Jessie Reyez Debuts Her New Single/Video “Mutual Friend” and Announces Upcoming Album "Yessie!"
Grammy-nominated, 4x Juno-winning, singer-songwriter Jessie Reyez announces her upcoming sophomore album, “Yessie”, and has unveiled her new single/video “Mutual Friend”.
Grammy-nominated, 4x Juno-winning, singer-songwriter Jessie Reyez announces her upcoming sophomore album, Yessie, coming soon via FMLY / Island Records. In anticipation of Yessie – her first album in nearly two years - Jessie has released a brand new track, "Mutual Friend," proving yet again she is an unstoppable force. Yessie picks up where her 2020 debut studio album Before Love Came To Kill Us left off - a highly anticipated release from a now unforgettable era. Her writing on the new album captures the human experience in a way that is at once unique and relatable.
Jessie took the Jimmy Kimmel Live! Stage last week with a show stopping performance of “Mutual Friend.” On the record, Jessie clears the air to an ex lover and releases any lingering emotion she carries while declaring her independence – shown as scenes of beautiful rage, dying flowers symbolic of the relationship, and fluid dancing in the music video directed by Peter Huang.
After releasing two critically acclaimed EPs, Kiddo & Being Human In Public, Jessie released Before Love Came To Kill Us in March of 2020. Against unenviable odds, the album charted Top 5 on Billboard’s R&B Album Chart, amassed over 1.2 billion global streams, and earned the title of Top Female Debut Album and Top R&B Album of 2020 - cementing Reyez as a worldwide phenomenon. Last week’s Jimmy Kimmel performance is Jessie’s second on that show in two years and follows a string of late night appearances including The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Late Night With Seth Meyers, and The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. She made live appearances at 2021 Lollapalooza, 2022 Coachella and just opened on Billie Eilish’s Happier Than Ever world tour. Earlier this summer, Jessie shared her first preview track “Fraud,” which is at 5.6M streams to date and garnered attention from MTV, Hypebae, and Rolling Stone.
Watch the performance and “Mutual Friend” video and stay tuned for more to come soon.
MUSIC DISCOVERY: Toronto Hip-Hop & RnB/Soul Spotify Playlist
Check out our new curated @Spotify playlist featuring the dopest Toronto based Hip-Hop and RnB/Soul artists, not named Drake, that you need to hear right now!
Compiled in collaboration with our resident Toronto contributor and emerging artist Ekelle, is our "MUSIC DISCOVERY: Toronto Hip-Hop & RnB/Soul" curated Spotify playlist, featuring some very dope artists that you need to hear right now.
The artists featured in the playlist include: 209 Crizzy, Faiza, Haley Smalls, Psych, Desiire, Ekelle, 88 Gram, Prime Boys, Cmdwn, Layla Hendryx, Mezziah, Faduma, Pvrx, KILLY, Hard to Kill, dvsn, Witch Prophet, anders, River Tiber, Allie and PLAZA.
Stream/Download McKay x McCourt's Latest EP "1157"
UK duo McKay x McCourt just released a new three track RnB themed EP titled "1157" that has been in the works for over a year.
McKay x McCourt consists of UK songwriter and producer MCK from the Lovemade Collective along with rising UK RnB artist Thomas Gerard. The pair have just released a new three track RnB themed EP titled "1157" that has been in the works for over a year now.
Gerard and MCK came into contact whilst both studying in the south of the UK just past London. They spent months exchanging thoughts and ideas online and sending each other files back and forth so by the time they met for the first time - it was in the studio with a whole back catalogue sitting ready to be executed in to a project.
Now for the title of the EP itself. To trace a phone number in the UK, you have to dial *57 which is 1157 from a rotary phone. So the title "1157" centres around the idea of a phone call with a somewhat mysterious and even slightly sinister undertone to it, in contrast with the bright and humorous artwork.
The tracks on the EP are ordered in such a way that starts with the most cheerful and innocent track "Talk To Me" followed by "Cellular" which is a more confident and mature track through to the final song "Come Through" which is a darker track with a lot of vague information within the lyrics complimented with a strong melody and hook. Then the EP cuts off, almost as if the duo were just starting to let you in but didn't quite get there in time - having no choice but to leave it till the next project...
Influenced by the likes of fellow UK artists Craig David, Jorja Smith, Ella Mai and Sampha as well as others such as Chris Brown, Bryson Tiller, Tory Lanez, Jacquees, PARTYNEXTDOOR and ELHAE - the pair are heavily influenced by a wide range of RnB stars who they take inspiration from in an effort to create something totally unique that the UK has never seen before.
Review: "Transition" EP by Sonny Dumarsais
Check out our exclusive review of New Jersey based RnB/Neo-Soul artist @sonnydumarsais debut EP "Transition"...
New Jersey’s Sonny Dumarsais is aiming to slap a fresh new face on Neo-Soul/RnB - but by bringing the genre back to its roots. As with many RnB EPs, this one was birthed from a bad breakup and an aching heart. Fortunately, music was there to act as his catharsis and truly bolster his voice and sound as a musician. It’s just the beginning for Sonny, as he’s already working on a follow-up album for 2019, but things look promising for the Neo-Soul newbie, who can articulate the language of heartbreak as well as delving into his own sound through the rich history of his genre of choice.
