the music we’ve made and we want to play some fun shows. Maybe make another album after that. There’s nothing we want to chase with this; making the album we want to make and putting it out into the world is the achievement for us. There’s nothing much to win and nothing much to lose beyond that.

Have you both got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

We had a very good time playing Rockaway Beach at Butlin’s in January - and the first Moderate Rebels live show - where we really didn’t know what was going to happen. It could have been a total disaster…it was very exciting. That went so well that we decided to write more than just the one song we had at the time.

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Kanye West. I do think he is one of the all-time greats. Yeezus may well be my album of the century so far...

Vegan curry on the rider, please.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The only advice we have to offer is…don’t listen to anyone’s advice…we don’t think that’s the
best way to get to the point of doing whatever it may be that you would really want to do.

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Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

11th August at Tooting Tram & Social; another gig in October in London, plus a few more…and then we are doing a U.K. tour in late-November around the album.

How does your live set usually sound? Will you be playing new album tracks or dipping into your past work for upcoming gigs?

Some shows we’ve done have just been thirty-minute versions of one song: sometimes, we do six songs. There’s no constant. New and old songs probably, yeah. But, they will be different from the album versions and, sometimes, pretty different. We’re not particularly interested in faithful reproductions - you can listen to the albums for that. We want to make unrepeatable live moments if we can.

Is it important getting on stage and putting your music to the people? What kind of buzz do you get?

Very important, really. It was the reason we carried on with Moderate Rebels, after the first show, and did more music. If our gigs are approached correctly by us then it should have an unpredictable element and tangible risk of collapse in it…which seems to bring the best out of the group and also make it more engaging than just another gig for the audience.

We would much rather risk the odd disaster here and there and reach for something special than be just reliable or professionally slick. Personally; we’re just not inspired by that kind of stuff and we have no desire whatsoever to be light entertainers.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Rodents/PHOTO CREDIT: Habeeb Giwa

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

South London’s Rodents are fun. Quite like what I’ve heard by The Blinders, too.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Blinders

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Losing ourselves in music, listening and playing, is one of the main ways we unwind. Cycling about the place is also a favourite. Apart from that, the usual: books, films; art, dancing etc. Nothing that special.

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Kids See Ghosts (Kanye West, Kid Cudi) - Reborn

Arctic Monkeys - American Sports

Spacemen 3 - Big City (Everybody I Know Can Be Found Here)

Mark Pritchard (ft. Gregory Whitehead) - Come Let Us

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INTERVIEW: AKIVA

INTERVIEW:

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AKIVA

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WITH Donald Trump parking his orange backside…

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in the U.K. for a few days; it seems like a perfect time to speak with AKIVA about their new single, Ammunition. They talk about figures like Donald Trump and the impact they are having on the world; how the band got together and the sort of artists they are influenced by – I ask whether there will be gigs and more material before the end of the year.

AKIVA select a new act we should be looking out for; whether there is any chance to chill when not making music; which artist they’d support on tour given the chance; what advice they would offer upcoming acts – the guys each select a song to end the interview with.

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Hi, guys. How are you? How has your week been? 

Pretty special. We released our new single, Ammunition, and watched England get to their first World Cup semi-final in twenty-eight years. Doesn’t get much better than that!

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourselves, please? 

We’re AKIVA. There are four of us and we’re from Bedfordshire. We’re into analogue synth. loops; drum-beats with a groove; rolling basslines; Stones-y guitar sounds and big choruses. Our sound was probably originally inspired by all that Electro-Indie crossover stuff that came out of the nineties: The Charlatans, Primal Scream; UNKLE; Black Grape; Doves; Stereo MC’s etc. – and, also more recently, the likes of The Horrors, Jamie T and Beyond the Wizards Sleeve. We’re also big fans of trying to use music to get a message across - particularly in the volatile climate we currently live in. 

We were recently described as ‘George Orwell-meets-The Killers’ - which is not far off.

The video for Ammunition is out. What was it like working with Wayne McCauslin on it? 

This is the second track we’ve worked on with Wayne and hopefully won’t be the last. He’s a real talent. We’re huge fans of his animation style. He totally gets our music and where we’re coming from and has the ability to take the messages we’re trying to convey in our songs to a whole new level with his visuals. He’s a real pleasure to work with and we feel very lucky to have crossed paths with him.

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The song is getting a lot of great feedback. How did it come together? Is there a story behind the track? 

Thanks. Yeah; this is actually quite an old song. We’ve been playing it live for a few years but never record it until now. It was originally inspired by the many hasty and disastrous military interventions made by the U.K. and U.S. the last ten to fifteen years: Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya; but it’s also a more general reflection on the international military conflict in general and how it rarely results in any positive outcomes. Unfortunately, with some of the lunatics we have in power at the moment, it feels like another one is not far away.

In a weird way; do twisted leaders like Donald Trump give you plenty of inspiration?! Are you ever surprised by what is happening in the world?!

There’s certainly plenty to write about at the moment! Yeah, Donald Trump is an imbecile (I’d like to see him in a room with De Niro) but I think he’s a symptom of a wider problem rather than a cause. There’s a worrying trend towards rising populism, nationalism and mistrust of others in all countries at the moment - and it wouldn’t surprise me at all to see it get stronger. As long as inequality continues to rise, which it shows every sign of doing, more people will find crazy populists with dangerous ideas appealing.

The current climate feels very much like what I imagine the period before the Second World War to be like. I often used to wonder how it was possible that someone like Adolf Hitler ever got elected to power but, having lived through the few years, I can see how it happened. It’s a worry.

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How did AKIVA come together? When did you all find one another? 

We all went to school together. Rob and Dave are brothers and were at junior-school with Malc. I moved down from the North and met the others at secondary-school. We started out by messing around with guitar riffs and trying to learn the odd cover that we could play to our mates in the school talent shows and stuff. In the sixth-form, we started to take it a bit more seriously and set up camp in Dave and Rob’s foam-plastered garage - much to the disappointment of their neighbours.

That’s when we formed the band properly. 

Is there going to be an album or E.P. coming from the band later in the year? 

Yes, there is. We have another single called Broken Ship which we’ll be releasing later this year as part of a four-track E.P. There’s a theme of conflict and political tension that runs through all the tracks on the E.P.

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Which artists do you take guidance from? Who do you all count as idols?

There’s a long list! We take guidance from anything we like, which is quite a lot. We love all the classic old stuff like The Rolling Stones, The Who; The Beatles, The Kinks – they laid the blueprint for male guitar bands and you can’t help but be influenced by them.

