Interview: New Jersey Pop Artist/Producer Prince J+R Talks About His New Single/Video "Heart"
Major thanks to New Jersey based visionary artist, songwriter and producer Prince J+R who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to talk about his new single/video “Heart”, a track which appears on his album “The Perks of Being a Pop Star”.
“These are the perks of being a pop star! You cannot put me in a box, I simply create music that is popular, relatable and appealing to everyone, regardless of race, age or gender, and I am so proud of that!”
If you had to describe your music or brand overall to a stranger in three words, which ones would you choose?
POP MUSIC WITH SUBSTANCE! ...Ok technically that's four words but you get the point! =)
Tell us what the designation of yourself as this generation's "The Prince of Popp" represents to you?
Yes! I know it's a pretty bold statement and bold moniker to claim, but I'm not going to front, that's who I believe myself to be! Everyone knows the "King of Pop" is undoubtedly the legendary Michael Jackson, who is one of my biggest influences and inspirations! His music is so iconic, universal and immensely popular, you will not find one person who doesn't know or hasn't heard at least ONE Michael Jackson song!
He conquered all genres of music whether it was R&B, Hip Hop, Blues, Soul, Jazz, Rock, Country, Alternative, Reggae, Dance, Electronic etc. and he impacted people of all ethnic or racial backgrounds. He was so diverse in his appeal and musical style, I do strongly believe I am the same! Which is why I place myself in the category of "Pop" and being a "Pop Star" because my brand is all about universal appeal and connection.
To be a bit more unique, I simply added an extra "p" in "popp" which I feel is very millennial and very next generation and innovative! It also just means I'm POPPIN! My body of work backs this up. I can perform, sing, write and produce any style of music that doesn't appeal to one cultural group over the other, but it appeals to everyone all over the world! Your Jamaican grandmother, Latina little sister, Asian best friend, White school teacher, African American boyfriend and your uncle who loves old school throwback jams, WILL ALL LIKE AT LEAST ONE SONG FROM PRINCE J+R!
These are the perks of being a pop star! You cannot put me in a box, I simply create music that is popular, relatable and appealing to everyone, regardless of race, age or gender, and I am so proud of that!
Congratulations on the release of your incredible music video for "Heart"; tell us about how you came up with the treatment for the visual and how long the shoot took.
Thank you! I am honestly so blown away by how the visual came together. It was SUPERNATURAL; God blessed it! I shot this video in only four hours, with one camera-man and four dancers!
I consider myself a visionary and a VISUAL music artist. I am extremely passionate about art, imagery and visual storytelling. Every song that I have created, I almost always see a visual for it. "Heart" was no exception.
The song is so moving, so powerful, so complex and meaningful; I wanted the visual to capture those same adjectives. I've always wanted to have a video that had smoke bombs in it but specifically COLOR smoke bombs because visually it's such an amazing aesthetic to see. I also feel smoke bombs or just debris and smoke effects in general, makes me think of WAR and battle.
As soon as "Heart" comes on, I feel like I'm in battle. Without giving too much of the concept away, the concept of the visual is inspired by themes of war and the reality that matters of the heart are complex. Love truly is a battlefield! Given the social, emotional and political climate we are in as a country right now, there are so many images portrayed in this video that serve a mirror to our current "ethical state of emergency".
Regarding the song itself, which appears on your album "The Perks of Being a Pop Star", why did you decide to shoot a music video for it?
In the past year and a half, I can humbly say that I've built a brand as Prince J+R: the visual artist. In just that short amount of a time, I have produced and directed 14 music videos! Some of my colleagues, peers and even other music artists that I look up to in the music industry don't produce as much visual content in even a 5 year span! So I do believe my fans and the people who know my brand know that if I shoot a music video for a song, it must be a pretty important, meaningful and creative concept.
"Heart" is by far one of my most favorite songs from my album "The Perks of Being a Pop Star" and so I knew eventually I would produce a visual for it because it is such a grand, epic and extremely powerful song. I just knew the song would be "felt" more, with an accompanying visual. Plus, to be honest, it is sonically and aesthetically different than anything else I've ever released and it's a pleasant surprise from me.
When someone listens to or watches "Heart" for the first time, what do you want them to take away from the experience?
I want people to take away, whatever it is they CAN take away from the experience! I feel as an artist I don't necessarily focus on what I want people to "get" per say from my songs or visuals, I think whatever their response is, that is a part of the beautiful process of art.
Childish Gambino aka Donald Glover is one of my favorite artists of all time! I love how still, to this day, my man has never really explained or explicitly told people what he wanted them to take away from his iconic visual, "This is America". He just created the song, created the visual and maybe thought it would speak for itself, but also I think he believed that people can draw WHATEVER it is they can draw from watching the video or listening to that song.
I'm not sure if there's ever a right or wrong way to respond to art, everyone is different and sees the world differently because of their personal experiences. I will admit though, I do personally love hearing and reading people's reactions, reviews and responses to my art because it's just fascinating to see them take away certain things from the art that I actually never thought of or intended, so it's really dope!
With the video and album now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2020?
Great question! Well I think for me, and for most artists, ONE of the main goals is just to simply keep CREATING! I always tell people how successful and accomplished I feel, simply by the fact that I CREATED "something" and released it to the world!
My ideas and the visions I have in my mind don't stay on the shelf, I love to execute and create! That is why I find it hard to not feel empowered, successful and accomplished as an artist because my essential goal is to create, which I do all the time, even when I'm actually not trying!
Now for the rest of the year I sincerely want my music to reach, inspire and entertain more people! I am not really pressed about the views, likes, comments and esteem in the sense that it builds my ego or gives me validation as an artist. I know my content is dope with or without that external validation and appreciation.
Views, likes and large engagement for my art work actually signifies that more people are actually being exposed to my work and being given the opportunity to digest, examine and use my art work for entertainment, reflection, inspiration and connection! That is the power of art and entertainment!
