Interview: Twn Chxppa Discusses His DOPE New Single "Rude!"

“To me, seeing my friends go in the booth and rap seemed fun, so I tried it for a verse on one of my friend’s songs and even though it wasn’t the best verse at all, it brought a sense of excitement for me to keep at it.”

— Twn Chxppa

Salute to you on the release of your new single "Rude!"; it is a great track. What initially inspired you to write the song, and who produced it?

So the track is produced by heydium and my inspiration for creating this song was to go and make a summer vibe. From initially listening to the beat before writing to it, I knew this could be a song that people could cruise and vibe to on a sunny summer day.

With "Rude!" now unveiled, can we expect a music video to follow, or will you be dropping another track next?

So I'm always working on new music nowadays but I do have a music video planned for "Rude!" and it is actually an animated music video.

You're not just an emerging artist on the rise, but a published author as well. Tell us about your book, "When the Time Comes", and what you are most proud of with this literary piece.

So my book is about a young teen discovering his family lineage to an alternate planet in which he is told he has been chosen to protect the entire universe from an evil threat. I think what I'm most proud of with the novel is that I was able to represent myself and the troubles I've had with mental health throughout the years, through the main character AJ to bring awareness towards prioritizing mental health especially in black and brown people.

What specifically was it about attending your friends' recording sessions that motivated you to pick up the pen and pad and start creating your own music?

To me, seeing my friends go in the booth and rap seemed fun, so I tried it for a verse on one of my friend's songs and even though it wasn't the best verse at all, it brought a sense of excitement for me to keep at it.

Especially since you really just began recording music, do you have any goals musically that you want to achieve for the rest of 2022?

I would say that my main goal is to get better and to develop a unique sound so that I can stand out from other artists.

Download “When The Time Comes” on Amazon

Connect with Twn Chxppa: Instagram | Spotify

Interview: THISMINORITY Talks About His New Single "MEDI" and Upcoming Album "THE MINORITY REPORT"

“Poetry came first and then music. I finished college and received masters, certifications, yada yada but felt like something was missing. I thought I would feel some type of success or fulfillment but none came.”

— THISMINORITY

Congratulations on the release of your new track "MEDI"; what motivated you to write it, and how did you decide on Scropio Prodz's instrumental?

I was motivated by my motivation to maintain balance. “MEDI” is me wanting to inspire people to try meditation to achieve some level of balance within self.

The beat Scorpio Prodz was found before the idea came to mind but as I wrote the song it grew to become a trojan horse to those that may need some meditation. I’m not talking only in a traditional sense, but in the sense of having a space filled with something that gives your mind and spirit a break to connect with yourself. Low key, beats like this could be like that for some.

If you could pick any artist to appear on a remix to "MEDI", who would you select?

If I was to go local or indie I’ll go with this fire artist that goes by the name of Yamalisan (IG same name). This dude has the type of energy that elevates the room most definitely. Don’t write but the bars heavy.

If I was to go more mainstream it would be ScHoolboy Q. He’ll bring that aggressive energy but he’ll also make it hit poetically.

"MEDI" will be featured on your upcoming project "THE MINORITY REPORT"; what can you tell us about it, and would you say that it has an overall theme conceptually?

“THE MINORITY REPORT” is a series of my reflections during my change into an artist who wants to provide a service to the masses, through music first. Each track is a different vibe that captures how I see who I am becoming. Acknowledging that I am an individual who knows what he is supposed to serve and have to let go of who I was while not losing touch with who I am. Not lose touch with what molded me and help get me to this level of creation.

Also, I’m very big on introductions so before I get to my service I really want to let people know me on multiple levels so we can work together. The type of work we’re going to do will be breathtaking.

Will you be releasing a music video for "MEDI"? Also, do you plan on dropping another single prior to the project?

I have this snippet video. It’s a good foundation for the track as a whole. After finishing all of the songs for THE MINORITY REPORT”, I thought a good way to promote it was to show videos for each song. The full length video of “MEDI” would be crazy and would cost a lot.

I have crowdfunding link set up here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-minority-report-legal-visual-funding?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1

Had to plug it lol but I do have two more singles before I release “THE MINORITY REPORT”. Both tracks having a different vibe from MEDI!

Tell us about how you got started writing rhymes and what THISMINORITY represents as a masked emcee.

Poetry came first and then music. I finished college and received masters, certifications, yada yada but felt like something was missing. I thought I would feel some type of success or fulfillment but none came. So I journeyed around my city of New Orleans with some guidance.

Rewind, before I journeyed I saw this amazing public speaker deliver a speech effortlessly. At the time, the thought of me speaking in front of people made me sick. Also at the time, I heard J. Cole say these lyrics in a song “My only adversary was my own mind, Killed my ego now I'm snappin' like it's '09, With a gold mine of inspiration for y'all.” It made me realize I came from a really dark place and maybe I could help people come from dark places.

Going back to the public speaker, I thought he could guide me so I asked: How do I become a better public speaker? His advice was to sign up for toastmasters and take dance classes. Toastmasters for speaking and getting comfortable with speaking in front of people and dancing so I can be comfortable with public speaking. This is that guidance.

Doing these led me to tapping into the artist scene within New Orleans (happened 2016-2017). I saw this amazing poet named ICon and she made me feel like I should be doing poetry. With my meditation, discipline, dedication, and growing sense of self I was able to get to the point of writing a poem that I was willing to share in front of people.

