Interview: NY Rapper Hazok Talks About His New Single "Afghan Kush"
We connected with NY based rap artist Hazok for an exclusive interview to discuss his brand new single “Afghan Kush”, and much more.
“I feel like rappers are beat interpreters. Before I can translate what the beat is saying to the audience, I have to understand what the beat is saying to me.”
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
Love, rage, and punchlines.
Describe for us your creative process when you are developing new tracks, and what do you look for in the beats that you write to?
I feel like rappers are beat interpreters. Before I can translate what the beat is saying to the audience, I have to understand what the beat is saying to me. During that first exposure I have to that beat, I’ll write the chorus and go from there. I typically like beats that are faster paced and heavily sampled. Although I’ve been experimenting with drill beats lately, I’ve found I gravitate towards anything with a Kanye, 2000s or 90s feel to it. That being said, I do feel that there’s a good amount of rappers, that aren’t good rappers. They just have amazing beatmakers and can get away with writing the same recycled bars over and over again.
Tell us about how you got started as an artist, and who were some rappers that inspired you to pick up the pen and pad.
I guess it first started in middle school where my English teacher would point out the only good grades I had in his curriculum were from the poetry assignments.
My top 5 inspirations would have to be Eminem, Cassidy, Fabolous, Lloyd Banks & Immortal Technique.
Congratulations on the release of your new track "Afghan Kush"; who produced it and what inspired you to write it?
Appreciate that, it was produced by Busco @ bridge studios in Buffalo, NY. The death of Pop smoke actually inspired me to write it, as well as many rappers referring to “Afghan kush” in their rhymes. I thought it would be a good idea to make a song about afghan kush from an Afghan rapper.
Do you have a music video in mind for "Afghan Kush"? If not, what's next for you musically?
Nothing specific yet, but I’ve been listening to other people’s visions for it and kind of developing a birds eye view for the project in case anything substantial develops.
Review: "Demons and Love" EP by Emeril Picasso
Check out our in-depth review of the very DOPE new EP by Austin based rap artist Emeril Picasso entitled “Demons and Love”.
Austin based rap artist Emeril Picasso goes for an intrepid trip of a flow with the pure fire of his newly released “Demons and Love” EP. The raw grit and soul of the project has an intensity to it. His verses are balanced for maximum impact for he offers vignettes from a life lived to the absolute fullest. Arrangements do a perfect job in framing these pieces, never too hard, always hitting in a dazed, hazy way. With a duality of sorts, both going for those quiet moments along with a sense of defiance, the whole of the EP intermingles to become something truly surreal at times.
The vulnerability Emeril shows draws from some of Drake’s own emotional output. Akin to Drake, there is a tenderness to the way that the tracks evolve. On the harder side of things, his delivery has a graceful, luxurious pace to it with comparisons to Biggie Smalls’ confidence undeniable. Bridging both elements of old school and contemporary hip-hop, Emeril crafts a sound that is informed by the past yet very much of the present. Production here has a nimbleness to it for the whole of the album has a great evolution to it.
Psychedelic sampling introduces the album with “Trippin’”. Right from the beginning a voice says “Picasso got that heat” and they aren’t wrong – he goes hard. On “Don’t Matter” there is a Boards of Canada meets Flying Lotus quality to the arrangement, as the angular groove works wonders. Quite pretty “Make It Work” goes for a cleverness, one that explores the ins and outs of relationships.
Easily the highlight of the album comes from “Naples”. From the delicate melody to the remarkable lyricism, there is an entrancing quality to it. “Chaplin Interlude” has a triumphant spirit. Bass hits with a heaviness on the swagger of “Bliss”. Hyperactivity takes hold with “Wake Me Up”. Layer upon layer merges into “Mean That” as the speed of his delivery shows off a different side of his style. Neatly bringing it home is the power of the title track and finale “Demons and Love”.
“Demons and Love” shows off Emeril Picasso’s impeccable storytelling with narratives that linger with the listener long after the EP has ended.
Stream and Share “Demons and Love”
Interview: Memphis Rap Artist Tru Esco Discusses His Newly Released EP "Far From Nothing"
We connected with Memphis based rap artist Tru_Esco for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his newly released EP, “Far From Nothing”, the title track’s music video, and much more.
“The EP’s title represents the everyday person who’s pursuing a goal or dreams and to remind them that, no matter the circumstances along the way in their journey, remember that you’re further than where you started and to keep pushing. Far From Nothing. ”
Describe for us your journey as an artist; when did you first start writing rhymes and who were some rappers that inspired you creatively?
