Interview: Los Angeles Rapper AUS10 Talks About His New Single/Video "Dreams"
We connected with Los Angeles based rap artist @Officialaus10 for an exclusive interview to discuss the newly released music video for his single “Dreams”, his creative process for his most recent project “Lost in Paradise”, and much more.
“I make music from the heart, not just for my city, there’s a world within me and I’m universal and aspire to be global with my music.”
Big ups to you on the release of your new single and music video “Dreams”. Tell us about what initially motivated you to write the song and who provided the beat.
The song was in my room while I was in a deep thought, you know, I always take as much time needed to create great music. This one here was just a result of those periods of time, reflecting on my past experiences, where I'm at now and my dreams of what will be over time. That's where the name “DREAMS” come from.
It was produced by epik the dawn. I think I might've found that beat on YouTube or received something in my email and responded. At this point, beats come in a lot and it's getting challenging to listen to all everything so I tap in when the time is right.
How did you and the director connect and where specifically in Los Angeles did you shoot the video’s scenes?
Me and my videographer of this video, Ike connected on Instagram and linked up in the South LA/Watts area where I used to stay and cruised around to a few spots. I think I'm a pretty likeable guy and this brother here is a solid brother as well so it was very easy to work on both sides to create something dope.
We also went to Venice Beach and shot some scenes such as the intro and Culver City Park all the way at the top. I really admire scenic overlooks and am eager to find more.
If you could pick any artist to appear on a remix to “Dreams”, who would you select?
Jay-Z, go big or go home. In all honesty, I strive for excellence lyrically. I'm competitive and he's the big dog in the game and I'd love to see what myself and someone like that would do in the studio. It would be crazy. Life changing.
Tell us about your creative process for your most recent work “Lost in Paradise”. Also, what are you most proud of with that project?
There's something inside me that changes when I'm creating a full project as opposed to a single. I love creating full projects because I like creating a story line as best as I can. The order of the music has to be to where if you listen to it all in one sitting in a quiet space or wherever you feel comfortable, it sounds like a vibe all the way through. Most of the time I don't go in with that mindset but afterwards I just piece the music together with the tracklist and there it go.
How would you say that your hometown of Los Angeles influences the music you create?
I make music from the heart, not just for my city, there's a world within me and I’m universal and aspire to be global with my music. So although I can make music I know will turn up an LA function if I got up on stage at this point in my life cause I know what they like, my primary focus is staying diverse like a stock portfolio, letting my creativity flow, and staying true to myself and letting those who are attracted gravitate this way.
With “Dreams” now released, what are some of your goals musically for the remainder of 2020?
I will be releasing more music. With me, it's like once I finish a song and am in that mode, I can write about 3-4 more in one sitting when I'm feeling the beats I got in front of me. So with that being said, I have more heat coming soon that I'm equally, if not more excited to release to the public.
I also am eager to get back to performing, so later this year I'll be back on stages in front of people showing my face more.
Brooklyn Folk-Rock Band Girl Skin Release Their Debut Album "Shade is on the Other Side"
Folk-Rock band @girlskinband debut album, “Shade is on the other side” is 11 tracks of thoughtful folk-rock that is just as much a throwback as it is a forward-thinking body of work.
When you record an album in your bedroom, the resulting music will inevitably reflect the intimacy of that space. And so it is with the songs that make up Girl Skin’s debut album, “Shade is on the other side” – 11 tracks of thoughtful folk-rock that is just as much a throwback as it is a forward-thinking body of work. From the yearning of “Forever & Always,” the album’s lead single which features frontman Sid Simons’ timeless voice front-and-center, and gentle strumming of the hazy “Bite Real Hard” to the expansive grandeur of “She Said,” Shade is on the other side is an elegant mosaic of musical touchstones presented by a young and talented band who is openly coming into their own.
Informed by Simons’ unorthodox life journey which has taken him from Portland, Australia, New York and to Shanghai, as well as through a rambling, two-month road trip he took around North America instead of finishing high school, the album receives contributions from his brother Stanley Simons (bass), Ruby Wang (violin), Wyatt Mones (lead guitar), Sophie Cozine (keys/harmonies) and Noah Boling (drums).
“I wanted these songs to give listeners a layered experience,” Simons says of the album as a whole. “There’s the first intuitive reaction which I wanted to be joyful and optimistic. But then, as they listened further, other emotions would come to the fore: Darker, more complex emotions that give the songs breadth and depth. And I’m excited by the different interpretations people are having to the same song, some feeling the darker shades, others feeling the lighter ones.”