Almost all the tracks on this EP feature an old school RnB guitar (namely 80’s, but the eras meander), instead of the eye-roll worthy, manufactured Tory Lanez artists that seem to be churned out every day. In that sense, we appreciate Sonny for his lack of autotune and overly showy production chops.
He does need to work on his production and mixing quality, but that goes for every indie artist starting out with their first EP. And to be honest, we prefer that raw and unfiltered version of an artist as opposed to an overly edited and bedazzled version that’s not nearly as organic.
Even in his intro “Transitions”, we can weed out some gorgeous harmonizing that almost reminds us of Bon Iver vibe gone RnB, with a richly luxurious bass-line added in. The haunting harmonizing (courtesy of Candi Blue), and slightly sped up beat on days and nights almost makes us think of a male remix of SWV or Destiny’s Child, breaking up the guitar-heavy tracks with some dynamic lightness.
Sonny Dumarsais’s instrumentals are addictive, and with the right innovations, we have faith that this emerging artist can soar to new heights for his 2019 album that’ll soon be on the horizon.
Stream Agency's Latest Album "Philosophies"
Agency's attitude is grounded in music, having said, "you will learn more through the stories presented in the song. We cover the human experience"...
Agency's attitude is grounded in music, having said, "you will learn more through the stories presented in the song. We cover the human experience... a wealth of material shedding light on our loves, our regrets, our hopes, and our fears."
With the true follow-up to debut album (Identity) already recorded and ready for release before Agency recorded "RESIST" (a critically acclaimed project addressing the utter turmoil and social upheaval in the US political climate/presidency), Agency decided to immediately jump start off that energy and keep the new creativity flowing with "Philosophies". The act felt like exploring a more playful side of themselves and thus created this album focusing on life and love and relationships, further expanding its musical palette incorporating more funk, soul, pop and even jazz elements. "Key Tracks Tension" was the first peek into the new album, a tribal house workout that evokes playfulness but still has elements of social upheaval in its lyrics. "Joyride" is a straight up Prince funk jam. "Damn 2" is a reggae influenced love song which has become immensely popular on the act’s Soundcloud page.
Interview: New Jersey Based RnB/Neo-Soul Artist and Musician Sonny Dumarsais
Transition is the key word for our next exclusive DCWS interview with New Jersey based RnB/Neo-Soul artist and musician @SonnyDumarsais
Transition is the key word for our next exclusive DCWS interview with New Jersey based RnB/Neo-Soul artist and musician Sonny Dumarsais. He just released his first EP, a five song jewel entitled "Transition" and we look forward to sharing our discussion with Sonny about the new release, his transition from bandmate to solo artist, his dream collaboration and much more, with you.
After reading our interview with Sonny, be sure to stream/download "Transition" on iTunes, and follow him on his social media streams. Last but not least, stay tuned because our in-depth review of the EP is coming very soon.
I've seen you with your trusty guitar in several promo pics. How did you learn to play the instrument and how did losing your prized guitar affect you?
I learned to play guitar because of the suggestion of my mentor Donnie Atis. At the time when Donnie took me under his wing, I was a drummer. There were many drummers in my church, so Donnie suggested I tried something different; I chose to play guitar. Once I took the guitar in my hands, I never looked back. I practiced my guitar everyday for hours. My guitar was precious to me and it hurt to loose it in my house fire. So, the lesson I learned when I lost my prized Guitar in the fire is: “Material things come and go, but life is life. You only get one chance at life.”
What did your time as a member of the band "Plan B" teach you about artistry and playing live? When/how did you decide to become a solo artist?
“Plan B” is a collective of young Haitian American men who all grew up together playing music as a group in church. We enjoyed playing music. We wanted to branch out of the church setting and play other types of music. That’s when we started playing weddings, open mics and different restaurant gigs. We did it all, from placing as finalists in the McDonald's Gospel Fest, to playing with RnB artist Lyfe Jennings. I had been writing songs that were collecting dust in a box in my bedroom. In 2016 it dawned on me that I wanted to offer more music to the RnB genre. I wanted to become a solo artist. That is when I made the decision to reach out to C. Natasha Richburg & her company Jeremiah’s Kall so I could be developed as a solo artist. The rest has been history.
Congratulations on your debut EP "Transition". What motivated you to write the songs on this five-track project? And were there songs that did not make the cut for it?
Awesome Question! Thank-you very much first and foremost! “Transition” was a very organic project for me! We slated to release a project. So, from October to February I just locked myself in the studio and wrote my heart out. Writing was tough at first because I had writers block. I was dealing with a bad breakup and really didn’t know what to write about. My manager had me come to a Maryland recording studio just to give me a change of scenery to help clear my head. The change in scenery worked! I was able to write the EP and produce it since the music flowed from my mind easily. Writing, playing guitar, singing and producing the songs for this project was an incredible experience! The studio sessions were just magic! And yes, we have many songs that didn’t make the cut. We are saving the songs for a later time or just when energy of the times is ready!
