Meet Garry Anthony Fraser : One of Trainspotting 2’s Directors

All images courtesy of Fiona Rennie

Garry Anthony Fraser is a director who comes from Muirhouse, which is an estate/project in Edinburgh, Scotland. Growing up in a rough neighbourhood during an HIV and heroin epidemic meant that Garry was exposed to drugs and an incredibly hard life.

This resulted in him serving time in a secure unit and struggling with drug addiction but fortunately Garry managed to turn his life around by creating socially relevant movies. These movies were were based on his life in Muirhouse and received a BAFTA and MTV Awards.

The Scottish Director’s pieces of work eventually caught the attention of Danny Boyle, who ended up choosing Garry to help him direct Trainspotting 2. It’s fair to say that Garry’s hard work has definitely paid off.

As Trainspotting 2 has recently come out I felt the need to get in touch with the award-winning director. I wanted to know if he ever thought an opportunity to direct this movie would occur. Garry also happens to be a massive Hip-Hop fan, so I was interested in finding out what attracted him to the genre and which rappers he would place in his top 10 list.

What got you into directing?

Well some of my friends were in prison and I wanted to turn my life around by writing a short story called In 4 Life. That short story got turned into a film and got an MTV Award. Directors like Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese and Danny Boyle inspired me by adding amazing soundtracks into films. I realised that making movies is about treating the audience’s eyes and ears.

 “ Hip-hop provided better social commentary than any director who came before me ”

Were there any other directors who inspired you?

Growing up I looked up to guys like Shane Meadows for inspiration but to be honest I think I was more inspired by rappers though.

Oh really how come?

Back in the early nineties I was a fan of NWA and Public Enemy after my mate Stanley introduced me to Rap. Hip-hop provided better social commentary than any director who came before me.

So speaking of Hip-hop, what are your thoughts on the Rap and Grime scene growing in Scotland?

Well I was the first director to put Scottish rap music into a film when I made a film documentary on my life called Everybody’s Child. I remember meeting Shogun and thinking it was great to see a young Scottish rapper talking about socially relevant things. Zesh is another Scottish rapper who has got something to say but to be honest I wouldn’t even limit myself to Scottish Hip-hop though.

Well I was actually going to ask which modern rappers outside of Scotland you listened to?

I got to say Young MA and Kevin Gates. I love artists who won’t be limited by anything and want to share their stories because I’m a storyteller. I can identify with anyone who is in the struggle. Many people lie about guns and cars, so when I hear someone who has something relevant to say I’m inspired by that.

 “ At one point I was trapped in masculinity but I manage to free myself from that ”

Seeing as you’ve just mentioned struggle, would you be able to tell us what life was like growing up in Muirhouse?

Well I grew up in a middle of an HIV epidemic so when I heard rappers from Los Angeles or New York talking about being affected by HIV, poverty and an oppressive system I felt that I could relate with them. Obviously Muirhouse has a completely different culture but we all went through the same struggle.

Your pride of Muirhouse is shown in your work. What is it about Muirhouse that makes you so proud?

Being from Muirhouse is what makes me. I gained survival skills in Muirhouse, I learnt that you shouldn’t judge someone by the way they present themselves. At one point I was trapped in masculinity but I manage to free myself from that.

 

 “ Tupac helped me escape from being trapped in masculinity because he taught me to be vulnerable ”

What do you mean by “Being trapped in masculinity”?

Being trapped in masculinity means you’re that willing to stab and shoot someone without really thinking. It can also mean you’re that unable to express your feelings or emotions so you’re willing to hurt people. Where I come from we say that hurt people hurt people.

Do you think Muirhouse has many guys trapped in masculinity?

I think it’s the same worldwide. I meet many young people who are living in a peacock suit. People who live in a peacock suit have to act hard and once a peacock flicks its feathers other people can’t help but do the same.

They don’t want to be angry or hurt but their experiences in life make them like that and there is hardly any positive male role models who talk about vulnerability. Tupac helped me escape from being trapped in masculinity because he taught me to be vulnerable.

I noticed that you created an online platform called Wideo Media. What inspired you to create that?

Well I remember seeing Kima Greggs talk about developing a social enterprise for working class kids in Baltimore during a Q & A session and I was inquisitive as to what she meant. She inspired me to create a social enterprise for people in my area.

 “ Artists like Big Narstie and Bugzy Malone prove that you don’t always have to sign to the big platforms ”

You’ve made many short films on Wideo. What’s your favourite short film?

It would probably be Tolerance, that’s because at the time one of my friends had passed away through a methadone overdose and I wanted to tell the story. That film ended up being sold and was used for an overdose awareness campaign, it felt good to see I made something could change people’s lives.

Are you able to describe the experience of filming for BBC and Channel 4?

It was a blessing because I got exposed for a bigger audience but I really love the idea of being independent. Artists like Big Narstie and Bugzy Malone prove that you don’t always have to sign to the big platforms. If you’re true to your art the right people will attach themselves to you.

It seems like that kind of mentality managed to help you get a role in directing Trainspotting 2. Did you ever think you’d get the opportunity?

Yeah I knew I was going to get the opportunity 10 years ago. Even if it wasn’t Trainspotting 2 I believe it would have been something else because I feel I should be making feature films.

After speaking with Shane Meadows and going to different film festivals I knew that I had the talent but I just didn’t have the opportunities presented to me. Now that Trainspotting 2 has come out people know I’ve had a say, which is good for me.

Are you able to describe the experience of directing trainspotting 2?

It was great because I got to show an alternative side to Edinburgh. Learning from Danny Boyle and Anthony Dod Mantle was a massive privilege.

Why do you think people will gravitate towards Trainspotting 2?

I think people will gravitate towards Trainspotting 2 because they already have emotional investments from the first movie. Most sequels don’t live up to the hype because the directors mess it up but it’s different for this film. The script for Trainspotting 2 was the best I’ve ever read.

What do you think Danny Boyle saw in you?

I think he saw life experience, passion and talent. I’ve been making films for over a decade, so it’s not like I’ve just started. I guess Danny  also saw what I could bring and hopefully the world will see that he was justified in his opinion.

 “ The media struggle with me because I’m not a category or a stereotype ”

Do you feel that you’re underestimated a lot?

Massively, it’s not easy being working class and Scottish. I think I’m underestimated because I rarely get opportunities presented to me, it’s usually breaks that I’ve created for myself. I’m too raw for the media, I did a 37 minute interview for the BBC and it got cut down to 2 minutes. The media struggle with me because I’m not a category or a stereotype.

What are your favourite films?

It changes day to day for me but I would say Apocalypse 2, The Godfather, King of New York and Menace of Society.

You mentioned that you take part in spoken poetry. How long have you been doing that?

I’ve been doing that for 3 three years. I also tried to rap a couple of times but I felt that my accent was too harsh on people’s ears (laughs).

Do you feel that spoken poetry helped you escape from being trapped in masculinity?

Yeah definitely because you’re able to express your feelings. Poetry allows me to say things I could never say before. When you’re trapped in masculinity you have a certain amount of fear but now I don’t feel scared  anymore.

Who are your top 10 rappers?

This is in no particular order but I would say Kevin Gates, Tupac, E40, Eminem, Kurupt, Joey Badass, Big Pun and Big L. If I’m being honest the listen always changes.

 “ I connect with Kevin Gates in the same way I connect with Tupac ”

I noticed that you mentioned Kevin Gates in your list, How come?

