Interview: Pop Singer-Songwriter Ecstasy Talks About His New Song "Drunken Company"
Shout out to Bethel, NC based pop singer-songwriter @kissecstacy who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his new song “Drunken Company”, his EP “Ecstasy's Song Compilations", and much more.
“I get inspired by any and everything, my mind is like the stars in space.. kind of infinite in a way. It’s kind of a “you’re either blessed with it or you’re not” type of thing.”
We're huge fans of your new song "Drunken Company". Tell us about your creative process for its development and how you connected with its producer, Treymxn?
It wasn’t much, I just think about what I want to hear on the instrumental. The instrumental usually gives me the vibe I want to set for the song. Sometimes I will write out stories and what I want to go down in the song, sometimes I mix personal experiences with it. I just like to give the listener something to visualize. Relatability but yet dream-like.
I found Trey on YouTube searching for beats, I found his beats pretty nice. I was looking for pop like beats and fell into his page, along with few others. I actually showed him this song in his dm several months ago and he ignored me.
You mentioned that you started creating music last year; what motivated you to start songwriting and who are some artists that have influenced you?
I went a very long time hiding my voice when I was younger .. all throughout high school but I never hid my talent of dance. I don’t understand how I got so good at songwriting to be honest, I just kept writing for a year straight making music in my room.
I also mix and master everything from my computer and write my own music. No co-writers around me now and for so on. No artists really influenced my sound if I’m being honest, I started music based off of me being afraid of being myself musically in front of people. Sharing my voice and all.
Even in the future when I’m considered the biggest pop artist in the world I’ll still want to make music in the comfort of my own room. Here are some dancing videos of mine.
Tell us about your 4 song EP "Ecstasy's Song Compilations"; along with yourself, who else produced on it, and how did you decide which songs would be featured on it?
That song compilation EP is made from just a few of the good songs I made. I have a LOT more ideas that I plan on getting out. I produced “Tokyo Drift” which is a dark, alternative pop song with a banging 808. Donnie Katana produced “Pain In the Warzone 02’” and that is a R&B and Hip Hop type of song, “Angel Numbers”, which is an uptempo pop song.. you should hear a lot of bible like references in that song. It’s just speaking on falling in lust with a beautiful woman you know is no good for you. Last but not least “YNOBE’S LOVE”, a full on soul song I made thinking about my race of women basically how much they are will to love a man. How a lot of the times they are willing to do anything to keep him happy and end up loosing themselves in the process a lot of the time. That process helps them learn who they really are and helps them find the woman they truly are. No longer willing to take bs.
How I decide which songs would be on the compilation EP? Well that was a long process; before the EP wasn’t even named that… I was something a bit more serious.. but I think I want to wait until I get signed to make something serious.. I have A LOT of ideas to offer.
What are some things that inspire your creativity when developing new music?
I get inspired by any and everything, my mind is like the stars in space.. kind of infinite in a way. It’s kind of a “your either blessed with it or your not” type of thing.
What do you look for in the instrumentals that you decide to write to?
I like everything really, I like for the genres of the instrumentals to mix with each other very well.
With 2020 winding down, what are some of your goals musically for 2021?
Let’s just say awards… A LOT of awards and world acknowledgement. I want to have blown up going into 2021.
Monsta X Release Their 3rd Album "Fatal Love", and the Music Video For "Love Killa"
Worldwide phenomenon, @OfficialMonstaX, have officially released their 3rd full-length album, “Fatal Love”; accompanying this release is the music video for focus track, “Love Killa”.
Worldwide phenomenon, Monsta X, have officially released their 3rd full-length album, “Fatal Love”. Accompanying this release is the music video for focus track, “Love Killa”. While still showcasing their signature style, Monsta X has reinterpreted and expanded their musical approach throughout this album. Bringing their talents to the next level, their story, which has been condensed over the past six years, is meant to give you a feeling of thrill as if you’re solving a mystery. While the past albums mainly drew keywords of empathy and consolation, this album is going to show the deadly temptation of a man; along with a thriller movie-esque storyline.
“Love Killa” conveys the strong desire and temptation over a loved one, to the extent that they would give up everything to get one’s love. In the music video, the members turn into six cruel and beautiful "Love Killa’s," looking to steal your attention. The visuals reinterpret killer characters in a movie, as Monsta X's own mise-en-scene, and shows off aspects of love such as addiction, love, and deviation through its image of light and darkness.
Consisting of ten tracks, the members have expanded their musical territory by participating in composing, producing, and songwriting; showcasing the musical growth of Monsta X as a whole. Ranging from R&B, Latin-infused Pop, Hip-Hop, Future Bass, EDM, Pop, Swedish, American and South-American music styles; there’s a song for everyone on this album. Rapper Joohoney self-composed tracks "BEASTMODE" and "Stand Together,” while Rapper I.M self-composed the track "NIGHT VIEW." They both also took part in the writing process for seven of the ten tracks. Hyungwon, who is also active as DJ H.ONE, participated in producing the lyrics and composing for the first time since his debut on the track "NOBODY ELSE."
Korean solo-artist, Eric Nam, joined forces with Joohoney and I.M for the songwriting and composing of track number six, “BEASTMODE.” With lyrics such as “Let’s all be in a ‘BEAST MODE’ to fight back from this harsh world. Let’s bring out our instinct and let’s not give up,” this song is meant to encourage listeners to fight back from this harsh world. It’s a message of hope and passion for the ones who are living a passive life, without any passion or willingness. The members also wanted to deliver a specific message to their fans, MONBEBE, that they’ve been doing well and will never give up on their dreams. Let’s turn on the ‘BEAST MODE’ to achieve all the things we’ve been fighting for. “The track was made with the thought that it’s time for us to give away the positive energy and to make them feel proud” Joohoney states.
Listen to “Fatal Love” right now, stream it on Apple Music and connect with Monsta X on their social media.