My journey as an artist has been a long one. I’ve probably given up more times than I can count. But for some reason I always come back to music. I’ve definitely had my share of highs and lows in my pursuit of a music career, but as long as the music reaches the right people and it touches them in some kind of way, I can live with that.
I started writing rhymes at 15. My close friend and I would have CDs full of instrumentals on them and we would call each other over the phone after school before cellphones was a thing and we would be freestyling back and forth to them. And after a while I started developing my writing skills.
One of my early influences that made me want to rap was T.I. I listened to him so much early on that I literally sounded like a poor man’s version of him. I had to stop listening to him for a while to develop my own style. But even before T.I., Tupac, OutKast, Master P and No Limit, UGK, 8Ball & MJG, and Jay Z later on, were just a few others that influenced me, whenever I was around my big brother who put me on to rap and hip hop, so those artists influenced me as well. And now of course, J. Cole, Big K.R.I.T and Kendrick Lamar.
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new EP "Far From Nothing"; what does the EP's title represent and what are you most proud of with the project?
Thank you! The EP’s title represents the everyday person who’s pursuing a goal or dreams and to remind them that, no matter the circumstances along the way in their journey, remember that you’re further than where you started and to keep pushing. Far From Nothing.
I’m most proud of the fact that I was able to teach myself how to mix my own songs and the quality come out good enough for my listeners to vibe to it. S/O to the countless hours of YouTube videos of tutorials that helped me learn everything.
Tell us about your creative process for the development of the EP's nine songs. Also, how did you select the nine beats to write to?
When I started coming up with songs and concepts, I originally wanted to just release singles and videos month by month, but the more I created material, the more I felt like I was coming up with a group of songs that could go together cohesively and decided to put them together for an EP.
I would normally search online in various places for production and build relationships with up and coming producers for beats that I really liked. So for this project, I wanted to have a variety of styles of production to help bring out the best of me.
The music video for "Far From Nothing" is very dope; who directed the clip and how did you come up with the treatment?
My partner Cam Krooks directed the video for the title track “Far From Nothing”. He’s been directing and filming my videos for some years now.
We usually brainstorm treatment ideas together or he’ll have locations around the city in mind that we can film at and I’ll try to come up with a story line to match the vision we’re trying to present.
How would you describe the music scene in Memphis for emerging rap artists like yourself in 2021?
The Memphis music scene is on fire right now. There’s a lot of talent coming up and out of the city. Maybe more so mainstream than what we’ve seen in a long time.
Memphis really has a tradition of dope talent. I’m just looking to add my value and style to this thriving music scene.
With the EP and music video now released, what can we expect next from you musically?
I plan on releasing more visuals throughout the rest of the year. Just so I can really give this EP it’s proper promotion.
I’m proud of how this project turned out and the feedback it has been receiving, so I want to make sure as many people as possible hear it.
Stream and Share “Far From Nothing” on: Bandcamp | Spotify
Connect with Tru Esco: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Demi Lovato Makes Her NPR Tiny Desk Debut
Global superstar Demi Lovato has made her NPR Tiny Desk (At Home) debut with a three song set shot entirely in her own backyard. Watch Demi’s performance now!
Global superstar Demi Lovato has made her NPR Tiny Desk (At Home) debut with a three song set shot entirely in her own backyard. Demi kicked it off with her 2017 hit single “Tell Me You Love Me,” followed by two songs from her new album Dancing With The Devil… The Art of Starting Over, “The Art of Starting Over” and “Dancing With The Devil.”
Watch the Tiny Desk performance below and connect with Demi on her social media.
Review: "Far From Nothing" EP by Tru Esco
Memphis based rap artist @Tru_Esco filters out negativity on the impeccably optimistic vibes of “Far From Nothing”. With an uncanny knack for storytelling, his narratives reflect upon the trials and tribulations that come from being self-made.
Memphis based rap artist Tru Esco filters out negativity on the impeccably optimistic vibes of “Far From Nothing”. With an uncanny knack for storytelling, his narratives reflect upon the trials and tribulations that come from being self-made. He cleverly takes the best pieces from old-school and contemporary hip-hop.
For the old-school style, the samples have a laid-back quality to them with beats that have a classic cadence to them. Production-wise, the sound absolutely shines for the bass lines and gentle melodies go for a bit of an introspective kick.
Tru Esco’s ability to convey what it means to rise above one’s circumstances does draw favorably from Jay Z’s work, for, like Jay Z, there is an ambition that helps to guide it along. With moments taken directly from his life, Tru Esco’s vocal delivery has much more of a southern rap quality to it. Fully laid-back, his delivery has a mellowed atmosphere about it, with references to Andre 3000’s eclectic work alongside the more recent output of T.I. and J. Cole’s expressive abilities.