He’s one of the rappers who really inspire me, I’ve followed his career since 2011. I connect with Kevin Gates in the same way I connect with Tupac. I have four kids, so after a hard stressful day I just like to sit back, chill with a joint and listen to Kevin Gates.

How has fatherhood impacted you?

Fatherhood is the most challenging thing in life because you’re powerless. You can’t live your kids’ life for them, you can only advise and step back when they make mistakes.

 “If you believe it you can achieve it ”

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to be a director?

Pick a subject that will be socially relevant and make a hard hitting film out if it. After that take it to film festivals and try to spread a really good message. If you believe it you can achieve it.

You seem to have a lot of self-belief, where did that come from?

If you’ve been through half of the things I’ve been through and survived then you’ll know that you have a purpose.

You can follow Garry Anthony Fraser on social media.

Twitter –     @Schemepoet

Facebook – Garry Anthony Fraser

You can also watch Garry’s pieces of work on his platform Wideo Media.

www. wideo.scot

 

 

 

 

Meet Simonne Jones : An Artist Who Displays Her Love Of Science Through Music

 

Simone Jones is an artist hailing from Los Angeles who makes music with an eclectic sound. The American singer has been gifted with musical talent since she was a teenager. However Simonne did not jump into the music game straight away, as before channelling her artistic side she was a scientist, working in both South America and Africa.

Despite changing her career it is clear that Simonne Jones still values science because she often states that she wants to bridge the gap between science and music and form new connections within the fields.

Simonne’s E.P is named “Gravity”, a perfect symbol for the value that she still has for science, and her attempts two bring both worlds closer together. Although Simmonne’s music is completely different from what I usually listen to, I felt that she had an interesting story behind her music and was interested to find out more.

I was interested in knowing the reasoning behind naming her E.P “Gravity” and how she felt that science and music could be intertwined, however what I really wanted to shed light on was Simone’s evolution from becoming a scientist to a singer, and the thought processes behind this change in trade.

 

“ Music can inspire other people to rise to their full potential and also do similar things ”

Before embarking on your music career you used to be a biomedical researcher who engaged in HIV research within Brazil and African countries.  That must have been an eye opening period of your life right?

“My first trip to Africa was to Ghana where I created an HIV awareness project where I taught sexual education and dispelling transmission myths. For example, before I started working with the teens 60% of them believed you could cure HIV by having sex with a virgin because they were told this by local politicians and other adults in the village.

I lived in the bush, without running water or electricity. It was really difficult but I came to terms with what it means to be human and how I want to change the world, or even a few people’s world with my potential as a human being. Music can inspire other people to rise to their full potential and also do similar things.

In Brazil, I travelled to the Amazon to be a part of a Jean Michel Jarre inspired project called Sound Hunters. I stayed in the jungle and got to know the indigenous Guarani tribe who shared their practices in a music ritual where they communicate with the Gods in a frequency (music) that both Gods and humans understand.

“ Science helped put existence into context for me ”

Has working in different countries as a researcher help provide a new perspective on life and making music?

Traveling helps you to understand that there are more differences inside a culture than between them. The idea that societies can make it feel like we are isolated units that have nothing to do with the world on a global scale is a tempting illusion that is an affliction of our time. Removing boarders within ourselves and the way that we perceive our environment makes music great.

Science helped put existence into context for me. When you think about it, all of humanity, our history, people, music, art, accomplishments, wars, crimes, intelligence and ignorance can be reduces to a spec of dust floating around in an infinite universe. When you understand our context it changes the way one see’s the world and also changed the way I write music.

When did you realise that you wanted to pursue music full-time as opposed to continue being a researcher?

It was when I was in Ghana. I was working in a biochemical engineering laboratory doing nuclear magnetic resonance work on the cloned, extracted and mutated DNA of HIV infected cells. I wanted to experience working with people infected with the actual disease and those whose lives were changed by the prevalence, so I went to Africa. When I was there, I really came to terms with why I was interested in helping people. The answer was perfectly clear. Music gives me the desire to help others find their purpose.

“ I wouldn’t say that the academy is directly responsible for that but they are contributing to how women are perceived in the industry in a positive way ”

Do you feel that going to the Red Bull Music Academy played a role in shaping you into the creative artist that you’ve become?

I was really honoured to be a part of the academy. 13,000 people applied my year. It really helped develop my skills and gain exposure which established me as a producer and engineer. Now people assume that I make my own beats and songs. I wouldn’t say that the academy is directly responsible for that but they are contributing to how women are perceived in the industry in a positive way. They highlight and recognize developing artists’ work.

Being part of an environment where you are given a studio, and have artists like Brian Eno, Giorgio Moroder, James Murphy come and give you personalized mentoring on how to succeed is really special. Also being surrounded by the next generation of producers that are likely to be the best in the field, and to be considered one of them was an honour.

Your music seems to have a really a scientific undertone. Why is that?

I love the universe and all of its mystery. I go to sleep haunted by scientific questions. Science is still a major part of my life.

“ People that are as curious as me can’t imagine staying in their hometown for their entire lives ”

Most people dream of flying over to L.A to chase their dreams but you left your hometown to live in Berlin. How come you moved to Berlin?

I moved to Berlin in order to see something new. People that are as curious as me can’t imagine staying in their hometown for their entire lives. Also Peaches kidnapped me. It’s hard to get me to leave Berlin, even to vacation. I think it is the most wonderful city in the world.

What inspired you to make the song “Gravity”?

I like the idea of an invisible force, that you can’t explain and barely understand holding your world together. That could also be part of the definition of love.

 

“ Musicianship, engineering, producing, beat making, composing are at the core of my art ”

I’ve seen clips of you performing with a band and also an orchestra. Would it be fair to say that you’re quite a versatile artist?

I am a musician. I enjoy the technical and mechanical aspects of making music more than being just the creative curator of an artistic project. Musicianship, engineering, producing, beat making, composing are at the core of my art. This is why I play so many instruments, engineer my own music and produce tracks for other artists.

Could you explain the concept behind your Gravity E.P and the reason you gave it that particular name?

Well the theme of Gravity is a lead up to my full length L.P. I won’t share the details but it is coming soon.

Who would be your dream collaboration?

I have been lucky to work with all of the collaborators I have wanted to for my record. This includes Jimmy Harry, Liam Howe, Sacha Skarbek, Kid Harpoon, David Kosten, Bram Inscore, Peaches, Peter Gordeno from Depeche Mode, Lester Mendez, Daniel Nigro, Jeppe Laursen, Red One, Doc Mckinney to name a few. These have been my mentors by working with them, refined my skills as a producer and contributed collaborations on my record.

Would you mind sharing with me your next steps?

I am currently composing the music for a theatre and dance production in Germany/Switzerland, writing songs for other artists who I am not allowed to disclose and producing full length EP’s for 2 artists I can’t name.

You can listen to previews of songs from Simonne Jones’ “Gravity” E.P but her project is available to purchase on Spotify and ITunes.

Follow Simonne Jones on social media.

Twitter       : @SimonneJones

Instagram : @SimonneJones

Faceboook :   Simonne Jones

Meet Levelle London : An Artist With Traits Of An Empath

A month ago I saw a tweet from an artist named Che Lingo, which stood out to me. The reason it caught my attention was because he had named his top 5 British artists. Four of the artists he mentioned were musicians I was fairly familiar with. His list included Kojey Radical, Ghetts, Shakka and Chipmunk. However there was one artist I did not really know too much about. That artist’s name was Levelle London.

