Interview: San Diego Rapper Amarii Davu Discusses His Debut Album "Roses 4 Tha World"
We connected with San Diego based rap artist @AmariiDavu for an exclusive interview to discuss his debut album “Roses 4 tha World”, and much more.
Photo Credit: Whitney Gaston
“As with most art, the interpretation of “Roses 4 tha World” is up to the listener. I don’t wanna encroach on the experience. It’s just an honest interpretation of my life experiences.”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your debut album "Roses 4 tha World"; what led you to give it that title and what does it represent?
Thank you. We hear the phrase “give people their roses while they’re here,” right? I wanted to give my roses to people while I’m still here and able to do so. I wanted it to be a gift to those that have supported me since day one. So the name eventually came to me.
It represents finally getting in a space to create freely. It represents turning the bullshit in my life into something positive and meaningful. It took a minute to release “Roses 4 tha World”. It took four years actually. Initially I was just dropping tracks on SoundCloud because I wanted to test the waters and see if people would actually fuck with an album from me.
Tell us about your creative process for the album's nine songs, and the producers that you worked with.
I just wanted something different. I wanted to create something that had substance but didn’t leave you with a heavy feeling after turning the music off. Half of the project was recorded in Nashville with my engineer Adam Leeds and the other half was recorded in San Diego with my engineer Alexis Sanchez. Their different approaches really shaped the sound of the project.
Some of my older tracks like Cost of Melanin, Hopeless, Joy & Pain were both socially conscious and personal. They’re great but I can’t deny the heaviness that I feel when I hear them. I started trying to figure out how to create a depth in my lyrical approach while mixing it with a lightness and joy in the production.
But I still wanted it to feel black as hell, gritty, smooth, Southern fried, and a lil West Coast. Working with producers like shrmpboy, Play Dat Beat Wee Wee, Capx, and the others brought me into that exact space. After getting out to Cali, I was exposed to different sounds because I was experiencing a whole new culture. “Roses 4 tha World” became a product of this melting pot of sounds.
Would you say that there is an overarching theme or concept to the album's songs?
It’s meant to be heard all the way through. “Roses 4 tha World” is a story. If you listen to the “R4TW” (the last track on the album) and immediately listen to “Wake Up” (the first track of the album), you realize why my Mom was worried in her voicemail. It's meant to be listened to on repeat. It’s multiple parts of my journey put into one piece. You’ve got glimpses into my childhood and the way I saw the world then (Dollamarijuana), you’ve got my struggles with love and matters of the heart, (Too Close and Healin’), it’s even got my struggles with mental health and suicidal thoughts (R4TW) and everything in between.
As with most art, the interpretation of “Roses 4 tha World” is up to the listener. I don't wanna encroach on the experience. It’s just an honest interpretation of my life experiences.
I love hearing the different interpretations of what certain songs mean to different people. It lets me know that the creation of the project was more divine than anything; it goes beyond my intentions.
Were there songs that you recorded for the album that did not make the final track list? If so, why did they not end up on the album?
I recorded about 15 tracks for “Roses 4 tha World” and I wrote upwards of 30 tracks that never got to the recording process past doing a demo on my phone. Keep in mind, I’d been working on this album for four years. Perfection is a big thing for me artistically. During the writing process of “Roses 4 tha World”, I got to a point where I felt constrained with writing. It didn’t feel organic. So I started memorizing freestyles. I would listen to beats on repeat and start freestyling to them.
For me, when I freestyled, it gave me that raw shit. I was able to connect with the beat and ride it without overthinking it. I would freestyle until I had verses and hooks memorized for months at a time and then record them. So the album isn’t actually written. Once I adopted this technique, a lot of the tracks that weren’t created through freestyling were cut off of the album.
I also went through a lot of mental and spiritual changes throughout those four years and some of the throwaways didn’t connect to who I was after awhile. I’ll probably end up keeping those tracks for myself.
With the album now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2021?
I want to expound on the album some more. Create more visuals, perform more, and keep pushing the audience to more audiences. I’m already working on another project but I haven’t decided when I’ll let the world hear that one. We’ll see.
I want to do more writing for other artists. I'm a songwriter as well and I want the opportunity to flex that skill even more. I think I'll just let the Universe guide me like it's been doing and let what's for me come to me.
Airbit Collects $2.5 Million in YouTube Monetization for Producers in First Half of 2021
Airbit’s uniquely built-in YouTube Content ID monetization feature has helped producers on the platform monetize over 4 billion YouTube views this year. This has resulted in $2.5 million in YouTube monetization for producers on the platform in the first half of 2021 alone. Airbit is flipping this script for independent artists.
Airbit, the online hub and marketplace for beatmakers, has collected and distributed more than $2.5 million in YouTube-generated revenue to producers for the first half of 2021, an amount that is projected to grow 230% year over year from the $1.8 million collected in 2020. In the first six months of 2021 alone, Airbit helped producers monetize more than 4 billion views.