Interview: Leah Martin Talks About Her Barb Morrison-Produced Single/Video "Inside"
Big thanks to singer-songwriter Leah Martin who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss her new single/video “Inside”, produced by legendary producer/composer @BarbMorrison, and much more.
“Songwriting heals me and gets experiences good and bad out of my body and hopefully helps someone else move through something.”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new single "Inside"; it's a great song. What initially inspired you to write it and who directed the music video?
Thank you! Initially I was looking for medicine and comfort for myself during this wild time in our world. I have had a daily meditation practice for 14 years and find deep peace in going IN to find the answers. As the world was shaking around us, I heard the simple melody of the chorus hook first and sang it to Barb, my producer.
They encouraged me to follow it, so I locked myself in at our family farm with my piano for a few days and took a deep dive to hear the rest. I felt pulled to share what gave me peace to others through a song and Barb’s production wizardry made it just right.
The music video vision and direction came through me and Ginger Soul Productions helped us pull it all together.
The song is produced by legendary songwriter/producer Barb Morrison; how did you connect with Barb and describe the experience of working with they?
Connecting with Barb is a magical story. Back in March when this whole world break pandemic started, I was in Puerto Rico with my family and ended staying there much longer than we thought. One morning I woke up to sit for meditation and clearly thought, I want to manifest a female music mentor.
I have been seen a lot in the music biz and have constantly been fighting for my truth in a sea of control (excluding Ahmed Mahmoudhe’s amazing and has always been a pleasure to work with). With others telling me what to do, how to be, what to wear, what to sing, what to post, basically who I AM.
I left and lived in India on ashram for a while to write and get away from all that, then came back to have it all happen again. So, I was ready for a female in the music business who cared about my songs, my truth and could help me get that out in the world instead of a machine manipulated version of a half truth of myself. That always felt like sandpaper to my spirit.
The morning in Puerto Rico that I put my intention out that I wanted to manifest a female music mentor, it came true, but even better. Right after that I was taking my morning Instagram hit and saw a post from Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love) shouting out several of her friends who had taken this challenging time and run with it in all different industries. Barb Morrison was listed as a music mentor.
I immediately looked them up and was blown away by their work… hello- Blondie! I reached out to the manager and sent my work. They contacted me right away and we spoke on the phone and connected right away. It really felt like I was talking to someone who I’d known for a long time and we started working over Zoom when I got back to my computer. The big clincher in this was that I realized that yes, my manifestation came true- thank you- but I limited myself by saying female. Because Barb identifies as non-binary they are so evolved and have built resilience through the male dominated industry and still truly gets to the freaking point of the music business- the MUSIC!
My mind has been blown and my heart has been opened and deepened working with them. Debbie Harry says in a doc that she’s only wanted to kill them a few times, and I totally get that. They take you to the depths of your experiences, but in a safe and healthy way encouraging you to lean in to what comes up and rise up from it through a song. They didn’t tell me what to do at all, only encourage the truth to come out. Working with Barb allows my true creative process to be liberated and then they take it to the next level in production. It’s magic and this is just the beginning.
Can we expect to hear "Inside" as part of a future EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about the project?
Yes. So many songs are coming right now during this time. I’m just trying to catch as many as I can. We’re still ironing out the 21 for 2021 album, but we have a good problem right now with narrowing down the material to release next. It’s been a good time and artist/producer match for creation.
What are some things, people, and places that spark your creativity as a songwriter?
The first thing that came to my mind reading this was red clay Cherokee council grounds. It’s where they met before starting on the trail of tears. It’s not a happy place, but I feel connected to my ancestors there and hear songs and play my guitar and drum sitting by the river.
Fights, heartbreak, and injustice make me write to try to do something about it. My favorite tree at our family farm, horses and getting to my roots inspire me. I end up locking myself in for days and turning off my phone. Being alone encourages me to dive into all my feelings and process what I may have not fully cleared out. Songwriting heals me and gets experiences good and bad out of my body and hopefully helps someone else move through something. I intentionally give myself room and space to hear and try and catch that creative tiger by the tail (thanks Liz Gilbert). Duke Ellington and Tupac have both come to me in my dreams to give me a big kick of inspiration. As long as we remain open to inspiration coming through, it can come in any form. Nature speaks, we just have to be still long enough to hear it and brave enough to share it.
What do you enjoy most about being a singer-songwriter who has the opportunity to express yourself through song/video? Also, what is one thing you would change about the music industry if you could?
What I enjoy most about being a singer-songwriter and expression through song + video is creative FREEDOM and the opportunity to collaborate with the divine. I treasure the gift of making something from an experience or a dash of inspiration, or a dream….taking it out of the cosmos and translating it into a medium that will help me grow and hopefully help others who hear it too.
I believe everyone is an artist in some way. This just happens to be the medium that is the most clear to me and the one I have loved and practiced the most. I believe anyone can do anything if they love and practice enough.
One thing I would change about the music industry is to have equal opportunity on the business side. We need more female leaders- managers, lawyers, producers and engineers. Not just in music, but in our world. We deserve equal rights and opportunity to bring it all back into balance.
Stream and Share “Inside” on: Spotify | Apple Music
Interview: Toronto Pop Singer-Songwriter Nicole Haber Discusses Her New Single "Wish You Well"
We connected with Toronto based pop singer-songwriter Nicole Haber for an exclusive interview to discuss her new single "Wish You Well", upcoming album “Full Circle”, and much more.
“I love performing and just having that energy of a crowd. I love looking out and seeing everybody singing along and dancing, and enjoying themselves. ”
Congratulations on the release of your new single "Wish You Well"; what inspired you to write the song and how did you connect with the producer Jonathan Karkar?
Thank you so much!! I wrote this song with inspiration from a breakup. It was a weird break up for me because it wasn't a good one but not bad either... Or maybe it was both.
I genuinely had so much love still for this person in my heart, so the song was kind of closure for myself so that I could move on happily and healthily. It's also something that I think a lot of people can relate to, we always want the best for the people that we've been with but they also want to be like "I'll be alright without you."