My first time was at the beginning of 2018. I damn-near passed out due to the anticipation of performing but when I got up there I felt like I levitated…

Like everything made since. During 2018-2019 I would build to become an amazing poet and writer. Also in 2019, I had a friend with an in-home studio who wanted to work with me and record my poetry. Somehow when he played some beats I started writing to them. The rest is history in the making!

As for my name, THISMINORITY is a temporary artist name. It comes from the term minorities…

When you hear that term you hear the few. So when you hear THISMINORITY you are hearing the voice of one. The only one that there are no duplicates. The one you can have similarities with and can connect with on multiple levels but still an individual. An individual that goes through their own life changes. That is while I wear those masks. Each mask color is either inspired by the chakra point that the song touches or the vibe the song gives. The mask symbolizes cocoons and different types of metamorphosis I've experienced.

THISMINORITY, the only one and aiming to help you connect with self.

With "MEDI" out now, and "THE MINORITY REPORT" coming soon, do you have any other musical goals that you want to accomplish before 2022 ends?

Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnnn, wooooommmmmannnnnnnnnnn, or non binary peeeerrrrrrrrssssooonnnnnnnn look!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have a good bit of insane joints in the vault already finished so while pushing everything to grow my fanbase through marketing I want to release those tracks. On top of that, I want to perform at festivals, events, etc.

Grow my fanbase on multiple levels and collaborate with my fans because that’s what it is about for me, CONNECTION.

Connecting with people massively and them connecting with me and then eventually that connection, love, inspiration, etc. that I put out comes back to me when I need it the most. We are all here together so I’m working to build with y’all!!!!!!!!!!!!

Connect with THISMINORITY: Website | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Los Angeles Trio Somitelle Drop Their Self Titled Debut EP "Somitelle"

Somitelle brings together their influences of pop, electronica, 80s synthwave, jazz, and folk harmonies in their self titled debut EP.

Erik Maroney (vox/bass), Stephen Langer (synth/drums/vox), and Keagan Anderson (guitar) came together through their time at UCLA and the local LA music scene. Their lead single "Left Unsaid", a nostalgic heart-breaking review of an important conversation brings together the disco era of music with folk-like harmonies on the chorus and a guitar bridge similar to up and coming bands like Parcels.

Listen to the “Somitelle” EP below, check them out on Spotify and dm them on Instagram for any partnership or performance opportunities.

Stream and Share “Somitelle” on Spotify

Connect with Somitelle: Instagram

Interview: London Based Singer-Songwriter Gemma Felicity Discusses Her Debut Single/Video "This Place"

Congratulations on the release of your debut single, "This Place", and its accompanying music video. Tell us what initially inspired you to write the song and who produced it.

I guess what inspired me to write "This Place" was the fact that I was feeling really lonely living in an environment at university which felt very surface level. Everyone around me seemed to value very superficial things like designer clothes and Instagram likes over things which really mattered. I remember just feeling really sad. People would always tell me that I was so beautiful and must have the perfect life. But what many people didn't realise was underneath the perfect image that I portrayed to people, I felt very deeply alone and unhappy.

Frankie Harper produced this song - he is an amazingly talented guy and lovely to work with!! I feel very lucky to have created this song with him.

How did you and the director come up with the treatment for the music video, and how would you describe the experience of filming your first visual?

Yaro, the director of my music video came up with the idea of using the beautiful location that we used in the music video. We used different areas inside the building, as well as the roof area, and we had a lot of fun with it. I absolutely loved filming my first music video, especially being pampered and having my hair and makeup done. I am an actress and model as well, so I love doing this kind of stuff!

You've mentioned that you have been singing and performing since the age of 9; what are some of your earliest memories of writing songs, and when did you decide to really focus on being a singer-songwriter that records and releases their music?

I wrote songs and poetry and hand-written magazines for my family when I was very young, probably around 9 years old. I recently found loads of them stashed in boxes in my family home. I used to put on fashion shows, plays and music concerts for my family, and force them to watch me to perform to all of them for hours on end!!

I studied Public Relations and Communications for my Undergraduate degree, but I quickly realised that it wasn't my path. I had to take a year out of university to really think about what I wanted to do with my life, and what would make me happy. I decided to apply to do a Masters in Music Performance and Songwriting at Leeds College of Music, which I then went on to do after my Undergraduate degree. Even though I got on the course and had the most amazing time, it took me a while to start believing in myself and to realise that I had the ability to do it as a career. It is only within the past 6 months that I have really started to believe in myself enough to start releasing my own music.

With "This Place" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year? Is a follow-up single on the way?

I am currently getting my head around how to do all of the promotion and marketing part of the music releases, which is really challenging and takes a lot of time to work out how to do effectively. I have a couple of songs already written, produced and ready to release, and I plan to release my next single around August or September time, along with my music video which I am currently in the process of planning, and will be filming very soon.

I am also focused on busking and doing gigs with my guitarist at the moment, as well as building up the content on my social media platforms. I want to do some collaborations this year as well with some like-minded brands.

What do you enjoy most about being an artist, and what frustrates you the most?

I love being able to have a flexible schedule where I mostly work for myself, and I also love having a career which allows me to be creative and express myself. Being creative in my job is very important to me.