Airbit is the only beats marketplace to have a direct relationship with YouTube, which means more money going straight to producers. By adding producers’ work to YouTube’s ContentID system, Airbit allows producers to unlock yet another key revenue stream. “YouTube is a beats search engine, and producers need to make sure their work is monetized there, where billions of views are happening,” explains Judah Wiedre, COO of Airbit. “Without this, they are leaving significant money on the table.”
“Airbit has helped me have fewer copyright claims on my YouTube channel and ensures I get credited. Before, artists would often forget to credit me, or sometimes they downloaded the beat and would forget entirely that I produced it. Now with Airbit’s YouTube Monetization, they get an official reminder who the producer is and they can decide to purchase the beat if they want to monetize their YouTube video,” explains producer Ryini Beats. ”It also helps the artists we work with. Now that we are in control of the Content ID, we can easily remove a claim for any artist who leases a beat from us.”
Airbit strives to find every potential source of revenue for producers. The goal is to help them build a viable and satisfying independent career and to foster a sustainable ecosystem for producers, the too often unsung creative heroes of hip hop, pop, and RnB. “We’re on target to earn around $10 million dollars this year for producers from publishing and ContentID alone,” says Wiedre. “Money from sources like YouTube is growing fast, and it’s making a difference in producers’ lives.”
Producers point to Airbit’s speedy payouts and consolidated collections from one source as reasons they signed up for Airbit’s YouTube monetization. “According to my experience of 6 months, Airbit provides the fastest service,” Sachin, another Airbit producer, notes.: ”Before, I had to collect Content ID from 3 companies, and payment was received after 2 months.”
“I signed up to Airbit's YouTube Monetization program purely as an experiment. Airbit have been collecting royalties on my behalf ever since, and their system is incredibly easy to use,” says producer Oskrr. “It has made a massive difference to me financially and has allowed me the freedom to focus on making music that I love, full-time.”
About Airbit
Airbit’s mission is to make music more fair with an online marketplace where producers can sell their beats and artists can buy those beats at a fair price. We provide a wide array of selling tools, as well as user friendly music monetization services. Airbit is one of the most trusted and well-known names in beat-sales. Airbit was founded to champion producers, and offer them a creative career path through licensing, selling their music when they want, how they want.
Stream "Voxcore", the Self-Titled, Debut Album by Voxcore
@musicvoxcore debut album, self titled “Voxcore”, consist of nine tracks telling a digital narrative from creation to completion. Check out this DOPE album now!
Voxcore is the first released music from artist Patrick Hansford. Coming from Columbus Ohio, Voxcore aims to bridge the gap between listener and creator. Heavy influenced by artist like Daft Punk, Kavinsky, and Odessza, Voxcore’s debut album, self titled “Voxcore”, consist of nine tracks telling a digital narrative from creation to completion.
Speaking about his new music, Voxcore says “In the world today, so many of us are hyper focused on what's being said and the specific lyrics in songs. I wanted to create an album that focused more on the way the music made you feel and the experience you had. My hope is that everyone can take 30 minutes to experience the digital story of Voxcore, it represents all of us and the struggles we share. Many People, One Voice.”
Interview: Barrie, ON Rapper Jezy Talks About His New Single "GREAT"
Salute to Barrie, ON based rap artist @jezymusic who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his DOPE new single “GREAT”, and much more.
“There is a huge untapped market of people who don’t like rap (anymore) because of a lot of the same repetitive nature that’s been going on.”
Congratulations on the release of your new track "GREAT"; it's very DOPE. Tell us what inspired you to write and your overall creative process for its development?
Thank you. When I wrote the song all I was thinking about was, not trying to be good but GREAT! We’re all good at something, it’s important to recognize your individual strengths. Once you’ve determined what that is, perfect your skill. Whatever it may be, just be GREAT.
How did you connect with the track's producer William Dinero, and what about the instrumental made it a great fit for you?
Me and William have been working together for a couple years now. It’s always a cool, creative process when we link up.
From the guitar in the back round to that heavy bass. Everything about it screamed GREATNESS to me and it shows.
One thing that we admire about you as an artist is that you don't use profanity in your lyrics. What led to you deciding to not curse in your songs?
Thank you for acknowledging the fact I have no explicit content in my music. That’s something I’m extremely proud of and a huge reason I know I’m destined for GREATNESS. Since I started this rap thing when I was 17 years old (31 now) I’ve been trying to cut down from swearing in my music.
Track after track, it would be less and less until last September 25th 2020. I dropped my first EP with no swearing on “SECOND CHANCE”. That was an 8 track EP and that was the beginning of what was to come.
I do things this way cuz I’m from Barrie, Ontario Canada. I grew up on southern rap from artist like Gucci Mane, T.I , B.O.B , Lil Scrappy, Lil Jon etc.
