Interview: Detroit Rapper TNV Talks About His New Album "Dirty Beautiful"
We connected with Detroit based rap artist TNV (That New Vessel) for an exclusive interview to talk about his newly released 13-track album “Dirty Beautiful”, which features Rocdwell and Die-Rek. We also talked to TNV about how “Dirty Beautiful” compares to his last project “Crooked Crown”, what he wants listeners to take away from his music, and much more.
Any fan of Nas, Little Brother, Common, or The Roots, will love TNV, so after reading our Q&A with him, be sure to stream “Dirty Beautiful” on your preferred music service, connect with him on social media, and check out some more of his DOPE music below.
Salute to you on the release of your new album "Dirty Beautiful". How would you compare this new project with you last album "Crooked Crown", which you dropped last year?
Well “Crooked Crown” was a special project to me, but I would say “Dirty Beautiful” reflects my maturity as a producer and artist. Every track on the album was produced and written by me. Also each song was personal to me as it was a reflection on my everyday struggles.
Every song was written from a personal perspective. Not only that, sonically, the music arrangement and vocals were meticulously arranged.
Of the 15 tracks on the album, which one song would you say represents you the most as an artist and the message you convey through your music?
Definitely "Drop"; I start off on the track stating - "I had to drop it, just like a bad habit, if it was in my reach they say that i can have it".
“Drop” was a personal song about overcoming addiction or vices. Rather it was sex, money or anything that is destructive in nature. None of those things I mentioned are directly bad, but when it becomes the number one priority, that’s when it becomes a problem.
Which artists are featured on the album and who provided the production?
Anytime I have a feature on a song, they are artists I respect and listen to. Rocdwell is one of the artists featured on “Dirty Beautiful”; we actually dropped a collaboration album in 2018 called "Luxury". He is a polished MC and one of my favorite people and artist.
Die-Rek is also featured on “Dirty Beautiful”; he is a rap veteran with a wide range of skill and delivery.
All the production was done by me personally.
What does the album's title "Dirty Beautiful" represent and why did you select it as the first song we hear?
“Dirty Beautiful” means anything can grow from a bad or dirty past. If you think about any beautiful plant or flower it is unable to have solid roots without the dirt. The bad can ultimately direct you into a changed life, but you have to be willing to learn from your mistakes.
When someone listens to the new album, or your music in general, what do you want them to take away from the experience?
I would definitely want them to hear my passion in each song I create. I also would want them to understand artistically my music is not faddish per say. I want the listener to love lyricism in its purest form and have a opened mind to the content.