I think the thing that frustrates me the most is how competitive and saturated the market is. It is so hard to get your music heard, and really difficult to build up a loyal fan base, because there is just so much noise in the industry. So much of doing well has become about social media and especially Tik Tok. I am always being told to spend the majority of my time on Tik Tok and Instagram, when I don't really enjoy these aspects.

Stream and Share “This Place” on Spotify

Connect with Gemma Felicity: Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

Interview: Air Show Disaster's Eric Sporer Talks About His New Album "The Ocean"

“The idea of “The Ocean” is that you don’t see what’s beneath it, you just see the surface. Beneath the surface is where all of the life is. Some of the great mysteries of the world are in the depths of the ocean. ”

— Eric Sporer

Congratulations on the completion and release of your recently unveiled fourth album "The Ocean". What were some things that influenced your writing of the album's songs?

"The Ocean" as an album was pretty wide-ranging. Musically, there's a wide variety of influences. The title track and "Liberator" feature electric organ and definitely have some influence from Deep Purple. The last two tracks, "A Single Grain, One Million Years" and "Converge" have a lot of heavy psych influences.

For subject matter, there isn't any singular influence. The title track is about my daughter. The album goes through more pretty personal experiences, from being dumped to homesickness to seasonal affective disorder, before it takes a philosophical turn for the last couple of songs.

How would you compare this new album to your third album "Exodus", which was released last year?

"Exodus" was a real departure for me in a lot of ways. It was all instrumental and written as a flowing story of a lost traveler in the desert. It used a lot of Spanish scales and the songs flowed one into another.

"The Ocean" is more in line with what I've written in the past; it's a return to form. Everything is more rooted in rock and blues with more traditional song structures. It uses more traditional rock instruments.

There's nothing instrumental on "The Ocean", which changes the listening and storytelling experience in a major way. While they both are dear to me, "The Ocean" tells my own stories in a pretty straightforward format.

When I sat down to write "Exodus", I knew what scales to use and what story I was trying to tell, there were almost "songwriting rules". When I was writing "The Ocean", it was more just letting the songs write themselves.

Would you say that "The Ocean" has an overall theme or concept throughout its eight songs? If so, what would you describe it as?

The idea of "The Ocean" is that you don't see what's beneath it, you just see the surface. Beneath the surface is where all of the life is. Some of the great mysteries of the world are in the depths of the ocean.

The songs are all supposed to stick to that theme and be about what's close to the heart. Beyond that, there's not real theme.

Can we expect music videos for any of the album's songs?

I've never done a music video, although I'm considering it more and more.

I've got a very DIY mentality to my work; I play all the instruments, I produce everything myself, I release it myself, I did the artwork myself. If I can figure out how to make a music video myself you might see one soon.

What led you to deciding to create Air Show Disaster as a solo project? Were you releasing music as part of a band before leaving New York in 2017?

I was playing with a band called Half Grand for a while. We never released anything. Aside from that, I was just jamming with people in my free time or playing songs for friends.

When I moved to Washington I had kids and a real job and was in a city without a music scene. I had a bunch of songs ideas and needed some musical outlet. I started setting up a home studio more as a way to just work out the songs by myself. When Covid lockdowns started, things just kind of took off.

With "The Ocean" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

I'm looking to perform some music locally. I've got enough solo pieces that I can put together a small set. I'm also hoping to keep writing and recording.

Stream and Share “The Ocean” on Spotify

Connect with Air Show Disaster: Bandcamp | Soundcloud

Interview: Dallas Based Rap Artist Del3x Discusses Her New Track "Mic Check"

“I just go off the feeling I get when I’m listening to beats and pull from them feelings.”

— Del3x

Congratulations on the release of your DOPE new song "Mic Check"; tell what inspired you to write it and who produced it.

I wrote it a couple years ago but I’m just now releasing it. I just go off the feeling I get when I’m listening to beats and pull from them feelings.

It was produced by Unknown Instrumentalz.

If you could pick any artist to be featured on a remix to "Mic Check", who would it be?

If I was to do a remix and had to choose who would be on it, I would say Eminem.

Can we expect a music video for "Mic Check" to follow and will it be featured on an EP or album in development?

A music video will be coming out soon and it will be featured on an upcoming project I'm working on.

How would you describe the music scene in Dallas for female rappers such as yourself?

I would describe it as interesting. Dallas has a lot of talent, but at times, it is hard to see.

With "Mic Check" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

I plan on releasing a project or two before the year ends.

Connect with Del3x: Twitter | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook

Interview: Mr.Reaper Talks About His Newly Released Single/Video "Awaken"

“I aim to be known as a versatile artist who can reach listeners in many different ways and is here to make some noise.”

— Mr.Reaper

Congratulations on the release of your new single "Awaken", and its music video. What initially motivated you to write the song and who produced it?

The music was produced by Yah Mo Beatz. I was inspired to do a song that I wanted to talk about my musical journey, my goals and other aspirations. I wanted to introduce that we all go through same situations or habits that repeat itself daily.

Sometimes we have to change these cycles for opportunities and other situations to work out in our favor. No matter if we suffer through a losing battle called life. We got to keep moving. Coming to this full realization has opened my eyes and awaken my mind and soul.

In regards to the music video, how did you and Steve Broy Photography come up with the treatment, and would you say that your vision was fully realized?