We’re also quite into Electronic music and were influenced by a lot of early-nineties Rave and Dance music and bands that took that feel and crossed it over into the guitar space like The Stone Roses and The Charlatans - as well as the likes of The Prodigy and Chemical Brothers. More recently, we’re big fans of The Horrors, Tame Impala and Everything Everything: three amazing bands with incredible layering and sonic detail in their tracks.

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What do you hope to achieve before the end of 2018? 

Hopefully, to just get more people to hear our music and see our videos. We’re pretty proud of what we’ve created and we want as many people to hear it as possible.

Have you all got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind? 

We’ve been together as a four for a long time and we’re really tight mates. Some of my favourite memories are from the adventures we had when we were first starting out. I’ll never forget a time we hired a van for a gig in Greenwich and Rob, our bass player, was driving us all down (bass players always drive the van!).

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He crashed it into a massive concrete bollard as he tried to reverse-park into a tight space outside the gig venue. He then proceeded to grind the side panel backwards and forwards on the bollard whilst trying unsuccessfully to get it out. It just got worse and worse and we were pissing ourselves laughing.

For some reason, that one always sticks out in my mind. It just reminds me of a time feeling very free when nothing seemed to matter. That’s what I love about being involved with music – when it allows you to feel like that. 

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail? 

I think it would have to be The Stone Roses. Us supporting them on a stage in Manchester and then joining them at the end of their set for I Am the Resurrection. I think I’ve had that dream about fifty times.

The rider would be sixty-eight lemons and eighty-nine tins of red, white; blue, black and gold paint. Maybe we’d throw it all over ourselves and the crowd in the encore for a great big, united; Jackson Pollock, paint-splattered psychedelic groove-out.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through? 

Be prepared to graft: put some serious hours in and just keep going. There’ll be times when it feels like nobody’s listening but don’t let it set you back, just keep on. Never stop trying to learn from the music you love and trying to refine and improve your art. The ultimate pleasure in it all comes from realising you’ve created something you didn’t think you were capable of.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching? 

Yeah. We’re playing at Pennfest on Friday, 20th July. We’re on the main stage at 2:45 P.M. It’s a pretty big gig for us. We’re on before The Bluetones - which is pretty special for us as we’ve always been big fans. I think we played a cover of Slight Return in our first-ever gig. We’re also playing The Finsbury in London on Saturday, 8th September.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Hookworms

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

One of my favourite bands at the moment is a band called Hookworms from Leeds. They’re incredible: full of sonic layers, bleeping analogue synths; Krautrock beats and howling vocals. Right up our street. I’ve not been able to see them live yet. They don’t tour much as they all also have full-time jobs (something we can identify with!). Their latest album, Microshift, is brilliant. Go and check it out.

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Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind? 

Not really. We don’t tend to do much unwinding. In the age where all music is free, there’s not much money in it for smaller independent band like us (and Hookworms!); so you need another job to pay the bills. When we’re not working, we tend to work on the band, whether it’s rehearsing, writing; recording or working with visual artists on the graphics and videos. There’s never enough time.

I remember watching that Ian Curtis film, Control, and thinking how knackered he must have been in the scenes when he’s working full-time in a Macclesfield office before jumping in the car and driving down to play in London…then back up to Macclesfield for work again the next day. It can feel like that sometimes but it’s all good. Wouldn’t want it any other way.

Music’s a pretty addictive thing and I tend to spend most of my time thinking about it when I’m not doing it. Whenever you do get a break, it doesn’t take long before you want to dive straight back in.

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

With pleasure. I’ll go for Can’t Do by Everything Everything. I absolutely love this band. Their music is so clever, layered and intricate but still has loads of catchy Pop hooks in it. You can love their tunes after one listen but still find something new each time you go back to it. They recorded this in the same studio we recorded Ammunition and Luke - one of our engineers worked on it. That was quite inspirational for me.

Malc (Guitar): The Horrors are right up there for me. Top band and their last album, V, has some of their best work in my opinion. The track I love most is Press Enter to Exit which has sounded ever-better cracked loud in the summer sun. I challenge anyone to hear that awesome grooving bass and not nod their head or shuffle their feet. Add to that the huge distorted drum break and grinding machine guitars and you have a dream track for me....oh, yeah, and it has a doorbell in it. Cool, hey!

Dave Merc (Drums): My choice is Electric Man by Rival Sons. Love that guitar riff and solid drum beat

Rob (Bass). I’ll go for an old track – Dying Days by Screaming Trees. '60s Psych vibes with soulful vocals. My favourite to listen to in the car on long, hot drives on my own

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INTERVIEW: Domanique Grant

INTERVIEW:

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Domanique Grant

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I have been chatting with Domanique Grant…

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about her debut single, Investment, and what its tale is. She talks about her upcoming E.P., Playhouse, and the themes that inspired the songs; which artists were important to her growing up; why the Canadian thinks her nation is producing so many great artists – Grant gives some useful advice to upcoming songwriters.

I was curious to know whether there will be any touring dates and which new artist we should follow; if she gets time to relax away from music – Grant chooses a classic song to end the interview on.

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Hi, Domanique. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey, Sam! I’m great. Soldiering through this intense Toronto heat but loving the sunshine.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m Domanique Grant and I’m a singer-songwriter from Toronto that love’s making music that reminds people to feel something. I’d say, genre-wise, I’m a fusion of Pop, Soul and World - and I’m usually compared to fusions of artists like Sia and Sade, but you tell me (smiles).

Investment is your debut single. What inspired the song’s creation?

Yes! Investment is my debut single - and I’m so happy to finally share it with the world. 

Investment is about what we’d get in return if we were able to quantify all that we’ve given up for relationships. I had a blast working with Grammy and Juno-nominated producers Kuya on this record and they really brought it to life. Investment was inspired by a bad dating experience that simultaneous coincided with seeing friend after friend giving their all in long relationships, only to see their partners take all that they could, leaving them with little.

I really wanted to talk about the non-committed culture of dating in big cities alongside failed relationships and losing yourself after all is said and done...but, I wanted to talk about it through the lens of picking yourself up and starting all over again.

It is taken from your debut E.P., Playhouse. Can you reveal what sort of themes and stories you drew from to create the songs?

Well. I grew up living in quite a few big cities around the world, from cities in South America to East Africa. When you travel a lot growing up, you experience the world a bit differently and Playhouse really takes those real experiences - stories, I guess - and turns them into themes. The songs are all pretty personal as one of the underlying themes that Playhouse explores is how these experiences shape the meaning of home for me.

The E.P. starts from that perspective and ties it to conversations about relationships, identity; dream-chasing and more.

You moved between continents and was a motivational speaker. How did you settle into music – did you learn a lot from those early years?