I actually connected with Jonathan through Instagram. He's worked with a few of my friends before and he ended up reaching out to me saying, "I really want to work on this track" and would not take no for an answer. I'm really glad he did that though because he made the song so amazing and it turned out beyond what I expected.
"Wish You Well" will be appearing on your upcoming album "Full Circle"; what can you tell us about the project, and is "Wish You Well" indicative of what we can expect from it sonically and thematically?
“Full Circle” is still in its early stages. This album is something that I've wanted to work on/release for a while now, but I'm still figuring out all of the logistics for it. I wish I could tell you when it will be released, but I know that there's so much work still to be put into it.
The album has a theme of the hero's journey, through battling life and one's self, and “Wish You Well” is the point in the journey somewhere close to the halfway point. Where you begin to accept and move on from certain situations out of necessity for your own good. So, a lot of the songs that are going to be on this album are talking about falling behind, coping, retracing your steps, and moving forward. Things like that, like how we grow as human beings pretty much.
You started writing music at 6 years old; do you remember the artists that influenced you to pick up a pen and pad and start expressing yourself through song?
Oh, of course, Shania Twain was the one and only. When I was a kid, she was my inspiration for everything and she's the reason I started singing. As I got a bit older Rihanna kind of took over that influence.
How would you describe your typical studio session? Do you write music there or do you have your lyrics already prepared beforehand?
As I always say, no song is the same. Every studio session I've worked on has been different. Most of the time my lyrics and my chords are already created and we go in with the idea to create the track and put it all together. But sometimes I've walked into the studio with absolutely nothing and we create magic together. Other times I just need vocals because the beat is already made and so are the lyrics. It's a different process depending on who you're working with and what the project is for.
What do you enjoy most about performing for a live audience, and do you have a favorite song to sing?
I love performing and just having that energy of a crowd. I love looking out and seeing everybody singing along and dancing, and enjoying themselves. I can't tell you how much I miss being on a stage, but the best part was always having a drink after my set with my fans or my friends or my family, just taking in everything that happened. Oh, actually I will say I do also miss my band, the lights, and loud music. So, I guess I miss the whole aspect of performing live and it's all my favorite.
If you're asking me what my favorite song of my own to sing is, I love singing “Runaway”, it's a song I worked on with Indonesian DJ's, Owl Proximity and Keep Like Normal. If it's a cover you can always find me singing “Addicted to You” by Avicii. Although, my favorite songs tend to change quite frequently.
Interview: Austin, TX Based Artist Steven Strong Talks About His New Video "Wiser Than Older"
We connected with Austin, TX based artist @allalongstrong for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released music video “Wiser Than Older, and much more.
“Writing in general has always been my main outlet and source of creativity. It’s absolutely the best therapy for me that I’ve ever had and a huge reason why I’m still standing today. ”
Salute to you on the release of the music video for your track "Wiser Than Older". What inspired you to write the song, and who produced it?
Thank you! Appreciate you guys having me on. Honestly, I started writing the song as a joke and wasn't going to do anything with it. I showed it to my girlfriend and a couple of others that all really liked it and I decided to finish writing it and see how I felt.
It ended up being a fairly comical, but accurate, depiction of where my head was at in the middle of March with everything going on. I worked in education at the time and never went back after Spring Break. I knew that being stuck inside my own apartment was one of the worst options I could have wanted for myself so I was determined to be productive with that time and not let it fly by and look back and feel like I did nothing.
That idea is ultimately where the line "Hope you spend your quarantine getting wiser, not just older" really came from. I didn't want the time to only age me, which I had no control over. I wanted the time to benefit me and expand my abilities, too, which I had full control over. As did anyone else, in my opinion. I had the opportunity to shift my focus to my art even more and my friend across the seas, Neighbr Beats, who made the instrumental, also mixed and mastered it for me and got it good to go. We're actually finishing a clean edit to send to radio stations now, as well.
How did you and your co-director come up with the treatment for the music video? Also, how difficult was it to film it as a one-shot?
I had set up my apartment with maximum lounging capabilities since I was home all of the time, so I had placed my ottoman in-between my two couches that faced each other to create one huge den. I also had my mini fridge below my TV which elevated the picture and simultaneously provided convenient refreshments.
At some point, I looked around and felt it fit the exact setting I discuss in "Wiser Than Older" and it was genuinely how I was spending my quarantine. So I came to Marisol with the idea of filming a one shot within the apartment, my literal apartment, and showcasing everything I'd been doing throughout the days.
Sleeping, snacking, playing video games, watching TV. You know. The usual loner, 20 year old dude stuck at home stuff. The good stuff. Mari brought a few ideas of her own to implement, like changing the room light to red when I put on her red sunglasses as I walk out. Mari filmed it with one hand holding the camera and the other hand holding my own phone to cue the light bulb change and the TV playing the recorded video in sync with the live shot, all in real time and while panning and filming in a way that allowed me to get into position AND change outfits at every transition.
It was honestly extremely hard, with her taking on most of the difficulty, and we went through take after take until it was 7:30 in the morning and we'd been doing it for over 6 hours when we finally got the take we went with, which was the only take we actually finished filming the whole way through. We went straight to sleep but I definitely had minimal editing to do before releasing it that next morning, so that's a plus! All in all, I thought it was better than what I had envisioned when we started.
Will "Wiser Than Older" be featured on an upcoming EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about the project?
Because "Wiser Than Older" was a song I never planned on writing, or even releasing once I had written it, it is just a standalone single and will remain as that.
I actually wrote it after all of the songs from my first EP, but in the time since releasing all of those I have been working on my second project, an upcoming EP that I hope to release before this crazy year of 2020 is over. No set timeline as of now, but I can tell you it's the fullest, most well-rounded sound from me thus far and I think it will be well-received by a lot more people than the loud mouth, arrogance I came with on "Special Event Ahead", my first EP.