Both Steve and I have done a great job of collaborating our thoughts and ideas to make a good visual production. We bounce these ideas off each other and work harmoniously together.

I also had a lot of vision on how and what I would like to incorporate in the video. Including venue location, cut scene shooting dynamics and timing of the scenes that pair well with the music. We were eager to make this video stand out in a unique way compared to others.

I also felt like music is an art. I wanted to showcase that in the video and show my levels of creativity as an artist.

Tell us about the EP that you released last year entitled "Light vs Dark"; what are you most proud of with that project, and do you have a follow-up in the making?

“Light vs Dark” was an album I created in early 2021. I wanted to focus on the concept that we have a light and dark side within us. This in terms was not about positive or negative. Instead I wanted to portray it differently. It's more like the mind vs the heart. You can't have too much focus on one side as it can lead to detrimental behaviors and other repercussions. Instead, if you have a perfect balance between the two. You can accomplish anything and improve self mastery within yourself.

I felt like that was where I have been on, self improvement through all tasks I am experiencing in this lifetime. I am very proud of the album as a whole because it showcase my unique talents/style of my musical composition and abilities as an artist.

I aim to be known as a versatile artist who can reach listeners in many different ways and is here to make some noise. With that being said, I have a few more single releases that will solidify that notion as well. I'm also eager to get a new EP going some time in 2023.

With "Awaken" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the remainder of 2022?

For the rest of 2022, I have a few more singles coming out. The big summer banger called “Come Follow Me And We Ride” will be out at the end of next month in July.

I want to keep establishing my brand, reaching new listeners, viewers and subscribers. I seek to do a collaboration with another music artist and then eventually in the future, do some live performances. But right now my goal is to grow. To showcase my talent through all platforms whether it be audio/visual and any other avenue. This way I can establish a market for my music and continue marketing my talents worldwide.

Connect with Mr.Reaper: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

Interview: Mykii J Discusses His Visual For the Remix to "And That's It!", Featuring The Kelly

“I could not be more proud of myself for proving that I am capable and talented enough to create industry-level music without the backing of a corporate giant.”

— Mykii J

Congratulations on the release of the remix to "And That's It!", which features your sister The Kelly; describe for us your creative process for the original version and why you decided to record a remix.

Thank you so much. I've always known I wanted to do a song using the title “And That’s It!”, especially since it is my official catchphrase. I started using the phrase at the beginning of all my freestyles to engage the audience.

I don’t know why, but I knew that I wanted a dark, low-slung beat, and that I wanted it to be a fly and flashy, braggadocious record.

I crafted the melody and lyrics for the hook first, then built the rest of the song around that. After recording it, my sister heard it and immediately said it was her favorite record on the album, so it was only fitting to have her on the official remix to the song.

I have always loved female rap and the excitement that female emcees bring to hip-hop records. When considering a female artist to feature on the remix, I figured, who better than my own sister, The Kelly? She’s so fire.

The music video for the remix is incredible; tell us about how you and the director, Mariah Carroll, came up with its treatment. Also, how long did it take to shoot the visual?

Thank you so much. I’m glad you enjoyed it! My sister, The Kelly, and I developed the concept for the video together. She also directed, and starred in the music video (talk about “I'm Every Woman” ... sheesh!).

I typically provide my sister with a general idea for my videos and scout locations while she develops the treatment. I told her I wanted the music video to reflect the vibe of the song. I wanted to create an atmosphere that screamed dark, edgy-fashion. That was the inspiration behind music video.

It was a 10-hour shoot that required more than 20 hours of editing to complete.

The original version appears on your debut album “Music 4 Mutants, Vol. 1”; what are you most proud of with this project, and is "Vol. 2" currently in development?

Yes, the original version of the song is included on my debut album “Music 4 Mutants, Vol. 1.” What I am most proud of with this project is that I did it by myself (meaning without a label or writing team). From writing, recording, designing, distributing, marketing, co-producing, and assembling the right engineering team, all of it was done by me.

I could not be more proud of myself for proving that I am capable and talented enough to create industry-level music without the backing of a corporate giant.

There eventually will be a Vol. 2; however, I can’t promise that it will immediately follow "Music 4 Mutants, Vol. 1." I never like feeling forced to write and create projects based on a specific topic or theme. I like it when ideas come to me organically without them feeling forced or contrived.

As far as the next album goes, I’ll have to see what direction the universe takes me in while writing.

What is it like working on the creation of new music with The Kelly and when did you both discover that you were musically gifted?

Developing new music with The Kelly was so much fun. My sister and I share the same sense of humor, so we're always in the studio cracking jokes between takes (and sometimes during takes), which I’m sure drives my engineer crazy, but it’s that kind of energy that keeps music and our relationship light, loose, and fun.

We each discovered we could rap just a couple of years ago. I’ve been singing in school choirs since middle school and writing/publishing poetry since 2018. My sister has been acting and directing her entire life, so the entertainment industry has always been something we've been interested in.

I think both of us being HUGE Nicki Minaj fans is what eventually inspired us to try our hand at rap. This is the 2nd song we’ve done together, and the reception from the public has been wild. Hopefully, we can make more music together in the future … that would be dope!

With the remix clip now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of this year?

Well, I am currently in nursing school full-time, so my goal is to finish up my final year of the program. However, I plan to continue promoting my previously released music while writing/recording new music for my next project.