I have more amazing music and visuals coming for the rest of 2020 and I just aspire to continue sharing my art with the world!
South London Rapper Ultra_eko Releases His Debut Album "Off the Grid"
South London-based independent hip-hop artist Ultra_eko has just released his incredible debut album "Off the Grid". The album is preceded by singles “Yellow Redux” and “Boy Done Good.” Check it out now!
It is a brave new world, in which people are made increasingly isolated by technology. The scene is set in opening track ‘Viral’ – ‘you are locked in this machine, from the moment you are born until your till dying day’ – the world has turned into a huge production line, in which humans – consumers – are churned out on production lines to fulfill their roles as consumers within the capitalist system – to the detriment of the natural world.
The protagonists of these tracks often find technology working against them – the cheating husband whose wife uses technology to expose his infidelities in ‘WIFI Wifey – the employee in ‘Boy Done Good’ who finds himself in a soulless job, typing numbers into a computer, the meaning of which he has no idea – the isolated dealer from ‘Alexandre Cazes’ who lives in the shadows through the dark net – indeed the shadow of Cazes hangs over the whole album. His life of material excess funded by ‘Alpha Bay’ – is like the dark side of capitalism – to me he is the anti-hero of this album – I was originally going to title it ‘The Life and Death of Alexandre Cazes’. The final track ‘Neon City’ – is like the final endpoint of this capitalist vision – where people are able to escape their lives and reality entirely – to buy into whatever life and fantasy they desire.
“I see this piece as much more accessible and popular work than the ‘Kitchen Sink Dramas’ EP – the sounds are much more enjoyable to listen to I feel,” Ultra_eko says. “However, the characters within them are no happier, indeed they are more isolated than ever. Looking over the whole album, there is not a single functioning relationship; as the narrator in ‘Eternal Sunshine’ says, ‘I feel so separate, as if there were a pane of glass between us. I write upon it, backwards, from right to left so you might read it right, but it seems the meaning of my words always getting lost’ – that line sums up a lot of the relationships in this work.”
People aren’t connecting properly – communication is misfiring. The drunk father and tripping son is an apt image – perceiving the world completely differently to each other – one hardly able to string a thought together – the other experiencing deep spiritual truths – yet bound together, arms around each other – joined physically and genetically. The relationships between men and woman are all damaged and broken – by infidelities, by boredom and stagnation, by past traumas which continue to haunt them.
Indeed, what is interesting, is that the most significant and meaningful relationships are those the narrators have with spiritual/imaginary beings – the protective spirits of ‘Sheep’s Clothing’ – Katherine from Costa Coffee, who our boy done good pictures himself with every night, as he lies alone in bed – the spirits who carry and guide the narrator in ‘my life’ – and of course – the ‘beautiful wife with two beautiful sons, who have wives and kids of their own’ – that the narrator imagines in ‘Neon City’ – before returning to a world where he is drugged by an android waitress. Indeed it is significant that the world he escapes to is one hundreds of years ago, in the countryside of Tuscany, an area of great natural beauty.
This is Ultra_eko’s Takeover Week on DCWS, so listen to his incredible debut album “Off the Grid” right now, connect with him on Instagram, and check out his DOPE music videos on YouTube. Last but never least, be on the lookout for our in-depth review of “Off the Grid” coming later this week!
Review: "Music to Drown By" EP by Josh Naujokas
A wild freewheeling approach defines @JoshNaujokas emotionally charged “Music to Drown By” EP. Stylistically he opts for a mutant hybrid of twisted neo-R&B alongside element of emo, all framed within a hip-hop template, resulting in a sound uniquely his own.
A wild freewheeling approach defines Josh Naujokas’ emotionally charged “Music to Drown By” EP. Stylistically he opts for a mutant hybrid of twisted neo-R&B alongside element of emo, all framed within a hip-hop template, resulting in a sound uniquely his own. Flows are spit with pure fire for the fury of the sound proves to be unstoppable; Josh is a virtual force of nature. Lyricism goes for a sense of passion while the songs churn about. Pop references with a sense of purpose adorns the whole of the EP. Rhythms opt for a sense of swagger for they radiate a unique sense of confidence.
Josh references a great deal of artists throughout the entirety of the collection. Rhye’s defiantly weird take on R&B certainly plays a factor in terms of the EP’s otherworldly charm. With a keen ear for melody, Josh lets lyric and groove fuse together to become one. For the confessional aspect of the storytelling, Josh takes on elements of Tyler, the Creator’s stylistic flourishes. Intricately detailed, the inner thoughts and monologue gain a poignancy. Yearning, desire, and more filter into the sound adding to the dense tapestry.
“Glad!” sets the tone for what follows, as nimble crisp beats further add to the geometric quality of the sound. Snapping back and forth, the trap beat stuns. With “Ron Burgundy’s Weekend”, feat. Jonny Craig, the song struts by with such confidence. By far the highlight, there is a playfulness to the overall approach.
A great deal of spaciousness defines the colossal “Beg Your Indulgence”. Dramatic, stately chords help to anchor the whole track. Quite airy there is an echoing beauty to it. A mantra-like devotion emerges on the cycles of “Mona Lise Is Just a Stage Name”. Low-slung funk comes into the fray on the stylish noir of “Medusa Gave Me Rigor Mortis”. Within this singular track Josh’s delivery comes straight from the heart possessing a sense of urgency. Keeping things loose and ending things on a high note is the reflective “Look Out Caesar! (Freestyle)”.
The “Music to Drown By” EP crafts a timeless kaleidoscopic aura for Josh Naujokas as he incorporates so much color into the delightful mix.
Stream and Share “Music to Drown By” on Spotify
Interview: Austin Rap Artist Tvlormvde Discusses His New Single "Ramen Noodles" and Salma Hayek
Big up to Austin based rap artist @tvlormvde who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to talk about his new single “Ramen Noodles”, his fascination with Salma Hayek, and much more.