Curiosity got the better of me so I immediately typed Levelle’s twitter name on twitter in order to find him. Once I found his Twitter account I then pressed the Soundcloud link, which was on his page.

After a few minutes of listening Levelle London’s music I began to see why Che Lingo mentioned him in his top five list. Levelle had a great voice, which merged really nicely with the instrumentals. However what really fascinated me was how Levelle wasn’t hesitant in shedding light on the harsh realities of life. You could hear the sincerity and pain in his voice.

I wanted to find out the concept behind Levelle London’s new E.P “Traits Of An Empath” and how felt about being mentioned in Che Lingo’s top five list of British artists. Within the past couple of years there has been a lot of talk about RnB music being “dead” I was interested in hearing his thoughts on the matter.

Where did the name “Levelle London” come from?

Well my real name is Levelle. In 2011 I remember hearing an artist on the radio named Levelle and being confused. After that I felt that I had to either change my name or add something to it. Levelle London eventually came to mind. That name means a lot to me because I was moving around London at that time.

How long have you been making music?

I started making music back in 2005 when everyone was doing Grime. I was a typical school kid who loved grime. When I came back home from school I tried to make beats while doing sets and performances. I always sang when I was little and people kept telling me that I could sing. So in 2007 I made my first RnB type song and it just grew from there.

“When I heard Grime it literally just took me”

Switching from Grime to RnB is a massive jump. What made you want to make that switch?

It’s mad because there were two different sides to me. I was at home and singing the slow jams and be writing bars as well. When I heard Grime music it literally just took me. From a young age I knew I always wanted to be a singer but as a teenager I thought “This Grime thing I’m killing it”. I was one of the best spitters in my school. My MC name used to be Crisis.

I used to write bars back then but the producer I worked with wasn’t really a fan of Grime and suggested that I mainly focused on the singing. He was the only person to have said that to me. That guy was the one who really showed me the ropes. We happened to be the same age but he was just ahead of his time.

Che Lingo mentioned in you in his top 5 UK artists. How does that make you feel?

That was very heart warming. I’ve gotten to the stage where I know that I’m a good artist. A lot of people have told me that as well but when another artist makes statements like that I start to believe in myself and my instincts.

What inspired you to add your own style to Desiigner’s song “Timmy Turner” could you feel you could relate with it?

A lot people I know related with it because life in London is not easy. Too many people I know have been kicked out their houses and can’t seem to get jobs. I saw Panda’s freestyle on XXL and liked what I heard. So I just made the beat and I just started getting ideas. I then thought to myself “How am I going to make this track relate to me and London?”.

In that song I was talking about a guy from London, which has some point been me. There was a time when I lived in a hostel and signed on. Some girls had this false perception of me because I was an artist but inside I was struggling and thinking of doing a madness. There are many issues in my community but no one talks about them. I use my music to express what is really going on.

 “ I was the kind of person who said what everyone thought but were too afraid to say out loud ”

Would it be fair to say that living in London shaped your approach in making music?

I’ve had so many up and downs and I felt like I had to go through them to make the music you hear now. I started being self-aware as a person and that also changed my approach to music because I became much more purpose driven. From a young age I’ve always been opinionated. In school I was the guy who expressed how I truly felt about particular things. I was the kind of person who said what everyone thought but were too afraid to say out loud.

In secondary school all the boys had beef with other guys from different schools and wanted to fight them. Everyone was on it but I was just like “You lot need to be honest and just admit you’re scared innit”. I told them that I was not about it and didn’t want to risk getting arrested or end up dead. Since then I’ve approached every situation in the same way and started putting that honesty into my music.

When did you realise you wanted to pursue being an artist fulltime?

From a young age I always wanted to pursue this but there’s a point in life when you realise you have to do things to get money and provide. Parents or other people can be a big factor in trying to tell you that being an artist is not a promising career.

I remember going to an interview for art college and being told by lecturers not waste years of my life studying art instead of pursuing music. I then realised that I could go to college and do music. Doing music at college gave me a taste of what of what it’s like to be an artist.

“ When you speak in a certain twang you’re actually touching someone’s soul ”

When I listen to your music I seem to hear a little mix of an African & Caribbean twang. Are you trying to infuse elements of your half Ghanaian and Jamaican heritage in your music?

Yeah definitely, I’m so glad you noticed that. When It comes to me finding my feet and finding myself as an artist I literally do I really feel every single thing I do in my music . I feel like music is a spiritual thing. When you speak in a certain twang you’re actually touching someone’s soul.

Do you see yourself as a new school RnB artist?

I think my constant battle as a creative is trying to title what kind of artist I am. Earlier in my career I would have easily described myself as an RnB artist but now I don’t really know. I can’t place a finger on it.

 As a young RnB artist it must have felt amazing supporting Jagged Edge and Mario right?

Those moments reminded me exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I remember me and my dancers had done rehearsals for Mario’s concert with a band. However a week before his concert Mario told us none of the artists could have a band with them.

He also didn’t want too many people on stage for an opening act. So we had to cut down on the number of dancers but two of them decided to stick by me and we ended up making a whole new routine. It was crazy but I loved every part of it because it built me up to be ready for anything.

Dream collaborations?

It changes all the time for me because back in the day I would have said Michael Jackson and Tupac straight away. I would also have said Usher as well. The more I grow and develop my dream collaborations changes.

A lot of people claim “RnB is dead”. Do you feel that is true?

Everything is always going to change and you have to accept that.

“ We need to realise that new generation will see RnB  differently to how we see RnB ”

Do you feel that people expect you to be a certain way because you’re a male RnB artist?

A hundred percent. Right now I’ve realized it’s all about giving the crowd the right energy and making them feel good. When I first started performing I wanted to all the typical RnBish stuff like lifting off my top, spinning around and just sing about love. That’s what I saw growing up but what happens is that a shift of culture occurs.

I went to a Tory Lanez concert and he got us to sing along to old school RnB songs. So I think we all still know the sound of RnB that we love. Those sounds that were made will always connect with people born in the late eighties or early nineties. We need to realise that the new generation will see RnB differently to how we see RnB.

What did you listen to growing up?

I used to listen to loads of slow jams, had all the playlists you could think of (laughs). I listened to a lot of Grime. I didn’t really listen to too much hip-hop but I jammed to Ja Rule. If you follow me on Snapchat you can hear Ja Rule playing in the background.

“ If you heard my E.P and typed traits of an empath on google you’d know exactly who I am ”

What was the concept behind traits of an empath and why that name?

I was trying to figure out a name for the ep and I felt like I needed to make my E.P a complete body of work that made sense.  I’m a very spiritual person who connects with energies and God. I’m not too religious but I want to be who I am and connect with the most high in my own way. I’ve always wanted to get into weird things like healing and other stuff.

I was on the bus one day and I started feeling funny. I couldn’t understand the feeling and thought “Imagine if I’m feeling something from somebody else?”. I ended up searching up on google traits of an empath. After reading two or three pages on google I saw a lot of information and every single thing I read was about me.

Traits of an empath could be getting drained in public spaces, sensitivity to people’s emotions/energies, good intuitions and being interested in humanitarian things. Another trait could be having a lot of anxiety. I felt like this explained a lot of what occurred in my past relationships. If you heard my E.P and typed traits of an empath on google you’d know exactly who I am.