Again, I have no specific timeline for when I plan to release my sophomore album. What is more, I have neither a theme nor a solid direction I would like to take my next project. I’m just letting the universe bring me more wonderfully organic ideas and taking it from there. I can’t wait to see what the future brings!

Stream and Share “Music 4 Mutants, Vol. 1” on Spotify

Connect with Mykii J: Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter

Interview: London Based EDM Producer Zight Talks About His New Single/Video "Number One"

“As a musician from Hong Kong, I hope to bring some fresh air into the city, bring some fresh air into the lungs of the corpse. It ain’t easy but it is what I’m trying at this moment.”

— Zight

Congratulations on the release of your awesome new single/video "Number One"; tell us about your creative process for the song itself and who directed the visual.

Thanks! As a “number one” Formula racing fan, you know, I’ve been watching cars sprinting and turning around race tracks since I was a kid. My father once took me to a Grand Prix in Melbourne many years ago. I can never forget that feeling. Cars roar across my ears like thunder, which became an essential inspiration of the song “Number One”.

It took me 5 months to finish the song. And then we have the brilliant Indiana singer Adam Christopher. The music video took place in Winton Motor Raceway, coincidentally in Melbourne. Directed by Brad Day, I’d say “Number One” made the kid’s dream come true.

When someone listens to or watches "Number One" for the first time, what do you want them to take away from the experience?

Well, I hope this song, the music video arouse some memories of yours about Formula racing.

In some countries the Grand Prix was canceled during the pandemic and people are forgetting it. As I know the championships are coming back this year. Maybe it’s the time for us to experience that feeling again, seating and enjoying the show in a real racing circuit.

Will "Number One" be featured on an upcoming EP or album you have in development? Also, what can we expect next from you musically?

I have no plan for an album yet. However I’m working on the next EDM project, named “City Lights”. Inspired by neon lights and towering buildings in Hong Kong, there is a line in the song --

“Dancing in the night, we are shining like city lights. Fire in your eyes, shining bright in the sky”.

I hope listeners will get to feel the unique vibe of city lights and neon signs in Hong Kong listening to this song.

As a producer, what software/hardware do you usually use to create your music?

Ableton Live, with an AKAI keyboard. That’s it.

What led you to move to London, and how would you compare the electronic music scene there to Hong Kong?

I spent a year in London, mastering my production skills. And then I returned to Hong Kong in 2021.

Literally, there is no EDM music scene in Hong Kong. The music industry (what we call Canton-pop) has been struggling like a walking dead (zombie) since the sunset of CD sales. Music has not been evolved for so many years, even the kids in school get so addicted to Harry Styles & BTS, but they never listen to Canton-pop songs.

A recent singing competition restricts candidates to perform in Cantonese. Sadly what we hear in the television are songs from the 80s and 90s. Nothing new from 00s and afterwards.

As a musician from Hong Kong, I hope to bring some fresh air into the city, bring some fresh air into the lungs of the corpse. It ain’t easy but it is what I’m trying at this moment.

With "Number One" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

Besides “City Lights”, I’m working on another single, collaborating with a producer. I know pretty well how to work with singers but honestly this is the very first time I collaborate with a producer from another country.

There are some conflicts between different ideas so that’s something I’m still learning. No big goals this year but I hope to finish and release this single by the winter.

Connect with Zight: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Interview: Queens Based Rap Artist Prince James Talks About His New Single/Video "The Way It Is"

“...for this particular track I knew I wanted to do something that showed a little of my versatility...”

— Prince James

Tell us about how you first got started writing rhymes and when you decided to get serious about recording music.

I been writing rhymes forever. Right after high school, I started to write a little more and even started recording my rhymes on my laptop.

But it wasn't until years later, that I let some of the homies hear what I been working on. And that's when they told me that the shit was iight and people would definitely listen to my shit.

That's when I started taking it serious. I would write everyday until I saw improvement, and then write some more.

Salute to you on the release of your new single/video "The Way It Is"; describe for us your creative process for its development and how you decided on the instrumental from The Boy.

Well for this particular track I knew I wanted to do something that showed a little of my versatility. And I remembered that The Boy usually makes some fire beats that have some dope melodies throughout the production. And when I heard the beat that eventually became "The Way It Is", it just had a whole life of its own. I threw on my Beats and just went to work.

If you could select any artist to appear on a remix to "The Way It Is", who would you select?

On the remix, it might have to be Drake. I think he would do some filth to this beat.

Can we expect to hear "The Way It Is" on an upcoming EP or album this year; if so, what can you tell us about it?

Actually there are no plans for a project this year. But expect to hear more dope singles like "The Way It Is". Been dropping like two every month, so I might continue that.

With "The Way It Is" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

My music goals for the rest of the year are to drop great music and to get people to listen to it. That's the main thing for me. Is getting the music heard because the rest is gonna follow soon after. I believe in the music.

Stream and Share “The Way It Is”

Connect with Prince James: Facebook | Instagram

Interview: Bronx Based Rapper/Producer $pend Money Kwam Discusses His Single "Supposed to Be"

“Inspiration from lyrics, it honestly just comes. I just write whatever comes to me and if it’s fire, I keep it...”

— $pend Money Kwam

Salute to you on the release of your new track "Supposed to Be"; describe for us your creative process for its development in regards to lyrical inspiration and production.