I definitely did learn a lot.

In a strange way, the motivational speaking and travelling really informed my music today. I grew up playing instruments like the cello and piano, writing poems and shower-singing to the greats. I was just an odd, curious kid. Odd kids don’t always fit in and, I guess, that’s where reminding others that they do (fit in) turned into speaking. For a while, though, I felt like I just didn’t have anything important enough to write about. I actually really settled into music when the travelling got the busiest because I needed another way to share my experiences living in new places.

After settling back in Toronto, I was invited to be a part of a Dora-nominated theatre production where I was asked to include original music that connected with my life. After the show sold out and was nominated for a number of awards, I realized that this was something that I wanted to do and that’s when I started recording.

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Have you always been into music? Which artists struck your heart growing up?

Music has always been a part of my life in some form. I was obsessed with a bunch of artists growing up. A few of them were Alanis Morissette, Sade; Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley. I’d almost always have one of their songs on-repeat. They all told stories in a way that made you want to jump into their songs and celebrate, while still managing to affect you emotionally.

I am seeing a lot of great Canadian artists emerge. Do you think there is a reason the nation is providing so many great musicians?

Canada has an incredible industry that supports the arts and I think that - aside from the raw talent that has always been here - we’re really fortunate to have funding and resources that also support artists at all levels. The rise in artists like Drake, Justin Bieber and The Weeknd have also put Canada on the map - but, I also think that Canadians are hard workers and talented and that just speaks for itself.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

Tour dates will be announced really soon at Domaniquegrant.com and I can’t wait to share.

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Will you visit the U.K. this year and see us?

I’ll definitely be in the U.K. in 2019: another adventure that will be a first! We may be there sooner, though. I’ve heard incredible things about visiting and, aside from the incredible talent and fans there, you guys have this amazing chocolate with cornflakes that I can’t find anywhere else!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Finally sharing music with the world and (just) enjoying the process of a lot of firsts - including my first E.P., my first tour stops and more. I get butterflies thinking about it.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I’d say one of my favourite memories was doing my first TED Talk. It was on my bucket list and it was an experience that I’ll never forget.

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Errr; that’s a tough one there are so many artists that I love. Definitely Sade, Beyoncé or Sia right now…I can’t choose. Just because I’m also a '90s kid I’d have to say that, if the Spice Girls ever did a reunion, I would opt for a sixth spot (smiles).

Rider-wise. Hmm; well, seven random things, in no particular order, would include:

1. Raw honey

2. Marshmallows and liquorice (my embarrassing love)

3. Hot yoga studio

4. Lots of mangoes

5.  A puppy (Mariah Carey-style, just to say that I did it…plus, I love animals)

6. Fenty makeup – just in case mine ran out

7. A humidifier

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Create music that you want to hear and be true to yourself (smiles).

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IN THIS IMAGE: Chloe x Halle

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m a huge Chloe x Halle fan; though they’re getting pretty popular so I don’t know if they’re new anymore.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Not as much anymore. I love nature and love yoga so I think I’d be somewhere climbing mountains until I got to a dramatic flatbed to stretch in (laughs). That, or binge-watching until the new Game of Thrones season comes out. I also love a good book!

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can each choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Fast Car - Tracy Chapman. One of my favourites.

For anyone reading that needs a reminder to live and appreciate exactly where they are...

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INTERVIEW: SEIL LIEN

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jimi Rae

SEIL LIEN

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THE majestic and wonderful…

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SEIL LIEN has been telling me about the single, I Am Fire, and her fantastic new E.P., A Little While More. She talks to me about getting into music and the sort of influences, musical and parental, that helped guide her career – I ask which songs from the E.P. SEIL LIEN responds to hardest.

The songwriter discusses touring and explains the importance of being up on the stage; a new artist we should follow and watch closely; whether there is much time to relax away from music – she ends the interview by selecting a rather good song.

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Hi, SEIL LIEN. How are you? How has your week been?

Hwat! This weather! Just back from Glasgow, caught Mr Matt White (our bass/guitar player) playing with The Temperance Movement at Trnsmt Festival; I then hung back to see the folks and get things organised for our Scottish dates at the end of the month.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m SEIL LIEN (pronounced Seal lee-in). It's my Chinese name: my mother's Scottish and my dad’s Chinese. It means ‘little lotus’. 

It started as a little underground arts band creating live ambient landscapes, improvising and collaborating with different types of artists. It eventually mutated into a more structured band format but I have tried to stay true to its roots, placing a lot of importance on creating atmosphere. 

I am interested in I Am Fire. How did that song come together and what does it mean to you?

I had written the main guitar riff and had penned a couple of variations of the song. When I took it to the producer (and artist in the same name) Rico he got it; he could feel what I wanted to put across. We did a fifteen-hour session. It was a cold, dark Christmas night and we ripped it apart and put it back together again.

It’s not a blow-by-blow true story but certainly relatable. It’s kind of about admitting that you're sabotaging a relationship -  it’s not my story but it’s a narrative I've certainly danced with on more than one occasion. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Frank To (who designed the artwork for I Am Fire)

Can you tell me about the cover art for the single and how that was put together?

An old school acquaintance was making incredible artwork and he is being hailed as one of Scotland's most exciting contemporary artists. In his current work and the piece he did for I Am Fire, he manipulates and sets fire to gunpowder. It's really special! 

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The E.P., A Little While More, is out. Do you think there are particular themes and stories that go into the songs?

It’s all true in one way or another... 

I wanted the songs to create a mood rather than just the words painting a picture. It's important to me that music is emotionally tangible. I worked really hard on that and really hope it comes across.

Is there a song from the E.P. that stands as a favourite? Which tracks means the most? 

Hmmm; not really. Although, if you had a gun to my head: I Am Fire is my favourite to play; Chase the Devil is my favourite to sing and A Little While More is my favourite to hear back. 

Do you recall when music came into your life? Was there a moment or artist that lit that fuse?

My dad plays classical Spanish guitar. I have memories of sitting by his feet watching him play things like Suite Española No. 5 Asturias. This passion for Spanish and Latin American guitar was passed down from his father. I’ve inherited the most phenomenal record collection and I’m very much influenced by it. 

I was a teenager in the '90s; I was into all the typical grungy stuff – Pearl Jam, Nirvana and Alice in Chains. I'm not sure who lit what to be honest…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jimi Rae

The moment that lit the fuse for this particular project I can actually pinpoint. It was seeing a music and dance collaboration between Nitin  Sawhney and Akram Khan. I was so blown away, I came out of the theatre and said: “I want to do that”. That’s when I started working with dancers and started creating 'atmospheric' music. It was the beginning of SEIL LIEN. 