What inspired you to make shooter?

With a name like shooter I knew that people would have preconceptions and be thinking to themselves “Ooh a track on Link Up TV called Shooter let’s hear this”. I wanted those very people to listen and hear what I’m saying. I wanted people to understand that I’m just like them and I can be real with myself. We all go through these insecurities but some won’t even face or challenge them. Some people’s mind sets are all over the place and don’t even know how to treat others.

What are your next steps?

Well the E.P is out and I’m just going to keep releasing a couple visuals of the E.P. A volume two will be coming out at some point. I want to keep the ball rolling and try to build until I travel the world doing what I love.

You can listen to Levelle London’s music below on Soundcloud but his Traits of an empath E.P is available to purchase on Spotify and iTunes

Follow Levelle London on social media.

 

Twitter :       @LevelleLondon

 

Instagram : @LevelleLondon

 

 

Meet Mazza : The Producer Taking Drill To A New Level

 

Anyone who is a fan of UK Rap and Drill will probably be familiar with a producer named Mazza. Mazza, who hails from East London has been involved in music production for over a decade. He’s also worked with artists such as Reeko Squeeze, 67,John Wayne, Showkey, 150 and AJ Tracey.

Although Mazza has made numerous instrumentals there is one beat that would definitely have stuck out to many UK Rap and Drill fans. The beat I’m referring to is one that was used  for 67’s banger “Lets Lurk”, which featured Giggs. That energetic beat was created by Mazza and fellow producer GottiOnEm.

Mazza  has been invited to play guest mixes on Radar Radio, Rinse FM and Mode FM. North London Grime veteran JME has recently endorsed Mazza’s material on Twitter as well.

I wanted to know what made Mazza get involved in music production. I also hoped to find out what inspired him and GottiOnEm to make the beat for “Lets Lurk”. However Drill has been dubbed by some as the “New Grime” I was interested in hearing his thoughts on the matter.

So why the name Mazza ?

I had a couple names before called myself Mazza, when I came out of school . I started off as Mystery Kid but that didn’t go down too far. I actually changed my names a few times along the way. The word Mazza was flying around at the time and it was quite fresh as well. I soon found out that there were some people from South London who had made up the word. Mazza really means Madness. The word speaks for itself.

I heard people say “Ohh that beat is a mazza” and thought it’d be cool if the beat was a banger and it was actually produced by someone called Mazza. I just wanted to have a name, which related to the background I was in.

How long have you been making instrumentals?

I’ve been making beats for 12 years. The moment I learnt how to make beats I was just fascinated with the process and never stopped being fascinated by it.

When was the moment you decided to pursue this fulltime?

I got sidetracked with other things going on in life but deep down I always knew that music would be my career. I was one of the best in my school in terms of music ability from day one and I got recognised for that by the time I was in year 8. The head of the music department in my school used to let me come after classes were over and let me run my own little projects while bringing people in. From a young age I was doing things that up and coming artists would be doing.

“ I don’t do collaborations as much now because they can be a double edged sword ”

One thing I noticed while scrolling your Soundcloud account was that you seem to collaborate with a lot of producers. Why is that?

I saw how things used to go on in the game and I didn’t like how things were done. So when I knew that my sounds were ready for everyone, I used the influence that I had. I don’t do collaborations as much now because they can be a double edged sword. Some producers aren’t self-sufficient and expect you to spoon feed them.

You can end up carrying those insufficient producers on your back through collaborations. People have labelled me as a producer who is top on this sound at the moment, so I’ve decided it’s time to take that role and separate myself from certain producers. It’s time to associate myself with people who are on the same level as me.

When you and GottiOnEm made the beat for lets lurk Did any of you expect “Lets lurk” to get as big as it did ?

I didn’t expect it to be as big with Giggs but I did expect it to be big though. I say that because I believe in my sound. I believe in myself. I’m very self-critical so anything I’ve shared to the world is worthy enough. Even if I think “I could have done this differently” I still believe people are going to at least enjoy it.

“ We used to tell each other that we were the best ”

What inspired you both to make that beat?

Me and GottiOnEm started linking up properly and we were just like “Yeah let’s make some noise”. We used to tell each other that we were the best. We just felt like we needed to make something that’d mess up the scene.

How did you manage to connect with 67?

I worked with them early on from their career before they blew up. I connected with them at the right time. I believe it’s important for producers to find upcoming artists and develop them. You shouldn’t automatically rush to the big artists straight away.

When I first began pushing 67 many people were wondering why I was working them. Some people were like “What’s this?” or saying “This is bullshit”.  The same people who questioned my involvement with 67 back then are now the ones me telling their songs are hard and singing along.

“ Drill is like Grime because of the energy and rawness it has ”

There are some people who claim that Drill is the new Grime. How do you feel about that?

Drill is not the new grime. Grime is still grime and will always be grime. Drill is like Grime because of the energy and rawness it has. The way Grime started is similar to the way Drill started. Drill comes from inspirations of other genres. A lot of the UK Drill artists are either Caribbean or African. Obviously they’re listening to the American producers and the sound coming from over but they rap differently. So they end up giving a UK touch to it.

Is education in music production really necessary?

Not really I think everyone should teach themselves on how to make music. If you want to make music don’t learn from a next man. Making music isn’t one of those kind of things. The art comes from within you and the knowledge comes from you looking for it. The most you need nowadays is youtube and some books. I actually didn’t do a lot of youtube or books, I learnt a lot from trial and error but I’ve had twelve years to do so.

“ I’ve realised that if you do the right networking then your problems can be solved ”

 In our scene a lot of rappers/mcs get a lot of acknowledgment do you feel that producers in the UK rap scene are overlooked or underappreciated ?

Come on man I’m sure you know what I’m going to say (laughs) but seriously a majority of artists don’t give a shout out to the producers. A lot of it actually goes much deeper than you think. I don’t really want to speak about this too much because it’s a political topic. Fortunately I’ve got good-standing with many people. I’ve realised that if you do the right networking then your problems can be solved.

 Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years ?

Hopefully out of a shit situation to be honest. I see myself with a label, which is full of producers. I’ll grab a couple rappers and develop them. I also see myself DJ-ing and touring . I like to take things a step further and evolve.

Would it be fair to call you a drill producer or do you feel that’s unnecessary label?

I’m not a drill producer. That’s actually a mad thing to call me because what people are going to realise as my career continues is that I make different types of music. Drill is not the be all and end all of my career.

So many producers are making drill type beats. What do you think sets you apart from the rest?

I’ve got that little bit more. I keep an eye on things a lot of producers don’t even think of. I think a lot of the elements of my beats because Drill is a very straightforward sound. In order to make the sound more impactful you have to have an eye for detail. Producers will hear it, other people will like it as well even if they don’t really know why.

  “ I’m a dark kind of person, the happy sounding beats don’t appeal to me ”

Your beats have an eery sound to them. Is that an attempt to make your beats align with the dark and aggressive nature of drill music?

Well I’m a dark kind of person, I make beats in a dark room a lot of the time. Apart from when I’m at my mates because I do spend a lot of time making beats round there. But in my house all the lights are switched off, the curtains closed and I’m in my bed. My laptop is the only source of light (laughs).

I really don’t like a lot of people or noise around me when I’m making beats. I just want to concentrate. I’m a dark kind of person, the happy sounding beats don’t appeal to me.

