Interview: Toronto Based Artist/Producer QTR Talks About His Latest Track "Ends"
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“I think the best part about the Hip-Hop/RnB/Soul scene in Toronto is the abundance of talent we have in the city. There are so many people ready to link up and be creative, which allows artists like me to create unique sounds in music. ”
Big ups to you on the release of your new track "Ends"; it's very dope. Tell us about your creative process for its development and what inspired you to write it.
First off thank you. I appreciate DOPECAUSEWESAID for conducting this interview.
I start my creative process for each song I write by analyzing my mood and then trying to write a personal story that people can relate to. Toronto is a beautiful city at night and it’s even better when you can just drive along to vibey music. That’s what inspired this song. I was driving along the highway just thinking about life and it gave me an idea for this song.
What do you like most about the Hip-Hop/RnB/Soul music scene in Toronto in 2020 and what do you dislike the most?
I think the best part about the Hip-Hop/RnB/Soul scene in Toronto is the abundance of talent we have in the city. There are so many people ready to link up and be creative, which allows artists like me to create unique sounds in music.
Toronto is known for being the “screwface capital,” which makes people less likely to support new music in the city lol but slowly that’s changing.
How would you say that your West African, Ghanaian roots are represented in the music that you create?
I’m very fortunate; growing up, my parents had such an eclectic ear for music. They’re really the reason why I started making music.
West African music incorporates a lot of gospel, jazz, and the Ghanaian highlife sound. Hearing this music as a kid allowed me to incorporate these sounds and rhythms in my music.
When you're producing new music, what software/hardware do you use?
When I’m making beats, I use FL Studios to get the job done. But when I record music, the engineer I work with strictly uses Studio One for my vocals.
With "Ends" now out, we're very excited to hear more from you; what can we expect next from you musically?
You can expect a lot more music. I’ve made a rule for myself to release at least one song a month.
I also haven’t told anyone this yet, but I’ll be releasing my first EP called “VIM SOUND” early this summer. It’s a seven song EP that will have more of an Afroswing vibe.
When you are not working on new music, how do you spend your leisure time around Toronto?
When I’m not working on music, you can find me at Afrobeat parties around the city, co-hosting a podcast called Channel 47, and working on my coding skills.
Listen to the Channel 47 Podcast
Connect with QTR: Instagram