What are you most proud of with this project?
I’m most proud of the fact that the EP “Transition” came to me organically. Most of the songs featured on “Transition” came to me while I was driving up and down the New Jersey turnpike while playing beats in my car that I’ve recorded for the EP. The songs just came! Besides “Love Changes,” which I wrote while I was still in love but changed some lyrics to fit the narrative of my real life story, the remaining songs came alive in the studio. Hopefully my follow-on album will continue the organic vibe. We want to make something just as organic, equally uplifting and dope!
Tell us about Jeremiah’s Kall Productions. What is this organization and why is it important to you?
This organization is everything to me! Jeremiah’s Kall is a production company that specifically focuses on young men, like myself, to help find our full potential as an Artist. Ms. Richburg developed me as an artist for 6 rigorous months. During that period of time, I learned things I needed to know as a professional and a businessman! Jeremiah’s Kall is catapulting my career. I’m grateful to my manager Ms. C. Natasha Richburg for believing in me when all I had to show her was a scratch vocal version of my first single “Pick Up”! She’s been a blessing to me. I thank God for Jeremiah’s Kall and a manger that believes in me.
If you could collaborate on a song with any artist (dead or alive), who would you select and what would you call the song?
I would 100 percent collaborate with D’angelo!!! That’s my favorite artist of all time. If I ever get the opportunity to open for him, I would be forever grateful. Several years ago, I was in Aruba playing for Elle Varner at the Souls Beach Festival, while there I got to witness D’angelo perform “Really Love” 4 years before it was officially released [the song eventually won the Grammy] (fun fact). For me, the song “Really Love” was like my favorite Haitian food, or like Soul food, filling my soul you know. D’angelo’s performance of “Really Love” was the funkiest, most soulful ride of my life lol. Seriously! I’d love to be in the studio with D’angelo. He can name the song whatever he wants lol.
Stream "Transition", the Debut EP by RnB/Neo Soul Artist Sonny Dumarsais
@SonnyDumarsais is an accomplished singer/songwriter/producer and musician from New Jersey who just dropped his first EP, ”Transition”...
Sonny Dumarsais is an accomplished singer/songwriter/producer and musician from New Jersey who just dropped his first EP, ”Transition”, a project that's a reflection of his life experiences starting with his major adjustment, moving from musician to solo artist. During this time of transition, Sonny’s girlfriend decided she did not want to continue their relationship. He was immediately faced with writer’s block triggered by an aching heart. Sonny was down and out about the end his relationship, which made it difficult for him to find words of hope. In time, the miraculous work of Sonny’s faith unplugged his writer’s block, to forge his musical journey forward, which ultimately made his musical sound take root. Thus, the journey of the EP, “Transition,” began.
The EP compilation exposes Sonny’s signature RnB/neo soul sound, which reflects the heart and soul of his life’s journey. “Transition” has one song in which Sonny expresses feelings of love, hope, and joy, praying his relationship with his girlfriend would last forever. In another song, Sonny articulates his raw feelings of heartache after his girlfriend stopped speaking to him because his musical aspirations caused him to travel and not be home. Sonny uses another song to examine his damaged heart through the eyes of the rearview mirror to witness a love that use to be. “Transition” will serve as the backdrop for Sonny’s follow-up 2019 album.
Interview: London Based Pop/RnB Duo World Machine
We connected with @worldmachinetw comprised of Jack Shea and Naz Kalsey, for an exclusive interview to discuss their new single "Affection"...
World Machine is a London based duo comprised of Jack Shea and Naz Kalsey who just released the single "Affection". The single, which seamlessly blends pop and RnB, has been on heavy rotation for a few days now in the DCWS office, and fans of Prince especially, will be swept up by Naz's synth-based, melodic production and Jack's airy vocals. We connected with the guys for an exclusive interview to discuss their new single, as well as their plans to follow it up, their creative process in developing songs and much more.
After reading our Q&A with World Machine, be sure to follow them on their social media, and stream/download "Affection" on iTunes below.
After working together in the band Smashing Lights, how was it decided between you guys that you would form the duo "World Machine"?
We felt that we were drifting away from the indie sound we started with Smashing Lights and we felt the other members would not like the direction we were going in musically and sonically so the idea of World Machine really started from there.
If you had to describe World Machine's music to a stranger who has never heard you before in three words, which would you choose?
Personal, Clean, Colourful
Tell us about your creative process when developing a new song. When do you two know that the song is officially finished?
Well it all starts with Naz Kalsey the guitarist and songwriter of the group. We normally talk about a new song idea whether it is a certain feeling or a production idea from a song we both like and really base it on that. We approach making a song with originality but also with the idea of making it an experimental blend of different characteristics.
Regarding when we know its finished we never know, its a curse especially for me when I hear a track back I always want to add things but we always mutually agree that its to the best of what we could do at the time and always move on to the next track.
Can we expect to see a visual for "Affection" soon and do you expect the song to be appearing on an upcoming EP or album this year?