Whenever I was playing their music up here while driving with the windows down at a stoplight. These people up here would look at me like “what are you listening to?” with a look of disgust on there face while they put up all there windows so they didn’t have to hear the vulgarity in the music.
That’s when it came to me. If I could just rap on these hot beats and people understand what I’m saying, while not swearing and making it relatable. I can tap into a market where not a lot of rappers are. There is a huge untapped market of people who don’t like rap (anymore) because of a lot of the same repetitive nature that’s been going on.
A lot of people want change and I’m exactly that.
With "GREAT" now released, what's next for you musically, and will it appear on an upcoming EP or album?
“GREAT” is available across all platforms for fans to consume. Originally it was going to be apart of an album I was going to drop this summer of 21. After speaking with an executive in the industry he told me to keep dropping singles and spread my content out until it’s the right time. So for the time being I’m just expanding my catalog but I will have my next single “GOTTA GO” dropping July 23rd.
That’ll be the 4th single of 2021.
How would you describe the rap music scene in Barrie, Ontario as an emerging artist? Would you ever consider moving to Toronto as your musical home base?
The rap scene in Barrie definitely needs more work. I’m still going to keep promoting and advertising in my home town because it don’t matter where your at. If your good your good and the right people will find you.
Moving to Toronto was never a real thought in my head. I’m a small town guy, not a city guy. I couldn’t deal with the traffic out there and how packed it is. It’s only an hour away so when I gotta go down to the studio to create, it ain’t a big deal to drive up and do my thing before going back home.
Connect with Jezy: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Soundcloud
Interview: New Jersey Based Artist Sean Roane Talks About His Single "2 Step"
DCWS connected with New Jersey based artist Sean Roane for an exclusive interview to discuss his BlakKat206 produced single “2 Step”, and much more.
“I started writing songs when I was 10-11 years old. I gave up my music dreams in high school and rediscovered my passion for writing music when I was in college.”
Salute to you on the release of your new single "2 Step"; what inspired you to write it and how did you connect with its producer BlakKat206?
THANK YOU! I actually wrote “2 Step” while vacationing in Los Angeles. I listen to a lot of 70s and 80s R&B and BlakKat is really good at sampling old hits. I don't know BlakKat personally yet because he lives in California, but I have been writing to his beats that he has on YouTube since 2018.
With "2 Step" now released, what can we expect next from you musically, and will this track be appearing on an upcoming EP or album?
I have a new song out now called “Straight Tomorrow”. I just plan to release more singles and put out more music videos. Singles is where it's at now.
Tell us about how you got started writing rhymes and what you remember about the first few tracks you recorded; also when did you realize that you were gifted musically?
I started writing songs when I was 10-11 years old. I gave up my music dreams in high school and rediscovered my passion for writing music when I was in college.
The first few songs that I recorded were catchy, but trash in my opinion. I hadn't found my sound yet and my delivery was horrible. I knew I was good by the positive feedback that I would get from most people.
Your debut project “Affordable Excellence” was released in 2013; what are you most proud of with this album?
I was just happy to finish the project. It basically took me 6 months to complete that album. I recorded a bunch of rough drafts in my bedroom and then I rerecorded all those records at an actual studio.
I had never been in a real studio before so it was a great experience. I have very fond memories of that whole time period.
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you choose?
Smooth Playa Shit.
There's no other way to describe my music lol
Stream "Roses 4 Tha World", the Debut Album by San Diego Based Rapper Amarii Davu
Check out the DOPE debut album entitled “Roses 4 tha World” by San Diego based rap artist @AmariiDavu right now!
Amarii Davu is a prolific hip hop artist with a veritable voice that places you right in the center of his multi-layered story of overcoming pain, mental illness, poverty, and celebrating success. After moving to California and spending seven months homeless in his car, Davu completed his debut album “Roses 4 tha World”. The completion of the album took Davu through a journey. It makes sense that the album, within itself, is a journey through Davu's world.
Speaking about this project, Davu says:
“Roses 4 tha World” is the product of 4 years of commitment, determination, struggle, poetry, and life. It's more than just a debut album; it's an introduction for the world to get ready to hear my voice and my story. “Roses 4 tha World” features singers Durand Bernarr (“Healin'“, produced by Play Dat Beat Wee Wee) and Karla Felecia Scaife (“Too Close”, produced by DJ Pain 1) and also features hip hop artist Lyric Reddick. It also features my mom, my Pops, and my fiancee. This project shows that Tennessee music artists have something to say and we all have different perspectives and approaches to this music journey. This is my approach.”
We’re blown away by Davu’s debut album “Roses 4 tha World” and we bet that you will be too, so listen to it right now, and connect with him on social media. Also, be on the lookout for our exclusive interview, as well as our in-depth review, coming soon!
Interview: Nashville Singer-Songwriter Maddy Hicks Discusses Her New EP "Nightlife"
Major thanks to Nashville based singer-songwriter Maddy Hicks who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to talk about her brand new EP “Nightlife”, and much more.