“I’m inviting you and whoever you want to bring to join me in my journey to becoming a superstar of that level and enjoy the music that goes along with that journey.”
How would describe your style of music?
if I had to describe my music I would call it an eclectic mix of genres with a hiphop sound.
Congratulations on the release of your new single "Ramen Noodles", which is produced by Romeovogue. What about this instrumental made it the right fit for you to write about the topic?
The beat was upbeat and kind of spoke to my energy as a kid, which made me think of the countless nights of eating ramen noodles.
How will your upcoming album be different from your last two albums and EP? Also, have you decided on a name for the project?
The album I'm working on will be a total upgrade from what I've got out now; like my first album was me and my producer taking LSD and experimenting, the second album was me feeling like I had my back against the wall and I was mixing most of both of the albums myself. It became draining.
My newest EP "Things are Changing Fast" was just two tracks from new producers and recorded in a more professional studio and the overall sound is finally where I want it to be. And now I’m locked in with this platinum producer making the best music of my life.
Tell us about your fascination with Salma Hayek? Also, if you could arrange from her to co-star with you in a music video, what song of yours would you choose to film?
Salma Hayek is just life, like one of the most stunning women I ever seen. When I was I kid she stole my heart in Desperado and as I got older she kept looking great its like one of lives most craziest mysteries.
You know I would have her co star in my song, an ode to her "Salma Hayek", and we'd most likely redo the Desperado movie for the music video.
Why is now the right time for the person reading this interview to become a Tvlormvde fan?
Whats happening now at this time is history and we all know history repeats itself. Once a generation we get a " Kanye" a "Drake" and in the beginning no one expects that kind of artist to become what they turn into. But there's always a time right before they become the artist we know and love where their greatest music and greatest fans come from.
I'm inviting you and whoever you want to bring to join me in my journey to becoming a superstar of that level and enjoy the music that goes along with that journey.
How would you describe the hip-hop music scene in Austin for local artists? Are there a lot of venues to perform at and is it easy/difficult to grow a fan base?
Not gonna lie, it’s like a double edged sword the music scene out here in Austin. Like I love the city, the vibe, the energy. It’s perfect for a songwriter, it really is, but there are really no opportunities for a young black hip hop artist out here, but I will say I see potential and look forward to the change.
Interview: Josh Naujokas Talks About His Brand New EP "Music to Drown By"
We connected with Freeport, Illinois based artist @joshnaujokas for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released Alternative R&B and Horror-Emo-Trap infused EP "Music to Drown By", and much more.
“I feel like I don’t have to try and sound like anyone or be the next whoever. My sound comes out so naturally and I don’t have to fight with it. I’ve created something new with this EP, and I am going to really hone in on that accomplishment.”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new EP; it's incredible. Describe for us your creative process for the development of the project's six songs, and who provided the production?
Thank you! The creative process with this EP is basically the same as how I write my other material. I come up with a basic structure for a beat, switch it all around to add originality, then I just freestyle words and melodies several times until I come up with a song.
I did all of the production except Lightminds Entertainment produced "Ron Burgundy's Weekend" for me.
How did you come up with the EP's title "Music to Drown By", and what does it represent?
It's actually a quick line from the movie Titanic when the ship is sinking and the quartet is continuing their performance even though they see what their fate is moments away. Super gnarly.
Tell us about the visualizers (watch HERE) for each of the six songs that are on YouTube, and how you connected with Lightminds Entertainment.
I just wanted to have something appealing for people who don't have streaming platforms such as Spotify.
Visualizers look better than the basic album art playing the audio. TarekTV is someone who I reached out to like 2 years ago about doing a feature and I ended up finally going through with it last year on my first project "Deceptive Conscious", and he has a media production company that does, mixing, recording, editing, etc. Super cool dude to work with.
Were there tracks that you recorded planning to put on the EP that didn't make the final tracklist? If so, why not?
Yeah haha, literally "Mona Lisa Is Just a Stage Name" Is the only track that was on the original tracklist for the project. I just kept coming up with a better song like every week. I basically cycled through 20 or 30 songs to choose these 6.
With the EP now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?
I just need to get better at marketing, to be honest. I feel I have a genre of music that can be very popular in the underground scene and I could accumulate a strong fan base. So basically, I just want to keep growing is my goal regardless of the distance.
What are your most proud of with this new EP release?
The fact that I have finally found my sound. I feel like I don't have to try and sound like anyone or be the next whoever. My sound comes out so naturally and I don't have to fight with it. I've created something new with this EP, and I am going to really hone in on that accomplishment.
Stream and Share “Music to Drown By” on Spotify
Connect with Josh Naujokas: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Interview: Bay Area Rapper CarD Discusses His New Single "Sicker" and "OddsMaker" Album
We connected with Bay Area rapper @TheCarD51Short for an exclusive interview to discuss his new single/video "Sicker", featuring Connect and Nelly Hype, a track which appears on his album "OddsMaker".
“I’ve been rapping for more than 25 years and I am the most proud of “OddsMaker”. I know a lot of artists’ favorite project is their last project, but it’s definitely true with me. ”
You grew in the Bay Area, a region of CA home to many legendary artists such as the Hieroglyphics, Too Short, E-40, and more. Who were some influential artists that you looked up to that inspired you to pick up the pen, pad and microphone?
My brother got me into Bay Area rap when I was about 6 years old. I knew multiple Too $hort songs at that age by heart. Of course, this was the more conscious Too $hort and not the more raunchy rapper you hear today.
I didn't really know about any other types of music except rap. Later I got into more complex lyrical rappers and that's when I discovered Hieroglyphics - which is one of my biggest influences and full of my favorite rappers.
My brother actually grew up with Pep Love and was thanked in the CD booklet of his album “Ascension”. So I grew up with Bay rap since day 1 basically and all the eclectic styles this area has to offer and it different made me the rapper I am today.
Congratulations on the release of your dope single/video "Sicker". What was your creative process for its development alongside Connect and Nelly Hype?