On the opening “Far From Nothing Intro”, Tru Esco sets the tone for what follows. “Feel It In My Soul” takes things to the next level, for the soulfulness of the track is a pure joy to behold. Just the right kick of triumph permeates the swagger of “Highs & Lows” for there is a defiance to his lyricism.
Going for a nostalgic vibe is the expressive scope of “Do Ya Feel Me”, featuring De’Jon & Yung Titan, as the snares are full of emotion, as the verses are balanced for maximum impact. A fantastic sample brings a tremendous energy on “Straight Wit No Chaser”. The 70s cadence of “Reflect”, with Alozie, serves as the highlight of the album, for the song has a kindness to it, one that celebrates success. Elegance defines the careful “Ambition”. So much space gives “So Many Nights” a vast sense of contemplation. With “On My Way”, Tru Esco brings it home, featuring a finale that ties it all together, leaving the listener full of auditory goodness.
“Far From Nothing” is a triumphant project, showing off Tru Esco’s ability to create fiery flows alongside looking on the bright side of things.
Stream and Share “Far From Nothing”
Austin Based Rapper Emeril Picasso Drops His New EP "Demons and Love"
Austin based rap artist Emeril Picasso recently released his 9-track EP “Demons and Love”; check out his DOPE new project now!
We’re excited to introduce you to Emeril Picasso, a talented emcee based in Austin, who was born in India but raised in the United States. He has always been involved in music since his childhood, but he started taking a keen interest in rapping in 2013.
Emeril has moved from being an artist to producer to writer all while being self-taught and wearing multiple hats throughout his musical career. His raps are more artistic and concept-based, some of them are just meant for a good time, but he tries to put meaning behind all the music he makes. He particularly puts emphasis on the subject of mental health and how it relates to him and his life.
Emeril hopes of creating something relatable with people who struggle with similar issues as he does, hence the name of his newest project “Demons and Love”. He has produced, mixed, recorded, written, and performed every track on this project except for “Chaplin Interlude” and “Bliss”, which was produced by two producers in his music group, 99 Diamonds.
Beyond the music, Emeril would like to support producers and musicians in different ways and eventually have the ability to set up enrichment programs to cultivate and appreciate upcoming talent.
Listen to “Demons and Love” right now, stream the EP on your preferred music service, and connect with Emeril on IG. Also, be on the lookout for our exclusive Q&A with Emeril and our review of the EP, both coming soon!
Stream and Share “Demons and Love”
Connect with Emeril Picasso: Instagram
Interview: Toronto Based Rapper Yannick Talks About His Brand New Single "WIN"
Big up to Toronto based rap artist Yannick who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his King C produced single “WIN”, which features Lunchbox FNN, and much more.
“The music scene in Toronto is weird to me honestly I really think artists such as myself with the skill set that we possess really get overlooked by whatever is trendy or simple...”
Big salute to you on the release of your dope single "WIN", featuring Lunchbox FFN; how did you connect with its producer King C and what motivated you to write this inspiring track?
I got in contact with King C through my cousin Lunchbox; he reached out to me saying he enjoyed my stuff and he wanted to work with me on some records so we made a few bangers.
I was motivated by wanting to win in life. Really tired of being great at something but not getting the recognition I feel I deserve so I told my self "I gotta win" and not just me but all of my family and friends too.
Tell us about your creative process when it comes to song development; how do you most commonly find instrumentals and do you write songs before or after attaining them?
When I’m writing a song I usually get the instrumental first and write over it. At first it was mostly just industry beats I would find and write over but afterward I started to meet different producers and we started to collaborate on records. I just write what's on my mind and what I feel. Most things I write if not all are just life experiences I go through. For example if you listen to my deeper records like “Black Male”, “Empty” or “Addiction”, you can really feel the life experience coming through the music.
How would you describe the hip-hop music scene for up and coming rap artists like yourself in Toronto in 2021?
The music scene in Toronto is weird to me honestly I really think artists such as myself with the skill set that we possess really get overlooked by whatever is trendy or simple. My music is more intricate and detailed when it comes to lyrics, so I think it's harder to really reach the audience in my city.
The city only really starts to support you when you start to go viral or do something they deem worthy of praise within the media but not really within the music you make.
Honestly, there are a lot of hype beasts but it is what it is. I still love the fact that there are more artists in Toronto getting to make it to a bigger stage.
Can we expect a music video for "WIN"? If not, what's next for you musically? Also, will the track be featured on an upcoming EP or album this year?