Listen to Girl Skin’s debut album “Shade is on the Other Side” now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with them on their social media.
Stream "Scorched", the Recently Released Album by Nashville Rap Artist Z. Smith
Check out the recently released 13-track album entitled "Scorched" by Nashville based rap artist @smittyztop
DCWS is excited to share with you the recently released, 13-track album, “Scorched”, by Nashville based rap artist Z. Smith, which features his past releases “Black Pen” and “Premonition”. The album includes features by Ryan Oakes, Jack DeCraene, Knox Morris, Kelsey, Tegenkamp, Trevy Leon and Keagan Gully.
The Cincinnati native, whose musical influences include Machine Gun Kelly, Joyner Lucas, and Vince Staples, definitely comes correct on the “Scorched” album, which is something that we’ll get into very soon when we drop our in-depth review of the project.
In the meantime, vibe out to the “Scorched” album right now, stream it on your preferred music service, connect with Z. Smith on his website and social media, and also be on the lookout for our exclusive interview with him!
Stream and Share “Scorched” on: Apple Music | Google Play Music
Interview: Toronto Based Artist/Producer QTR Talks About His Latest Track "Ends"
Big ups to Toronto’s own QTR who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his brand new single “Ends”, how his Ghanaian roots are represented in his music and much more.
“I think the best part about the Hip-Hop/RnB/Soul scene in Toronto is the abundance of talent we have in the city. There are so many people ready to link up and be creative, which allows artists like me to create unique sounds in music. ”
Big ups to you on the release of your new track "Ends"; it's very dope. Tell us about your creative process for its development and what inspired you to write it.
First off thank you. I appreciate DOPECAUSEWESAID for conducting this interview.
I start my creative process for each song I write by analyzing my mood and then trying to write a personal story that people can relate to. Toronto is a beautiful city at night and it’s even better when you can just drive along to vibey music. That’s what inspired this song. I was driving along the highway just thinking about life and it gave me an idea for this song.
What do you like most about the Hip-Hop/RnB/Soul music scene in Toronto in 2020 and what do you dislike the most?
I think the best part about the Hip-Hop/RnB/Soul scene in Toronto is the abundance of talent we have in the city. There are so many people ready to link up and be creative, which allows artists like me to create unique sounds in music.
Toronto is known for being the “screwface capital,” which makes people less likely to support new music in the city lol but slowly that’s changing.
How would you say that your West African, Ghanaian roots are represented in the music that you create?
I’m very fortunate; growing up, my parents had such an eclectic ear for music. They’re really the reason why I started making music.
West African music incorporates a lot of gospel, jazz, and the Ghanaian highlife sound. Hearing this music as a kid allowed me to incorporate these sounds and rhythms in my music.
When you're producing new music, what software/hardware do you use?
When I’m making beats, I use FL Studios to get the job done. But when I record music, the engineer I work with strictly uses Studio One for my vocals.
With "Ends" now out, we're very excited to hear more from you; what can we expect next from you musically?
You can expect a lot more music. I’ve made a rule for myself to release at least one song a month.
I also haven’t told anyone this yet, but I’ll be releasing my first EP called “VIM SOUND” early this summer. It’s a seven song EP that will have more of an Afroswing vibe.
When you are not working on new music, how do you spend your leisure time around Toronto?
When I’m not working on music, you can find me at Afrobeat parties around the city, co-hosting a podcast called Channel 47, and working on my coding skills.
Listen to the Channel 47 Podcast
Connect with QTR: Instagram
Ann King Gives Us the Soundtrack to Life With Her New EP "Fake Flowers"
Following the release of her emotive single ‘ILY’, singer songwriter Ann King leads us through the labyrinth life can be: finding the way out of heart-break, landing on empowerment and going all the way to resistance with her latest EP ‘Fake Flowers’.
Following the release of her emotive single ‘ILY’, singer songwriter Ann King leads us through the labyrinth life can be: finding the way out of heart-break, landing on empowerment and going all the way to resistance with her latest EP ‘Fake Flowers’. Embracing every season she has been through, Ann gives us music to go through our own maze.
The story behind the EP starts at a waiting room where a burnt-out Ann found herself. Her thoughts were wild trying to escape an unavoidable dreadful therapy session. Her eyes transcended on a vase, her heart sunk at the thought of how fake the flowers were there, and how everything else didn’t feel real. Everything was not OK and the singer realised she did not want to pretend anymore. Providing inspiration behind her latest EP, ‘Fake Flowers’, a quest for meaning and acceptance.
