Interview: San Antonio Based Rapper/Producer James Embrace Talks About His New Album "Noddin"
We connected with San Antonio based rapper and producer James Embrace for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released debut album “Noddin”. We also got a chance to pick James’s brain about whether there were songs that didn’t make the final tracklist, how he got his start producing, his goals musically for the rest of 2020, and much more.
After reading our Q&A with James, be sure to stream “Noddin” on your preferred music service, check out our review of the album, and connect with him on his social media.
Congratulations on the completion and release of your album “Noddin”. What are you most proud of with this project?
Honestly, I'm most proud that I was able to release an album that properly represents my feelings about my former addictions, as well as my depression and anxiety. I feel like by representing my downfalls honestly, I was able to create a project that hopefully many people can relate to.
Were there songs that you recorded that did not make the final track list? If so, why did they not make the cut?
There weren't really songs that didn't make the cut. I compiled the track listing as I produced and recorded the songs and I just kept going until I felt the project fully represented the vision I had in mind. Most of the song were made in succession, but a few of them I had already finished.
How did you get your start producing beats and what software/hardware do you use? Also, how do you decide which ones to keep for yourself or sell?
When I got started I was using a cracked version of like Fruity Loops 6. I would then record into Audacity. At the time I had some old interface that I used that I don't even remember the name of.
But currently, I use FL Studio 20 (official and paid for) as well as an Audient iD22 for my interface. I also use Komplete Kontrol S49 with a copy of Komplete 10. All the programs and VSTs that I use now are either paid for or free to begin with.
How would you describe the hip-hop scene in San Antonio and who are some other local artists/groups we should check out?
I'm not really too invested in the scene out here, as bad as that sounds. I kind of keep to myself and just make the music I make. I'm currently 31 years old and I don't spend a lot of time putting myself out there and checking out other artists. Sorry to all the artists that probably deserve mention but aren't getting it right now! My depression, anxiety, and lack of transportation keep me from being as involved as I could or should be.
With “Noddin” out now, what are some of your goals musically for the remainder of 2020?
To be honest, I'm hoping I can put out a project that can even match the energy and sense of urgency that I had with “Noddin”. I've been struggling recently due to my depression and anxiety, but that's always a constant struggle. So, hopefully I'm able to follow up with something even comparable.
Read our in-depth review of “Noddin”
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