“I wanted to take this EP to new places and solidify more of a pop sound for myself. That being said, I also appreciate genres outside of pop, and I tried to explore some indie and rock sounds at various points on the EP as well.”
We're blown away by your new EP "Nightlife"; tell us about your creative process for its development and how you connected with the producers you worked with.
I wanted this EP to be about the darker parts of the twentysomething experience. It’s easy to get lost in your own insecurities while you’re figuring yourself out, and relationships at this age feel more intense than ever before.
I wrote most of the songs on this EP in the summer and fall of 2020 while the pandemic was still in full force and the world was in quarantine. Obviously I had a lot of time on my hands, so I poured myself into my writing.
I’m lucky that I got to connect with some really phenomenal producers for this project. I worked with Benjamin Dufresne on my song “Guitar Solos.” Ben also produced all of the songs on my previous album, “The Bliss You Missed”. Having worked with him before, I knew he would be a great fit for “Guitar Solos” because he has a real talent for arranging live instruments, and I wanted this song to have a live feel since it’s essentially about going to a concert.
For my songs “You Don’t Get To” and “Wake Up and Call the Uber,” I worked with Jeff Toth. I wrote “Wake Up and Call the Uber” in the fall of 2019 as part of a class assignment, and Jeff also happened to be in that class. So we’ve been friends for a minute, and I’ve always admired how he produces his own music. I reached out about these songs and he did a great job of bringing them to life by combining synth and acoustic vibes.
Lastly, I worked with omgprkr on “Used to Be” and “Backseat.” I had heard some of the songs he’d produced for other local artists and I knew he could translate my music into the pop sound I was imagining.
“Backseat” was the first single I released after the album and I wanted it to sound like a solid combination of acoustic and pop to transition into the new sound of this EP.
omgprkr did a great job with that single, and he helped make “Used to Be” into a huge pop banger, which was exactly where I wanted to take my music.
How would you compare this new EP to "The Bliss You Missed", from a thematic and production perspective?
“The Bliss You Missed” had a really emotive singer songwriter sound to it. Many of the themes felt very young and wistful. I took a slightly different thematic approach with this new EP, and the themes are naturally more mature since I’m older than I was when I wrote my last album.
Some of the songs on “Nightlife” are very honest, while others have a false sense of hope. Insecurities can make you tell yourself all sorts of things, and I wanted to highlight that in “Nightlife”.
Sonically, I wanted to take this EP to new places and solidify more of a pop sound for myself. That being said, I also appreciate genres outside of pop, and I tried to explore some indie and rock sounds at various points on the EP as well.
Tell us about your move from Upstate New York to Nashville and how it has impacted you in terms of the topics you write about.
I moved from a small town called Charlton in Upstate New York to Nashville in 2018 to study songwriting at Belmont University. I’ve been here for three years now and while I do miss home sometimes, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
As a city, Nashville is endlessly inspiring and overflowing with opportunities. Since moving here, I’ve been writing more about my own artistry. I feel much more independent and empowered in this space, so I write from a more centered perspective. While I’m in Nashville, I feel like I can hear my own voice as a writer more clearly.
Can we expect any music videos from the songs on the EP?
When I released “Backseat,” I also released a lyric video along with it. I’m really happy with how it came out! It was animated by Noah Mesh, a friend from back in New York. He created some really powerful visuals to go along with the track.
With the "Nightlife" EP now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?
I have a lot more music that I’ve been hustling to record, and I’m excited to release that later this summer. Hopefully, I’ll also be playing some live shows in the coming months. It would be insanely fun to start performing these songs around Nashville.
Another goal of mine is to get some merch up and running soon, so stay tuned for that down the road!
Stream and Share “Nightlife” on: Apple Music | Spotify
Interview: LA Alt Pop Duo GENE Talk About Their Debut Single/Video "Stole Your Car"
Big thanks to Claudia Mills, of the LA based alt pop duo @genetheband, for connecting with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss their debut single/video “Stole Your Car”, and much more.
“We have been friends for years out here in LA and have actually played together in other bands! I had the idea and concept for the GENE project in late 2019 and knew Harry was the right person to approach to collab with on it...”
Congratulations on the release of your debut single/video "Stole Your Car"; tell us about your creative process for its development from songwriting and production standpoints.
Thank you! It feels good to have the song out in the world! Harry and I have known each other for a handful of years but we only started to form the GENE project right before the pandemic hit in 2020 which made the songwriting/production process unique!
I (Claudia) would typically start song/production ideas from my home studio and send over to Harry to develop. We went back and forth on 'Stole Your Car' which started as a couple of guitar riffs and a topline I had and began adding the gritty layers it needed to become a GENE song!!
Regarding the incredible music video, how did you and its director, Brent Campanelli, come up with the treatment?
I had a pretty strong vision for the video right off the bat! I tend to visualize video ideas right away when writing the songs. I wanted to make sure the underlying emotion/story of the song translated whilst also being cool to watch.