In Ann’s own words, “Life can really suck sometimes but it’s better to feel the pain than to leave it all bottled up. I really learned it the hard way but it’s okay to ask for help and be vulnerable, it doesn’t make you weak.”
Carefully crafted, the album goes knee-deep into smooth R&B making us feel the bitterness of break-ups, followed by ballads to soothe the soul, a dash of pop to renew the desire to take chances and country music to lift spirits. The EP showcases varying styles that dictate the eclectic nature of life and genuine lyrics that keep it real.
Ann has had the strength to open up and thanks to that, we all feel less lonely going through this daunting experience called life. “I have never released music that is so personal and honest, it makes me feel really vulnerable. I really hope my music can touch someone’s heart and help them in a way.”
After giving her first steps in the industry in her home country the Netherlands, Ann King is re-shaping her music. She has left behind ANEMARY, her artistic name for years, and decided to start a new, raw and challenging path as herself, Ann King. ‘Fake Flowers’ comes to consolidate that decision.
Alternative Radio's Payton Stark Launches I CAN START A BAND TOO Music Campaign
I CAN START A BAND TOO is a music campaign based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin launched by Payton Stark, of the punk rock band Alternative Radio. The website is chock full of resources, and offers space for the community to network and discuss topics on its forum.
I CAN START A BAND TOO is a music campaign based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin launched by Payton Stark, of the punk rock band Alternative Radio. The website is chock full of resources, and offers space for the community to network and discuss topics on its forum.
I CAN START A BAND TOO has also sat down with prominent figures in the Milwaukee music scene back in the 80's like Yipes!, Colour Radio, and 3 on Fire. Users will learn how to promote their music, how to get on college radio, book shows, and how to find success as a band, or a musician.
Founder Payton Stark started this music campaign because he saw the lack of education and direction that he and other burgeoning musicians had access to. Bloggers giving advice seemed disingenuous and unhelpful. Payton also wanted to help reignite the Milwaukee music scene and get it to its full potential again. Having a father who was part of the music scene in the ‘80s and after starting his own group, he wanted to change all of this and introduce I CAN START A BAND TOO.
Interview: Australian Pop/RnB Artist Samara Discusses Her New Single "Pull Up"
We connected with Melbourne based Pop/RnB singer-songwriter @samarasmusic for an exclusive interview to discuss her new single “Pull Up”, and much more!
“Music is my dream, I live and breathe it so there was no way somebody was going to tell me that I couldn’t ever be something that meant the world to me. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. ”
Congratulations on the release of your latest single "Pull Up". Tell us about how this song came about initially and what your creative process was for its development.
Thank you so much! For “Pull Up”, I worked with an incredible multi platinum award winning songwriter Mickey Shiloh on this track and the concept came from me thinking about someone I was currently seeing at the time and how I wanted him to pull up and come over to my place (it was all I could think about!).
Even though I knew he was seeing other people, we were addicted to each other. I knew he wasn’t loyal nor was he the one but I wanted this track to ooze a sensual, chilled type vibe that went with the chemistry we both had together.
What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment musically since you started releasing music in 2016?
Oooh that is a difficult question to answer, I would say the biggest accomplishment for me has been training my ear. Believe it or not, I was not naturally blessed with vocal abilities. I have worked really hard at practicing and learning, which is why I am the biggest believer in any single person can be anything they wish if they are willing to put in the work. Music is my dream, I live and breathe it so there was no way somebody was going to tell me that I couldn’t ever be something that meant the world to me. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
If you could select any artist to be featured on a remix to "Pull Up", who would you select?
Chris Brown haha! He is such an amazing artist and I think the song would really fit his style.
What are some things/people/places that inspire your creativity as a singer-songwriter?
Beyoncé inspires me as a woman; she is strong, hardworking and so inspirational. The Pussycat Dolls inspire me from a performance and style perspective. I love their look and the way they dance absolutely incredible.
My life experiences inspire my songwriting for sure. You can take the most basic scenario that you’ve gone through and then mold it into anything you want! It takes practice but the sooner you pick up the pen, the sooner you learn to write!
How has being infected with and recovering from COVID-19 affected your ability to function normally and do what you normally would as an artist?
I am one of the really lucky people who has recovered almost back to 100% now. I was so lethargic to the point I couldn’t even wash my own hair. My head was constantly blocked and I couldn’t taste/smell anything for well over a week.
It was definitely an eye opener for me but didn’t stop me from networking, submitting my music, planning releases and ultimately writing.