I can also tell you that I've actually nearly finished all of the songs for my second project and am already working on a couple of remixes of some well known tracks to keep the content flowing even after this is all released. Basically, I can't ever get myself to shut up haha. I got a lot to say, I guess.
How did you get interested in songwriting and rapping initially, and who were some artists that influenced your creativity?
Writing in general has always been my main outlet and source of creativity. It's absolutely the best therapy for me that I've ever had and a huge reason why I'm still standing today. I used to write little, short poems when I was really young and eventually I found my way to full songs.
I knew I wasn't the best singer, especially when I started, so I had to figure out a way to recite them somehow. At the time, I didn't listen to rap. I grew up only into classic rock. Legends like Led Zeppelin, Queen, Talking Heads, Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Styx, Santana, Stevie Wonder, Joe Cocker. Though, I've expanded my horizons and really enjoy some hip hop out there - guys like ¡MAYDAY! (with Bernz & Wrekonize) have really inspired me to make the music I wanna make and do it in a positive, independent way, but - I don't ever want to be stagnant as an artist, I want to constantly evolve and grow and learn and expand my sound.
To this day, when looking for examples of performers, lyricists, creative artists...I'll load up my old DVDs of Zep or Hendrix and leave the 2000s or later on mute. I take performing very seriously and want to provide the best show possible, and they knew how to do that better than most.
With 2020 winding down, what are some of your goals musically for 2021?
2020 has taught me so many things about myself, I don't even want to rush into 2021. There's so much I have left to do in these last couple of months. However, you always gotta have that eye several steps ahead and I definitely have been thinking a lot about that.
I came into 2020 saying "I'm gonna release an EP in the summer and then a second EP before the new year and then focus on a full length album for 2021." So far, I'm right on course and have come through with everything I had planned, and then some. Releasing a few singles in between EPs wasn't my original thought, but after writing the songs I've written and planning out what fits where, that has been reality for me.
I released "Biscuits" & "Obsession" in the last couple of months and have a new single called "Solely Me" coming very soon, featuring a familiar name to my fans, before I begin prep for releasing the new project. For 2021, I still love the idea of a full album, but I'm not gonna rush that or force that until I know exactly what I'm feeling for that full album.
Regardless, I know I want to continue to connect with other creatives and collaborate with more amazing humans as I go. Together we can truly conquer anything and I'm a big believer in supporting each other with what we can all bring to OUR table as individuals. I'm really, really excited for what's coming!
Thank y'all so much for what y'all do!
Review: "Shine" Album by TNV (That New Vessel)
Throughout the course of 16 tracks on his new album, "Shine", TNV delivers motivational, uplifting anthems whilst examining his godly faith and the righteous, positive path he currently walks.
“Shine” is the newest album from Detroit rapper TNV (That New Vessel) and his second release for 2020, the first being “Dirty Beautiful”. Throughout the course of 16 tracks (17 if you count the bonus track “Peace” available on the album’s Bandcamp page), TNV delivers motivational, uplifting anthems whilst examining his godly faith and the righteous, positive path he currently walks.
With this being my first listen to TNV’s work, I was thoroughly impressed by the thematic diversity, thoughtful wordplay and relatability he brought to this record. Yes, he delivers his fair share of inspirational cuts like the title track “Shine” (which features a fantastic verse from G.O.A.T - destined Brooklyn rapper Skyzoo), the lead single “Diamonds” and the incredibly moving “Motivated”. But his main focus involves rising over one’s social and moral circumstances in order to bring about internal and external change, even though it may seem like it’s too late (“Hurry Up”), overwhelming (“Only Now”) or difficult to the point of losing hope (“I Can’t Breathe”).
Though TNV isn’t afraid to express his Christian faith (like on “Point GOD” which features an excellent basketball-referencing verse from guest rapper Jered Sanders), he also exhibits fearlessness in revealing his past mistakes (which he does on tracks like the Common-sampling “Doin’ It”, the slightly disenchanted “Losing Myself” and the aptly-titled “Mistakes”) and personality flaws (like on the ego-centered “Get Over”).
The one main disappointment I had with “Shine” was the roughly 3-minute duration of each track. Even with its overall runtime being under an hour, the album does feel a tad bit overstuffed due to its lengthy track listing. And with every listen I gave this album, I still found myself wishing that at least one song could’ve crossed the 4 or even 5-minute mark.
Regardless, I still enjoyed “Shine”. I can imagine this album connecting more with die-hard fans of conscious hip hop than the average, trendy sound-seeking listener. But if you like your hip hop with depth and meaning – along with sharp wordplay and dope beats, of course – “Shine” is certainly worth the listen.
Stream and Share “Shine” on: Spotify | Bandcamp
Sabiine's Newly Released "Dragonfruit" EP Bursts with Punchy Musical Flavor
Atlanta pop singer-songwriter, @therealsabiine, has dropped her second EP “Dragonfruit”, alongside a new music video for the feature track “Hotline”.
Pop singer-songwriter, Sabiine dropped her second EP “Dragonfruit” on October 30 alongside a music video for the feature track “Hotline”. “Hotline” was inspired by a falling out with a friend. “They called all the time. I tried to help and they never listened”. I started to feel like some kind of advice hotline. Sabiine turned that experience into "Hotline" an eclectic, electronic bop that's super sticky and accessible to a young 20's demographic. Hotline’s music video takes a sexy and fun perspective on a hotline operator theme and includes dance and comedic elements throughout.
The “Dragonfruit” EP was created during the Coronavirus pandemic. With restaurants closed, Sabiine and EP producer Tyler Gunz took breaks at the local farmer’s market. Inspired by the crazy look and addictive taste of the dragonfruit, Sabiine and Gunz dove into creating a dynamic, punchy EP bursting with eclectic musical flavor. "Tyler and I paid attention to every detail on this EP, from the lyrics, to the beats, to the song length, and the mastering. I mean seriously, how many people get the opportunity to produce their own music? I didn't want to waste it,” says Sabiine.