What got you into making drill beats ?

My best mate told me to listen to Quietpvck and listen to a couple beats. I’m not going to lie I wasn’t really feeling it at the beginning but then I actually heard some actual tracks, which featured those beats. Those tracks are what made me go back and listen to Quietpvck’s beats. I didn’t get it at first because it was a new sound to me but after a while it grew and thought to myself “I can actually fuck this up”.

Tell us something the public don’t know?

I’m an all-round artist, I do photography, poetry, singing, sound engineering and graphic design. My mates have even told that I’m a good Grime MC. I believe it’s all about self-sufficiency and learning things quickly.

Which producer inspires you?

I grew up listening to a lot people like Madlib, DJ Premier, J dilla, Dot Rotten , Davinche , Darkness, OTG , QTLA, A2 , GottiOnEm and Producer 5.

“ I enjoy listening to heavy metal music and I don’t care what anyone else thinks ”

What do you listen to?

I listen to all kinds of music except country. I enjoy listening to heavy metal music and I don’t care what anyone else thinks. I like the dark sounds of heavy metal. I also like the solos and overall the artistry of that music. I listen to music as a whole.

Do you have a favourite beat that you’ve worked on?

I’ve got a favourite beat that I’m working on. I actually lose a lot of interest in my beats once I’ve finished them. Me and Zeph Ellis are currently working a beat that I’m really feeling at the moment. I make beats every single day. There’s no day when I’m not thinking about making beats. I might take 3 days break every fortnight but after that break its back to making music.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to become a music producer?

Youtube and books, its all about trial and error don’t limit yourself. You need to think out of the box and be creative. Listen to as much different styles as music as you can.

You can listen to Mazza’s new project called Drillmentary below on Soundcloud. However it’s also able to heard and downloaded from the Link Up TV Traxx app.

Follow Mazza on Social Media

Twitter       :       @MazzaMurda

Instagram :       @MazzaMurda

If you wish to contact him through email then his email address is mazzabeats@gmail.com.

Meet Anik Khan : Rap’s Voice For The Immigrants

In many countries there is one topic, which will definitely polarise politicians and members of society. Immigration.  If you take a look at American and British politics it’s clear to see how the irrational fear of immigration has fuelled prejudice. This is probably due to immigrants being scapegoated for various societal problems.

However there is a rapper who aims to use his music to bring a voice for this misunderstood group whilst shedding light on the immigrant experience . His name is Anik Khan. Anik Khan is a Queens-based artist who wishes to bring people together through culture. In this current climate it’s refreshing to hear a Hip-Hop artist infuse elements of different genres and cultures to display the benefits of growing up in a multicultural neighbourhood.

I recently came across his material on Soundcloud and I totally fell in love with it. Anik’s music was sonically pleasing to my ears but more importantly had important undertones.  Ebro Darben from Hot 97 and Beats 1 has also been vocal about his admiration of Anik Khan’s artistry. Anik Khan’s material has been posted on XXL, Pidgeon and Planes, Noisey and Billboard. His single “Too Late Now” managed to become a top viral hit on Spotify.

I felt that it’d be a great idea to contact the Queens-based artist because I was fascinated with his story. I also wanted to find out why he stuck with his government instead of giving himself a Rap name and how he felt about being acknowledged by fellow New Yorker Ebro Darben.

Would you be able to explain why you stuck with your Government name instead of giving yourself a rap name and how you got into Rap music?

I used to be a rapper who had a rap name (laughs) but eventually I realized that I needed to embrace my identity and culture and outgrew the name. I got into rapping by listening to the energy of my father’s poetry he would write and recite when I was a kid and listening to the music around me growing up in Queens.

“If you’re unable to travel the world then you should visit Queens because it’s the closest you’ll get.”

In your track “The Borough” you stated that you always give back to the Borough. It’s pretty obvious that you’re proud to be from Queens.  What is it about your neighbourhood that makes you so proud?

I am super proud to come from Queens because it is the most diverse community on the planet. Whilst living in Queens I was introduced to different cultures and lifestyles from across the world. There’s no place like this at all. If you’re unable to travel the world then you should come to Queens because it’s the closest you’ll get.

 

“When I was little, the building across from me was an abandoned  house. Now, with gentrification, it’s a steak and wine restaurant.”

How do you feel about the changes taking place in your neighbourhood? 

Within Queens, I grew up in a neighbourhood called Astoria. When I was little, the building across from me was an abandoned trap house. Now, with gentrification, it’s a steak and wine restaurant. There’s a Starbucks on the block. With all of these ‘upgrades’ to the community though, the people who lived there have had to leave and relocate. Some things are better, but some things are also missing.

Growing up as a Muslim American in New York after 9/11 must have been pretty rough right?

It wasn’t easy, but it was even tougher on the elders. I remember people kicking my father’s cab and beating it up while he was driving through a block. Hearing that story broke my heart because my pops is more New York than anyone I know. People do crazy things and treat people certain ways when they’re scared. But with the Internet and just good people, there are more avenues to educate the ignorant and shine light on the hateful.

Ebro from Hot 97 is a pretty tough guy to please. As a New Yorker I’m sure it must have felt good to hear him acknowledge and endorse your music right?

Hot 97 is such an important platform for New York and hip-hop in general, and Ebro’s been a part of making Hot 97 what it has been for so long. When I found out that he was going to be playing my music, it was definitely a moment.

“ I just want to bring people together through culture. ”

It must have felt equally as rewarding having your music featured on Pidgeons and Planes, Noisey, Billboard and XXL?

It’s been great seeing my music reach people all over the world, which is allowing me to talk to you across the world in this interview. I just want to bring people together through culture. I’m grateful for the publications that have helped me spread and promote this message further.

 

“We’re all renegades or underdogs looking to emerge from the circumstances we were given.”

I really enjoyed your song “Renegade” and the energy you brought into it. What inspired you to make that song? 

“Renegade” was initially inspired by the growing Islamophobia in America that has strengthened in the face of tragedy and the presidential election. But it became bigger than that as I continued working on it. Representing black and brown oppression as a whole and how though our struggles are different, we can still come together. We’re all renegades or underdogs looking to emerge from the circumstances we were given.

 

Which artists did you grow up listening to? 

Bob Marley, Bill Withers, Nas, AR Rahman.

“My parents have been accepting of my pursuit of being a rapper but I feel bad for what I’ve put them through along the way. ”

Unfortunately many 2^nd generation immigrants have difficulty in convincing their parents that music is the best choice for them. How do your parents feel about you pursuing your music career?

Family, and providing for my parents, is very important to me because it’s part of the value system that I was raised in. So for me, there’s a responsibility to make sure that they’re good that once in a while pulls me away from the idea of trying to be a music artist. My parents have been accepting of my pursuit of being a rapper but I feel bad for what I’ve put them through along the way. Even with that, my family has been very supportive and evidently wants whatever will make me smile.

What are the next steps for your music? 

Right now, I’m working on new music. I’m trying to finish my next project before the summer is over.

You can listen to Anik Khan’s songs below on Soundcloud but his music is available to purchase on Spotify and iTunes.

Follow Anik Khan on social media.