I found Brent through a mutual friend and knew right away he would totally grasp the concept I was going for and be able to create that fine balance between stylized and classic feel for us.
With Claudia being from London and Harry from Seattle, how did you two meet and then decide to form the duo GENE?
We have been friends for years out here in LA and have actually played together in other bands! I had the idea and concept for the GENE project in late 2019 and knew Harry was the right person to approach to collab with on it as we both share very similar taste in music. Not to mention he is one of the best musicians I've ever met!
Following "Stole Your Car", what can we expect next musically from GENE and will the single be on an upcoming EP or album at some point?
We are currently wrapping the artwork for our next single 'Sick' which we plan to release this month along with a live/stripped video!
We definitely have enough material to start talking about putting an EP or LP together but I think our plan is to keep releasing singles more regularly until closer to the end of the year to keep content flowing and aim for an album release in 2022.
How would you say that the city of Los Angeles influences your songwriting and the themes of the songs you create?
I think Los Angeles is a city that can easily swallow you up and spit you back out. It can really shape you as a person, for better or for worse.
I know for me personally (Claudia), it's led to a lot of personal growth, especially emotionally. Perhaps I'm biased because I've only known love in this city but it seems that hearts break a lot harder here!
Review: "Revelation" Album by Ultra_eko
South London’s @Ultra_eko delves into a mysterious exploration of faith and hope on the alluringly dark “Revelation” album. Check out our review of his latest project now.
South London’s Ultra_eko delves into a mysterious exploration of faith and hope on the alluringly dark “Revelation” album. Layer upon layer is applied, smeared across the sound. His voice is prominently displayed front and center. Over the course of the album an entire narrative comes into focus, one that has a splendid sense of surrealism. Melody, groove, tempo, these have a low-slung ethos to them. The sound itself alongside the rapping points to newer, more contemporary takes on hip-hop, for he moves the genre forward into something far more unique.
Nods to Dean Blunt’s trippy universe emerges throughout the project. The melted tactics used within each piece lends itself well to an almost dream-like state. An unhurried pace anchors the entirety of the journey, as the references to Yung Lean’s early works darts its way within the soundscapes. Done with the right amount of care and consideration, Ultra_eko also takes on some earlier hip-hop artists, most notably the confessional tenor of Biggie Smalls in terms of the sheer raw honesty of the lyricism. Every word is carefully selected to further add to the mood of the album.
The ghostly traces of the sample fade out as the rest of the opener “Dust to Dust” gradually filters into the fray, in a way that feels truly majestic. Nimble beats that have a geometric, bouncing quality to them, for there is a fire behind it. Bass rumbles on through “Fade to Black” for they take on a physicality to them. A night time, nightmarish presence underlies the eerie “Twisted Fate”.
Ultra_eko’s lyricism has a sharped edge for “Bad Egg” has a classic aura to it, one that touches the very soul. Chopped-up sounds filter on in within “Red Alert” as there is a woozy spirit. Romanticism frames the tenderness of “Pretty Girl”. Going for a minimalism and unease is the sprawling scope of “Messy Thoughts” where the snare has a halting presence. On “The Ark” the lyricism flows down as if cascading in a strong, powerful way. Neatly bringing the album to a fantastic, cinematic finale is the triumphant of “Book of Revelation”.
With so much fire and passion behind it, “Revelation” shows off Ultra_eko’s masterful poignant delivery. Listen to this incredible album ASAP and share it with those you know who want to explore the realms of the next level of Hip-Hop.
Stream and Share “Revelation” on Spotify
Stream "Nightlife", the Brand New EP by Pop Singer-Songwriter Maddy Hicks
Nashville based pop singer-songwriter Maddy Hicks has just dropped her brand new EP “Nightlife”. Listen to it right now and be on the lookout for our Q&A with Maddy coming soon.
Originally from upstate New York, Maddy Hicks now calls Nashville home, in order to pursue a career as a songwriter and artist while studying at Belmont University. Her music is influenced by artists such as Sara Bareilles, Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, and Vampire Weekend, but she is clearly walking her own path artistically, with a upward trajectory in the music game.
Maddy has just released her new EP entitled “Nightlife”, which follows her project from 2019, “The Bliss You Missed” (stream HERE). The producers Maddy worked with on the EP include omgprkr ("Backseat" and "Used to Be"), Josh Toth ("You Don't Get To" and "Wake Up and Call the Uber"), and Benjamin Dufresne ("Guitar Solos").
Speaking about “Nightlife”, Maddy says,
“Nightlife addresses twentysomething insecurities and progresses in the same way that a Friday night does for many college kids. “Backseat” describes what it’s like to experience social anxiety on the drive to the party. Next is “Used to Be,” which feigns confidence and success in a celebration of change while hiding undertones of sadness for what’s lost in one’s evolution. Heartbreak house party vibes shine through in “You Don’t Get To,” and it’s easy to get lost in fantasies during the “Guitar Solos” at a concert. The EP wraps up with the track “Wake Up and Call the Uber,” a ballad about trying to get over an ex after waking up in their bed again”.