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

I’m playing at the Hope and Anchor in Islington on 18th July and I’m very privileged to be opening for Sylvain Sylvain from the New York Dolls at his book launch in Glasgow and Edinburgh on 26th and 27th July respectively. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: SEIL LIEN at Bush Hall supporting Sophie Barker (Zero 7 singer) 

Is the stage the place you feel the strongest and most free? How important is it being up there and performing to the crowd?

Ha, well. I was always a reluctant performer: I’m naturally shy but the need is greater; it’s the strangest thing and I’m sure that’s a common story in the history of performers. I dropped out of art school so had to find another artform to express myself….

I didn’t really think about the consequences until the love for songwriting was greater than my fear of the stage. It's a pretty special way to connect with people, which is ultimately why you do it...so, very important!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want the album to come out and for the people who get it to have the opportunity to get it and then we can all hook up and have a…party? 

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IN THIS IMAGE: The limited edition version of the single is available here

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Getting the funding from Creative Scotland to make the record. I felt free!  

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Nick Cave - and vodka martinis.

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IN THIS PHOTO: SEIL LIEN and band setting up at the National Portrait Gallery, London/PHOTO CREDIT: Talya Jacoby

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find your voice, get a mentor and carve your own path.

Some years ago, dealing with different commercial producers and major labels, I was always told to try and write ‘happy tunes'....which I'm not very good at! One of these times, I went to Rico and he said something that has always stayed with me and influenced a lot of my later choices: “Everyone. Everyone gets spat out the other side. The most important thing is that you can live with what you put out into the world. That you can look back and be proud of whatever happens”…

For me, that nailed it. Integrity is everything and, if no one likes it, so fuc*ing what. You made a bit of art that was good for you at the time...

Hey; well done you!

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IN THIS PHOTO: La Luz/PHOTO CREDIT: @sub_lation

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Well; it’s probably not new but it was new to me. I was painting in my studio the other day, the sun was streaming through the window and it came on BBC Radio 6 Music: La Luz - California Finally. It was perfect: I wanted it to last for at least ten minutes. 

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

When you work in the arts, it’s tricky because it’s not a job you can put away at 6 P.M. and go home - and now you have to smear your every move over the socials it’s now even harder to separate your home life from your ‘work’. In the moments in-between, I walk my dog; I paint, I sketch; I write, I listen to records... 

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Well. The sun's still shining and I'm off to the studio so, hey, La Luz - California Finally!

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INTERVIEW: Caplin & Massiah

INTERVIEW:

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Caplin & Massiah

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BEFORE I wrap up the day’s work…

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I have been speaking with Zeeteah Massiah and Paul Caplin of Calplin & Massiah. They have been telling me about their formation and the anti-Trump message behind All You – I ask them about Donald Trump and how they feel about his state visit to the U.K.

The duo reveals whether more material is coming and if touring is a possibility; the sort of sounds that influence their music; which new artists we should get behind – they each end the interview by selecting a song.

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Hi, guys. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi! Our week has been exciting but a little exhausting as we race to get our new video ready.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourselves, please?

We are Zeeteah Massiah and Paul Caplin; a husband-and-wife musical partnership. We’ve made two Zeeteah Massiah albums together and we’re now releasing our first track together as a duo, Caplin & Massiah.

How did Caplin & Massiah get together? When did you find one another?

We first met in 2005 when we were both visiting the same person in hospital. Zeeteah was living in Germany at the time but we kept in touch and over the next few years, our friendship grew into a romantic and musical partnership.

All You is your new single. I believe there is a strong anti-Donald Trump message. Was there a particular speech/moment from him that influenced the song?

Like so many people, we used to regard Trump as a joke, just a buffoon. As his campaign for the presidency gathered momentum and he gained in confidence, we began to be alarmed by the things he was saying and the popular support he was attracting. Now, as our song says, we don’t think it’s funny anymore. Paul says: “If there was one single turning point for me, it might have been the notorious and nauseating video clip of him mocking a disabled reporter”.

He is coming to see us in the U.K. on a state visit. Do you think he will be met with a lot of fury and protest? How do you think he is changing/affecting the world right now?

Major protests have already been organized around the country, including a huge march in London. It’s reassuring that people perceive the danger to all of us of allowing people like Trump to gain political power and are willing to do something to make their feelings known. How is Trump changing the world right now? He’s dragging the global economy down and sabotaging people’s sense of right and wrong, true and false.

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Will there be more music from you in the coming months? What are you working on?

Zeeteah performs regularly at clubs around London. Catch her if you can! We’re preparing an album of her live performances and writing new Caplin & Massiah tracks. More soon!

I get splashes of Bajan and Reggae in your sounds. Can you give me an idea of the music you both grew up around?

Zeeteah was born in Barbados and grew up with Calypso and Reggae. As a teenager in London, Paul was into everything from Mozart to Psychedelic Rock. The two of us have been through so many stages of musical development and enjoyed so many different musical styles. We love it all.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Our immediate goal is to promote our new single, All You, and the message behind it. After that, Zeeteah’s live album and new Caplin & Massiah tracks.

Have you both got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

We both have so many…but:

Paul: Going from zero to famous overnight with Haysi Fantayzee - and the first time I wrote a song for Zeeteah.

Zeeteah: Singing with Tom Jones on a world tour. It was one long, crazy party (and what we’re doing now).

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If you could both support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Zeeteah wins this one: Shirley Bassey. Tthe rider is that they get to sing a duet.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

All that matters in music is what you feel when you hear it. Make people feel.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

Zeeteah has lots of live shows coming up. Just google ‘Zeeteah gigs’.

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How does your live set usually unravel? Will you be playing new album tracks or dipping into your past work for upcoming gigs?

‘Unravel’? Hopefully, it doesn’t do that…

Zeeteah’s live shows cover a huge range of music, including our albums and classics that she loves. Caplin & Massiah is mainly a studio project but we’ll be planning live shows once we’ve finished our first album.

Is it important getting on stage and putting your music to the people? What kind of buzz do you get?

Zeeteah: it’s absolutely my favourite thing.

Paul: I’m happiest in the studio - but watching Zeeteah perform is absolutely MY favourite thing.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Lady Leshurr

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Lady Leshurr; Sherrie Silver (dancer) and Laurence Jones.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Laurence Jones

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Not at the moment! But, in general, we make plenty of time to relax. We’ve just moved out of London and it’s so easy to chill in our new home in the country.