"Sicker" was actually one of the few tracks on “OddsMaker” that was recorded a few years ago in Seattle. Actually, the third verse was spit in Cali in 2020.
I knew when I first heard the beat that I had to make this a single in the future and this could showcase my braggadocious lyrics with my trademark punchlines and cocky attitude. It's all in good fun, though, I'm only really a jerk when it comes to rapping and video games.
Speaking of "OddsMaker", what are you most proud of with this project and were there any tracks that you recorded that didn't make the final cut? If so, why not?
I've been rapping for more than 25 years and I am the most proud of “OddsMaker”. I know a lot of artists’ favorite project is their last project, but it's definitely true with me.
I worked hard on these cuts and actually had to cut at least 5 tracks that I really liked but just didn't fit in with the theme I was going for with “OddsMaker”. The good news is I got tons of more material ready to go for future projects (including 'Quarantined Apes' with Connect coming late 2020).
What about Connect's production on "OddsMaker" inspired you and made it easy to write such dope lyrics across all 14 tracks?
Connect and I have known each other since elementary school. I feel like he knows me better than anyone on Earth. That translates to the rap game too where he always seems to have a new beat for me. Granted, his input on this album was limited since I wanted to branch out on my own, but you can still feel the influence he brings. And, honestly, it doesn't take much of a beat to influence me to write dope lyrics!
With the album now released, what are some of your goals musically for the remainder of 2020?
Connect has a project: 'No Good' being released this summer as well and I am on multiple tracks. We also have our collab album coming out in Fall 2020. But this is the first stepping stone for me as a solo artist where I want to build up a following of people who just love 90's style pure battle rap with a casino-theme fused in. I feel like my next project is going to be much bigger but if it's better is left to be determined.
Holly Humberstone Announces Her Self-Titled Debut EP, Out August 14th
20 year old singer-songwriter @HolHumberstone has announced that her highly anticipated self-titled debut EP will arrive on August 14th via Platoon.
Buzzing singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone has announced that her highly anticipated debut EP will arrive on August 14th via Platoon. Produced by Rob Milton (Easy Life), Holly created the EP mostly at home in the old, withering country house that she grew up in. The self-titled release will include three brand new songs in addition to "Deep End," "Falling Asleep At The Wheel" and "Overkill," her acclaimed trio of debut singles.
Holly has gripped audiences across the globe this year, signaling her emergence as one of 2020's biggest breakthrough artists. Her dark and moody style of music is universally relatable, often embracing and translating life's most intense emotions and difficult conversations from mental health struggles to the dizzying feelings of falling for someone for the first time.
Holly's also unveiled a personal new lyric video for her latest single "Overkill", filled with hidden easter eggs that represent people, places and moments that have shaped her throughout the years. "Overkill" perfectly captures the whirlwind of emotions that come with falling for someone new and venturing into the unknown, a sentiment that's reflected in the official music video for the track which Holly filmed with her sister at dusk near their Grantham home.
The 20-year-old artist has already proven herself an undeniable talent with only three songs, having amassed over 20 million streams and over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify, sold out her first two headlining gigs at Omeara in London this November, and seen radioplay by BBC Radio 1, KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic, Beats 1, Triple J and more. She's been championed by The NY Times, Clash, NME, BBC Introducing, Billboard, Coup De Main Magazine, been placed on NPR's New Music Friday playlist and Spotify's hugely influential TGIF playlist and even landed on the cover of Apple Music's coveted New Music Daily playlist.
Last month, Holly was selected to be a part of Vevo's DSCVR At Home series, a collection of intimate live performances that spotlight emerging artists shaping the future of music.
With a performance at Glastonbury 2019 and a recent extended support tour with Lewis Capaldi throughout Europe also under her belt, Holly is destined to be a force for years to come.
Watch Holly’s new lyric video for “Overkill” now, stream it below, connect with her on social media and be ready to stream/purchase the “Holly Humberstone” EP on August 14th.
Bridgeport, CT Rapper Lil_E Releases His Project “PaperChaser The Mixtape”
Check out the DOPE new project entitled “PaperCha$er The Mixtape” by Bridgeport, CT based rapper Lil_E.
We are excited to introduce you to Lil_E, a talented rap artist originally from the Bronx, who now calls Bridgeport, CT home. He started rapping and making music in 2007 as a kid and by 2014, he was involved in the business of it and taking it more seriously.
Fast forward to summer 2020 and it is Lil_E’s mission to bring to the rap game his perspective of the urban reality that lies within the state of Connecticut. He is determined to show the world a whole other side of life, and the first piece of evidence of his we’ve got to share with you the 13-track “PaperCha$er The Mixtape”, featuring Elijah V.
We’ve got our in-depth review of the project coming soon, but trust us when we say that this is DOPE, and very worthy of your ears and time. Listen to “PaperCha$er The Mixtape” right now, connect with Lil_E on Facebook and be on the lookout for our exclusive interview with him as well.
Interview: Paducah, KY Rapper Callon B Talks About His New Album "Junk MuZik"
Salute to rap artist and Got Ya Back Entertainment founder @CallonBGYB who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his new album "Junk MuZik", the hip-hop scene in Paducah, Kentucky and much more.
“A lot of the songs are very personable and show a really vulnerable side of myself, and I didn’t plan for these experiences to happen I had to wait for that inspiration to come naturally. Once I had a story that compelled me to write I made the music.”
Congratulations on the completion and release of the "Junk MuZik" album. Tell us about your creative process for the development of the album's songs and how you decided on the Bobby Lee, Bonesaw, and Hendrix Smoke beats that you wrote to.
This album had a long creative process that I let happen very organically. I didn't sit down and say I'm going to make this album, I took about 4 years and made countless songs and I picked the best ones and pieced the album together.