Listen to “Nightlife” right now, stream it on Apple Music and connect with Maddy on her website and IG. Also, hang close to DCWS because our exclusive Q&A with Maddy is coming soon!
Interview: Singer-Songwriter Rasha Jay Discusses Her New Song "BACKBONE"
Thanks go out to New Jersey based singer-songwriter @RashaJay who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss her song “BACKBONE”, and much more.
“I wrote “BACKBONE” in February 2020, having lost my aunt and uncle by then. I had nothing else to say at that point, and I needed to express myself and wail about that wonderful connection and acknowledge where my support comes from, my family.”
Tell us about how you got started writing music and singing, and which artists influenced you the most musically. Also, do you play any instruments?
I wrote my first song when I was 9 years old, called "Turn Around". I've been singing since I was a toddler, my mother and her mother are singers. I do play a little keyboard and I"m playing keys on “BACKBONE”.
I am influenced by so many artists from the past and present; however, the one artist that is consistent is Prince.
Congratulations on the release of your new single "BACKBONE"; tell us about your creative process for its development and what inspired you to write it.
I wrote “BACKBONE” in February 2020, having lost my aunt and uncle by then. I had nothing else to say at that point, and I needed to express myself and wail about that wonderful connection and acknowledge where my support comes from, my family. I couldn't do this music thing without them. I had no idea writing it then, that it would take on much more meaning to myself and others as the pandemic broke and many suffered unbelievable change and loss.
Can we expect a music video for "Backbone" to follow? Also, will the song be appearing on an upcoming EP or album?
Yes, funny enough I did the music video for “BACKBONE” in March 2020! All done on an iPhone 11 at the time. It's ready, set for release soon. I wanted to go back home and keep with the theme of family and support. My cousin was behind the camera, my sister was my PA and my mom was my stand-in.
I haven't decided yet if it will be on the next EP, I'm writing it now. “BACKBONE” was really a song all its own, an acknowledgement of how 2020 was for me personally.
Speaking of EPs, how would you describe your debut, "HIGH DIVE", and what are you most proud of with that project?
Actually, my debut EP was 2016 with “CICADA”. “High Dive” was released in 2019. However what I'm most proud of with projects is that no matter what the flow of the song is, I hear myself and I'm not stuck in one genre, I truly write from multiple moods and perspectives.
With "BACKBONE" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2021?
I want to complete my next EP, and honestly I am most excited about performing live again and singing “BACKBONE” to the people! I have performances in July and August so far.
Connect with Rasha Jay: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube
Lil Wayne Partners With Samantha Long For Upcoming Uproar Festival Dance Competition
On August 13th, Lil Wayne's Uproar Hip Hop Festival will take place at The Torch at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Choreographer and event co-producer, Samantha Long will be the host and lead judge of the festival's dance competition.
On August 13th, Lil Wayne's Uproar Hip Hop Festival will take place at The Torch at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The immersive and interactive music, arts, and nightlife experience will be hosted by Lil Wayne's lifestyle brand, GKUA, and headlined by Lil Wayne along with performances by Young Money, and many more.
Choreographer and event co-producer, Samantha Long will be the host and lead judge of the festival's dance competition. Video submissions from dancers are now being accepted for the chance to compete live in front of thousands at the Uproar Festival on August 13th. 12 talented teams will be selected from submissions to move to the semi-final round in LA on July 24th and 25th. Rules and details are available at Uproar420.com.
Get your tickets to Lil Wayne’s Uproar Hip Hop Festival and submit your video to participate in the competition judged by Samantha Long ASAP!
Connect with Uproar Hip Hop Festival: Website
Connect with Samantha Long: Website
South London's Ultra_eko Drops His Brand New Album "Revelation"
Check out the DOPE newly released album “Revelation”, by South London based rap artist @Ultra_eko.
South London representative Ultra_eko is back on DCWS with his brand new album “Revelation”, and we are stoked to be able to share it with you. Including 19 tracks, and featuring DaRealMrLee and Maya, “Revelation” is a hip-hop classic in the making, and is a continuation of the creative collaboration with executive producer Subsequal.
Listen to Ultra_eko’s latest and greatest, “Revelation”, right now, and connect with the talented emcee on his social media. Also, be on the lookout for our in-depth review of the project coming very soon.
Interview: RnB Singer-Songwriter Melody Discusses Her Debut Single/Video "Dancing With a Stranger"
Big thanks to Toronto based singer-songwriter @realonemelo who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss her recently released debut single/video “Dancing With a Stranger”, and much more.
“...I want to open everyone’s eyes to the music industry’s void of inclusivity. I love empowering others, and I feel it’s something that is lacking in Middle Eastern representation.”