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Zeeteah: Bonnie Raitt - Something to Talk About

Paul: Nina Simone - I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free

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INTERVIEW: Megan Airlie

INTERVIEW:

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ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Beth Chalmers Photography 

Megan Airlie

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I have been talking with Megan Airlie…

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about her incredible new single, Honey, and what its story is. Airlie discusses classic singers and how they influence her; whether the scene in Glasgow, her hometown, has a great scene; which new acts we should get behind – she tells me whether Pop music, in her mind, has lost some of its depth and soul.

Airlie shares some favourite memories from music and reveals her ambitions for the remainder of the year; whether she gets much time to unwind away from music – she ends the interview by picking a song I had never heard before.

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Hi, Megan. How are you? How has your week been?

Great! Resting this week after the week previous - because I was playing XpoNorth and TRNSMT festival.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m a twenty-four-year-old singer-songwriter from Glasgow. I take a lot of influence from Jazz, Blues; Folk, Soul and anything I can dance to. You can find me playing solo or backed by a wonderful band. Some of them I’ve been playing with for a long time - which always makes for an electric show.

Honey is your new single. Can you tell me the story behind the song?

It was written five years ago now. It’s an easy breezy love song that was sparked out of a relationship I had. It denotes a more innocent time where you are totally engrossed by a new love and you want to spend every minute with them. In reality, the relationship itself was not all sunshine - which is why wanted to elude darker tones in the music video.

It seems to evoke memories of classic singers like Billie Holiday and Judy Garland. Are these artists you are inspired by?

Yes, definitely; especially Judy Garland. I have listened to her from a very young age,

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Do you find more beauty and personal possibility taking from older music and the romance of the chanteuse? Do you think modern music lacks true soul and depth?

Pop music, way back when, definitely evokes a more romantic and, it seems, they thought more of what they were trying to say, whereas Pop music today seems less personal and is just a means for dancing and churning out ‘hits’ as fast as possible. However, there is music I feel - not in the charts - that still has the same push of passion and emotion. People still have soul!

Is there going to be more material arriving? What are you working on?

You can expect another single within the next couple of months - and I am currently working on new material to record and release at the end of this summer.

You are seen as one of the best new singers coming out of Scotland. Do you think the country gets the attention it deserves? What is the music scene like where you are?

Being Scottish, I have the internal pride in being so. So, yes, I always feel it deserves more attention, not just in music. The music scene is vibrant and bursting out the seams. Glasgow, in particular, you can walk down one street and hear multiple different types of bands playing. The scene itself in Glasgow seems to be quite cliquey, as if you have to earn your stripes before being accepted, but it is a warm environment to be in, mostly.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Beth Chalmer

Which artists and albums did you fall for growing up? When did music come into your life?

Michael Jackson’s Bad, Fiona Apple’s Tidal; Reuben’s 3 and Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions

There was always music around; from the Britpop and Punk my dad listened to; to the '90s Grunge and Alternative scene my aunt was a part of. I would always be listening to noughties and '90s R&B on the music channels. I started playing the saxophone when I was twelve and then started to take singing seriously when I was seventeen.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

To have a solid record in the works and to get some good support slots.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Probably getting the opportunity to play XpoNorth this year with my band behind me. People were so lovely and responsive and I made a lot of contacts. I kept thinking: ‘Yep; this is definitely what I’m meant to be doing’.

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Fiona Apple, for sure.

Rider: ideally, this would be good coffee and a bottle of red wine.

Can we see you on the road at all? What tour dates are coming up?

Currently, no tour planned but, hopefully, that (touring) will happen in the near-future.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stick at it. If you’re enjoying what you’re doing then the likelihood is someone else will do.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Harry & The Hendersons

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Harry & The Hendersons and Russell Stewart - both Glasgow-based, Scottish artists.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Russell Stewart/PHOTO CREDIT: Delilah Niel Films

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Doing music is my chill time and escape from normal day to day life. I can’t seem to tire of it. I don’t get enough time to do it as I work a nine-five job.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

There’s new music coming out from a Scottish band, Awkward Family Portraits - and their new single, Baby Blue, is out soon

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INTERVIEW: Lindsay Ell

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR 

Lindsay Ell

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HAVING played Country 2 Country…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

back in March, the talented songwriter Lindsay Ell has barely had time to put her feet on the ground and relax. I have been asking her about the album, The Project, and which songs she views as highlights; what it was like playing the illustrious Country 2 Country – she reveals what comes next for her.

Lindsay Ell explains how important Nashville’s people and sounds are to her; which artists inspired her at a young age; if she has advice for upcoming songwriters - the U.S. songwriter reveals some treasured musical memories (catch her play Borderline, London on 16th Oct and Night & Day Cafe, Manchester on 17th Oct).

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Hi, Lindsay. How are you? How has your week been?

Great! It’s nice to be back in Nashville for a couple days.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

I am a now Nashvillian, as of eight years ago: I’m originally from Calgary, Canada. I play Country with flares of Soul, Blues and Rock in it: kind of like if you combined Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban and John Mayer together.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

Talk to me about Country 2 Country. What was it like playing there?!

Playing Country 2 Country for my first time in March was a bucket-list moment. There is an energy in The O2 that is hard to describe in words. Fans in the U.K. have such a passion for music and you can feel it standing on stage at The O2. They care about every word you sing and every note I play. It’s nice to have an audience that is right in the palm of your hands.

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Your album, The Project, is out. What is the derivation of that title? What was the first song that started the album?

The first song that started The Project was Waiting on You. When my producer and I sat down for our first music meeting, it was a bluesy tones of Waiting on You that made us both look up from the speakers and be like: ‘We have something here; this is where we start’. 

I wanted to call the album The Project because it felt like a science project of me discovering who I am. It was like I was going through different forms of experimentation to putting together the puzzle of what I wanted my debut album to look like. So, when we were looking for a title…The Project seemed like the only thing that was right.

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PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR

Are there themes and story arcs that connect the songs? Do you have a favourite cut?

The overall theme of the record is me being at a happy point in my life; writing from a place where I’m grateful for what I have; the friends that surround me and the love in my life. From a place of happiness like that, you can write from a perspective that allows you to appreciate things you don’t always notice.

My favorite song would be a tie between two.  I really love the song, Castle, because I feel, musically, it allowed me to really get some of the guitar tones recorded that I wanted to express on this record. Castle also talks about not taking for granted the things that surround us every day. Sometimes, in life, we get so focused on always getting the newest and brightest next thing: bigger houses, faster cars….no matter where we’re at, we always find a way to want more. Castle talks about trying to look at everything you have, today, at this moment - and being grateful for it. 

My other favorite on this record is Worth the Wait. I feel that, sometimes, we need to work too hard for the things we want in life and, therefore, need to wait longer than we want for them. But, it’s in the fight and the journey that what makes it really worth it in the end. 