A lot of the songs are very personable and show a really vulnerable side of myself, and I didn’t plan for these experiences to happen I had to wait for that inspiration to come naturally. Once I had a story that compelled me to write I made the music. I chose to work with Bonesaw, Bobby Lee and Hendrix Smoke because they are all good friends from the same town as me. We were in the studio a lot together and just had fun creating.
A lot of times I didn’t know what songs would be made on the beats we just created and I told my story over the mood they set. So the producers mood making the beats is also very important to my creative process too because I find an experience that compliments that and tell my story over the beat.
What are you most proud of with this album and what does the title "Junk MuZik" represent?
I am proud of this album because there were a lot of times that I doubted it and decided to myself that it would never come out. That a lot of the songs were outdated and that they wouldn’t mean anything to anyone. The reality was that they were just old to me, I viewed them as junk and let them sit around collecting dust, but I polished them all up and presented them as new.
The title “Junk MuZik” means multiple things, one is rooted deep in the story of hip hop as a metaphor. Hip hop was founded on taking trash and forming it into treasure, recycling old junk electronics found in the alleys into PA systems and equipment to throw shows. It was all about turning nothing into something, This is my from nothing to something story, this is my Junk MuZik.
Tell us about how you started Got Your Back Entertainment and what your goals are for the brand moving forward.
I started Got Your Back Entertainment back in 2006 with a handful of friends; it was just out crew in high school. We were just close friends and we had each others backs, it turned into a household name among our other classmates because it was so catchy.
Once I started taking music seriously I ran with it. I plan to make it into a full out clothing line and record label once I'm more developed as an artist. I want GYB to be remembered like you remember the Beatles, you will see kids rocking Beatles shirts no matter if they like the music or not, it’s just iconic. I want a legacy like that, same for the Wu Tang symbol, GYB forever like Wu Tang.
If you had to pick one song from the album to be the most representative of who you are as an artist and brand, which one would you select?
The outro song, “What Love Is”. That song is really important to me; it’s about self love and learning to love others. It’s the embodiment of having peoples backs through something genuine.
It tells my personal struggles and journey of self discovery into the last verse where I express my love for the whole world. It's encouraging unity and love among fellow humans.
How would you describe the hip-hop music scene in Paducah, Kentucky in 2020? Are locals generally supportive of homegrown talent and is it easy/difficult to grow your music brand there?
The Hip Hop scene in Paducah is still a child. Its growing more and more every year as new artist start emerging and more and more really start to work and take it seriously. There is real potential in Paducah, its an artsy music loving town. So many producers and musicians making beats and tons of singers and rappers.
Our town is small and is always behind a few years on most social matters so we don’t have a thriving scene yet but there are a handful of artist other than myself that are doing what they can to bring that spotlight to Paducah.
As far as support goes, it's there. It’s still very competitive though because the town is so small and the lane to be a successful artist is narrow. So like anywhere you have your artist that wont support and then you have serious artist that see potential and make sure they show love.
The town itself may not even realize such a thriving hip hop scene exist though, they are behind haha. We will keep rising until they notice us though. As far as building a brand there it's been slow and tough, I’ve really had to branch out online to grow the movement and brand. Once I got a following and showed them they started to recognize and pay respect.
Stream and Share “Junk MuZik” on Spotify
Connect with Callon B: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Interview: Alex Wolf III of IC BOI Talks About Their Single/Video "Howl" and "Smoke Alarm" EP
Big ups to Alex Wolf III, one half of the brother duo IC BOI, who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss their single/video “Howl”, which appears on their EP “Smoke Alarm”.
“...This year will be all about getting my name out there, building more awareness of who I am like I am now. Just showing people that music doesn’t have to be the same old shit, you can ride your own wave and do you and there is value in that. And you don’t have to be afraid to make people feel things in this game. ”
Congratulations on the release of your single/video "Howl", as well as the EP "Smoke Alarm". Tell us about your creative process for the development of the EP's five tracks.
Thanks for the congratulations on “Howl”. This EP is meant to give the world a little taste of what we can bring to the table. Creatively we just like to vibe is the best way to describe it. I can play a lot of instruments - guitar, drums, violin, cello. And I've got the melodies and all the ideas for the actual musical piece, I've got a big ass journal filled with poetry. Bits of stuff and lyrics that I write down when I'm feeling those sad boy vibes or maybe if I had a few too many tokes or shots. And it's not like I need that stuff to make the music but I often find myself needing to get relaxed that way these days. Vices, vices I know bro but it works to help unleash and uninhbit my musical knowledge.
We will play these tracks I prepared and sit around goofing off, kinda fucking around getting laughs and just enjoying ourselves then at some point Nissa (my brother) starts rapping and it's like "Woah, man! That was really good" then we check to see what kind of harmonies we can create and what notes can accent his raps, and once he lays down the raps or I do we move on the the other part which is the more indie style rhythmic vocals. And that's easy because I have hundreds of recording of snippets of songs that pop into my head and give me little cadences here and there. Then as we record we have this guy Riley Engleman and he goes ahead and masters it all, levels it out while we are playing. And we do this just sitting in a room set up like a studio, all sorts of instruments and mics and synths laying around. It's a real chill environment that becomes fertile ground for creative mixes of the indie and the rap.
What led you to form the duo IC BOI, as opposed to both of you just creating music as solo artists?
As for what drove me to create the duo is I just have a LOT of drive. And I do solo music, I got signed by CSP music management and I kinda work with my brother when I can. He's a busy guy so sometimes we will work together and sometimes I just release music myself. But my solo stuff has a different kind of aura around it and all that.
I infuse the rap into my indie sensibilities but when I work with my brother to do that he brings those just straight rap sensibilities too it to give it that feeling. On my own I do rap in the songs but I might just release a straight indie song with good guitar and drums or I might take from my influences like the Breeders or Jimi Hendrix or the Beatles and I'm always finding a way to use those sensibilities, but make music that any kid or person who is into the current music scene can just pull up and be like "Aye I vibe with that" and "Damn this actually has me feeling things and it's deep and I like it" and those are my main goals is to make people have those thoughts.