We're huge fans of your debut single/video, "Dancing With A Stranger"; how did you connect with its producer S.L.M.N and Maurice Moore, who is featured on the track?
It was all fate. Proper timing and meeting that one person who ultimately believed in my craft changed my whole life--my manager Moaaz. I had reached out to S.L.M.N previously, and he was busy at the time; many producers pre-covid were busy or did not want to risk giving me a chance.
Those who would give me an opportunity did not take my craft seriously as an artist-- they would either take advantage of me financially or try to break that work boundary since I would always go to sessions alone. It was a struggle for three years; I remember crying to sleep on my mini studio floor. It took a toll on my mental health, so I decided to take a break and complete my University.
During my time off, I met Moaaz, who showed a lot of interest in my craft and motivated me to do more. He was so different from anyone that I've ever met. To this day, my life feels so incomplete without him. I had many unfinished projects, and Moaaz reached out to about 50 producers and out of those, S.L.M.N was the only one that cared. We scratched out those unfinished unusable projects and started fresh.
To this day, I feel so grateful and remind myself how lucky I am to have had this happen to me. Once we did the songwriting session, we had initially wanted Eric Bellinger on the track; he was busy at the time. After doing some research of my own, I came across Maurice Moore and reached out to him. He loved the track and recorded his part in Los Angeles.
The visual is the perfect accompaniment to the song; how did you and its director come up with its treatment?
Initially, the video's treatment was different; it was nice, but I felt it was not authentic to my brand. Because of this, Brian Gregory, Ardalan Fattahi and I met up a few days before the shoot to exchange ideas. After talking to each other, we decided to change up the direction of the music video. I always try to incorporate a bit of who I am as an artist. So we included a Kurdish scarf as well for one of my tops, which Banks styled.
Tell us about your transition from beauty pageant contestant to R&B songstress; was it a difficult decision to walk away from pageants?
The night I was auditioning for talent in Miss Canada finales, I stumbled on the words I was singing. I felt so anxious, which was strange because I have performed a lot and always felt in my FLOW. That night I started questioning why I was doing the competition. I felt like I was not doing what I was supposed to be doing. The same night I thanked the director and packed all my bags, and left.
With "Dancing With A Stranger" now released, what next can we expect from you musically?
We have some new projects which we will be releasing soon and that I cannot talk about in detail just yet. But, I want to open everyone's eyes to the music industry's void of inclusivity. I love empowering others, and I feel it's something that is lacking in Middle Eastern representation.
What motivated you to create your own record label Scorpion Melody Inc, and what are some of your goals with this corporation?
I mainly created Scorpion Melody because I told myself if no one's going to take me seriously, I might as well take myself seriously. I love challenges, and I always try to break out of whatever box society tries to place me in. I choose Scorpion as part of my corporation because my birthday is in November, and growing up, I would read a lot of horoscopes. I usually keep all my manifestations to myself until they become a reality. One of my manifestations that came true is receiving an opportunity, which I am forever grateful for.
Stream and Share “Dancing With A Stranger”
Connect with Melody: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Interview: RnB/Pop Artist Khadi Lee Talks About His New Single/Video "All Night"
We connected with Cleveland based RnB/Pop artist @IamKhadiLee for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released single/video “All Night”, and much more.
“I write my own songs and to see people connect with it is a great feeling.”
Congratulations on the release of your new single "All Night"; tell us about your creative process for its development.
I really wanted to do a fun and sexy summer vibe with some Afrobeats sounds. I had planned a trip to LA to work with Stellar Music and we had Zoom meetings to bounce off ideas and inspiration for the music.
I wanted something flirty that people could move to. When I was at the studio we set the studio lights to a warm feel and looped tropical landscapes on the monitors and just began writing and working on multiple song ideas. I played the music to my family and friends back in Cleveland and “All Night” was everyone's favorite song, so we decided to release it as a single. I did another Zoom meeting with Stellar to finish writing the song and I recorded some additional vocals in Cleveland.
Describe for us the music video for “All Night”.
We released the music video on single release day. It was shot at beautiful locations around LA and just like the single, it's all about feel good vibes, summer and being outside.
Will "All Night" be a feature track on an upcoming project? If so, what can you tell us about it?
I am currently exploring new sounds within RnB/Pop and just creating and writing songs. If “All Night” organically fits within the soundscape and context of my next project, it will definitely be included.
Speaking of projects, your last EP, “Late Night Hour”, was released earlier this year. What are you most proud of with this project?
I write my own songs and to see people connect with it is a great feeling. “Late Night Hour” was special because people really began to listen to my music and my city was showing a lot of love. I was able to do an exclusive advance listening session with iHeart Radio 106.1 Cleveland and the singles “Connection” and “Go” are still on rotation.
Connect with Khadi Lee: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube
Interview: Edinburgh Singer-Songwriter Adonye B Discusses His Single/Video "New Life"
We connected with Edinburgh, UK based pop soul singer-songwriter @_adonyeb_ for an exclusive interview to discuss his single/video “New Life”, and much more.