Belying her blonde bombshell image, Sabiine is an accomplished lyricist, and wrote the lyrics and melodies on each of Dragonfruit’s four tracks. The first track on the EP, “Water”, is a dance inspired love song about the sometimes overwhelming power of love as an emotion. “Laces You Tied” follows as a metaphor laced ballad in which Sabiine reflects on escaping years of family dysfunction. The production is a stripped down homage to early 90’s chill pop in the style of Mazzy Star or Eddie Brickell. Sabiine released the 3rd track of the EP “Still Miss You” as a sneak peek single. It’s been streamed over 65,000 times and featured on prominent music blogs and top-tier playlists. Independent Music Reviews described “Still Miss You” as “… both infectious and steady. It’s a lush electronic canvas to showcase the artist’s vocal style, but also reflects some of the songwriting and production that really digs a bit deeper.”
Listeners will find bits of Sabiine’s musical influences such as Amy Winehouse, Little Dragon, Alt-J, and Paul McCartney on the “Dragonfruit” EP. With a catchy, fun sound and relatable lyrics, the EP reflects the rising star’s ability to create music that’s exclusively her own. Critics have praised Sabiine’s uniqueness and starpower by saying she “has a one-of- a-kind sound and the soulful coolness to match” -Warlock Asylum. “I learned so much between this EP and my last one,” says Sabiine. “On Dragonfruit, I've had the opportunity to really dig in and spend the time to make my songs sound exactly the way I want them and I absolutely can't wait for people to hear them.”
Sabiine is a 24-year-old Atlanta-based singer-songwriter who’s known for her original voice, head bopping melodies, musical diversity, and sticky hooks. Sabiine’s voice has been compared to Little Dragon, Hope Sandoval, and Lorde. Her original songs are crowd-pleasing and infectious, including elements of hot adult contemporary, dark pop, dance, and indie-folk. The artist proudly writes all of her own melodies and lyrics, and commonly bases her songs of real life events. She has a relentless drive to create music, so much so that she taught herself to play guitar at age 11 by watching YouTube videos.
Sabiine’s first EP “On My Mind” was a low-key hit, added on over 120 radio stations, reaching number 150 on the weighted College Radio Charts, and charting (as high as number 2) on 15 stations, whilst earning critical praise and playlist adds across the internet and Spotify. Dancing About Architecture’s Dave Franklin said “If Sabiine was looking to produce the perfect chilled pop song for the modern market then she has got as close as anyone else I have heard in a long time.” Skope Magazine said “this is one glowing track that deserves your undivided attention…I promise you that ‘On My Mind’ will get stuck in your head for days to come!” With the “Dragonfruit” EP and the “Hotline” single Sabiine is headed towards an exciting future in music.
Listen to “Dragonfruit” now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Sabiine on her website and social media.
We the People International Launches Music Project, "People Over Politics”
Greensboro, NC grassroots org We the People International merges education and entertainment to urge young adult civic engagement with launch of music project, "People Over Politics”.
We the People International is a Greensboro, NC based grassroots nonprofit organization that was created to merge entertainment and education for the purpose of uplifting youth and young adults in the Black community. We the People International launched its civic engagement initiative on Tuesday October 27th. The project was launched by a music video from soulful songstress, Vanessa Ferguson (NBC’s The Voice).
The song is entitled “I Won’t Let It Stop Me” and features a video depicting a man being bullied into missing his opportunity to vote. The voting location is the Historic Magnolia House, which was a safe haven for Black entertainers during the Civil Rights era. The song and video were written and directed by Brandon Davis (Brandon D), a local songwriter from the crime-ridden Martin Luther King area of Greensboro. Brandon D overcame his surroundings and went on to manage Grammy Nominated trio known as The Hamiltones (also local). The video also features local acts J Timber, Zitty (Dr. Z) Nxumalo and her Zodwa Dance Company, and a multitude of community figures and entertainers.
“We thought it would be powerful to create music and visuals that entertained and educated at the same time,” says Davis who is the People Over Politics Executive Producer and a cofounder of We The People International. "We know how impactful music can be on young minds. Information put out by PBS and other leading experts demonstrates music's ability to increase memory and learning.”
“I Won’t Let It Stop Me” is the first single from We the People International’s People Over Politics project. The intent of the project is to utilize educational music videos featuring Greensboro-based artists to highlight the disproportionate socio-economic challenges faced by Black people in Greensboro.
An artist himself, Brandon D pulled together a group of other influential musicians from the area including Ricco Barrino, ILLPO, Vanessa Ferguson, =Afika=, Zithobile Nxumalo, and community activist, Anthony “FreeDopeMajor” Morgan.
The People Over Politics full project will be released on Tuesday, November 3rd. Although 2020 elections will be over, the project will emphasize the importance of year-round civic and community engagement as the 2021 local elections approach.
Please visit the We the People International website, Instagram account, and hashtag #wethepeopleintl for more information. Donors who wish to support this project can do so via CashApp: $wethepeopleINTL
Connect with We The People International: Website | Instagram
Interview: Santa Cruz, CA Rap Artist Tyler Austin Brown Talks About His Debut Song "Allocate"
We connected with Santa Cruz, CA based rap artist Tyler Austin Brown for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his debut single “Allocate”, and much more.
“Like an athlete seeking to better their game, I’ve always sought to rhyme the most syllables and find the most obscure metaphors. ”
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
Raw. Cinematic. Introspective.
Who were some artists that influenced your creativity as a lyricist when you first became interested in pursuing music?
When I first started writing verses in my teenage years, I was all about the clever wordplay, the metaphors, and the punchlines, and it was so satisfying to find this in the rap music form.
I found myself listening to Big L’s “Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous” on repeat, along with Lil Wayne’s “Tha Carter.” I shouldn’t fail to mention Philadelphia-based rapper Cassidy and his eight-minute freestyles, spitting line after line.
Like an athlete seeking to better their game, I’ve always sought to rhyme the most syllables and find the most obscure metaphors. This focus on technical rhyme, and the manipulation of the English language is a central feature of the music I create.
Congratulations on the release of your debut single and video "Allocate". What are you most proud of with this release and what does the single/video represent to you?
Yes, thank you! I think what I’m most excited about with this first release is the chance to introduce myself and my vibe and to see how people react to it.
“Allocate” paints the picture of a personal struggle with mental illness, and what one must do to overcome their own mind. I think the emotion comes through in a visceral way and that’s my hope every single time. I want people to feel.
You mentioned that you have a lyrical archive 15 years in the making. What makes now the best time to release your debut single and why did you select "Allocate" as the first?
It took me a long time to find someone who could produce music for me that really fit my style, but when I moved back to California a couple years ago, I began working with my brother recording tracks at his studio.
After many recording sessions and back and forth with new beats and vocal tracks, “Allocate” emerged as the song best suited to introduce myself to listeners looking for a new voice.
With 2020 winding down, what are some of your goals musically for 2021?
As it stands now, I got another single coming down the line and a music video to go with it. I think the main goal is to keep grinding, keep releasing these singles and high quality music videos that people can really get into.
Review: "Wide Awake Dreamin'" EP by Drew Graham
Ypsilanti, MI based rap artist and producer @illwill734 delivers freewheeling flows on the blissed-out vibes of his new EP, “Wide Awake Dreamin”. Check out our in-depth review of the project now.
Ypsilanti, MI based rap artist and producer Drew Graham delivers freewheeling flows on the blissed-out vibes of his new EP, “Wide Awake Dreamin”. Lyrics have a nimble quality to them while they navigate a whole slew of different spectrums. Songs effortlessly blend into each other in a way that creates a coherent, cohesive whole.
Everything has a sun-drenched, almost Balearic quality to it. By incorporating a summery flavor to it, Drew’s flows are given additional emphasis, and the instrumentals exist and roll on through leisurely with such ease. Nothing ever becomes too dense for he ensures that the spaced-out quality remains intact.
Drew’s flows go for a mellowed-vibe akin to MF Doom’s style. Taking his time, he lets these tracks unfurl and evolve at their own pace. With the airy spaciousness the production goes for a Toro Y Moi intimacy. The bright textures work wonders featuring a slight nod towards pop without wholeheartedly embracing it. By straddling this thin line, the songs gain a certain degree of the unexpected for they shift in unexpectedly delightful ways. Samples go for a wide range going from ambient to jazz and everywhere in between.
“Galactic” dives headfirst into the sound with a small interaction magnified and done with such care. Cyclical looping gives “Doo Too Much” an effortless style, perfectly keeping in sync with the power of the lyrics. Here there is a joy to simply taking it easy, not stressing, just relaxing. The gentle keys of “$hootin Star” feel outright joyous, as the bubbling layers intermingle as the lyrics have a meditative spirit. Within these words a sense of a life lived to the fullest emerges, making it the heart and soul of the collection.
Nimble beats frame the whole of “The Secret (Interlude)”. Stately with its swagger is the nearly beatless scope of “Seen A Lot”, featuring Ann Arber, MI artist Obie Iyoha. Bass worms through on the heady mix of “Star Spangled”. Haunting melodies waft up into the heavens with the stunning finale of “10 Toes”.
The “Wide Awake Dreamin’” EP goes for a surreal scope, with Drew Graham exploring a series of small vignettes with the absolute utmost of care and compassion.
Stream and Share “Wide Awake Dreamin’”
Interview: Ypsilanti, MI Artist/Producer Drew Graham Talks About His New EP "Wide Awake Dreamin'"
Big ups to Ypsilanti, MI based rapper and producer Drew Graham who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his newly released EP, “Wide Awake Dreamin”, and much more.
“Being my own producer, it always starts for me with a sound, which usually comes from a feeling. I get in zones where I just make beats all day, and then I’ll be working on one and I just know. Like, I have to use this for myself. ”
What are some things, people, and places that inspire your creativity when songwriting and producing beats?
I think that changes depending on the season of my life I’m in. Some days I could just go outside and look at nature. Sometimes it may be a family member, my lady, a situation a friend is dealing with. I would just say life in general, the things going on around me.
While I was working on “Wide Awake Dreamin’” I took a trip to New York. A trip like that inspires me because I could feel all of the greatness that was and is rooted there. It definitely gave me a spark, a new hunger you could say.
Speaking of the EP, congratulations on the completion and release of this new project. How would you describe your creative process for the development of its 7 songs?
Thanks, I appreciate it! Being my own producer, it always starts for me with a sound, which usually comes from a feeling. I get in zones where I just make beats all day, and then I’ll be working on one and I just know. Like, I have to use this for myself.
A few of the verses on the EP are old to me, but never had the right beat until now. This project was just a matter of putting pieces together.
It all started to make sense around July; I had 2 songs done, about 10 concepts I was working on, and a handful of beats I was cycling through. That’s when I got the idea to make it a visual album. I narrowed it down and ended up finishing the music about mid August.
How did you connect with Will Fairbanks, and what is his role in the creation of the music videos of the EP's songs? Also, have you decided the specific order for which the videos will be released?
I’ve known Will since I was in high school, I’d say 2010ish. That was the big homie though. He used to be in a rap group “Metal Apes” with my guy Obie, they used to throw legendary bangers in Ann Arbor.
Will ended up going to film school in Ohio, but we always kept in touch. Once he finished I was seeing his work and he told me he was ready whenever, so when I thought of the visual album I had to hit him up. He directed, shot and edited all of the videos. He would drive up for a weekend and we’d shoot 2 or 3 videos and he’d go back home.
We will continue to premier 1 video per week on my IGTV at 7 pm est. We are coming up on video 4 this week.
What software/hardware do you use for producing beats, and when do you know that a beat you are working on is done?
I produce on Ableton. This was all midi production, a few shakers here and there. I definitely want to add a live band to my arsenal at some point, hopefully soon.