So working with my brother to make sure this music was as accessible as possible is why I worked with him. To make sure it's got those hooks, those rhymes, those exact words to make people go to a certain place. Also, shout-out Wavves. I like rap and indie more than I can explain so I think for people like me who are classical trained musicians as well as beatmakers, it's natural to wanna find the best ways to mix those and see if there is some gold in there.
How do you deal with writer's block (if at all)?
I don’t deal with writer's block a lot man, and that ain't flexing or anything, it's just that I'm constantly having to suppress these musical thoughts and songs playing out in my head to the point where it be SUPER irritating and I gotta shut those voices up so when I'm ready to record the ideas just explode out of me, probably looking like a crackhead zooting around to different instruments and mics.
What are some things that inspire your creativity when working on new music?
What inspires me to write music can be a lot stuff. And I listen to a lot of stuff while I smoke to get in the zone. And it varies. Brockhampton, The Beatles, Breeders, Kendrick Lamar, Wavves, Sweetbabydaday (Little known guy but Bop Juice and Ls are some of my favorite songs right now), MF Doom, Tribe Called Quest, Childish Gambino, MGMT, even that song "Gymnopedia 1(?)" by the piano composer Satie. Anything that makes me feel emotional and connects that with the music will get me excited and pumped.
With the "Smoke Alarm" EP now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2020?
I've got some big goals for 2020. I recently got signed to music management and we are kinda in the process of getting me to labels, introducing me to big names and building the fan base and brand.
So in the next year that's really gonna be ramping up. Shout-out Christopher Starr over at CSP music group, he's the one kinda showing me what's up in the music industry and he has me going to Georgia soon for work with a really well known producer (I think Grammy nominated if I'm not wrong) and I've got some photoshoots with some well known photographers this year.
So this year will be all about getting my name out there, building more awareness of who I am like I am now. Just showing people that music doesn't have to be the same old shit, you can ride your own wave and do you and there is value in that. And you don't have to be afraid to make people feel things in this game.
Stream and Share “Smoke Alarm” on Spotify
Connect with IC BOI: Soundcloud
Stream "Forget the Days", the New Album by Chicago Singer-Songwriter Jim Soule
Chicago based singer-songwriter @jimsoulemusic has released his album "Forget the Days", which seamlessly blends Americana and rock.
Jim Soule is a Chicago based singer-songwriter who was raised in the Twin Cities listening to his Dad play in bands featuring CCR, The Beatles, The Police, etc. A dedication to melody and harmony have driven his songwriting.
Jim’s music is a seamless blend of rock and Americana; fans of Guster, Jimmy Eat World, and Better Than Ezra will definitely find his work complimentary to their musical tastes.
Speaking of work, Jim has been putting in plenty of it; over ten years worth. He’s just released his self-written and produced album “Forget the Days”, which he recorded over a 10 year span, and was wrangled in by the talents of Chad Wheeling of Triple T Studio in Brooklyn Center, MN.
Interview: NOLA Hip-Hop Duo The Quadroholics Discuss Their New Single/Video "Save Yourself"
Shout out to NOLA based Hip Hop duo @thequadroholics who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss their new single/video "Save Yourself", their upcoming "AURORA" album, and much more.
“The album is coming out on July 31st. It is entirely self produced and recorded, with no guest production or features aside from my brother playing guitar on a few songs. We wanted to create a project that was entirely unique and could only be created by us. ”
How did you two initially meet and decide to form the duo The Quadroholics? Also what does the name represent?
Hayden and I have known each other since birth, and we formed the group 11 years ago. We were in gym class one day and had the thought that The Quadroholics sounded like a good name for a rap group, so we decided to form a rap group.
So, the name means literally nothing. We were totally trash for a good 5 to 6 years until we actually started taking it seriously and performing live. Luckily we have found our footing and we now make music we actually enjoy.
Congratulations on the release of your new single/video "Save Yourself". Tell us about your creative process when developing the track itself.
This song actually started with a sample of “Funky Town” by Lipps Inc. As I was working on the beat, I found a different melody that I thought flowed with the drums better and abandoned the “Funky Town” sample. Once I found the new melody, the rest of the song came together in one sitting which is unusual for us.
I took a lot of inspiration from 80’s synth pop, and I tried to use that influence on the vocals as well, which was a pretty big departure from the rap music we usually make. Honing the synth pop sound is what led us to find our sound for “AURORA”.
Who directed the music video and how did you come up with its visual treatment?
We directed and edited the video, along with our manager Colton Schexneider. We wanted to have a crazy light set up to reflect the colors and waves of an aurora. Once we started filming we had the idea of having the camera stay still throughout the shoot, and cutting it to the beat so that we would teleport around the screen while the dimensions of the shot stayed the same.
What software/hardware do you use when developing the instrumentals for your songs? Also, when do you know when a song you are working on is finishing?
We do everything through FL Studio. I’ve heard great things about other programs but I can’t bring myself to learn a whole other system.
When we’re working on a song, I usually make a basic version of it, with the main melody, drums, and reference vocals. From there I will add more instruments and effects to try to make the song feel bigger. With this album especially, I have gone back and continued to tweak beats dozens of times until I feel they’re exactly how I want them.
Once the instrumental is where we want it, we’ll record the official vocals and then finish wrapping up the song up around the finished vocals.
What can you tell us about the "AURORA" album that is dropping very soon? Is there an overarching theme on the project?
The album is coming out on July 31st. It is entirely self produced and recorded, with no guest production or features aside from my brother playing guitar on a few songs. We wanted to create a project that was entirely unique and could only be created by us.
We started working on the project in late 2018, and a lot of the music we made then laid the groundwork for the sound of the album. We had recorded around 40 songs for it and narrowed it down to just 13. Some of the other tracks have been released on some of the EP’s we’ve dropped in the past year, but most of them are just in the vault for now.