Yes I will definitely be making a video for “WIN” and I can't wait to get started with that, but as you know to make good music and good videos you need money so I am working on getting some more funding first.
The track will be featured on my upcoming album “The Cleanse” I really want to drop that this year but if the following isn't where I want it to be, I might just hold it until the next year.
Why should every person reading this interview jump on the Yannick band wagon now, starting by following you on social media and Spotify?
Honestly I think everyone should hop on now because I been working my ass off for over 15 years and I have been doing everything needed to become great at what I do. No matter what, I will make this dream a reality.
I have spent thousands of dollars, I have put in my 10 thousand hours and more. I am going to be a legend.
Memphis's Tru Esco Releases His New EP "Far From Nothing"
Memphis based rap artist @Tru_Esco has released his new 9-track EP entitled "Far From Nothing"; check out this DOPE new project now!
Brand new on the DCWS scene is Tru Esco, a Memphis based hip hop artist who uses personal experiences to convey his artistry. With influences like T.I., Jay Z, J.Cole, Big Krit, among others, his laid back persona, talent and personal story-telling ability has made him a fan favorite to those who crave relatable music to vibe to.
Tru Esco recently released his 9-track EP entitled “Far From Nothing”. Speaking about the release Tru Esco states that “It's an EP about reminding ourselves that no matter how our current circumstances may be in life, no matter the highs & lows, we are further along than where we started”.
The EP’s production is provided by Rohan Kumar, Dilly Got It Bumping, Lucas Quinn, Turk Money and Falak, and featured verses come from De'Jon, Yung Titan and Alozie, who are other inspiring independent hip hop artists.
We’re excited for you to vibe out to the “Far From Nothing” EP, so do so right now, stream it on Bandcamp and connect with Tru Esco on his website and social media. Also, be on the lookout for our exclusive interview with the talented emcee, as well as our review of the EP, both coming very soon!
Stream and Share “Far From Nothing” on Bandcamp
Connect with Tru Esco: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Interview: Las Vegas Based Rapper R-Stonze Talks About His New Single/Video "Baghdad"
Las Vegas based lyrical drill rapper @smgstoney connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released single/video “Baghdad”, and much more.
“I drew inspiration from what I experienced from being involved in the streets of Cleveland, and different environments that I’ve been around. Nonetheless, “Baghdad” is more like a POV from my perspective. ”
Salute to you on the release of your new single/music video, "Baghdad". What initially provided you the inspiration to write the track and how did you end up selecting the instrumental?
I drew inspiration from what I experienced from being involved in the streets of Cleveland, and different environments that I've been around. Nonetheless, "Baghdad" is more like a POV from my perspective.
The beat was perfect for the vibe that I was looking for to match what I wanted to drop on the track. Now that I'm living in Vegas, it's the same shit, different toilet. The overall sound and feel of the track came out dope to me.
The video is the perfect accompaniment of the song; how did you and the director, J1, come up with its treatment?
My boy J1 already knew what I was on and I told him I wanted to tweak out a little bit in the crib with this one. I wanted to keep it simple and not overcomplicate the song visually.
Congratulations also on the release of your new EP "Lucky"; how long did it take to complete that project and what are you most proud of with it?
Thanks for the love; "Lucky" is one of my favorite projects because I took it back to my grassroots on every track. I came up listening to guys like Jada & Styles, 50, Dipset, so witty and grimy bars aren't foreign to me. I felt like I had to address certain things on this project, and speak on certain things that have transpired over the years.
Tell us about your experience as a MMA fighter; when did you get started with training and what is more difficult to be proficient in, Muay Thai or Jiujitsu?
I've been training MMA for 8 years now. It's a part of my lifestyle and I enjoy every aspect of it, from training all the way to competition.
The level of proficiency in Muay Thai and Jiujitsu is extremely different. There are so many different techniques that are used in standup striking but Muay Thai has to be the most devastating considering the use of elbows and knees.
Jiujitsu on the other hand in a totally different world because this is basically grappling on crack. There are at least 5 different ways to pull off the same submission, tons of offensive and defensive techniques, and more. This is why I built my fight game around both so I can be devastating on the feet and the ground.
With "Baghdad" and the "Lucky" EP both released, what's next for you musically?
Musically, I'm wrapping up more visuals for “Lucky”, getting ready to drop some new heat with my boy Kid Dre out of Chicago, and take this from there.
Stream and Share “Lucky” on: Spotify | Apple Music
Interview: Minneapolis RnB Songstress Christina Sophia Talks About Her New Album "Your Love"
Big thanks go out to Minneapolis based R&B singer-songwriter @StinaSophiaSing who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss her brand new album “Your Love”, and much more.