But as far as finishing, I think it’s just something you get a feel for after a while. It’s easy to “over-produce” but I always just go off of the feeling.
Who is your all time favorite artist/producer in Hip-Hop and why?
I would have to say Kanye. His production alone speaks for itself, but his first 5 albums are classics.
Interview: Manchester, UK Singer-Songwriter Dita Dakoronia Discusses Her Song "Light the Way"
We connected with Dita Dakoronia, a Manchester, UK based artist, originally from Athens, Greece, for an exclusive interview to discuss her new single "Light the Way".
“Well I tend to get inspired by projects as a whole, it’s never just a song that comes to mind. I “conceive” a project and automatically have all the details down; sound, colour, styling, scenery. ”
Congratulations on the release of your single "Light the Way"; tell us about your creative process for its development, who produced it, and what the song represents.
Thank you! Well, the production took place in Manchester and Sheffield, I had to work with two different producers after writing it myself.
So originally the song was inspired by the League of Legends video game, but that potential was very soon written off as I found out that it’s against the company’s policy to outsource their music. Still I was very fond of the project, a song that encourages players to head to battle and not give up, the stars lighting the way to glory.
It wasn’t long before I realised “players”, “battle” ,”chains”, all those are metaphorical terms for the daily battles we all give either as individuals or as a whole-family, nation, planet.
The fight is only over when you give up and even that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s about each person’s limits I guess. A very big part of the concept owes to Greek mythology/ancient history; Greeks were unwilling to give up a battle, having to constantly fight for centuries to defend their ground. Crazy and stubborn, but pretty cool if you ask me.
What are some things that inspire your creativity when writing songs, and how would you compare the process to your experiences as a chef, in regards to creating something great from nothing?
Well I tend to get inspired by projects as a whole, it’s never just a song that comes to mind. I “conceive” a project and automatically have all the details down; sound, colour, styling, scenery.
Same with a dish, I’ll think of plating and presentation the exact moment I come up with the recipe. Songs aren’t just music, same way food is not just flavour. And, for me at least, they’re both “caught” in a single moment of inspiration, regardless of how long their completion takes.
Can we expect a music video next for "Light the Way"? If not, do you have another single on the way?
I highly doubt it. The absence of motion picture for this song is deliberate and this is because the lyrics can apply to so many different situations and can be visualised in so many ways, that I didn’t want to give it yet an identity. It could be a soundtrack to a video game, an epic movie teaser, a social awareness campaign, a sports championship promo, and so many more; I wanted to leave this open to anyone interested without “labelling ” it with my own touch.
A new single is in fact in the way, but the pandemic definitely is slowing the process down I’m afraid.
Tell us about the OpenMicUk competition and how Future Music has assisted you in your development as an artist.
Well, to put it simple, I don’t think I’d be here if it wasn’t for them. Signing up for the audition was a momentary impulse when I saw the ad. I got through a few rounds and while I didn’t make it to the finals, they offered me an Artist Development course, through which I had to push myself to write, something I had never done before and was a great challenge, given that I don’t play an instrument. But I was lucky enough to work with great producers who were capable to “hear” the songs that existed in my head, and turn them into actual tracks.
With 2020 winding down, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year, leading into 2021?
I think for now I’m just going to focus on “Light the Way” and its marketing process. The production of the second single and its video involves travel and will be a collaboration, something that is risky to plan due to circumstances and restrictions the pandemic has brought.
I do wish it all ends soon and we can all go back to enjoying normality, the normality we now treasure and should never take for granted again.
LA Pop Singer-Songwriter Elise Go Releases Her Self-Produced Debut EP "The Scorpio Sessions"
LA-based singer and songwriter @nihaoelise has dropped her self-produced debut EP, “The Scorpio Sessions”, which sees the artist uncover the veil to reveal her vulnerable self, stripping down her most emotional records to date.
Following a wave of impressive singles over the last few months, including the much loved ‘Good Company’ and progressive pop gem ‘Lonelier with You’, LA-based singer and songwriter Elise Go now returns with her self-produced debut EP, “The Scorpio Sessions”.
Leaning into the enigmatic aura often associated with her astrological sign, this acoustic-style EP sees the artist uncover the veil to reveal her vulnerable self, stripping down her most emotional records to date.
Speaking on the project, she said “As a songwriter, writing is my therapy. It’s the most raw, genuine way to express my emotions, especially when I’m feeling down. I’m a Scorpio and we are known for being extremely passionate, but also mysterious and intimidating. I decided that I wanted to peel back the curtain, and share this side of me with you. I wanted to strip these songs down so you could hear the lyrics, understand the emotions, and sit with those feelings.”
This project also sees the artist delving into another component of her artistry: production. Due to the intimacy of the project, Elise felt it was fundamental to challenge herself and fully produce this record in its entirety. “I felt that it was important to challenge myself and fully produce this EP on my own as I feel that female producers are really underrepresented in the industry. Production is an integral part of painting the full picture for your listener to understand your emotions, what you’re singing about, and what you’re writing about.”
Listen to Elise’s new EP now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with her on social media.
Review: "The City Aint Safe" Album by Beeb
“The City Aint Safe”, the newest album from Newark-based rapper @habibeaux, fits neatly into the violent and unpredictable world of street hustling, though lyrically it leans more towards personal insight and self-reflection than captivating narratives.
From the moment Brian de Palma’s “Scarface” became a part of hip hop culture, hip hop heads have found themselves intrigued by the calculated, ethical, resourceful and ambitious mindset of the hustler. “The City Aint Safe”, the newest album from Newark-based rapper Beeb, fits neatly into the violent and unpredictable world of street hustling, though lyrically it leans more towards personal insight and self-reflection than captivating narratives.
The production, handled entirely by Pyramid Tapes, is dark, cinematic and immersive. Within these soundscapes, Beeb adopts a cocky, cold-blooded, survivalist demeanor, keeping his ears to the streets, mind on his money and finger on the trigger. Despite his hushed, low-key delivery, Beeb commands every track on “The City Aint Safe”, thanks to his impressively proficient wordplay and appropriately bleak and self-aware topical focus.
The four guest rappers on the album deliver standout performances, from Plush Omega’s vicious contribution to “Desertion” (though I wish his vocals were less reliant on pitch-shifting) and Elespee’s rugged, stress-driven (to the point of baldness, in a noteworthy moment of dark humor) verse on the opening track “SOB (Sons of Babs)” to Calig Kontra and Moemaw Naedon who team up with Beeb to BODY the beat to “Old Times”. Though they appear overall on three tracks, their individual complementation of Beeb’s lyrical and thematic focus help create a sense of camaraderie throughout this record.
Where “The City Aint Safe” truly shines is the segmented use of what sounds like a real-life interview between a reporter and a Mafia boss. Every question asked by the reporter on the reasoning behind the boss’ nefarious activities is countered with an amoral yet honestly rational answer, from the importance of family (which opens “SOB”), the business side of his profession (on the interlude before “Old Times”) and the societal demand for his services (which concludes the final track “Stolen Land” on a chilling note). This interview brings a heightened level of focus and cohesion to the album and thus frames Beeb as a student of the gangsters of old, adopting their mindsets as a means to achieve financial freedom – by any means.
Overall, “The City Aint Safe” is a solid album, with some of Beeb’s strongest, most potent material to date. With so much hip hop to consume in the remaining weeks before 2021, I strongly recommend giving this album a listen, particularly if you’re a fan of unapologetically grimy street rap!
Stream and Share “The City Aint Safe” on: Spotify | Apple Music | Soundcloud
Interview: Detroit Artist/Producer TNV Talks About His New Album "Shine"
We connected with Detroit based rap artist and producer TNV (That New Vessel) for an exclusive interview to discuss his self-produced album "Shine", and much more.
“Shine” represents pulling out the positive from all the negative things we see today. So “Shine” is about celebrating the great moments of life.”
Big ups to you on the completion and release of your new album "Shine". How long did the project take to complete and what does its title "Shine" represent?
The album “Shine” took close to a year to complete. As you know this is the second album of 2020. I planned to release “Shine” in 2021, but with the pandemic going on, I felt very creative because of the crazy times we are in.
In 2019 I started the process of making two different albums with two different perspectives. “Shine” represents pulling out the positive from all the negative things we see today. So “Shine” is about celebrating the great moments of life.
Who were the producers that provided beats on the album and how did you decide which featured artists would appear on a particular track?
I produced, mixed and mastered each track. Every feature on the album is an artist who I personally respect and they carry the skill set lyrically that I was looking for. Because I recognized each features style, I handpicked each beat for their type of delivery.
How would you compare the "Shine" album to your last full length release "Dirty Beautiful"?
They are both a representation of my artistic motivation. “Dirty Beautiful” shows more of my grittier side and I lyrically navigate through obstacles. “Dirty Beautiful” I would say is a more serious feeling album.
I recorded “Shine” close to the same time as “Dirty Beautiful” but I knew I wanted them to be two different concepts. So “Shine” basically is the afterglow of “Dirty Beautiful”.
What was your creative process like for the development of the album's 17 tracks? Was there an overarching concept or theme to the album?
“Shine” had more features than any other album I’ve ever released, so that process was very tedious. Because I listened to each artist featured on a consistent basis, I wanted to make sure the feeling for each track fit them artistically.
Each beat I made for a feature had to be the right fit. So “Shine” musically is more soulful as well. Each drum pattern, vocal, chorus, instrument and sample had to match the concept of each song. I really feel it’s my best cohesive album thus far.
With "Shine" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year, heading into 2021?
I’ll be putting on my producing hat the rest of 2020 and collaborating with quite a few artists. I’m always working on music and new concepts. Hopefully before the year ends I should have a instrumental beat tape ready to go.
Interview: Newark, NJ Rap Artist Beeb Discusses His New EP "The City Aint Safe"
Salute to Newark, NJ rap artist @habibeaux who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released EP "The City Aint Safe", which was produced by Pyramid Tapes.
“i guess the overall theme is like a warning of a movement that’s been happening. The audio clips add an extra feeling of danger and humor at the same time.”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new album "The City Aint Safe". What was your creative process for the development of the project's songs and how did you connect with its producer Pyramid Tapes?
Honestly, frustration, lockdown and the fact I built a booth in the basement...I reached out to my homeboy one night and said man I need to rap. He hasn't stopped sending beats. Pyramid Tapes is the new moniker for Prospek, an extremely talented producer from New Orleans, label mate on THE GUERILLA PUBLISHING COMPANY and long time friend.
His ability to create the environment made it very easy to write dope shit. Our first project “Ungodly Ours” is still available everywhere. Not to mention all the other goodies that can be found on the website.
How would you say that the environment of Newark inspired the subject matters that you addressed on the album's songs?
Newark keeps the words edgy, raw. I usually write from experiences but still try to entertain a bit.
That said, is there an overall theme or concept to the album? If so, how would you describe it?
i guess the overall theme is like a warning of a movement that's been happening. The audio clips add an extra feeling of danger and humor at the same time.
Can we expect music videos for any of the tracks on the album? If not, what is next for you musically?
i wouldn't rule that out just yet, but next is Vol 2 of some sort, some new features; keep pushing.
The album features ELESPEE, PLUSH OMEGA, MOEMAW NAEDON and CALIG KONTRA; how did you determine what songs that each of them would appear on?
SOB was easy; it’s called sons of babs, elespee is my brother and I believe he recorded it on or around his birthday, that was dope.
PLUSH OMEGA, MOEMAW NAEDON and CALIG KONTRA we have all worked together before on other projects; that you should check for as well. The beats fit them well; Prospek has a good ear for that.....shouts to Pittsburgh, Ohio and New Orleans of course.
Stream and Share “The City Aint Safe” on: Spotify | Soundcloud | Apple Music