The concept of the album hinges on what we’re describing an Aurora as. To me, an Aaurora is a bright light in a dark place, something that brings you happiness when you’re unhappy. The album explores different things that we would describe as an Aurora, and the effects that the Auroras have on us.
Connect with The Quadroholics: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Interview: Brisbane Rockers The Black Creek Band Talk About Their New "Glow" Video
We connected with Brisbane rock outfit The Black Creek Band for an exclusive interview to discuss the music video for their anthem "Glow", and much more.
““Glow” was a strong response to a moment in time and, as one of the only productive things we could do in lockdown, we wanted to release it as a single at the earliest opportunity.”
Congratulations on the release of the visual for your incredible song "Glow". Tell us about your creative process for the development of the song itself.
“There’s plenty of challenges out there, particularly in our industry” explains vocalist Richard Smith, “however we were keen to use some down time to write about what positives we all might be able take out of this situation.” Guitarist Ric Lynam says “in early March we were seeing shocking scenes from around the world, but there were also amazing sights of whole communities coming together on their balconies in solidarity and compassion – Glow is a tribute to those people and the front line workers they were supporting.”
As we were all in lockdown at the time, Ric had sent the basic demo track and ideas were thrown around virtually from there. The process was rewarding because working remotely required the inputs to be communicated very clearly, which in many ways forces those ideas to be well-considered.
The result was a very advanced demo by the time we entered the recording studio. Engineering, mixing and mastering was done with Star Audio and Damien Gerard Studios, with absolutely top-quality results.
Our studio time was very efficient, but overall we think the song benefited from the clarity of ideas that came from the process - in addition of course to the feelings we wanted to express in the face of a once-in-a-century pandemic.
Regarding the clip for "Glow", which was self-directed, why did you decide to shoot a video for this song and what does it represent?
Like the song itself, the video was heavily influenced by, and expressive of, the pandemic lockdown. We decided that the clip should also be a product of working remotely, so it has a home-made vibe and we featured plenty of footage of the band working individually on the track. But primarily the video tells the story of the positive community responses to these challenging times.
The footage of Italian communities coming together on balconies is exactly what we were witnessing on the news when the song was written. When we reached out to some of those musicians featured in the clip, their responses were completely heart-warming and we have found new friends all over the world.
Is "Glow" a part of an upcoming EP or album that the band will be releasing this year?
“Glow” was a strong response to a moment in time and, as one of the only productive things we could do in lockdown, we wanted to release it as a single at the earliest opportunity. The lockdown period has been fruitful for the writing process of a number of other new tracks, which with prior material is easily an album of songs. Whether we go down the full album track or not, we will certainly release more singles or an EP before the year is out at the very least.
How would you describe the rock music scene in Brisbane? Are there a lot of venues to perform at and are the locals generally supportive of home grown bands?
Brisbane has long had a very supportive rock music scene, with very supportive locals. However, as everywhere, all venues have been smashed by the lockdowns and social distancing and a number have already closed. With the easing of restrictions commencing, and venues cautiously reopening, there is light at the end of the tunnel we hope for all of us.
With "Glow" now released, what are some things that your fans can look forward to for the remainder of 2020?
In addition to new music coming out very soon we are also extremely looking forward to gigging! Bookings are coming in for the rest of the year, including a personal favourite of ours Rockin 4 The Homeless 2020, which this year is headlined again by The Superjesus.
Connect with The Black Creek Band: Website | Facebook | Instagram
Interview: San Antonio Artist Jeremy Parsons Discusses His New Single "Tragedy"
Major thanks to San Antonio based country artist @JMParsonsMusic who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his new single “Tragedy”, his musical collaborations with Michael and Caleb Flanders, and much more.
“Sometimes my greatest accomplishment feels like not losing myself in an industry that can take that from you. I’m proud I’ve been able to do this without a label or anyone trying to tell me how my art should sound. ”
Who are some country artists/bands that you listened to growing up that motivated you to teach yourself how to play the guitar and become a musician?
From the earliest days it was Classic Country in general with Hank Williams Sr. being the standout. The first time I heard his song “Kawliga” I was hooked right in. It wasn’t until I was 17 that I picked up a guitar and started playing. It never occurred to me that it was something I could do even with all the inspiring Texas Country acts that were out at the time.
Going to shows to see guys like the Randy Rogers Band, Reckless Kelly, Jack Ingram, and Pat Green really sparked something. I got hooked on the craft myself at that point. I started writing and just couldn’t stop. I would then go on to discover artist’s like John Prine, Jason Isbell, and Guy Clark who would make want to grow and think differently as a writer. There’s so much great music out there that was built to inspire.
What are some things that inspire your creativity when developing new music in general?
The short answer on this one is life. I like to go out and watch the world turn. I often joke that people watching is my favorite sport. We all have emotions and events that cause these emotions that overlap. If you can write those stories and empathize with folks it does so many things. For you as the artist and for the listener as a person. At that point you’re just writing your experience so other people out there going through similar things might hear it and realize they’re not alone. A person writing songs for people.
We're huge fans of your new single "Tragedy"; tell us about your creative process for the development of this song, and how you connected with Michael and Caleb Flanders.
I’m super glad y’all dig the track! This song found me when I was sitting there strumming the chords I had just come up with and asked myself what I thought it sounded like, what it made me think of, what it made me feel. 'Tragedy' was the word that popped into my head. I immediately looked up the definition, though I already knew what it meant, and used that as the structure. I wanted to take the definition and create examples of the feelings that might come with dealing with and working through a “Tragedy.” I wanted to set scenes and paint pictures of loss and struggle.
This song comes with a heavy dose of reality and no happy ending but it does come with the knowledge that you are not alone. Tragedy finds and strikes us all in life. I had a thought at some point too that this would be setup, storyline wise, as a prequel to my first single “Burn This House Down,” from my last LP, “Things I Need To Say.” It would be the “Tragedy” that leads up to the inevitable end of things. I wouldn’t say I’m completely set on that now but it did help in bringing this song to life. Having that extra added inspiration can aid in making it personal and really drives and embeds the intended emotion into the song.