Photo Credit: Christina Sophia
“I’ve progressed harmony, vocally, maturity-wise; but it’s time to evolve my love song structure at this point. I want to challenge myself more conceptually, and start creating more upbeat, fun, dance music. ”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new album “Your Love”. Tell us about your creative process for the development of the ten songs, and who produced on the project.
Thank you! I write all the time. Just because, for no reason, and then the songs end up sometimes being about my life and my love life...or just love in general and how I want it in my life.
It took years to pick the right songs and get “Your Love” finished. I worked a lot with Mike Dreams, WhySo, H2L, and Moonlight Studios in the start. Next, TWAIN came in later during the process as an executive producer; now he's my manager. Also, Eric Bloomberg and Winterland Studios helped with finishing it.
The producers on the album were T- Lace, Joe Butler, Robbie Rob, ShawtyChrisBeatz, Fide, Louis Byrd, Brand Nu, and Moonlight Studios.
Can we expect music videos for any of the songs on the album? If so, which one(s) should we look out for?
Yes! We're hoping to shoot videos for "V.I.P" and "The One"; also "Me and You (Now)" since I have some dance choreography ready for it, but not sure if we will do a video for that one yet.
I want to do as many as I can even though I'm kinda camera shy, I loveeee to dance and step, and I want to incorporate that in my music somehow, someday, someway!
Tell us about your progression/growth as a singer-songwriter from when you wrote your first song, to where you are now in 2021.
My voice has definitely improved over the years, especially because I quit smoking cigarettes 4 years and 9 months ago! I believe my songwriting has improved a little as well, but I'd like to continue to grow more & more as a writer.
I've progressed harmony, vocally, maturity-wise; but it's time to evolve my love song structure at this point. I want to challenge myself more conceptually, and start creating more upbeat, fun, dance music. Or rap; anything besides the normal love songs because I spit those out like it's nothing. I plan to expand & write about different things. There will be a switch up for my next journey.
What do you look for in the production that you decide to write songs to? Do you generally select instrumentals first, and then write to them?
Well I love strings and piano mostly, and bass. I love, love bass lol. And really I need to just connect to it & like it for me to want to write something to it. I'll know right away if I like it-a melody will start in my head automatically. Although, I also cannot be so into an instrumental and turn it into a cool song if someone wants me to, I then make it my own & add my lil touch to it. I always say, "I can sing on anything, a rock song, a rap beat, any challenge."
I usually chose the beat, or the beat chooses me first, then I vibe to it, and then write to it. Sometimes I'll even go with the idea for the song from the instrumental's name. I also wrote an a cappella song. Might try to find an instrumental to fit it but haven’t yet, might just keep it a straight a cappella song.
With the “Your Love” album now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?
To keep creating & writing new material. To make more club songs, radio hits, and upbeat songs to get people up and listening! And I definitely want to do more visual projects and music videos too. I'm excited! Thank you again!
Stream and Share “Your Love” on: Spotify | Audiomack
Connect with Christina Sophia: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Review: "Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave" Album by Ezza of Choom Gang
Previously, we got to know Canadian artist @Ezza905 on his project “Pilot Boy” and in 2021, he’s starting the year off with his new project, dubbed “Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave”. Check out our in-depth review of this DOPE album now.
Previously, we got to know Canadian artist Ezza of Choom Gang on his project “Pilot Boy” and in 2021, he’s starting the year off with his new project, dubbed “Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave”. The album starts off with a dreamy, and fragmented beat on its intro track, and is titled “Vibes Are Us”. This song carries a Jack Harlow style drawl and features a collaboration with Light Spectrum and Ill Table Manners.
It’s the ultimate track to pair with an after-work blaze sesh or a wake n’ bake session when you’re looking to fade your troubles away. This relaxing song is meant to chill you out, or as this track puts it, “I believe we could loosen it up/ I don’t know if Metamucil enough, though.”
“Fate” wakes up the album a little more, coming at the haters with a slightly harder beat as he dictates: “It’s all love/we gettin’ rid of that hate/it’s time to come together and control our own fate.”
This is a message we could all do with mid-pandemic - take control of your life and brush out the haters. Ezza also professes his love for cannabis in these lines, with a stoner-friendly twist on the usual allusions to drank: “sippin’ weed drank/ but it feel like champagne/we the champions/ I ain’t talkin’ a brand name.”
“Interdimensional” has an addictive chanting backbone to it as Ezza makes allusions to new and undiscovered dimensions to his intergalactic production and lyrics. As he finesses his way around Jasmine and Aladdin wordplay, Ezza’s magic carpet takes us to new heights, exploring around his hometown and paying homage to Canadian locales with “about to buy a home in Muskoka/then hit up Etobicoke/only a forward motion that I’m rollin.” It’s one of our favorite tracks on this work, with a fire stoked by aspirational hustle and hometown inspiration.
“Spiritual Warfare” clarifies that “this ain’t some street sh*it/this is spiritual warfare/I believe it.” In this song that reminds us of Big Sean’s “Harder Than My Demons”, Ezza shares his story on fighting the negative vibes and rising above to be better. During a pandemic, this is advice we could all benefit from following. Other lessons in the track? “Never front/cause that’s just what they want/they want you to be successful long as you are what you’re not/but remember who you are/cause it’s never too far/you a god in the flesh let me remind y’all.”
It’s an anthem for the underdogs promoting self love, which we don’t see too much of in the rap game - especially from men. “Heal My Soul”, the clincher on this album, follows suit with the same philosophy. Last year was a tough one, and Ezza’s work is an introspective reflection of that. Here’s to 2021 being filled with less demons, more healing, and a whole lot of self-acceptance.
Stream and Share “Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave”
Lyric Financial Provides Reliable Funding for Artists
A recent investment trend is bridging the gap between the music and finance industries. As one of the longest standing financial services for artists, @LyricFinancial is paving the way for reliable and sustainable funding.
There’s a land grab underway in artists’ rights. Wall Street and private equity are buying up artist and songwriter catalogs like flies to honey. And an ever-growing crop of digital distributors and tech startups are promising free money or credit card-like deals to independent artists. The former always makes money for themselves, often at the expense of the artist or writer. The latter are dizzy with venture capital, advancing against future royalties with promises that are not always what they seem.
Lyric Financial has always marched to a different beat, with a proven 15-year track record providing financial support to artists throughout their careers. Run by music industry veterans, the company has worked to create a viable and trustworthy approach to music financing. Drawing on founder Eli Ball’s background as an artist manager, record producer, and investment banker, the company strives to create solutions that work to balance the clients’ personal needs and career goals. With over $100 million in funding provided to thousands of clients around the world, the company continues to innovate in a space currently filled with bluster and broken promises.
“When clients come to us, we think like old-line record producers,” explains Ball. “They were more like super A&R directors, listening first to what the artist wanted to accomplish, then helping them realize their vision using whatever tools were needed, whether that be musical, technical or motivational. They acted as a coach, guiding and supporting them through the process.”
Always ensuring that artists keep their rights, Lyric Financial helps artists make their dreams and goals real by offering a menu of products to fit every need, including royalty advances, credit lines, catalog and business loans, master and publishing acquisition facilities, and increasingly automated financing through its vATM product, currently offered to Tunecore customers. The vATM allows artists and labels to see their forecasted earnings and request an advance in less than a minute. To date, Lyric Financial has funded over 22,000 advances to Tunecore customers in 32 countries.
Understanding clients’ business is key to creating deals that help them achieve their goals. And sometimes, Ball emphasizes, artists need to hear some challenging advice: “Sometimes it’s not comfortable. Sometimes you have to tell them what they don’t want to hear,” Ball reflects. “Even when you’re talking to established clients, the reasons they need the financing can vary. The first question is not ‘how much do you need?’ but rather, ‘what are you trying to solve for?’ We go from there.”
Lyric Financial was one of the first companies to provide royalty-based financing to musicians and independent music companies that the banks didn’t understand. Two decades ago, Eli Ball decided to merge his two passions--music and financing--and strike out into unexplored territory. He wanted to create a way to give artists the ability to hold on to their most precious asset, while getting timely and trustworthy financing when they needed it.
The landscape at the time was daunting for artists seeking financing based on their rights or current deals. Deals were all relationship based, and artists did not have much leverage. “You had two choices then,” Ball recalls. “Getting an advance, meant the terms of the deal with your label or publisher changed, i.e., got more expensive. You take their money, the deal changes, and not necessarily to the benefit of the artist. And that would take weeks to get approved. Either way, sometimes it meant the artist or songwriter had to take a different split. The system just wasn’t set up to be fair or efficient.”
Neither were traditional banks, who struggled to see how artists fit into small business lending. “When I’d talk to bankers they’d say they didn’t see the need. They were focused on high net-worth clients,” notes Ball. There were also geographic and financial challenges for artists seeking financing: “55% of the folks who earned royalties didn’t live in media center cities with a bank that specialized in lending to entertainers, and many made less than $25,000 a year,” he explains. “There was a huge market of people who weren’t served by the banking industry and weren't served by the music industry per se at the time.”
Ball decided to find a better way for artists to access money when they needed it and to do it in a way that best served artists. From its founding, Lyric Financial has remained committed to the principle of coaching clients through challenging times via responsible financing. “If it sounds too good to be true, it is,” states Ball. “There’s no free money. A lot of these new royalty advance companies and fintech startups out there are all hat, no cattle. We think artists deserve better.” And they’ve proven it, tens of thousands of times.
Ezza of Choom Gang Unveils His Latest Album "Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave"
We showcased the incredibly DOPE “Vibes Are Us” music video last month and now its creator, Niagara Music Award-winning rapper @ezza905 returns to DCWS with his third "home studio album", “Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave”.
We showcased the incredibly DOPE “Vibes Are Us” music video (watch HERE) last month and now its creator, Niagara Music Award-winning rapper Ezza of Choom Gang (CG), returns with his third "home studio album", “Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave”, the follow-up to last summer's critically acclaimed “Just Before Dawn”.
Despite being a sequel, this 2nd Wave truly takes on a heart & soul of its own - mixing production from international newcomers SACHY, purpyoda, and Nile Waves (of Pooh Sheisty & Gucci Mane "Ugly" fame) in with the familiar sounds of Russian beatmaker NITRXMANE who's sounds dominated the first project.
Ezza CG keeps it Niagara with the features though - enlisting Fort Eerie's Light Spectrum & Pluto Hann, along with fellow St. Cathariners iLL Table Manners, Dxrrell Mxller, and Ase Mor the Corner Store Rapper. Ezza's lyrics represent a call-to-action, demanding the listener to go deep within - at least while we can't go too far out.
Listen to “Just Before Dawn: 2nd Wave” now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Ezza CG on his social media. Also, hang close to DCWS because our in-depth review of the album is coming very soon!
RnB Singer-Songwriter Christina Sophia Releases Her New Album "Your Love"
Minneapolis based R&B singer-songwriter @StinaSophiaSing has just dropped her album entitled "Your Love". Check out this DOPE new project now!
Photo Credit: Christina Sophia
We are very excited to introduce you to Christina Sophia, a talented R&B singer-songwriter from Minneapolis, MN, who’s influenced by the R&B, soul, pop, and hip-hop genres. Christina has been recording and performing on the Twin Cities scene since her middle school years, and later had a stint with Megatropolis Records, as well as becoming a part of the Whyso hip-hop collective.
Christina broke out solo to release her “Self-Entitled” R&B EP in 2014, and her full length debut, “No Restrictions: The Mixtape”, hit the public in 2019. Now, she’s back with her brand new album entitled “Your Love”, which is comprised of 11 tracks, and features Jay Jeminii and Mike Dreams. Christina is represented by ILL COUNTY Management.
Trust us when we tell you that the “Your Love” album is fire. Listen to it for yourself right now, stream it on Audiomack and connect with Christina on social media. Also, be on the lookout for our exclusive interview with the songstress coming very soon!
Stream and Share “Your Love” on Audiomack
Connect with Christina Sophia: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Interview: Ryan O'Connell Talks About His New Comedy Single/Video "LMPIP"
Major thanks to Phoenix based artist/filmmaker Ryan O’Connell who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his new comedy single/video “LMPIP”, and much more.
“All I can do is make the best version of that exact “taste” and screw what other people may think about it. Comedy gets less potent the more you try to broaden the audience. ”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new single/video "LMPIP"; with four kids, we assume it is based on personal experience, but what inspired you to write, record and then direct a visual for it?
Thank you! As a songwriter, I'm coming up with ideas and hooks all the time. And as you can imagine, this one came to mind shortly after my kids wouldn't leave me alone in the bathroom. Though we have a similar sense of humor, my wife is a tougher critic and is usually a good test for whether my ideas have legs. So I played her a version of the first verse and chorus and she loved it.
As a filmmaker, I'm such a visual person that I immediately suggested it should be a video and she enthusiastically agreed. I felt it was one of those songs that's just begging to have a visual narrative; a comedy symbiosis if you will. Ultimately, it was my wife's idea to do a Kickstarter fundraiser for it and - to my surprise - enough people agreed that it just had to be a video too!
Knowing the world of comedy music is often marked by low production values and cheap gimmicks, I planned right away that a third of my Kickstarter budget would go toward producing the track with other professionals to make it something worthy of a video. Even the most impressive video can't draw attention away from a terrible song, so getting the song up to par was the most vital part of the whole process.
"LMPIP" follows your earlier single/video, "Mass Fitness"; can we expect these two songs on an upcoming EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about it?