What comes next? Will there be more material this year – or do you want to get this album out and as far as possible?

I am currently writing the next record as we speak and am so excited for fans to hear this new music. I feel that Kristian Bush, my producer, and I will be getting into the studio near the end of this year. So, you might be able to hear sneak peeks of something near the end of the year - but, new music will probably be coming in 2019.

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PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR 

Do you recall the musicians and albums that inspired you when you were growing up?

Shania Twain was a huge role model for me growing up. Sheryl Crow and Tuesday Night Music Club was a record I played on-repeat. Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Ray Vaughan; Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton were all huge influences to me growing up. 

Based out of Nashville; how important are the city and its people regarding your sound and drive?

I love living in Nashville. It’s such a beautiful community here of which I feel supported by my peers and fellow artists. Nashville really cultivates a family atmosphere - which is rare and sometimes hard to find. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

In 2018, I want to solidify getting a top-10 on Country radio as well as securing a major tour for next year. We’ve had such an incredible past year – and, over the next few months, we’ll be planning gigs. So, 2019 should be exciting!

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

There are so many amazing memories. Getting to tour with Brad Paisley on the Weekend Warrior World Tour was so incredible; being able to trade licks with him on stage every night. 

Playing at the Country Music Association Awards for my first time, playing the guitar for Carrie Underwood was amazing. Also; having my first official feature on Keith Urban’s Graffiti U album (on Horses) and getting to play it live for the first time with him a couple weeks ago was a moment I will never forget!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find out what you want in your heart and never lose sight of that. 

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Follow Lindsay Ell

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INTERVIEW: EMM

INTERVIEW:

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EMM

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IT has been a pleasure…

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speaking with EMM about her new single, No Gods, and how it came together. The U.S. songwriter talks about the feeling in her country right now; whether she thinks female artists are put into holes and boxed-in; what she hopes to achieve before the end of the year – EMM discusses overcome psychological hurdles and coming out the other side.

I was keen to know which three albums are most important to her; some upcoming musicians we should keep an eye out for; whether she gets much time to chill away from music – EMM ends the interview by selecting a fantastic track.

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Hi, EMM. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey, Sam. Thanks for taking the time. It’s been pretty busy - just prepping for a show on Sunday and working on promoting my first release. We also have a second release coming August 3rd called Dirty so I’m preparing for that as well.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

Sure. My artistry is built around integrating solid messages I’m passionate about into easily-digestible Pop songs. I write and produce everything I make and I have a soft spot for women’s issues. I was raised by an Opera singer and a Classical harpist so Classical music is in my blood - but I am really inspired by people like Freddie Mercury, Prince and Janet Jackson.

No Gods is your new single. It seems to look at corruption and governments. Is there a particular inspiration behind it?

When we aren’t empathizing with each other, we end up dehumanizing one another and people get treated poorly; whether that’s through a screen on Facebook or through harmful rhetoric in the lives of our political leaders. A lack of empathy is so dangerous. The chorus of No Gods says: “You can’t make me wanna be like you - out of my mind”. It’s in reference to the divisive and harmful conversations we have with each other, particularly over social media. The verses are about the irony of using ‘God’ to justify treating humans like sh*t.

I believe that every single human being is sacred and should be treated like they have sparks of divinity within them - no matter the race, gender; sexual preference, amount of money...whatever.

Being based in the U.S.; is it quite a stressful and divided time? Do you think things will improve?

I think, for my generation, we all feel afraid sometimes when we see what’s happening in the world. But, I have a lot of faith in Generation Z. They seem to be much more tolerant and kind than some of the generations that came before them.  

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It seems you take risks and do not like to be boxed-in. Do you think female artists are defined and pushed to perform a certain way?

Yes. Absolutely. I think women in music have a long history of men trying to control what they do behind the scenes. Women that know what they want or take risks are usually considered a threat to the order of the system. Part of the problem is (just) that there aren’t enough women in power at the labels yet. I think, a lot of times, we’re afraid to say something political or anything that could make men that are writing our checks feel uncomfortable. It’s a big part of why I stay independent.

Do you think more material will arrive before the end of the year? What are you working on?

Yes. My squad and I wrote about fifty songs in five months - and we have about twenty we absolutely love. Several of those will come out this year.

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You had to tackle New York at age sixteen and faced psychological troubles and industry evils. Did that experience give you strength and a harder skin – has it been hard adapting, in a way?

I talk a lot about mental-health on my first mixtape, Burning in the Dark. I had to process through a lot of awful experiences. There were a few very dark years for me where I had a lot of suicidal thoughts. I am healed now and I’m thankful that I went through what I did because a lot of other people have told me that the music I made in that period helped them choose to stay here. So, yes, it was super-hard. But, I feel kind of unbreakable now.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

I want to tour. I mostly want to keep working hard every day and doing what I love. I know what it’s like to have to work for ten dollars an hour and barely make rent so I’m honestly just so thankful to be making money and waking up every day and making music.

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PHOTO CREDIT: @ksarrico

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

I will definitely come to the U.K. when I tour. When the announcement comes out, it will be on my website…still in rehearsal mode now, though.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I look back really fondly on the songs I wrote in my childhood and adolescent years. There’s something really magical about the songs a girl writes in her room with a guitar or a keyboard before anyone has told her to try to be marketable. Haha.

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Which three albums mean the most to you would you say?

Songs in A Minor by Alicia Keys

Because it was my first C.D. as a kid and I played it a million times. I also ended up getting my start in New York surrounded by her team so it will always be special to me.

The Writing’s on the Wall by Destiny’s Child

Because it taught me how to love myself as a young girl.

Control by Janet Jackson

Because it never stops inspiring me.

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

I am obsessed with Coldplay. I would love to open for them. My rider would probably just be a lot of food. I just love eating.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Hmm. There’s so much. Everyone has an opinion about what you should do and you can try to learn from them but, at the end of the day, you are the artist. Your vision is what matters. Find people that respect that. Also; don’t expect anyone to work harder to make your career pop off then you do. If you’re getting a thousand doors slammed in your face, you’re definitely on the right track.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Diana Gordon

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Diana Gordon. She’s a genius. I’m completely obsessed with her. I am also obsessed with this guy, Extremely Bad Man. His music is so soulful.

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IN THIS IMAGE: The album cover of Extremely Bad Man's album, Love Is Pure (out 13th July)/IMAGE CREDIT: Russ Murphy

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I love being on the water. I’m originally from a town on Lake Michigan, so any time I can swim is awesome for me.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

I think you should play Kool-Aid by Diana Gordon. Can’t go wrong. Thanks so much for your time, Sam!