I got to make my last record, “Things I Need To Say,” with Michael Flanders and loved it so much that when I was ready to go back into the studio it just made the most sense to reach out to him again. He actually set up this whole project for me. He’s been a great friend, supporter, and mentor to me over the past 5 years. We have all grown so much since then as creators and I believe that really stands out on this single and entire project.
I think Mike’s son, Caleb Flanders, had a lot to do with that as well. That whole family is full of multi-instrumentalist geniuses. Watching Mike and Caleb work together on this as father and son was truly wonderful. They respect each other as individuals and artists. It will always be an honor to get to stand and create in a room with those two gentlemen.
Can we expect to see a music video for "Tragedy" and/or hear it on an upcoming EP or album?
A music video doesn’t seem likely at the moment unfortunately. The current Covid crisis gets in the way of that for me with my best video guy being in Nashville and me being down in San Antonio. The silver lining is that there is an entire album that “Tragedy” is just giving you a peek into. The album will be called “Things To Come” and will contain 10 tracks. It’s my favorite thing I’ve ever made and I’m stoked to share it with y’all. As of now the release date is set for January 2021!
What would you say has been your greatest musical accomplishment thus far in your musical career?
This is always such a tough question for me. I always keep trying to grow and keep moving forward. All of my accomplishments to date have just seemed like necessary steps so I can keep doing the thing I love to do more than anything.
I got to open for George Jones, I had a song on a Grammy nominated Bluegrass album, I won a Texas Music Award, I got to go overseas and play my music for sold-out audiences. It’s all been so wonderful!
Sometimes my greatest accomplishment feels like not losing myself in an industry that can take that from you. I’m proud I’ve been able to do this without a label or anyone trying to tell me how my art should sound. I’m lucky.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and do you have a favorite song to play?
The live performance aspect of this job is the thing that originally got me hooked. There’s really no other feeling like it. The absolute high of feeling that you got the emotion of the song across correctly and watching people in the crowd connect with you.
Sometimes it’s difficult to describe. It’s almost like being strapped into a crazy roller coaster ride of feelings that you are in complete control of. It’s exhausting, it’s exhilarating, it’s everything.
“Tragedy” is among my most favorites to play out with a close second being my second single off my last record “Why Is The Bluebird Blue.”
Stream and Share “Things I Need to Say” on Spotify
Connect with Jeremy Parsons: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Review: "First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty" EP by Alaina Kai Chester
NYC based actor-singer Alaina Kai Chester embodies the best of what love means on the lush “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” EP. Read our review of this project now.
NYC based actor-singer Alaina Kai Chester embodies the best of what love means on the lush “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” EP. Elements of pop, R&B, and soul mix into a kaleidoscopic whole and production values go for a glowing shimmering shine. Luxurious melodies waft about with a feeling of sheer determination. Percussion opts for a nimble approach as it helps to anchor everything.
By far though, the true highlight comes from the fire and passion of Alaina’s vocals. With a unique theatrical flair, everything about it has an expansive quality. Her lyrics have a perfect balance to them with every verse carefully balanced.
The expressive tact goes for a true arena-like approach. References to Beyoncé appear throughout. Like her, Alaina proves to be a true artist as a great deal of color filters into the mix. Her delivery too reflects a life lived to the fullest, as the lyrics cover concepts of faith, of navigating relationship, while offering a bit of insight into the contemporary condition. Beyond this, her multifaceted tact, the low-slung grooves and hybrid approach to songwriting recalls some of Janelle Monáe’s creativity.
Swirling and strewn asunder, the collection opens up on a majestic note with the intensely felt “Potion”. The rhythm gains a physicality as it grows and grows. “Body Worthy (Amen)” strips things down resulting in a sunnier sound, with flourishes added to the quiet contemplation of the piece. On “Wise Owl” Alaina serves up the highlight with poetic lyricism. Beats hit hard perfecting intermingling with the limber guitar riffs. A sense of introspection emerges over the course of the work resulting in a rather thoughtful ode, a desire for people to improve.
Bass worms through on the tactile “Mama Says” where volume truly is a must. Here Alaina’s vocals gain a significant power as she explores a truly meaningful relationship. “Time Won’t Erase My Love” neatly brings the collection to a close, with a feeling of grandeur that becomes all-consuming in the best way possible.
The “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” EP shows off Alaina Kai Chester’s incredible chops in creating a sound that feels so visceral.
Stream and Share “First Comes Love, Then Comes Liberty” on Spotify
Josh Naujokas Releases His Second EP "Music to Drown By"
Freeport, Illinois based singer-songwriter @JoshNaujokas is back on DCWS with his second EP entitled “Music to Drown By”, a project which finds him blending Alternative R&B and Horror-Emo-Trap seamlessly.
Freeport, Illinois based singer-songwriter Josh Naujokas is back on DCWS with his second EP entitled “Music to Drown By”, which was inspired from the movie interpretation of Titanic. Speaking about his inspiration Josh says, “The scene when the string quartet is playing music despite the ship sinking was super intriguing to me”.
Josh’s music blends Alternative R&B and Horror-Emo-Trap seamlessly and he has been compared to artists like Lil Peep, Joji, BadXChannels, Ghostemane, Trippie Redd, Killstation Nothing Nowhere, and Poppy. One of many things that makes Josh unique is his song names, which include titles like "Medusa Gave Me Rigor Mortis" and “Mona Lisa is Just a Stage Name”.
Each song on the EP also has a visualizer on YouTube that's basically the same loop, but with different color backgrounds that interpret how Josh wants the song to visually be represented.
Vibe out to the incredible “Music to Drown By” EP right now, connect with Josh on his website and social media and be on the lookout for our in-depth review of the project and interview with him coming very soon!