I am a pretty determined person so as soon as I could feel my strength regaining - it was onwards and upwards from there!
Connect with Samara: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Review: "Beginning of a Legend" Album by DTB Chris
New York based rapper @dtbchris8 recently released his debut album “Beginning of a Legend”. Check out our in-depth review of the album now.
Throughout his debut album, “Beginning of a Legend”, New York based rapper DTB Chris plants seeds in the mind of the listener that he will be one to watch for many years to come. Everything about the album has a living, breathing quality to it. Full of so much life, the mixture of samples alongside economical grooves gives the sound a duality. On one hand, there is the tremendous bass, the beats that have such a heavy-hitting impact. With the flip side they prove to have a deft skill with picking out rather infectious and catchy samples into the mix.
By far, the highlight of the album comes from DTB Chris’s reflective delivery. His lyricism, his flow, all of these further add to the sense of the journey that effortlessly meshes together to create a vast stream of acknowledgment that he is the future of New York hip hop.
For DTB Chris’s vocals, he takes his time in painting pictures of his every day life as a teenager. Nothing ever is rushed, the patience shown throughout gives it a masterful quality. Vocals have a low-key, conversational approach. He chooses a contemplative ode to the way the album unfurls, at times touching upon the confident cool of Frank Ocean. Quite sunny like Frank Ocean’s work, the songs have an almost summery quality to them with every layer being added on with the greatest level of care.
Gentle guitar introduces the album with “The Jungle”, and with a sense of grandeur, “Not Lucky” evolves and is a worthy follow up, letting the listener know that this is no fluke. Wobbly bass gives “Poppin” a heavy physicality, and akin to origami, the way “Flex Up” grows, allows for DTB Chris to show off a little bit.
Much more intense “Trust Issues Pt. 2”, featuring Benji KC, chooses an aggressive, harder edged quality. Tenderness reigns supreme on the romantic “Feel a Way”. Stripping things down to the essentials “STOMP STOMP!” has an elastic approach and various sped up samples add to the playfulness of the album closer “Story”.
The “Beginning of a Legend” album shows off DTB Chris’s uncanny ability to share a world that feels so uniquely his own. We highly recommend that DTB Chris’s debut album.
Stream and Share “Beginning of a Legend” on: Spotify | Soundcloud
Interview: Harlem Artist and Author Tommy Danger Discusses His Latest Single "Thank You"
Major thanks to Harlem based rapper, author and podcaster @tomdanger who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his latest single “Thank You”, which was produced by J. Hill.
“In the world’s current state, it’s easy to just get programmed into thinking we can’t see the positive of this situation. Waking up everyday in itself is something to be thankful for.”
You're back on DCWS with another banger; this one's entitled "Thank You". Why was it important for you to write this song and who specifically are you thanking?
J. Hill, the producer, sent me a beat pack and this track just spoke to me. As a believer in positive thoughts and intentions I was thanking the Universe and it's higher power. In the world's current state, it's easy to just get programmed into thinking we can't see the positive of this situation. Waking up everyday in itself is something to be thankful for.
What specifically attracted you to the beat for "Thank You" that J Hill provided?
The track is very melodic. The guitar strings, horns and piano remind me of an intro to a gospel song or an R&B song from the nineties. It's the type of track where all you need to do is compliment the melody. Very unique in today's music climate.
Will "Thank You" be a part of an upcoming project and do you plan to create a visual for it?
Yes, this will be featured on “Motivation and Confidence Volume 2 Building Up Confidence”, which will also be a book that will serve as a guide to help people who struggle with confidence.
The project will only be released on my website. We are working on building an experience instead just click and play. We will shoot the video once New York lifts the current stay at home policy.
How has this coronavirus pandemic affected your creativity as an artist, author, etc? Are you more inspired to write rhymes and chapters now that we're all on lockdown?
Absolutely; more time for self study, more time to be creative, more time to strategize. Best time to build up your audience. People are spending more time on social media than ever.
Of all the songs in your catalog, if you had to choose one which would serve as the proper introduction to Tommy Danger as an artist to a new listener, which song would you select and why?
The song called “7 Steps”. It gives a breakdown of what my mission is and is pure Hip Hop. You can be have principles, be cool, smart and don't take no B.S.