"Mass Fitness" was an absolute blast to produce but was definitely a stand alone project designed for a specific audience. "LMPIP" is designed to fit into the realm of "dad comedy" and will be just one track on a full comedy album that would be accompanied by a couple other music videos.
I'm planning and fundraising for it and - based on the response I've gotten from "LMPIP" - there's absolutely an audience that would relate to the material and love to share it.
Tell us about some things/people/places that influence your creativity when developing new music?
Musically my style is heavily influenced by singer/songwriter types like John Mayer, Marc Broussard, and Bob Dylan. Like these guys, my guitar is my writing partner. I love to play and while experimenting with chord progressions and arrangements, I usually stumble upon something that jumps out as a hook and go from there.
Sometimes I have a topic or theme in mind that I want to write about, and sometimes words just pop out from a more subconscious emotional place and I let them lead me. But that's just my typical writing process. There have been times when I act as a producer first and want to experiment with hip-hop and pop and I just have to lay down some bass that slaps. It's almost like I need to vomit up a musical mood first and then figure out if I can make a song out of it.
I get super excited when discovering an incredible new artist way out of my comfortable genre - all I can think about is whether I'm capable of producing a track that sounds like it's from their world. Then I experiment.
During your creative process for writing new songs, do you ever worry that the listener or viewer just won't get it, in terms of your sense of humor?
When I was younger I used to get hung up on "is this funny" as some kind of objective question and let other people decide for me. I think I let too many good ideas go because of insecurities there. But one of the most important lessons I've learned as a comedy writer (both for music and for the screen) is that comedy is extremely subjective, and I'm not that special. Specifically that means that if I'm really laughing at an idea then it's safe to assume that there are enough people out there with a similar taste in humor to make the project worthwhile. All I can do is make the best version of that exact "taste" and screw what other people may think about it. Comedy gets less potent the more you try to broaden the audience.
Usually it's a choice between making something that's a little bit funny to a lot of people, or really damn funny for a particular kind of person. I'd rather err on the side of the latter - that small but devoted fan base.
With "LMPIP" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the remainder of 2021?
I plan to create three demo tracks as a proof of concept for the “dad comedy” album so that I can successfully fund-raise for the complete project by the year’s end.
Stream and Share “LMPIP” on: Spotify | Amazon
Connect with Ryan O’Connell: Facebook | Soundcloud
Review: "Mediator" EP by Mediator
Mediator presents a pristine piece of dance pop perfection on his joyful self-titled debut. A wide slew of influences come into the mix, from elements of folktronica to video game soundtracks to dirty electro grooves. Check out our in-depth review of "Mediator" now.
Mediator presents a pristine piece of dance pop perfection on his joyful self-titled debut. A wide slew of influences come into the mix, from elements of folktronica to video game soundtracks to dirty electro grooves. With this eclectic approach, Mediator incorporates so much color into the atmosphere in a way that becomes so beautiful to behold. The narrative that begins to come into focus over the course of the journey has a magnificence to it as there is a heft to the way they balance the many layers of sound onto each other, resulting in an almost psychedelic quality at times.
Nods to groups like the indie pop darlings the Postal Service appear throughout the whole of the EP’s duration. Mediator’s thoughtfulness regarding arrangements further has an inspired clarity to it. Elements of Four Tet’s unique soundscapes and designs further add to the allure of the approach for it has a sun-drenched optimism about it. Beyond this, the low-slung grooves that adorn many of the pieces draw from Brainfeeder Records’ unique hybrid style, for pieces of jazz and hip-hop are cleverly referenced within the entirety of the collection.
The opener “Penumbra”, featuring Moon Mouse, has a mysterious aura to it, right from the glow of the organ setting the tone. Upon that open, the glitched-up effects and toy box melody add to the lovely, tender spirit. Vocals further infuse life into the space. Peppy beats underpin the whole of the bouncing scope of “Loki” complete with some rather delicate string sweeps that further flesh the sound out.
With the deliberate pacing of “Galileo”, featuring Tribbs, there is a kindness to her lullaby-like cadence, as the piece floats on by in a lush yearning hue. Going for a playful disposition is the sprawling rhythms of “Something for the Journey” which features a nice driving tempo behind it. Pure ambient bliss reign supreme on the delicate “Digital Parasites”.
A disorienting experience defines the poetry of “Cyma” featuring Tribbs, as a certain trance pop effect is explored in full. By far the highlight of the album comes with the colossal finale of “Umbra” featuring Moon Mouse. Everything here works from the acid-tinge of the synthesizer to the dub-inflections of the bass.
On his self-titled effort, Mediator delivers a sound that feels absolutely timeless and touching.