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INTERVIEW: Stephen Chopek

INTERVIEW:

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Stephen Chopek

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THE awesome Stephen Chopek…

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provides a full and revealing interview where he talks about his latest single, Radio Caroline, and whether he has any direct listening experience with the legendary pirate station. I ask Chopek about future plans regarding material; which artists have been influential to him – he talks about the music scene in Memphis (where he is based).

The songwriter looks ahead and reveals touring plans; which upcoming artists we should get behind; a couple of treasured memories from his career so far; the advice he would give new artists – he ends the interview with a rather unexpected, if memorable, song selection.

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Hi, Stephen. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello, Sam! I’m doing well, thanks. I spent most of last week getting settled after returning home from the first leg of my summer tour. (During the second half of June, I drove 4500 miles for eighteen days through ten states to play twenty-one shows in nineteen cities.) I’ll be home for July before heading out again in August.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

The short story:

New Jersey native and Memphis resident, Stephen Chopek is currently on tour in support of his latest single, “Radio Caroline”. He's travelled the world as a drummer with some of today's top artists. More recently, he's writing his own music which has been described as "a skillfully crafted tapestry of folk, roots, punk, and pop”.

To fill in the blanks: I was born and raised in New Jersey and started playing the drums when I was nine. I played in bands, school groups and youth orchestras throughout grammar and high schools. In college, I performed with percussion ensembles and Rock bands. During that time, I also started writing and recording my own music on a four-track cassette recorder. After graduating university, I studied privately with Billy Martin (drummer from Medeski Martin & Wood) and Jazz percussionist Leon Parker. Through my studies with Leon, I was introduced to guitarist Charlie Hunter. That meeting led me to become the drummer in Charlie’s band from 2000-2002. After that gig, I toured with John Mayer for a year; then Marc Broussard, Jesse Malin; The Alternate Routes, Todd Carey; The Everymen, The Pimps of Joytime and many others.

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In 2008, I took a yearlong break from drumming for a volunteer position in New York City with Americorps (which is kind of like a domestic Peace Corps). During that time, my music pursuit switched from drums to guitar and vocals. I took guitar lessons, worked on my singing and wrote new songs. For most of 2009, I was busking in the N.Y.C. subways during the day and attending open mic events at night. It was a big learning curve to step out from behind the drums and onto center stage. I got back into drumming full-time in 2010 while continuing to write songs. See Through, my first solo album, was recorded and released in 2012. Playing local shows eventually led to out of town gigs and then solo tours along the east coast.

Matters of the heart brought me to Memphis in 2014 and I’ve been here ever since. (My then-girlfriend and I got married in October 2017.) I keep busy in and around town playing drums with some of the many great artists currently making music in Memphis: John Paul Keith, Any LaVere; Motel Mirrors, Dave Cousar; Mike Doughty and Shannon McNally to name a few.

In 2015, I released two E.P.s and my second album, Things Moving On Their Own Together, and supported that with U.S. tours throughout 2016. I released a third E.P. in 2017 (and more touring). My new single, Radio Caroline - with The Ballad of Cash & Dean on side-B - was released online and on 45 R.P.M. vinyl in April. The new album will be out in the fall (with more touring).

Radio Caroline is your latest track. Do you remember when Radio Caroline was on the air? Why did you decide to write about the pirate station?

The original Radio Caroline was before my time so I don’t remember when it was on the air (but I listen to it now online). I’ve always loved music that came out of England in the early-1960s. Through learning about those bands, Radio Caroline was often mentioned as an important part of the music scene at that time. They were a U.K. pirate radio station founded in 1964 that broadcasted from a ship on the open waters to avoid the BBC’s control of the airwaves.

They played records that no other station was spinning but that a lot of young people wanted to hear. It was music that eventually made its way to the masses and changed the world. I always appreciated their support of early Rock-and-Roll and admired their D.I.Y. ethos. My song is a humble tribute to their efforts and the impact they had.

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Do you think there will be more material coming along? What are you working on right now?

There is definitely more material coming along. My new full-length album, Begin the Glimmer, is recorded, mixed and currently being mastered. The artwork is complete and the first single will be out soon; followed by the release in October.

Memphis is where you are based. What is the city like in terms of inspiration and local talent?

There are infinite sources of inspiration in Memphis. So much has happened here in terms of the creation and development of popular music. Howlin' Wolf, B.B. King; Ike Turner, Johnny Cash; Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis; Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley; Al Green, Booker T. & the M.G.’s; Big Star, The Oblivians; Lucero…and the list goes on. Music history in Memphis is deep and you can trace its roots with a short drive down south along the Mississippi River.

The current scene is also rich with incredible talent in many genres - Jazz, Blues; Country, Americana; Garage-Rock, Roots; Punk, Experimental; Metal, Singer-Songwriter and Hip-Hop. It’s a tight-knit community so there’s also a lot of collaborating.

Memphis has a rawness that’s encouraging for artists of all levels to try different things and grow in new directions.

How did music come into your life? Which artists did you bond with early on?

Music came into my life through my parents’ records. There were a lot of American Songbook standards by Cole Porter, Irving Berlin; George and Ira Gershwin and Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn. Singers like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles; Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Hartman; Tony Bennet and Joe Williams. There were also contemporary albums by The Beatles, Billy Joel and Paul Simon. The ‘modern’ music was what initially resonated with me; along with my older sister’s collection of Joan Jett, Go-Go’s; Adam Ant, Duran Duran etc.

My parents encouraged music lessons for my sister and I at an early age. My sister Claudia is now an in-demand violinist based in New York City. She’s been working with Moby, Hurray for the Riff Raff and Father John Misty. I tried different instruments before the drums chose me. I’ve been following them ever since and they’ve taken me to many incredible places with amazing people.

You also work as John Mayer’s drummer. Is that experience something you bring into your own work?

Absolutely. All of my previous work/play opportunities have been valuable learning experiences. Those lessons stay with me as I move on to each new phase of my career.

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Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

I was on tour in April through the Midwest and along the East Coast in June. In August, I’ll be heading to Arkansas, Oklahoma; Kansas, Iowa; Minnesota, Wisconsin and Missouri. During October, I’ll be going through the South and back towards the East Coast.

Might we see you in the U.K. at all?

Radio Caroline D.J. Chris Pearson recently asked me the same question. I don’t have any plans at the moment for U. K. tour dates but I’m working on it. I’ll be sure to let you know when I’m on the way.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

My goals for 2018 are releasing new music and getting it out to the people. I make sure that my songs are available on the major online platforms and do my best to play live in as many cities as possible. It’s a one-man D.I.Y. operation right now so I’m doing all that I can in a 24-hour day.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

There are so many that it’s hard to choose: some are from long ago and others as current as earlier this year. The first one that comes to mind is when I was on my first tour and realized that I was making a living as a full-time musician. That was a powerful moment….

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More recently, I was traveling through the Midwest and had an eleven-hour drive from one gig to the next. I played in Fargo, ND on Saturday night and had a gig in Appleton, WI the next day. That normally wouldn’t have been such a long drive except for the fact that I decided to take a detour to Hibbing, MN and see the childhood home of Robert Zimmerman (A.K.A. Bob Dylan). It was totally worth it. I spent a beautiful sunny Sunday morning in Hibbing then made it on time to my show in Appleton. It turned out to be one of the strongest performances of that tour (and the venue made me a vegan pizza for dinner).

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Opening for David Byrne would be fun. He’s such a unique and forward-thinking musician, visual artist and author. An all-around visionary. Truly inspiring.

My ideal rider would include lots of healthy treats: raw fruits and veggies, hummus; almonds, dried figs and dates; sourdough bread, maybe extra dark chocolate (with no sugar). Non-alcoholic beverages: water, peppermint tea; green tea, chilled seltzer; oat milk for the cold brew coffee concentrate. Also, a towel. Perhaps some clean socks. Nag Champa incense would be icing on the cake.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Remember it’s called ‘music business’ for a reason. ‘Music’ = study and practice your craft. ‘Business’ = enjoy the work because you'll be doing a lot of it. (Usually more business than music.) Be nice. Stay honest.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Julien Baker

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friend David Freeman recently released a beautiful album of original, instrumental compositions called Overview Effect. There’s a Memphis artist named Julien Baker who’s a fantastic songwriter, guitarist and singer. I like the new album from Snail Mail. Also, be sure to check out MonoNeon.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Snail Mail

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

When I’m on tour, I look at a map every day and find the big patch of green. I’m usually able to find a park reasonably close to the venue. With so much time spent driving and in cafes for office hours, it’s important to be active outdoors. That means walking/hiking when I’m on the road and bicycle rides when I’m at home. Daily exercise of any form is the key to overall well-being. I also maintain a daily Vipassana meditation practice which began in 2009 when I went to my first ten-day silent meditation retreat.

I keep a vegan diet, so I’m always interested in trying new plant-based recipes. Visual art is also part of my exploration of the creative process. For a while, I was making collages from found objects and, recently, I’ve been getting into photography.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

The Banana Splits theme song.

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INTERVIEW: Ella Poletti

INTERVIEW:

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Ella Poletti

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I am squeezing in one more interview…

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and speaking with a fantastic talent coming out of Los Angeles. Ella Poletti tells me how she came to work with Out There on the new song, What to Do, and what the track is about; if she is going to bring us more new music before the end of the year – the artists that inspired her when she was growing up.

Poletti chats about her cover versions and getting love/support from streaming sites; whether there are aims/ambitions to cover before the end of this year; a new artist we should listen to carefully – I ask which artist, if she had the chance, she’d like to support on tour.

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Hi, Ella. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m well, thank you! My week has been great. I hope yours has been too.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?

Of course! I’m Ella Poletti. I am twenty-years-old. I’m originally from Bloomington, Indiana but I currently live in Los Angeles, fulfilling my dreams of becoming a Pop singer-songwriter.

What to Do is out. Can you talk about how the song came together?

I’m super-excited that What to Do is out now. It was such an easy and fun song to create…it kind of just came to us so quickly. I think that, in total, it only took a few hours over a span of two days to write all of the lyrics and melodies.

It sees you work with Out There. How did you two hook up? What did he add to the song?

Out There and I met through a mutual friend and we kind of just hit it off immediately. After chatting and sharing projects that we were both working on, we knew we had to collaborate. He had already started on What to Do and essentially just needed the top-line melodies and lyrics. He showed me the instrumental he had made and I loved it - so we agreed it collaborate on writing it and then release it together.

Do you reckon they’ll be more music coming? Are you in a productive frame of mind right now?

There is lots more music coming! I am working on some great stuff right now that I can’t wait to share with all of you. There will definitely be more music before the end of the year, that’s for sure.

Your cover versions, especially a take on Shawn Mendes’ Mercy, have proved hugely popular. How do you inhabit other people’s music so personally and with such passion?

I love putting my own spin on other people’s music. I have stopped doing so many covers now, to focus more on my original music, but whenever I would cover a song, I would first really listen to the lyrics and see how I relate to it. One of the many great things about pop music is that it can be really easy to connect with what the artist is saying.

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You have received lots of streams and amassed fans. Is it a bit crazy seeing how far you have come?!

Honestly, it feels like my dreams are becoming a reality. It is very exciting to see the world enjoying my music and it’s so exciting to see my fanbase grow so even more people can enjoy the music I’ve worked so hard on.

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I especially love the flexibility of your voice. Have any particular artists helped shape your vocals/style?

Ever since I first started singing, I was immediately attracted to Pop music. All of the hits of the early-2000s were definitely a big influence on me - especially Beautiful Soul by Jesse McCartney and Leave (Get Out) by JoJo. I also used to listen to Norah Jones on-repeat every night - so I think that was where I got my jazzy/Blues style from, vocally.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

There will definitely be more music released before the end of 2018 and, by the end of the year, I should also have a long list of new original music, features and projects I’m working on for 2019.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Probably, the first time I ever heard my voice recorded on a mixed and mastered original song. The feeling of creating something that didn’t exist before and hearing it back professionally recorded is so inspiring and amazing. It also made me realise that my dream of having a song played on the radio is a lot more reachable than I could ever have imagined.

If you could support any musician alive today, who would it be?

Maroon 5 is my all-time favourite band. I mean, they’ve basically been on top-40 radio and charting for nearly twenty years! That’s almost unheard of for a Pop band nowadays. I am a massive fan of them and admire their music and ability to have such a long career…that would be a dream!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would just say to never stop doing what you love and to connect with others that have similar dreams. This can be a really difficult path to chase if you don’t have people to do it with you. It is an amazing feeling helping each other grow and coming up together too.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Sigrid

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sigrid is my favourite artist that’s breaking through right now. I’ve listened to her for a while now and I had the pleasure of seeing her live as well. She is amazing!

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I’m working on music most of the time; but, when I am not, I honestly do what everyone else does. I love being outdoors and doing things like hiking or going to the beach. But, just spending time laying low with friends is my favourite.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Thank you! Sigrid’s Don’t Kill My Vibe is a fave of mine and a great summer jam.

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