We are currently working on a visual for Affection that will probably be out by May/June time plus a new track that will be out by late April. Currently we have nearly 30 songs written for an album that we want to release in 2019, which we are excited for, but at the moment we are really working on it to make it the best it can be.
What motivated the creation of "Affection"? Were the lyrics based on a personal experience in a relationship?
The lyrics for Affection are really based on an idea of a relationship and a certain situation. Being the person that wants to give affection and comfort is a new avenue lyrically for me and I wanted to explore my inner tenderness that I had never really expressed through music before. This approach I have started to really connect with recently and a lot of the tracks we are working on recently have that introspective feel.
Stream/Download "Affection" on iTunes
Connect with World Machine: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Review: Is "Black Panther: The Album" Just As Monumental As the Movie?
Marvel’s Black Panther has been the most hyped and successful film of 2018 thus far, so it’s only right that a soundtrack that is just as awesome has been released alongside it...
Marvel’s Black Panther has been the most hyped and successful film of 2018 thus far! With this much hype coming from the fans who couldn't wait to see how incredible the film is, it’s only right that a soundtrack that is just as awesome has been released alongside it. This is the intended result of "Black Panther: The Album". Just knowing that Kendrick Lamar is the main curator of the album inspired by the film is enough to make fans salivate. However, does the album effectively represent the film while still being a hot album?
Let’s be honest, do you really think that the album would be anything less than fire with Kendrick Lamar at the helm? If you do, then you’ll instantly change your mind after first two tracks! "Black Panther: The Album" starts off with a strong introduction that combines a simple yet soulful beat while Kendrick Lamar poetically sets the tone for the rest of the album. This is immediately followed by “All The Stars”, a catchy collaboration with new R&B sensation SZA that is reminiscent of some of Kanye West’s classics when it comes to the production and flow. From that point, the album becomes an intoxicating mixture of RnB hits and banging rap songs that all feature top notch production!
As far as who else is featured on the album, listeners will get to hear a lot of freshness from new blood on the album. New artists featured on the album include SZA, Zacari, Sob X RBE, and hot artists. Artists who frequently collaborate with Kendrick Lamar and other veterans, including 2 Chainz, Jay Rock and Ab-Soul, also make strong impressions with their features.
The album perfectly mixes West Coast Hip-Hop and RnB sentiments with strong production and style that not only takes inspiration from, but also compliments the upcoming Black Panther film. The songs that take the most inspiration from the film as far as style and sound goes are “Redemption” by Zacari and Babes Wodumo, and “Seasons” by Mozzy, Sjava and Reason. Both tracks offer a smooth sound to the album, with the former being an jazzy, uptempo RnB smash that takes inspiration from African song and dance in its production. While the whole album is good, it’s these songs, along with a few others, that truly stand out. The album ends strongly with “Pray For Me” by The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar, where Kendrick’s poetic energy combined with The Weeknd’s soulful voice perfectly ends a great album.
In most cases, soundtracks are usually just decent pieces of work released to build hype for an upcoming film, but "Black Panther: The Album" exceeds expectations by not only be an exceptional body of work, but also being an excellent collection of original Hip Hop and RnB!
Score: 10 out of 10
Buy "Black Panther: The Album"
Interview: Belgium-Based Urban Electronica Artist JoBee
DCWS sits down with urban electronica artist JoBee to talk about her ability to fuse genres, putting women in the front and what lies ahead for the future...
JoBee Project is an artist you need to know, originally from Poland but now residing in Belgium the multi-talented singer has the ability to take you on a journey through time and space. While she dabbles in soul, electro and gets hip hop producers on her project she is not limited to one genre. Not does she have a powerful voice, she’s also an activist and creator or all woman hip hop collective Supafly.
We sit down with JoBee and talk about her ability to fuse genres, putting women in the front and what lies ahead for the future.
Your album fuses so many genres together, is there one that sticks out to you the most?
Not really, I love them all, separate and together in a blended fashion. I used to be the leader of punk and grunge group, before I went into jazz education for several years. I do feel I am first of all a jazz singer, as that is how I started my training at the beginning of my musical journey, eventually experimented with electro, beats and trip hop or hip hop beats. It is a fusion indeed, and I really love it all. My melodies come from the heart, and the influences are countless. In Poland my album is listed under 'alternative' music and I love it, as I do see myself as alternative artist, even though at times it's 'too polished' and close to pop. I like to call it magic pop, cause why not?
You run women's collectives and are an activist, how important is it for you to stand up for woman in the industry?