“I directed the video and for me it was the icing on the cake of the song. By this time, it was very clear to me that the song is about togetherness and community, particularly as everyone was having to isolate because of the lockdown.”
Congratulations on the release of your new single/video "New Life". What initially inspired you to write it and who produced it? Lastly, who directed the visual?
Firstly, thank you so much DOPECAUSEWESAID for this interview because as an independent artist it is really encouraging to get exposure from an amazing online platform like DOPECAUSEWESAID.
I first got the melody of the song in early January 2020, but I couldn’t pinpoint the lyrics to go with it. I tend to get the melody of a song before the lyrics, and in a rather strange way too where I get woken up in the middle of the night with the melody in my head, and if I am not quick enough to grab my phone and record it then the melody seems to just drift away! Probably to the next available songwriter J By April 2020 as the pandemic was on a full-blown scale, I knew that the song was for the pandemic. From that point the lyrics came easily.
In terms of production, I have an excellent relationship with my incredible co-producer. I started recording the song at home, working out the chords that allowed me to go up an octave vocally in the second verse to add that dynamic emotion to the song. I added guitar and piano parts, but it was quite guitar heavy. I took the song to my co-producer, and he felt that the melody should be based around the piano not the guitar. I wasn’t so keen on this change, but I’ve learnt to trust his expertise, which I’m so glad I did because it totally transformed the song for the better. I love the contrast of the softness of the piano placed against the rawness and audacity of my vocal melodies particularly towards the end of the song.
I directed the video and for me it was the icing on the cake of the song. By this time, it was very clear to me that the song is about togetherness and community, particularly as everyone was having to isolate because of the lockdown. I built a storyboard and got in touch with a guy who had a stock of video clips. A few edits later the video was done.
Why was it important for you to dedicate "New Life" to healthcare workers around the world?
I wanted to take the idea of a “covid song” and spin it on its head. Most covid songs are about an individual and about being isolated, so “New Life” had to be about community and being together. And then I thought, who are the people working hard to ensure that we can get back to the communities we love? Healthcare workers! It was an obvious decision to dedicate it to them. I am a healthcare worker myself, so I know first-hand how tough the job is on a regular day, and how much tougher it got during the pandemic.
So many healthcare workers around the world are behind the scenes doing an amazing job, I thought it was time to recognise them.
What can you tell us about your upcoming EP, which is due out this autumn? Have you decided on a name for the project, and will there be any featured artists?
Oh I’m so excited about my debut EP! One of the tracks on the EP is called “I Dare You”, which I would quite like to use as the EP title but to be honest I am still undecided.
For my current releases I’ve been experimenting a lot trying to capture what my sound is, so each song has sounded quite different and not quite fit into a genre. Thankfully from that experience I have been able to solidify my signature sound as Pop Soul, which will be evident on my EP.
For this EP project I am combining soul influences in my vocals with antagonistic pop sounds; I am obsessed with the idea of bringing opposites together. At the same time, I still love a catchy danceable tune, so each track is going to be just that. I don’t have any featured artists (as yet) but I do love collaborating so watch this space…
Tell us about how you got started singing and songwriting. Who were the artists that influenced you musically when you were younger?
It’s a very cliché story but I grew up in church and I was always enthralled by the music and the singing. Back at home I was about 9 when I managed to convince my parents to give me an old radio with an in-built CD and cassette player that no one wanted. This was way before mp3 players came out. I wasn’t brave enough to ask them for money to buy CDs, so instead I bought empty cassettes and whenever a song came on the radio that I loved I would hit record and play (simultaneously) and dub it onto my cassette. This meant I spent a lot of time sitting by my radio! In terms of songwriting, I always had melodies in my head, or I would change melodies of well-known songs and get told off by everyone else for ruining the song.
I was very shy, so I ended up just keeping my songs to myself. I was 19 when I first let some friends in university listen to a song I wrote, and the feedback wasn’t very good! Thankfully I didn’t let that stop me.
Growing up I loved artists like Otis Redding, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson and they had and still have a lot of influence on me musically. Now artists like Jessie Ware and Troye Sivan are big inspirations for the music I create.
How would you describe the pop and soul music scene in Edinburgh? Are there a lot of venues to perform and is it difficult growing a fan base there?
There isn’t really a Pop Soul music scene in Edinburgh but luckily most venues do all types of genres, so it’s been great for me playing in different places. I launched my debut single in December 2020 during the pandemic, so I haven’t had a lot of performance opportunities where I would’ve been able to grow my fanbase. I think these things take time anyway.
I’m happy to keep creating music and improving myself and I’m sure the fanbase will grow at the right time. I am enjoying my journey as an artist, and I am really excited about what the future holds.
Stream and Share “New Life” on Spotify
Connect with Adonye B: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud