Interview: Prague Based Singer-Songwriter Milan André Talks About His New EP "love&light"
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“London and Bratislava were quite emotional transitions, so I found a lot of inspiration during those times. My outlook on life is very spontaneous because of all these moves. My limits have been tested and I’ve learnt that so far, it doesn’t seem I have any. Anything is possible. ”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new EP "love&light"; what are you most proud of with this project?
I’m most proud of allowing myself to freely create without any limitations or inhibitions. Detaching from expectations and outside projections.
You mentioned that the EP's 3 songs were written while you were doing residencies in Indigenous communities in Canada in 2019. Were there other songs written that you decided not to record and include on the EP?
Ya 2019 was a year where I feel that I unveiled my true creative self. I had recently moved to Bratislava, living in a very inspiring house with intense creative energy.
I wrote about 60 songs in 2019, most of which were in that house, and some others in Canada during those residencies.
Can we expect any music videos for the three songs on the "love&light" EP?
No full music videos planned as of yet, but I am working with a French artist to create a looping animation for ‘love&light’.
Over the past four years, you've lived in Toronto, London, Bratislava and Prague, how would you say these different locales have influenced your songwriting and outlook on life in general?
Having lived in 4 countries over the past 4 years has really influenced my life experience, which in turn experiences my music.
London and Bratislava were quite emotional transitions, so I found a lot of inspiration during those times. My outlook on life is very spontaneous because of all these moves. My limits have been tested and I’ve learnt that so far, it doesn’t seem I have any. Anything is possible.
With the EP now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2020?
The songs on the EP were originally going to be a part of a larger album, but I decided to separate them. So I’m currently planning an 11 track album to release in the new year. I’m actually writing this while sitting on a train from London to Newington, UK, where I’ll be in studio working on the album.
Why is it important for you to work with the youth through music residencies in Indigenous communities across Canada?
My work in indigenous communities has become a really important aspect of my life. I’ve always loved working with kids, ever since being a swimming instructor during university, to teaching private music lessons post school.
My work in the residencies combines all the things I love about being an artist and all the things I love about working with youth. I’m not teaching them but rather collaborating with them.
Also, as a Canadian, it is important for me to do my part towards reconciliation with indigenous peoples. Colonization brutally impacted the First Nations in Canada and the US. I strongly encourage people to educate themselves about the history of colonization, since most people are unaware.
I also enjoy working with the youth because it allows me to work in a music context where I can detach from being an artist. It isn’t about me; it’s about the youth.