Putting women in music and arts in the front has been of key importance for me for years. Empowered women should empower other women, and that was my starting point when, in 2009, I met Jeanette Petri aka Jee Nice, the editor in chief of Anattitude Magazine (the first and only existing international Hip Hop magazine on print, to present the female side of Hip Hop culture), when she was about to finish the 3rd issue of her magazine. I was already at that time running my radio show on Fm Brussel radio, and thought I could help out to connect with other music minded people, as I instantly loved her work so much! Together we decided to throw a big release event in Brussels! We wanted to bring together a team of creative and motivated ladies with a heart for hip hop, exactly in the spirit of Anattitude. We got together the urban photographer Lizairo, CYMO-blogger & music manager Nadia-O, singer/DJ Fatoosan, music manager Vaneeshua and musician/DJ MikiGold. It was instantly clear that we were on the same page when it came to the rich culture of hip hop. Our first event took place in October 2009 at Tavernier in Brussels and was a huge success. That’s when Supafly Collective was born as a collective and started a long-lasting and inspiring journey. In 2010 we got a weekly live radio show on BRUZZ, the capital’s largest radio station. I have been a radio host already since 2008, so I moved from Implosief to Supafly radio show.
It has been a beautiful and enriching journey, it is so important to highlight the presence of women in music, and specifically in hip hop, oftentimes I am the only girl on the line up of music events, that has to change, that is my main drive also as feminist and activist and artist, and I will never stop!
What projects are you working on next?
A real bee is always busy buzzing and creating, so is me, JoBee! Future looks very bright! I am currently working on several collaborations with both female and male rappers, several producers, as well as on my own EP with a Belgian producer!
You are about to hear more about JoBee in near future! New videos coming up as well, I am working with an amazing creative film director from Poland. Also, concerts and a new tour from spring! Stay tuned fly bees.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
If I could collaborate with anyone! The list is countless, but if I had to choose one living artist today that would be Flying Lotus! Yes! We met for the first time in LA in 2008, and I remember playing his tunes on the radio in Belgium when he was still unknown at that time, blew up very rapidly! Then we had a chance to hang out in Rotterdam with him and my Supafly crew in 2009- fly times- I wonder if he still remembers me! Need to ring him.
Who do you listen to on repeat now and why?
My music is very eclectic. Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins and Rage Against the Machine rocked my teens and I was a punk band leader for years. Then I took a break and I turned to jazz and pop - I love Michael Jackson, Amy Winehouse, Erykah Badu, and Bjork.
At the moment I'm listening a lot to Bjork and Fatima, they are a huge source of inspiration. I also listen to a lot of rap. Princess Nokia and Cardi B are very inspiring characters because her music is a mix of hip-hop and punk. It's all the punk attitude!
Any chance you'd come over to the states and perform?
Absolutely yes! I already did a tour in NYC in 2013 with over 10 gigs I miss and I think its high time to fly back! I love the States! See you soon!
Interview: LA Based Singer-Songwriter and Producer JOYN
We connected with our next interviewee, @joynradio after we showcased his DOPE new single "Sinister", which features Jordn...
We connected with our next interviewee, JOYN, after we showcased his DOPE new single "Sinister", which features Jordn. JOYN is definitely an artist on the rise so we decided to get ahead of the bandwagon and interview him before he's a household name in the music industry on the mic and behind the boards.
Enjoy our exclusive Q&A with this talented singer-songwriter and producer and be sure to stream "Sinister", as well as follow JOYN on his social media streams.
Tell us about how you got your start as a singer-songwriter and producer. Do you remember the first song you wrote or produced? If so, describe them for us.
Well I guess singing came first. I started singing in choir in elementary school. I picked up the guitar when I was nine and that pretty much took over for the next decade or so. I played in rock bands throughout high school as just a guitarist and never really had aspirations to sing. I started producing a couple years ago as a side hobby at first then one day just decided to try my voice on top of one of my crappy little beats. I just sort of took it ran with it. Now I’m in the process of rediscovering my voice! The first song I ever wrote was in 5th grade. It was called “Gasoline” and I played it at my school’s talent show. It was awful by the way.
Describe your creative process when it comes to writing lyrics and producing instrumentals. How do you start creating and when do you know that you are done?
It’s anything and everything all at once. I don’t usually write in the typical acoustic guitar “singer-songwriter” sort of way. I usually build a beat first just so I can catch a vibe. The instrumental usually tells me where to go lyrically. I’ll scat sing nonsense over the beat until I find a melody I can settle on. The lyrics tend to write themselves in my head over a period of a couple weeks. They come to me at the most inconvenient times. Usually when I'm at work or doing something way more important. I actually never really write them down until the final draft is recorded. If the production sounds good while I’m driving by myself late at night and the lyrics look elegant on paper it’s safe to say the song is finished.
You mention that Jane's Addiction, Destiny's Child, Black Sabbath, The XX, and 6lack are some of your musical influences. These artists span a wide array on genres; how do you as a creative pull from them to develop your own sound?
Like I mentioned I grew up playing in rock bands so most of my childhood heroes were pretty heavy guitar groups. In my dream world I’d be able to wail like Layne Staley or Chris Cornell but my voice just isn’t built for that. When I started singing again is when I went back and rediscovered all the RnB music my mom and aunt weaned me on growing up. 6lack’s debut album single handedly got me through one of the toughest periods of my life last year. Not only was it thematically powerful but hearing how he expressed his voice showed me you didn’t have to be vocally extravagant to still connect with people. In fact I think those “vocal acrobatics” as I like to call them really distract from the song most of the time. I saw The XX at Bonnaroo last year and it definitely changed the way I approached my instrument. I think Romy Croft is genius and a bad ass. My sound is an amalgamation of all those influences. Trends scare the hell out of me and it’s pretty spooky to me when I see everyone so anxious to fall in line for some movement like a bunch of sheep. I just try my best to create something I haven’t heard before while still delivering something culturally relevant.
Congrats on your new single "Sinister"; it's a great track. How did you and Jordn connect to create it? Is it self-produced?
Jordn is the homie! We actually went to college together but I didn’t really meet him until accident when he came over to my best friend/photographer’s house one day. We blew some trees and vibed. We ended up working at the same restaurant one summer and he needed a guitar player for a show and got me on my first stage in Nashville which is where I was living at the time. He’s a sharp minded dude and by far my favorite rapper among my peers so I hit him up for the feature. To be real with you I was reluctant to put the track out cause its so grotesquely honest in a way. But I know I’m making my best and most honest shit when I get nervous about people hearing it. I started the production off myself and then sent it to my producer Ghost and he turned it into the sonic adventure it is now. I’ve actually known Ghost since high school. I'm privileged to work with him. Surrounding myself with peers like him and Jordn has definitely pushed me to elevate my artistry.
What's next after the "Sinister" single? Will there be a visual next and/or an EP or album coming soon?
Definitely. I have an EP coming out hopefully around my birthday in May. Its inspired by my adolescence growing up in LA. Then I’ll be releasing my debut full length this fall which Sinister will likely be on as the LP has a darker vibe. It’ll tackle a lot of stories and relationships from my life over the last couple years. I’m also working on a screenplay for a short film that will hopefully accompany the LP. My life has been a turbulent rollercoaster ride and learning lesson over the last year and I’m happy to say it’s inspired some pretty intense music.
Interview: London's J Elle Talks About Future RnB, the Influence of Grime and Her New EP "Phases"
Our latest exclusive interview is with London based Future RnB singer @KeepItJElle who just dropped a new EP entitled "Phases"...
Our latest exclusive interview is with London based Future RnB singer J Elle. She just dropped a new EP entitled "Phases" so it's only right that we touch base with her about the project, find out how she was introduced to RnB and much more.
After reading our Q&A with this talented artist on the come up in 2018, be sure to stream/download the "Phases" EP and follow her on Twitter and IG to stay up to date on all things "J Elle".
What RnB did you grow up on and how were you introduced to it?
I grew up on 90s/00’s RnB, Boyz || Men, Aaliyah, Usher, TLC, Brandy, Destiny’s Child, Fugees, Envogue, 3LW, and that’s just a &few. I have an older brother, who was always super musical growing up, I looked up to him (I still do) so I’d copy everything he listened to. He’s a massive Usher fan, so that’s really how my love for RnB developed. I used to sing out of my brother’s bedroom window with this microphone we had, hoping someone would walk past my house and sign me.
You describe your genre as future-leaning RnB/Alt Pop. We’re hearing this term “future” being thrown around a lot, that past couple of years. Can you define it on your terms?
I think RnB has changed over the last 20 years and artists like myself who have grown up listening to almost nothing but RnB have been able to use the core foundations of the RnB we love, whether that be the harmonies, certain melodies, song structure, chord progressions, but also incorporate more recent musical inspirations. For me, that’s drawing from trap with skippy verse writing, and drawing from grime with slang.
Who would be your dream collaboration in the RnB world, dead or alive?
Kehlani has been such a huge inspiration writing wise in the last 3/4 years for me, so I would love to pen a song together, if I could get her to vocal on the track too that would just be a bonus. Rihanna’s one of my biggest idols. Her growth as a recording artist and performer is something that inspires me more than anything.
How do you find that two worlds like RnB and Grime, which appear to be so different, intersect in your music, and what’s the importance of that?
I think it’s important to be influenced by your surroundings. I’m a born and bred London girl. The Grime scene is massive at the moment and a really inspiring place to draw from. I was so heavily influenced by American music for the majority of my life, i’m finding real importance in the UK scene and how that influences my writing, the slang I’m using, the type of beats I want to write to.
So in the growing world of future RnB, why have you chosen to remain unsigned?
I just feel like at this stage in my career, it’s not a necessity yet. I can put my music out myself, and grow something organically before a label pumps capital in, that’s usually how they do things now anyway. I love the freedom I have as an unsigned artist. The team I’ve built around me, of writers, producers and management is so special to me. They helped me through some real tough times throughout the last year, so I’m happy with how things are growing and I just want to see everyone eat at the end of the day.
You claim to have two sides of your personality - the so called “bad bitch” juxtaposed with the “broken girl”. That seems so 2018. How dos that inspire your lyrics, and is it just a performing alter ego, or does it speak to you personally?
It’s pretty personal. I’m a Scorpio, I’m fiery. If you spoke to any of my friends, they would tell you, I’m super unapologetic about my opinions and stand up for what I think is right, always. But I’m also extremely sensitive. I think it’s important to be connected with how you feel. Mental health is a massive focal point for me. I’ve got lots of songs written around the subject and would love to share them soon. I love hard and I hurt hard too. But don’t get it wrong - I’m strong, persistent and have massive faith.
What’s the relationship between heartbreak, and your music? Is part of the healing process always getting in the studio, and if so can you describe that?
100%. I feel like music is my therapy, whether that’s heartbreak in love, broken down friendships or general life battles. If I go through something that hurts me, I’m very much the type to instantly want to write about it. I need to get things off my chest so I don’t dwell on negative things, so writing is without a doubt a healing process for me. I feel like I can sing about things much better than I can talk about them.
“Phases” seems more directly RnB and a bit softer than “I Lied” which has an underlying trap energy. Would you say that’s the “broken girl” vs. the “bad bitch”, or is there another reason for that stylistic change?
Yeah, I think you’re right. “Phases” is definitely softer and more conventional RnB. “I Lied” is harsher. This is what I’m talking about when explaining the different sides to me, and probably a lot of other girls and boys out there. It was definitely a conscience decision to have both tracks on the same EP. I wanted to have the contrast there. This was my first ever EP. I waited 7 long years to put out my first project, so I wanted to show more of an eclectic range of songs I’ve written.
Interview: Austin Based Singer-Songwriter and Producer MedizenKid
We connected with singer/songwriter and producer MedizenKid for this exclusive interview because his single "Wake Up Now" is one of the standout tracks...
MedizenKid is a melodic singer/songwriter and producer who fused Indie/RnB and Pop into a smooth catchy sound. We connected with MedizenKid for this exclusive interview because his single "Wake Up Now" is one of the standout tracks we have featured thus far in 2018 and we believe that this year will be when he breaks through. You can jump on the bandwagon now before it becomes cool to be a MedizenKid fan by following him on his social media streams and sharing this interview and "Wake Up Now" with some friends.
Describe your creative process for us when it comes to creating a new song. How do you generally start and when do you know that a song you've been working on is done?
I love this question! I get asked this quite a bit. It normally always starts with me and my acoustic guitar. I mess around with some chords singing random melodies. Most of the time the words that first come out are the final lyrics in the song. I am my best when I am really feeling a new idea. I always wanna jump in the studio right when an idea comes; when it's fresh, otherwise it is possible to fizzle out and I lose passion if I come back to it later.
I know when it's done when I have put my whole heart into the track, all the necessary spaces are filled and I've heard it a thousand times.
You mentioned in your bio that you played in several different bands; how did those experiences help mold you into the artist we see before us now?
Loving these questions :) My two biggest projects growing up were Lake Sun, the reggae band I wrote for and Rhombii, a psychedelic/Indie fusion project. These bands were a lot of fun and they motivated me to keep writing but eventually I just didn't see a long future with them so I moved to Austin. I really started studying the music scene and what is in right now and after studying artists like BlackBear, Dysn, and Lostboycrow i started fusing an RnB/Rap/Alternative/Pop project of my own.
Congrats on the release of your single "Wake Up Now". What motivated you to write and produce the song?
How it started was with a broken heart from an ex..lol. I feel so much of my music comes from the strongest of emotions and attachments us humans have. Ben Leal (a great producer) who helped make the beat and vocals sound pro, him and I have been really inspired by an artist and friend Lostboycrow. We listened to some of his tracks and tried to feel LostBoy's world and the beat was born.
What's next to come after "Wake Up Now"? Can we expect the song on an upcoming EP or album this year?
Yes; my buddy From LA (LostboyCrow) suggested I reproduce a track called "Winter Winds" and this could possibly be the EP name as well. Looking like it will be out late March/early April but maybe sooner.
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you choose?
Humble...Heartfelt...Sensation
Interview: Singer-Songwriter and Visual Artist LeeMann Bassey
We connected with @leemannbassey for this exclusive interview to find out how his new video "Boom Boom Boom" came about, how he learned to create the visuals...
LeeMann Bassey is a multifaceted artist from Central Islip, NY who recently released an incredible music video for his single "Boom Boom Boom". We connected with LeeMann for this exclusive interview to find out how the video came about, how he learned to create the visuals, learn more about his new text message based web-series, and much more.
All I can say is WOW in regards to the Boom Boom Boom music video. Tell us about how you created the visuals and what prompted the idea to go for the comic book vibe?
Thank you. Well I've always been obsessed with the supernatural. Supernatural shows like "Captain Planet" and "Sabrina the Teenage Witch" and movies like the "Mortal Kombat" Series and Batman (specifically the "Batman Forever" movie lol), really made my childhood special. So it was important for me to bring that special interest of mine to the world in my videos.
The whole video was created and designed by me on the computer using digital art and video making software.
How did you learn to do all of the visual art for the video production? Did you go to school for it?
I learned the visual art and video production on my own actually lol. I'm obsessed with YouTube and there are some talented people on there that like to give valuable information to the world. So I learned from their well explained videos.
I actually went to college for Communications. I took a lot creative writing classes, so the storytelling aspect of creative writing definitely helped me with making a compelling animated story with my video rather than random digital drawings that have no relationship to each other lol.
Would you consider yourself a singer/songwriter or visual artist first? Why?
I consider myself an "Artist." People express their art form in different ways. My art form encompasses singing, songwriting and the visual arts. If one is missing, the heart of my art form will be missing also.
If you had to describe yourself as an creative in three words to a stranger, which words would you choose?
Honest, Believer, and Foreseer.
Tell us about your newly debuted text message based web-series "His Messenger". How can our readers check it out?
After writing my debut single “Honey” with my co-writer Jeffrey Watkins, the psychotic lyrics inspired me to go deeper into the horror realm and create a horror web series and horror artwork.
Although, one day I was texting Jeffrey and thought to myself, "we live in a world now where we really never know if the person texting us is actually doing what they say they are doing... because we can't actually see them." That was nothing against him though, just a thought in general lol. That's what sparked the idea of the series.
The series is text message based and during each episode the viewers must decide whose lying and whose actually in the presence of “His Messenger.”
The series is exclusively on my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/leemannalexanderbassey
Father of R. Kelly Victim Asks - Did Victims Not Get Recognized Simply Because They Are Black?
Do you believe that race and the injustice for black women in America is the reason why R. Kelly’s crimes are being ignored?
Image Credit: Getty Images
When the words “R. Kelly victim” come to mind, you might be thinking about that sex-with-a-minor incident that the singer came under fire for years ago. Unfortunately, the age of scandal for Mr. Kelly isn’t over yet - some bizarre interviews were recently released with another woman who belongs to Kelly’s current Hefner-esque “cult” of women that have seemingly been groomed since their teenage years, and are now fully brainwashed by the RnB singer.
A few months back, Jerhonda Pace sat down for an interview where she referred to herself as being part of Kelly’s “sex cult”. She was introduced to a female trainer who taught her to perform sexual acts on the star at just 16 years old. She also spoke out about how the artist’s physical abuse, and how he would often lock her in a room for multiple days. She managed to her escape using a lie about needing to get a pair of shoes from a family member’s place, and never turned back.
This past summer, multiple parents of women in their late teens or early twenties accused the artist of hiding their daughters in a “cult” and forbidding them to leave. While some women spoke out saying they were there of their own volition, many are suggesting Stockholm Syndrome as the reason for this.
One father of a victim is suggested that nothing has been done about this atrocious situation because Kelly is targeting women that no one chooses to defend. These are women of color. Where Weinstein’s victims ignite sympathy, Kelly’s are swept under the rug. Angelo Clary spoke on his daughter Azriel, who is facing this situation, but in denial of it. So he took matters into this own hands, with a video.
(link to video) http://www.tmz.com/2018/01/31/r-kelly-alleged-cult-member-azriel-clary-dad/?adid=TMZ_Search_Results
He raises a fair point - though the Weinstein and Cosby accusers were mostly white, some did include women of color such as Lupita Nyong'o and Beverly Johnson. But for the most part, the spotlight has been on the white accusers, and the ensuing compassion as well.
Do you believe that race and the injustice for black women in America is the reason why Kelly’s crimes are being ignored? Is it just another predicament of victim blaming, as opposed to properly allocating the blame to the actual predator?
Or is it because he’s a beloved RnB icon in the eyes of many, who don’t want to see their favorite musicians reputation tarnished?
He wasn’t found guilty in 2008 or when he married the underage Aaliyah, and still hasn’t been held accountable to this day. We applaud Angelo Clary for speaking out and wanting to protect his daughter, as well as shedding more light on a possible sordid truth that many are desperate to ignore.
Tell us what you think in the comments below.
RnB Newcomer J Elle Drops Lead Video & Debut EP "PHASES"
Singer-songwriter @keepitjelle new EP "PHASES" is pinned around some bright, future leaning RnB/Alt Pop productions whilst there are other elements such as grime, pop and trap...
Having spent the bulk of 2017 writing and crafting her own sound in the studio, LDN based singer/songwriter J Elle debuts her take on contemporary RnB with lead track and debut EP entitled ‘Phases’ which follows warm up track ‘I Lied’ which she dropped last week. The 5 track offering, penned solely by J Elle herself is the perfect introduction to the young artist’s take on the genre. Describing her sound she explains:
“RnB has always been my baby but I wanted to branch out and try other things too, because you don't grow inside your comfort zone!”
The EP is pinned around some bright, future leaning RnB/Alt Pop productions whilst there are other elements such as grime, pop and trap added to the mix. Production duties have been split between UK producers Drifta and Miguel London. J’s personal approach to lyrical content shines through as both sides of her personality are reflected.
“I've been that broken girl but I'm also that bad bitch too.”
Lead single ‘Phases’ acts as an anchor to the rest of the EP as we see a defiant and confident delivery throughout, mixing fictional stories with stark realities and relationship battles. Speaking of the track J Explains:
“I think it describes many modern day relationships. Sometimes I hate you, but that's okay, cos I'm always gonna love you!”
With 2018 promising to be a breakthrough year for the burgeoning songstress, she’ll be announcing several special collabs and tracks in the following months.