Thanks, I appreciate it! For me honestly, I start with the production first. It's rare that I prematurely write bars now. I'll usually start with melodies, then drums and then if I like the beat a lot I'll write to it. Inspiration from lyrics, it honestly just comes. I just write whatever comes to me and if it's fire, I keep it. I try to give real life stuff, though. A lot of stuff I rap about has really happened, even if it was a simple line.

Speaking of production, do you self-produce a lot of your tracks, and what software/hardware do you use?

Yes, I produce every track I rap on entirely by myself, though I'm open to co-producing.

I'm running FL Studio 20 with the Akai MPK Mini LOL.

Do you plan on releasing a music video for "Supposed to Be", and will it be featured on an upcoming EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about it?

I'm honestly thinking about it, even if it is a little late. I think that track is the best I have so far, it's just so energetic and raw.

Look out for some new singles with music videos this summer! We're shooting at least 3!

How would you say that your hometown, the Bronx, and/or your life experiences have influenced the music that you create?

I honestly can say I learned a lot being in the Bronx. I gained a lot of real friends who had my back. I met a lot of great people. Ate a lot of great food.

I was actually born in the Bronx, I grew up in Newburgh and then I moved back to BX. A lot of music comes from a lot of stuff I've been through in BX.

I remember making beats on the floor on my first crib in BX, before I could even afford a table to put my computer on.

With "Supposed to Be" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

Just releasing more music and showing more diversity as an artist, doing some live shows starting this summer and dropping a whole lot of visuals.

Also I'd like to start doing some live streams on my IG and YouTube!

Connect with $pend Money Kwam: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok

Interview: Magenta Moon Talk About Their New Single/Video "Liquid Heaven"

“Joey always wanted to write a song with a doo-wop guitar sound. “Liquid Heaven” is actually the original take of Smoogie’s vocals. She just sat down and sang whatever popped into her head.”

— Magenta Moon

What are some things, people or places that inspire you both creatively when you are working on new music, and how do you deal with writer's block?

We love getting out of the city to sleep in our tent. Long drives and listening to tons of music fill our creative wells. We get lots of inspiration from staying up all night talking. When in trouble, we do a thing we call “dailies” where we write every day for a month. It takes the ego out and pushes us to get down what’s around us.

We're huge fans of your new single/video "Liquid Heaven"; tell us about your creative process for the development of the song itself, and what inspired you to write it.

In June 2021 we did a project where we were writing two songs a day. Joey would lay down some guitar and Smoogie would top-line. It was meant to be a stream-of-consciousness exercise, but we ended up getting some great tracks from it.

Joey always wanted to write a song with a doo-wop guitar sound. “Liquid Heaven” is actually the original take of Smoogie’s vocals. She just sat down and sang whatever popped into her head.

Regarding its music video, how did you come up with the treatment, and who directed it?

We played at a music festival in Orlando last November, and we decided to collect footage throughout the trip to put together a relaxed and dreamy video. We wanted the video to have a documentary/DIY feel, while still having some narrative.

We both directed and produced the video. Smoogie edited the final product.

How did you two initially meet and then decide to create music together as Magenta Moon?

We met through friends in Boston, November 2015, while we were both still in college. It was an instant connection and we stayed up all night talking. Right after we met, Smoogie did a semester in London, so we didn’t get to see each other for almost a year.

The first few years of our relationship were consumed by fresh love, but we played music and made art together the whole time.

It wasn’t until we decided to do a two-month road trip around the US in 2019 that we started seriously writing songs together. In January 2020, we became Magenta Moon and began recording our first album.

What can you tell us about your upcoming album that "Liquid Heaven" will be featured on? Also, would you say that the project has an overall theme or concept?

While the band was still incubating, we called ourselves “Paul Rudd’s Robot Girlfriend”—the name of our new EP. It’s a departure from our more organized, jazzy sound. It’s loud, spontaneous, and punk. We wrote and recorded all these tracks off the cuff, and we’ve loved them since the beginning.

A lot of the project deals with fear, mind-control, and resisting conformity.

Connect with Magenta Moon: Website | Instagram | Twitter

Interview: Singer-Songwriter Roxanne Talks About Her New Single "Don't Break My Heart"

“The song was inspired by love. It highlights the awe of falling in love juxtaposed with the fear of having a broken heart if the relationship should ever come to an end.”

— Roxanne

What do you remember about singing or writing your first song and when did you realize that music is what you wanted to do as a career?

I always listened to music and sang along to songs from as early as I can remember. Back then, I never really thought of myself as a singer, but I sang because it was a great medium of self-expression for me.

As for songwriting, I wrote my first song when I was 15 and that’s when I realized that maybe I could pursue a career as a singer-songwriter. Every experience related to music that came after that confirmed my deep passion for music and my desire to make a career out of it. I especially knew I wanted to be a music artist once I began performing and recording music.

Speaking of recording music, congratulations on the release of your new single "Don’t Break My Heart”; what inspired you to write the song and who produced it?

The song was inspired by love. It highlights the awe of falling in love juxtaposed with the fear of having a broken heart if the relationship should ever come to an end. This song celebrates the feeling of being empowered by love while also being vulnerable.

As the singer-songwriter, I also produced this song but want to give a shout out to mastering engineer, Waleed Abdulhamid from PHS Studio and recording and mixing engineering, Jason Jaknunas at Metropolitan Studios, and musician Salah Adem for their support in the making of “Don’t Break My Heart”.

Can we expect a music video for "Don't Break My Heart" to follow the single's release?

I will be putting out a music video, so make sure to follow me on my social media platforms to catch the release of my upcoming music video coming soon.

Will "Don't Break My Heart" be appearing on an upcoming EP or album that you have in development? If so, what can you tell us about it?

I’m excited to announce that “Don’t Break My Heart” and some of my previously released solo singles will be appearing on my upcoming debut solo album called “Love Rebel’, which will be released in 2023.

All I can really say about the album is that I’m really proud of it because I believe that it’s my best work yet and I cannot wait to share it with fans!

What do you enjoy most about being a singer-songwriter and what would you say has been your favorite venue to perform at?

What I enjoy most about being a singer-songwriter is having the opportunity to create deeper connections through music; connections within myself while I’m writing music, connections with musicians whether rehearsing, performing, or recording, and connections with fans sharing the gift of music.

As for venues, it’s hard to pinpoint a favorite venue that I’ve performed at as I feel that all venues are so very different and offer such a different experience and vibe. But the most memorable performance so far was performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City because it’s Carnegie Hall.

Connect with Roxanne: Website | Facebook | Twitter

How to Create a Unique Rap Style

Hip-hop made its indelible mark on America’s culture. It has never stopped growing since it started on the streets of New York more than four decades ago. Its influence on different aspects of people’s lifestyles stands strong today, especially in music.

Rap is a music genre rooted deeply in hip-hop culture. It’s defined by rhymes, like poetry, but with musical components, sick beats, and angst. Emerging rappers are still introduced by record labels decades after this genre made its way to the mainstream.

However, making your mark as an aspiring artist can be challenging. To help you take a step up into the music industry, here’s a quick guide on creating a unique rap style to establish your name.

Find Your Inspiration

Both famous rappers and those with careers just starting to take off rely on inspiration. Moreover, making music is a matter of influence and motivation. Every musician has at least one artist they look up to— someone who made them dream of taking the stage.

Starting your journey as a rapper can be terrifying at first. You’re clouded with the question, ‘Am I going to make it?’ The answer will depend on how determined you are to ‘make it.’ All the hip hop legends that made music history were once in your shoes, but they made it to the top. Your passion for the craft and holding on to your inspiration will help you pull through.

Music is something people make out of what they’ve heard. Then, the individual experiences, thoughts, and emotions make their music unique. It’s the same when creating your rap style. Getting inspired by other artists’ work is the first step to cultivating your original sound.

Establish Your Identity As An Artist

Establishing your identity as a rapper is crucial to reaching success in the music industry. You’re working hard to build your name, which includes who you are and your purpose for making music.

Who you are as a person is a unique element you can mix with your music. Incorporating your personal experiences, struggles, victories, and even your mundane day-to-day life makes your music yours and only yours.

Your purpose is also what makes you distinct from other artists. Identify what drives your passion for this craft. Are you making music to express your emotions? Do you have a one-of-a-kind story to tell the world? How would you want people to know you? Your answer to these types of questions makes you unique.

Determine The Messages You Want To Speak About

Your identity should come with your messages. Rap focuses on word choices and meanings. These are the core elements of your music, so ensuring you’re writing original lyrics helps you create your mark.

The messages of your music reflect who you are. Some rappers choose to convey political or social issues. Because hip hop has political roots, this type of message is an ordinary thing. However, you can rap about pretty much anything under the sun.

When writing lyrics, do it from your heart. Write about what bothers you, no matter how trivial. You can also share experiences that affect you on a spiritual level. You can even start a musical and societal revolution through your music.

Find Your Tone And Vocal Style

Rapping is similar to singing. You have to find your tone and vocal style that sets you apart from other artists. You want people to hear your songs in public and immediately think of your name.

Your tone should always be appropriate to your messages and emotions. If you’re rapping about something that makes you angry, be angry. However, this should not be limited to your feelings. You can always rap with whatever technique you feel like creating. Thus, you can be emotionless or exaggerate.

Meanwhile, your vocal style blends your natural voice and articulation. Your speaking voice should be your foundation to avoid straining during long performances. Then, you can modify it by learning various vocal techniques and determining how you’ll articulate every word.

Say What You Want Unapologetically

If you want to stand out, be true to yourself. Creating a unique rap style results from being unapologetically honest about what you want others to hear.

It’s easy to conform to whatever’s popular in a world full of trending hashtags and viral videos. Conformity leads to a loss of identity, though. Your uniqueness allows you to do and say what you want, even if it’s not the ongoing trend.

When you rap, say what you want and don’t feel sorry for it. Don’t be controlled by what’s popular on social media and the issues and topics people want to hear. Create music that you would like to listen to and perform for yourself.

Conclusion

Creating a unique rap style means combining what you hear, who you are, and who you want to be as a rapper. Establishing your name in the music industry can be frustrating at times. However, you can achieve the sweetest victory by conquering the toughest challenges.

Interview: Philly Based Artist/Producer Dev Patrick Discusses His New Single "LOVE SONG"

“I’ve been making music since I was 13. Been at it for about 11 years now. Producing, writing, rapping, singing, everything. Made a lot of projects I later took down when I went to college, rebranded.”

— Dev Patrick

What are some things/people/places that inspire you when you are working on new music?

It's hard to say what really inspires me because a lot of times ideas come to me when I’m not trying to create anything. I’m always humming melodies into my phone, on the run. I’ll be in the moment, feel something come over me and ideas just start popping up in every direction. It comes in many forms, in different places so I couldn’t really tell you. Because it's inconsistent. But when it's there, it's there and I don’t want to miss the moment to capture it. Because it never comes back.

Salute to you on the release of your dope new track "LOVE SONG"; tell us about your creative process for its development and what inspired you to write it.

The process for this song was pretty interesting. I found this beat on YouTube and liked how it sounded initially but figured it could use some enhancements.

I consider my production style to be fusionist; I have a hip-hop base but I like genre bending a lot! Give the listener something new to listen to.

A lot of producers use the same sounds you hear in other places but the product always feels limited in the way they use them; they like to keep it simple. I’m the opposite.

The beat was tagged as a Playboi Carti type beat so I bought it, then swapped a bunch of sounds, added an 8-Bit arp, this post-rock guitar and a bunch of background synths you might hear on something like “Purple Rain”.

The lyrics I was never crazy about but my friends liked it so I dropped it. I was just sitting in my dorm, had a girlfriend at the time and wrote a song about her.

Can we expect a music video for "LOVE SONG" to follow the single? Also, will the single be appearing on an upcoming EP or album this year?

There actually is a music video out right now, You can find it on YouTube as we speak! I just shot it with a friend on my webcam and went berserk with the editing. Shot it myself. As far as where the song ends up next, you’ll just have to see! Have some plans in the tuck.

How did you get started writing and producing music; and were there any artists/producers that you looked at as influential when you were younger?

I’ve been making music since I was 13. Been at it for about 11 years now. Producing, writing, rapping, singing, everything. Made a lot of projects I later took down when I went to college, rebranded.

The artists that got me into music mostly are Kanye, Black Eyed Peas, and Gorillaz. 2009 was a hell of a year for me. Pop was going in a different direction that was completely unfamiliar and I fell in love with it and wanted to emulate it.

I started out trying to be a YouTuber and wanted my friends to make a mixtape with me for the channel. We finished it but it was awful lol. But my heart stayed in it. My love for film transitioned into a love for music by my teens and the rest is history.

With "LOVE SONG" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

I don’t want to give away too much, but there will be a lot more coming. I have the next 3 years mapped out. I have plans. Big plans.

Connect with Dev Patrick: TikTok | Instagram

Interview: Illinois Based Artist Griffin Bars Discusses His New Track "Dividends", Featuring Rockie Fresh

“When I saw the success Hopsin and Funk Volume had achieved at an independent level, that’s when I realized that it may indeed be possible to get myself in the industry. Especially now that I have this story to tell about my upbringing, I needed to get back at it.”

— Griffin Bars

What are some things/people/places that have inspired you as an artist as you write and record your songs?

I’ve been influenced by so many great artists. Lil Wayne’s energy and lyricism I think really sealed the deal for me wanting to be a rapper at such a young age. Then I began writing and realized I wasn’t too bad at it. Kept going and I got better and better.

Around 15 I stopped everything when I entered the foster care system. More so because I didn’t really have a way to make or listen to music easily. In my last year in the system I was re introduced to hip hop by a friend of mine who wasn’t in the system. When I saw the success Hopsin and Funk Volume had achieved at an independent level, that’s when I realized that it may indeed be possible to get myself in the industry. Especially now that I have this story to tell about my upbringing, I needed to get back at it.

Above everything else, my biggest inspiration is the kids who are currently in the system. I want to be the example for the foster youth that you can achieve whatever you want despite your past situation.

Congratulations on the release of your new song "Dividends", featuring Rockie Fresh. How did you connect with Rockie and how did you decide on the instrumental provided by Nathan Spieser?

Me and Rockie connected via Instagram late 2021. After some conversations we decided a collaboration was the move. The beat was sent to me a couple weeks prior to connecting with Rockie, I was stumped on the 2nd verse.

I sent a pack over to Rockie and he absolutely killed that second verse. Which worked out perfectly because I no longer had to come up with a second verse.

With "Dividends" now released, what can we expect to hear or see next from you? Also, will "Dividends" be appearing on an upcoming EP or album this year? If so, what can you tell us about it?

“Dividends” will be on my first project “Lamborghini Day Dreams”. I will say though, it is a real dream come true having Rockie fresh on my album. I’ve always thought that he’s a great representation of the non drill Chicago rap scene and hip hop as a genre in general.

Aside from dividends, there are 11 other tracks on the project. Some songs are upbeat and go hard and on some songs I talk about my experiences in the foster care system and other struggles I’ve faced. We can expect to see that drop in the summer of 2022.

What do you look for in the beats that you decide to write to, and where do you generally find them?

I work with a few producers who send me beats regularly. When I hear a beat I really think I can do something with, it’s almost like it writes itself.

Seriously I just start thinking of bars and before i know it. We gotta verse, then another and another and then a hook. And it’s a wrap.

We're four months into a new year; what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?

2022 plans include dropping “Lamborghini Day Dreams. Some music videos for the project, and live events. The goals remain the same tho, make an impact and get the bag.

Stream and Share “Dividends” on Soundcloud

Connect with Griffin Bars: Instagram