Review: "BEFORE LOVE CAME TO KILL US" Album by Jessie Reyez
Check out Dopecausewesaid’s in-depth review of the newly released album ”BEFORE LOVE CAME TO KILL US” by @jessiereyez
Jessie Reyez is one of those artists who carries on the legacy of Amy Winehouse with her distinct and haunting voice. Her most swoon-worthy song on the new album, “BEFORE LOVE CAME TO KILL US” would have to be the eerie “COFFIN,” featuring Eminem with a swaying guitar ode that’s the perfect bare canvas for Jessie’s goosebump-inducing voice.
As she repeatedly croons, “I’d rather a coffin handmade for two, cause I love you to death, just like a fool,” she makes toxic love sound sweeter than candy, and we’re completely drinking the Kool-Aid. As the song goes on, it’s hard not to immerse yourself in the center, envisioning a live band performing this timeless tune.
Eminem’s feature wakes it up a little bit and adds some edge, but this is still definitely Miss Jessie’s song, on which even legendary Em is a guest. Then again, who better to feature on a song about toxic and self-destructive relationships?
“DEAF (WHO ARE YOU)” who are you showcases a harder side of Jessie as she experiments with rap. Regardless of the lyrics (which are generally less thought-provoking than her more melodic tracks) when she delivers it in that high-pitched raspy voice, it’s hard not to be seduced. It’s catchy as hell, but not as deep as some of the other members of this track list.
Intruders chills things out and brings it back to a mellow place that conjures images of “The Girl from Ipanema.” The island style, Bossa Nova inspired feels like a lullaby, even as she ruthlessly tells listeners about the dangerous consequences that her love can have: “So please no intruders, I kill all intruders, ‘cause my love is ruthless, so please no intruders.”
Reyez hands us her heart on a platter again with “ANKLES”, staying vulnerable while boasting how other girls can’t even measure up to her ankles. As she reminisces on a disloyal past lover, she reclaims that self-worth and respect through the knockout hook: Lights out, strike out, I doubt you’ll ever find anyone, these bitches can’t measure up to my ankles.”
When you think of Jessie and her slowed down angst, you don’t tend to think of party bangers, but “DOPE” completely changed out mind on that one. This bright, cut-up party anthem blends eclectic inspirations like Moombahton trap, EDM and ballroom voguing music. If we ever get to have a summer 2020, this is going to be its anthem.
“LOVE IN THE DARK” is a soaring piano ballad that establishes itself as an instant classic in the same vein of Adele and Beyonce, but “FIGURES” is the heart-wrenching slow-dance song that Jessie delivers to us in a 1960s style tribute to regret and raw, open wounds of the soul.
According to “BEFORE LOVE CAME TO KILL US”, this is just the beginning for an already explosive singer with a whole lot under her belt and a keen ability to evolve.
Stream and Share “Before Love Came to Kill Us” on Spotify
Acclaimed Songwriter Bob Nanna to Release "Celebration States" Solo LP on July 10
Chicago-based songwriter Bob Nanna is excited to announce the Friday, July 10th release of “Celebration States”, the brand new, highly personal showcase – and first official album under Nanna’s own name.
New Granada Records (Pohgoh, Caithlin De Marrais of Rainer Maria, Gordon Withers) and acclaimed Chicago-based songwriter Bob Nanna (Braid, Hey Mercedes, The City On Film, Lifted Bells) are excited to announce the Friday, July 10th release of “Celebration States”, the brand new, highly personal showcase – and first official album under Nanna’s own name – that details a major life shift for the seasoned musician: a full, all-acoustic LP recorded entirely on September 7, 2019, the day that would’ve been Nanna’s wedding anniversary.
Simple and exposed, “Celebration States” places Nanna’s distinct, honeyed vocals on full-display and discusses the personal process of coping with a certain type of loss.
“Celebration States” takes the listener on a confessional ride of emotional hardships and self-exploration followed by the eventual enlightenment of inner healing. As heartbreaking as it is uplifting, the album is a journey of rediscovery with a hint of humor incorporated for good measure. Of the 10-song set, Nanna says it “documents the highs and lows of a one year-long story. It’s autobiographical and I purposely awaited a positive resolution before I decided to complete the project.”
Check out “Do You Want to Buy a Guitar” off the “Celebration States” album, connect with Bob Nanna on his website and social media, and pre-order the album below.
Interview: New York Based Rap Artist DTB Chris Talks About His Debut Album "Beginning of a Legend"
We connected with up and coming New York based rapper @dtbchris8 for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released debut album “Beginning of a Legend”, his musical goals for the rest of 2020, and much more.
“I have studied all the Hip Hop greats and know what it takes to become a legend, and I am ready for the long haul and will continue to work hard to achieve that status. ”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your debut album "Beginning of a Legend". What does the album's title represent to you?
The album title represents the long road ahead for me to becoming a legend in this game. I have studied all the Hip Hop greats and know what it takes to become a legend, and I am ready for the long haul and will continue to work hard to achieve that status.
You've mentioned that you only began writing rhymes in 2019. Tell us about your progression as an artist from that time to now with your debut album dropping.
Wow, where can I start? I have always had a passion for Hip Hop since I was 7 years old. When I first started, I wasn’t too sure of myself and therefore started by working with another artist, then I realized I had to do a solo project all on my own, and that’s when I decided to start working on my album.
My writing skills has improved as a result of that. I wrote all the lyrics within a period of 2 months and the challenge for me was for each track to sound different.
What are some things that inspire your creativity as an artist?
Current events, past experience, and some of the artist out right now.
Speaking of artists, of the ones you've listed as inspirations (Nas, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, XXXTentacion and Ski Mask The Slump God), if you could get any one of them on a collaborative track, who would you select?
It would definitely be Ski Mask the Slump God.
With this incredible album now released, what are some of your goals musically for the remainder of 2020?
To release my next album; the road to becoming a legend has officially begun.
Stream and Share “Beginning of a Legend” on: Soundcloud | Spotify
Interview: Dallas Based Rapper Zane McGuire Discusses His Self-Produced New Single "Whom Am I"
We connected with Dallas, TX based rapper and producer Zane McGuire for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released, self-produced single “Who Am I”, and much more.
“I would like the takeaway for anyone listening to my music to be this: A stronger heart. A stronger mind. A stronger soul. I believe people often perceive strength as rigidity. I’d like them to challenge that belief. I believe true strength comes from kindness, and care for yourself and others...”
Salute to you on the release of your new song "Who Am I"; it's a very great track. What motivated you to write the song initially?
As I was sitting in my car listening to my entire discography under the rap name “Purp Magik” thinking of my life, I started to think about all I’d been through and what it was leading up to. I knew there was a divine purpose for me, a reason I was here. And suddenly a melody came in my head, the piano melody in “Who Am I”. So I laid it down and put a beat to it. And in my head I’m like “woah, this has a lot of feeling to it, I have to write something meaningful.” I let my mind run free on the beat, and out came the words “Who Am I,... search for my soul...” and I went from there.
You didn't just rhyme on "Who Am I", you produced it as well. What software/hardware do you use for your beats and do you sell them to other artists?
Oddly enough I use GarageBand on my iPhone 6 to produce beats, and this is what I used to produce “Who Am I”. I currently do not sell beats but am open to it if any artist is interested.
When someone listens to a Zane McGuire song for the first time, what do you want them to take away from the experience?
I would like the takeaway for anyone listening to my music to be this: A stronger heart. A stronger mind. A stronger soul. I believe people often perceive strength as rigidity. I’d like them to challenge that belief. I believe true strength comes from kindness, and care for yourself and others. This world is in desperate need of balance and love. I’d like to inspire others to help fill this need.
Will "Who Am I" be a part of an upcoming EP or album this year? If so, what can you tell us about it?
I’m not sure yet! But I will say I have quite a few singles on the way, and plan on dropping an album at some point in my career.
Why is it important for you that the music that you create be positive and inspirational to the listener?
It’s important to me because I feel like many people aren’t awake to how powerful they truly are deep down. We all have immense power on the inside, to spark change, to inspire others, and to change the world for the better. Which I believe we are all capable of.
Connect with Zane McGuire: Instagram
Interview: Long Island Based Rap Artist Mini Mac Discusses His New Single/Video "One Shot
We connected with Long Island, NY based rap artist @Mini_Mac1995 for an exclusive interview to discuss the brand new visual he’s released for his single “One Shot”, and much more.
Mini Mac
Long Island, NY
“I’ve been wearing multiple hats from songwriter, to engineer, to co-producer, and also making it a point to learn and stay current with the music business. Additionally, I touch on adversities I had faced growing up, and chose to bring those to light because those were the experiences that actually made me try harder. ”
Congratulations on the release of your new music video "One Shot"; the song itself and the visual are dope. Tell us about the song in regards to your motivation to write it and how you came across the beat by Slothbeats.
Thank you! The motivation stemmed from reflecting on how much has changed in a short period of time, I’d say; I was surviving on minimal funds a year ago, and now I’m learning what it means to be the most self-sufficient independent artist I can be and seeing results from it.
I’ve been wearing multiple hats from songwriter, to engineer, to co-producer, and also making it a point to learn and stay current with the music business. Additionally, I touch on adversities I had faced growing up, and chose to bring those to light because those were the experiences that actually made me try harder.
I actually met Slothbeats at one of my shows in upstate New York! He was visiting from Germany and was checking out the scene here. The kid is 16 and killing it with production. He loved my performance and asked if I wanted to work on some music with him. His goal was to find an ideal mixture of new school and old school, and thus “One Shot” was born.
If you could select any artist to appear on the remix to "One Shot", who would you pick?
I think it’d be really cool to hear Logic on this because I think he could flow well to this beat and spit some real conscious/thought provoking bars that would fit or coincide with my concept on the track. I can hear a Young Sinatra vibe of his on it.
Even though there have been many legendary rappers coming out of Long Island like EPMD, Keith Murray, Rakim, and Busta Rhymes, why do you think there's still a misconception about artists from there in comparison to those from NYC?
Unfortunately, I honestly don’t know when and why that misconception started, but I plan on repping us heavily to the point where hopefully we will find the outlook of us changing.
I take Hip Hop very seriously, and I think people will start to notice and respect overtime that there is still some great talent here on Long Island! I mean, if we can birth the legends mentioned, why can’t we have others?
How did you and the director, Bryan DeVissiere, come up with the treatment/concept of the "One Shot" visual?
Bryan is a huge believer in capturing the most candid of scenes and compiling them in a way that tells a great story. He ran with my vision and took it ten steps further. His focus with the treatment was to give the city a grimed like filter, but let the whites in my outfit pop and exude a more positive and bright side.
For the second half of the video where the skit comes in, I really wanted to capture what life was like for me back in high school, so I wore my glasses I had since 9th grade and shared the kind of texts I got from friends at the time. Bryan and I really wanted the audience to understand the feeling of the environment I was in physically and mentally during that time.
Can we expect to hear "One Shot" on an upcoming EP or album this year?
For now, “One Shot” will be standing as a single release because I feel like it can stand as such, and sonically tells its own story; however, people can expect to hear new music in the coming months for sure.
Even though the current pandemic has thrown a wrench in almost everybody's immediate plans, what are your goals musically for the remainder of 2020?
Definitely working on pumping out as much content as I can especially given the extra opportunities we have to lock in at home to just create and share.
Thankfully, we’re in an age where we can make music in the comfort of our own homes and I’ve really been taking advantage of that as much as I can. People can definitely bet on a lot of new music, and shows to follow once this all settles because I truly miss the stage.
Review: "It Is What It Is" Album by Thundercat
The entire “It Is What It Is” album by @thundercat feels like a slow journey with the homies into outer space, and we can’t think of a better mental space to be in during this time of social distancing. Read our in-depth review of Thundercat’s latest release.
Many of you might not be familiar with Thundercat yet, even though he’s worked numerous time with famous artists like Kendrick Lamar. In 2020, he might not be a household name, but we don’t think that’s going to last very ling after “It Is What It Is.” The fifteen-song debut is his fourth album, and is a celebration of jazz, which this musician interprets in a genius, completely original way that many compare to the late greats.
“Interstellar Love” is a percussive roller coaster that feels like a merging of meditation and jazz - an energy that the LA musician seems to cultivate in many of his tracks. However, in “I Love Louis Cole” he speeds it up a bit, taking us on an exhilarating downhill journey at the speed go lightening. “Black Qualls,” featuring heavy-hitters Childish Gambino, Steve Arrington and Steve Lacy, brings funk back to 2020 in every sense, from the guitar to the syrupy vocals.
This is maybe the best work on the album, and perhaps because of the collaborators’ contributions. Arrington was a prominent ‘80s singer in funk band Slave, which Steve Lacy was a guitarist for the Internet.
Thundercat’s tracks seem to have a fluid connection to the tracks of Flying Lotus, which makes sense as the two were in the same jazz bands together as teenagers. The album is an exploration of existentialism and loss, with many of the tracks ruminating on the passing of Mac Miller, a close buddy of Thundercat. That being said, he remains positive on many tracks such as “Miguel’s Happy Dance”, a reassuring pat on the shoulder that tells you to keep dancing, no matter how much grief surrounds you.
“Overseas” and “Dragonball Durag” are also forays into funk, but less Saturday Night Fever, and more Marvin Gaye brand of harmonizing seduction. “Fair Chance” has the most radio potential, with an auto-tuned Ty Dolla $ign feature that infuses Thundercat’s usual style with more contemporary R&B that usual.
The entire album feels like a slow journey with the homies into outer space, and we can’t think of a better mental space to be in during this time of social distancing. Light a spliff, put on the dreamy intro track “Lost in Space/Great Scott/22-26,” get acquainted with “It is What it Is,” and appreciate the mastery of genre-fusion that this time-traveling artist has.
Stream and Share “It Is What It Is”
Interview: Milwaukee Punk Rock Band Alternative Radio Talk About Their New EP "Cough Up Your Money"
Major thanks to Alternative Radio who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss their newly released debut EP “Cough Up Your Money”, the music scene for punk rock in Milwaukee and much more.
Major thanks to Alternative Radio who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss their newly released debut EP “Cough Up Your Money”. We also learned about how the band mates (Payton Stark, Xavier Morla and Aaron Corbin) met and decided to form the band, the music scene for punk rock in Milwaukee, why it is important for the band to remain independent, and much more.
After reading our Q&A with Alternative Radio, be sure to connect with them on Facebook, stream the “Cough Up Your Money” EP and share it with anyone who truly appreciates great punk rock music.
Initially, how did you guys connect at the art school you attended and decide to form the band Alternative Radio?
I actually had a solo acoustic career, and was writing songs similar to Patrick Fitzgerald, an acoustic punk solo artist. I was very uncomfortable with singing and playing guitar at the time, nor did I want to be a solo act. I wanted to play music more than anything so forced myself to do these things.
Bass player Xavier Morla who was an architect at the same University stopped me one day and asked me if I was interested in adding any members after seeing a poster I had put up in the school for a release. That was how we started our first band which quickly led to Alternative Radio, and the recruitment of high school friend Aaron Corbin.
Congratulations on the completion and release of your debut EP "Cough Up Your Money"; describe for us your creative process and studio sessions for the development of the EP's three songs.
“Julie’s Got a Gun” was recorded last year in Milwaukee at National Recording studios after the band scraped up $500. This was our first track done in a real studio and came out last year as a single. We were very nervous at the studio, and quickly learned how different it was once you’re on the clock in a professional studio. The studio manager was very intense, he had played in some famous 70’s punk band and had worked with artist like the Misfits in the past. He must have felt like a gate keeper, and because of this he was very honest and brutal with us. We did end up with a great product and a highly produced single though.
“She Does Art” was our second single and written at our art school. If I’m not mistaken I most likely had written the lyrics to the song in a lecture at school. I was taking a lot of fine art studio classes at the time so all these lines comparing this girl to concepts of art and painting. The song was written about a fellow art student who later became my girlfriend. This was our first attempt at recording a track our self in our school’s music studio space.
“Room Fills With Water” was sort of just something that happened. We had some extra studio time when recording a few covers and tracks, some of which are being released later this month. We started with the instrumental and once we got something we felt comfortable with we quickly went in to the control room to write lyrics. After around 2 takes, and 20 mins we had all the lyrics and our vocal take.
What does the EP's title, "Cough Up Your Money", represent?
The title is tongue and cheek, and supposed to catch the viewer off guard. A lot of musicians who just want money try to hide this truth, but we are playing with the audience and letting them know up front that is all we care about.
Were there songs that you recorded for the EP that you decided not to include? If so, why?
We had just tried to get as many recorded as we could on all our visits. We try to mostly release as singles to keep momentum going, but wanted to put together this E.P. with two previously released singles and a new track. We didn’t want to include any covers on this E.P., and this song just felt better on the E.P. than other recorded songs. We try not to over think it too much
Why is it important for the band to remain independent and authentic and not get the "major record label makeover" that a lot of artists and bands get once they get signed?
There are just a lot of things I’m very particular about and don’t want some record company in control of. One thing is the cover art, as a graphic designer who does all of our covers and design. I just like not having any commitment to any label, and full control to change our look or sound as we so choose. Ask me that question in a few years hahaha, self-promotion is a pain.
What's the scene like in Milwaukee for punk rock music in 2020? Are there a lot of venues to perform and are locals supportive of the homegrown talent?
I actually am working on a music campaign in Milwaukee that just did some interviews with musicians from big 80’s acts such as Yipes!, who have played with Cheap trick and other major acts. My dad was played in a new wave group, and knew a lot of the members of big Milwaukee acts. The scene still exists but has since declined since the 80’s, a lot of clubs have shut down and we don’t have as much excitement over local music, but I hope to bring that back. There are very good acts that play clubs like the Cactus Club though, which is where the talent scouts, and big wigs supposedly hang out.
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