Facebook   :    Anik Khan

Twitter       : @AnikKhan

Instagram : @Anikkhan_

 

Meet Ransom FA : The Artist Bringing Sounds Of The North

Ransom FA is a grime artist from Aberdeen who has recently released an EP titled Sounds of the North. He also happens to be my younger brother, so his journey from spitting bars over instrumentals to playing in venues for his fans is one that I have been able to observe throughout the years.

Ransom has been involved in the scene for a number of years now, however 2016 stands out as a particularly impressive year for him. He was the first Scottish artist to be announced as part of the Eskimo Dance in Glasgow’s line up, was featured on Risky Roads to represent Scotland with fellow Aberdeen based Gidd Gamz, and was also the first Scottish artist to be featured on SBTV with his single “Wake Up” featuring Paisley’s Shogun – a viral success in his own right.

Couple these triumphs with feats like supporting Wu Tang veteran Ghostface Killahit is easy to see how it has been a big year for Ransom in which his hard work has paid off. I got in touch with Ransom to discuss the year that he has had, as well as some fundamental questions about what made Grime appealing to him, as well as finding out how he first got into the music.

 

“Grime really appealed to me because it had a unique sound, which I felt I could relate to”

What got you into grime?

You actually got me into Grime, well not primarily but a lot of the time I’d listen to the songs that you had on Bearshare. I remember hearing songs from Bearman and Nu Brand Flexx. Grime really appealed to me because it had a unique sound I felt was relatable. Although Grime originated in London the MCs still talked about things anyone in the UK would see growing up in their city.

However I wouldn’t describe myself as only a Grime artist because a lot of the content I have on my computer would be Trap and New School RnB. I sometimes like to call it Rhtyhm and Grime (laughs) but I mainly make Grime music because it’s the voice of the UK.

You were the first Scottish MC to be announced on the Eskimo Dance Line up a few months ago. That must have made you feel proud?

I can’t lie man I was totally gassed. My agent (Reuben) had been talking with the Eskimo Dance team for some time. However it wasn’t really confirmed whether I’d be performing at the event or not. So seeing my name on the Eskimo Dance line up felt amazing. I didn’t expect to be featured in the line up but I really wanted to be a part of it though.

“ I feel that people more want to hear what someone from Scotland has to say ”

SBTV recently wrote a piece on you on their website how did that make you feel?

I’ve got to give a shout out Aniefiok because he’s a real guy. It was mad seeing SBTV write about me. I had actually been looking around for sites or publication to get featured on but music is a lot about business and who you can get in connection with. The love their post received was on a completely different level

A few years ago I dropped the first Scottish rap video on a London based channel (Link Up TV) but I don’t think the audience down south were ready to receive my sound back then. However I feel that things are changing and people are becoming much more open minded because you’ll even see English Grime fans defend Scottish MCs being ridiculed online. I feel that people more want to hear what someone from Scotland has to say.

 

That brings me onto my next question do you ever feel that you’ve got a higher ladder to climb in Grime music than other MCs from because you’re from Scotland?

Yeah a lot of the major platforms are built in London and there’s an industry developing down there, meanwhile we’re just finding our first steps because it’s a fairly young scene. It is only within the last few years that I would have really been able to even call it a scene. When I made my first couple of songs around 2006/2007 there weren’t that many MCs up here.

“Around that time I was just a young kid in Scotland and hardly anyone even knew what Grime was”

Wait you said you got songs in 2006 and 2007, so how long have you been making music?

Well in 2006 I entered first year of secondary school and I remember putting money together so that I could try and get into the studio. However it wasn’t really until 2011 when me and my mate Connor decided that we should move much more professionally and created RFM (Ransom Fee Media). Before RFM I did a couple songs under the alias of Golden Resilliance, big up my cousin Fola from New York. I started trying to get into the studio around 2006/2007. Around that time I was just a young kid in Scotland and  hardly anyone even knew what Grime was.

You constantly say “Stand Free” in your music, what does that mean ?

That’s a phrase I started saying a while ago. It’s actually a phrase that was formed by Aberdeen football fans who’d shout “Stand Free” during matches. Stand Free means stand alone and independent. It also means stand by yourself. I knew that using this phrase would make Aberdonians relate more with my music on a personal level, even if they weren’t really massive Grime fans.

You think your pride of being from Aberdeen inspired you make to “North Face”?

If I didn’t live in Aberdeen then I wouldn’t have made that track (laughs).  Loads of people in Aberdeen wear Northface jackets, I even have a few jackets myself. I think it’s probably because of the cold weather to be honest. There’s even a new Northface shop that’s just recently opened in our city centre but the song wasn’t really about Northface the brand. I was actually referring to myself and others as being a Northern face if you get my drift.

Ah I get what you mean because I was thinking “this was random” but it makes sense  now though

You don’t understand how popular the brand and the song is up here. When I’m walking in the city centre school kids come up in their North face jackets telling me how much they love that song. The song was actually made randomly when I was just messing about and freestyling.

“ If I support an artist coming to Scotland, the concert will most likely be in Glasgow ”

It’s pretty obvious that you’re a proud Aberdonian MC but you often perform in Glasgow. What is it about Glasgow that keeps you coming back?

The thing about Glasgow is that it’s the place most musicians go to perform whenever they come to Scotland. There’s more of a scene, venues and events taking place down there. If I support an artist coming to Scotland, the concert will most likely be in Glasgow. My Powers tour with Skyy Boii and Will Blaze will be going to Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Glasgow is the music capital for Scotland.

 

“The crowd were going mental and jumping on top of each while screaming WU TANG FOREVER DID IT”

Although you’re a Grime MC it must have felt amazing supporting HipHop legend Ghostface Killah right?

That was a mad experience I felt as if I was in completely different world. I mean the energy in that place was surreal. Ghostface Killah went in. The crowd were going mental and jumping on top of each other while screaming “WU TANG FOREVER DID IT”. I’ve honestly never heard or seen anything like that before. You had three random people on who hopped stage and started rapping along to GhostFace Killah’s verses. I felt like that was the epitome of old school HipHop and the feeling it brought you.

Are you going to incorporate elements of what you saw into your performances?

Well actually I remember back in 2013 watching a video of Kendrick Lemar performing and being amazed at the amount of mad energy he put into his live performance. I’ve sat down and watched that video over 10 times. I mean Kendrick was calm and chilled backstage but as soon as he got on stage he switched it up. The crowd were feeding off his energy and immediately became hyped. After watching the video I realised that it’s important to put your life into your performances. Since then I’ve taken mental notes of how other artists dominate the stage.

Must have equally felt great supporting Grime legend Skepta as well right?

To be honest it was a mad experience. It was great to see that a lot of people had come down to Glasgow from Aberdeen to show support. What really made that night special for me was hearing the crowd shouting my slogan “Stand Free” before I had even started to perform.

One of my favourite songs from the E.P was “Of Course” you sounded really energetic and hyped up. What inspired you to make that song?

The video was just a combination of me and Connor. He said he found a great location for the video. The way I act in my videos is the same way I perform in my gigs. I have to bring mad energy because if you’re not energetic why would your audience be energetic.

But the actual track came about when I was chilling with Gidd Gamz and listening to a beat and the lyrics just suddenly came to my head. A few days later I then realised Reece Black would fit this song so I called Hefu (producer) and suggested we hook and make a banging song.

Another song that stood out to me and also happened to be featured on Toronto-based podcast’s #Gyalcast “Song of the Week” was WYTA (What You Talking About). Where did the inspiration for that song come from?

The thing is when I write music, I write for people and for myself. We all know someone whose cocky and claims to be the best but we think to ourselves “What are you talking about?” .

 “One DJ said my E.P was his favourite project and that he actually preferred hearing northern accents on Grime”

You have been getting a lot of support from fans outside Scotland. That must feel nice right?

It’s mad to think that something you created in your bedroom is now being witnessed in different parts of the world. It’s one thing when people in Scotland recognise what I’m doing but it another thing seeing people from like California saying they’re fans of my work. It’s mad because I haven’t even been to California.

A lot of guys from the Midlands have shown a lot of love to me. One DJ said my E.P was his favourite project and that he actually preferred hearing northern accents on Grime.

After Sounds of The North is released what is your next step?

I’m currently working on another E.P, which could possibly be a collaboration E.P with a singer but that’s all I will say about that for now. I’m also working on a mixtape right now that’s going to be a collection of different songs but it will be predominantly Grime project.  At some point I will be releasing a Ransom Crew mixtape.

You can listen to Ransom Fa’s E.P. “Sounds Of The North” on Soundcloud below but his E.P  is available to purchase on Spotify and iTunes.

 

Follow Ransom Fa on social media.

Facebook   :     Ransom Fa

Twitter       :   @RansomFa

Instagram  :  @Ransom_Fa

Meet Vital : An Artist Who Wants To Use His Music To Create Change

A few weeks ago I was scrolling through videos on Despa Robinson’s Youtube channel BE83 Network. There was a plethora of interviews for me to choose from on this particular online platform. I seriously enjoy watching  Despa’s interviews because he tends to have in depth conversations with his interviewees. Another reason I am fond of his videos is because it provides an insight into artists based in the Midlands. However a video, which featured an artist named Vital caught my attention. The name “Vital”  fascinated me, so I clicked on the video in order to watch the interview.

As I was watching this interview it was clear to see that Vital had an air of self-assurance and maturity, which came from within. I also got the impression that he wishes to use his music and creative skills as a way to giving back to his community.

Vital has recently released his heartfelt single Dead or Dying. I felt that it’d be great for me to speak with this Wolverhampton based artist as I hoped to find out the inspiration behind him making Dead or Dying. I also wanted to know where he had gotten his self-confidence from and why he had called himself Vital.

 

“They told me if I was going to rap I would need something that was unique and represented me.”

Why did you give yourself the name “Vital” ?

“Vital came from my cousins. My real name is actually Vernon / Vernando, my family and Friends call me Vernz, so when I started I had the name Vernz. However they told me that if  I was going to rap I would need something, which was unique and represented me. I was then asked me what’s important to me and responded “My Mum”. As a result they told me to use Vital as my rap name because it means important, essential, life and power.  I’ve been using the name Vital for 10 Years. ”

What was life like growing up Wolverhampton?

“Life was good, but the older I got the more I saw and understood about the hardships of life. There were fights, drugs, stabbings and even shootings but I was never in that. However some of my family and friends were involved though. I personally grew up in a great home and had a pleasant upbringing. My Mum is definitely is a solid part of my structure. ”

What got you into rapping?

“Couple friends I grew up with in Dunstall – Klepto ( A person Vital speaks about in Dead or Dying), Westlee and a few other surrounding people from school. Many of the original Grime, Hip-Hop and Dancehall artists. ”

Who were your musical influences growing up?

“Possibly D Double E, Crazy T, Dizzee Rascal, Skepta, JME, Hopsin, Eminem, Kano, Klepto, WestLee, Zeo, Mavado, Vybz Kartel, and a few more but that’s who I can think of at the moment. ”

You come across as a really self-assured person. Where does your confidence come from?

“Honestly I’m not sure but whenever I’m asked this question I would usually say my Mum simply because from a young age she gave me a lot of responsibility, power and allowed me to make choices whilst guiding me. Those are elements that I cherish because they allowed me to have firm decisions and perceive myself in any light I feel is best. ”

How do you manage to combine working full time and pursuing a music career?

“I don’t actually work full time in any 9-5 but I do have a media business where we do music videos, and film / photography at any event. In association with that I do music and create services in which I will do motivational talks in schools but to answer your question, all of my work is linked and I use a lot of my creative time to make an income as well as build on my music career. ”

 

“Music without feeling is not music.”

You have performed in different countries. Has performing in different countries given you a broader perspective on your life and music?

“Yes because it allows you to realize that music is a feeling. Good music will always make you feel something meanwhile bad music will always make you feel something but music without feeling is not music. When we judge songs that are out there doing well we’ll either say that’s the best ever or that’s the worst ever. I intend to only make “the best ever” kind of music though. ”

What inspired you to make dead or dying?

“Life and the moment I was in. When I heard my brother Heckz put the beat out for peeps to listen to it, I automatically knew what I would do with it, how it would sound and the vibe it would give to me and my listeners. I’m not even done with that song yet, I feel the longevity of what it is able to further become. The last verse of the song is the best feeling for me. ”

In another interview you described your mum as “The most powerful entity you have ever come across” Is she the one who instilled certain principles into you?

“Yeah definitely she’s my G (laughs). My mum and I are really like best friends. There is definitely a lot I could say but it’s evident. I speak so highly of her because it’s necessary, if anybody meets her then they’ll fully understand and immediately get it. She’s the realest person ever man. ”

“Lying to yourself cannot help you grow.”

Are you able to explain the concept behind your last E.P “Don’t Lie to yourself” and the reasoning for that particular name?

“DLTY (Don’t Lie To Yourself) E.P was a test. Each track had a different vibe, different genre, it’s all the kinds of music I love to make in a small sample. So around that time I made a tune called “Jungle Law” which is a track out of the E.P. In that particular track I recite a sing along at the start and at the end based around “DLTY”.

When I went into schools I implemented it into the assembly’s within the presentation and processes I created for the young people. As I live and grow, I pick up new things I want to share with the world. Lying to yourself is literally self-harming but in an emotional and sometimes physical way. Lying to yourself cannot help you grow, learn, understand, take responsibility, so we say “DLTY”. ”

“I will forever represent my music with my heritage.”

You seem to rap on a lot of Bashment instrumentals. Is Bashment a genre that means a lot to you?

“Before dead or dying, before #DLTY, there was a CD called “Genre Conqueror”. I made that CD during a time I was predominately doing Bashment / Dancehall because I grew up on that genre. I’m influenced by that and my family are too, it was inevitable that I would either make that music or at least incorporate it in my music. That CD plus some other floating tracks were all combination of my mindset, the music I listened to, partially trend and also the clubs I went to in Wolverhampton.

Through doing all of that music I learned so much about crowd control, performance, vibes and how to carry a crowd. I was fully on top with the dancehall music, because of that CD and the tracks which were involved. I did shows with Stylo G, Alkaline, Black Rhino, Freddy Mcgreror, Stone Love and Spice. I also had my first BBC 1xtra track played, and many more things happened. I will forever represent my music with my heritage. ”

I get the impression that you’re somebody who is always thinking one step ahead. What are the next steps for your music?

“Well if I told you that it would boring to see it come true (laughs). Just be assured that a new project is coming and it’s something most rappers would not ever to think to do. ”

You can listen to Vital’s music below on Soundcloud but his single “Dead or Dying” is available to purchase on itunes.

Follow Vital on social media.

Twitter:      @Vital0

Instagram: @Vital0

Facebook: Vital Vernon Caisley

You can also check out his website http://www.IAmVITAL.co.uk

 

 

Meet MC Jumanji : An American Grime MC

Grime music is a genre, which originated in the UK and epitomised real life in Britain. For a long time I assumed that Grime artists only existed within the UK. This was mainly because many of the Grime MCs I had listened to growing up came from London and other British cities. Little did I know that my bubble of naivety would soon burst.

A few weeks ago I came across a video on London-based Youtube channel Grime Report titled “American Grime Freestyle” by an Miami-based MC called MC Jumanji .As the video was playing on my laptop I became impressed with the way he managed to freestyle in time with the Grime instrumental, whilst adding his own personality onto it. After watching his freestyle I felt that it was important for me to get in touch with this American Grime artist.

I hoped to find out how this Miami-based MC discovered Grime and the reason he called himself MC Jumanji. I also wanted to know what made a guy from Miami choose to jump on the British genre as opposed to HipHop.

 

MC Jumanji is a very interesting name. Why did you give yourself that name?

“I actually had 2 names before Jumanji. When I first started, I went by Hollywood. I later changed that to Infamous. When I was younger, I’d use the word Jumanji as a way to cuss without getting in trouble. It was the most random word I could think of in a split second. So “Jumanji your mom” or “Jumanji on your face” were just funny phrases I’d throw out. When I was living in L.A., I was at a house party with some real Cali ravers who decided I needed a name, and Jumanji is what stuck. I’ve been Jumanji ever since.”

“There’s what tourists think Miami is and then there’s the real Miami.”

What was it like growing up in Miami?

“I’m actually not from Miami, but I represent it like I am. There’s a reason. My mother and I moved about the US, from Philadelphia, PA to Tallahassee, FL, to Rockville, MD. From 1^st grade until I graduated high school, I went to 10 different schools. Since then, I’ve lived anywhere from  Los Angeles to Atlanta. All that moving left me feeling a little unsteady about where I was from. Instead, I think I picked up a lot of pieces of everywhere and made it apart of who I am.

However when I moved to Miami 10 years ago, it was like all of the pieces clicked and made sense. I started doing music and Miami accepted me and supported me like nowhere has been able to. I think since being here, you definitely learn that there are 2 sides to every city.

There’s what tourists think Miami is and then there’s the real Miami, which is more an underground current of culture. The plastic Miami can’t compare to what the real Miami has to offer. Living here is gritty, dangerous, aggressive, addicting and easy to get lost in. Endless parties, endless beaches, beautiful women, fast money. it’s like the g’s playground.”

Hiphop is one of America’s biggest exports and so many people across the world want to be come HipHop artists. What made guy from Miami want to jump on Grime music instead?

“I first started hearing grime when I was a DnB MC and first started performing with Juan Basshead in Miami. He was a Dubstep and DnB DJ that challenged me to try and learn to spit to Dubstep. Obviously, because Dubstep and Grime are 140, he suggested I check out Wiley and Dizzee Rascal. I instantly became a student of grime.”

Do your friends in Miami think it is strange that you spit on Grime?

“Not that it’s strange that I spit on grime, just different. They like it though. In Miami we like different. And they respect me for doing my thing. Not worrying about what other people think. ”

Who were your influences?

“I used to listen to a lot of Immortal Technique, Outkast, Eminem and TechN9ne. Bone Thugs too. I’ve always liked fast rappers so when I heard Wiley and Skepta and Tempa T, I knew the energy was a new level. Lots of Roll Deep, BBK videos, Kano.”

“Grime is going global and there’s no brakes. ”

Your freestyle was posted on British Grime Youtube channel Grime Report, how did that happen?

“Think it was just luck. Had the right video for the right person at the right time. I hit up Lordie online and told him I had something different for him and he liked it. Lordie liked what it stood for. Grime is going global and there’s no brakes. So here was a video of an American dropping grime bars. What more of an example was there. ”

You have performed in a London nightclub called Fabric. How did the crowd in London react towards you spitting on grime?

“I wish we had better video of the actual show. My DJ Juan Basshead was dropping some nasty tunes from Slayer to Preditah. So I was able to jump in and push some bars and the crowd went nuts. I think most of them assumed I was an English guy trying to sound American though. ”

It must be great seeing a Grime artist like Skepta breaking America?

“What a lot of UK Grimeheads don’t really understand is that we don’t get the chance to see the big grime guys. We’ve always been the weird dudes who liked those British rappers. So for big names like Skepta and Stormzy to be able to come over and we get to see them for ourselves. That’s sick. And a chance for us as Americans to be able to get some heavyweight help in pushing the genre stateside. ”

What inspired you to create the American Grime podcast?

“I made the podcast to try and help connect grime heads in America, as well as make a pipeline for lesser known British artist to reach Americans who are looking for grime. Just wanted to be a bridge both ways. ”

How do you feel about the state of American grime scene?

“The American Grime scene is bigger than most people think. In fact, it’s bigger still than even I know. Through the podcast, I was able to connect to a lot more artists and fans stateside than I knew existed. And there are more still everyday. I think these bigger guys getting a chance to come over and perform is helping our scene unite and connect with those we didn’t know were out there. ”

Are there any particular American Grime MCs or DJs we should look out for?

“For DJs you should check Benzmixer from Orlando and Shiftee from NYC. Crowell from LowrLevls is a beast too. Dev79 from Pennsylvania is a fire DJ as well. He helps head an American Grime and Bass label called Slit Jockey that you should definitely be looking at. When it comes to MCs you got to check out Twisty from Baltimore, Quick Tempa in Texas, Bobby Moses in NYC, 3iJoe in Los Angeles, Werd2jah in New Orleans and my boy Argyle Bixby from right here in Miami. ”

“I can’t change my voice or where I’m from. So I keep on doing my thing. ”

Do you feel that you constantly have to prove yourself because you’re an American Grime artist?

“Sometimes yes, sometimes no. I know I’m different in a scene of mostly British artists. I am an American. Just like I’m black. It doesn’t matter most days, but sometimes, someone calls you “yank” and makes some comment about how my accent doesn’t sound right. But what can I do about that? I can’t change my voice or where I’m from. So I keep on doing my thing. ”

What was the concept behind the American Grime: The Takeover EP?

“The whole concept behind the EP was to show that grime is coming to takeover. I wanted it to be a splash for the hip hop scene and the grime scene. Not only is Grime here in America, but an American is here on grime. The world is now on notice. My first EP was “King of American Grime”. I don’t really care if it caused controversy. I’m here to make a statement. I’m here to change the game. ”

What was your favourite track?

“My favorite track is a back and forth collaboration with Argyle Bixby called Life of Sin (Preacher). I like the way we weaved our lines in and out. There’s also a nod to Skepta’s “Shut Down” in it. It just has a good energy and some good wordplay. “

After releasing American Grime: The Takeover. What is your next step?

“I’ve shot a video for the song F*ck All That and I have a new 3 track EP I’m working on. I also have some projects in the works with monsters from the UK and a song with Cotti the Don. I also have some big collabs down the road as well that I can’t speak on but when it’s out it will be a statement. ”

You can listen to more of MC Jumanji’s music below on Soundcloud but his American Grime: The Takeover E.P is also available on ITunes and Spotify.

You can also tune in to his American Grime podcast on ITunes.

Follow MC Jumanji on Social Media.

Twitter         –   @MCJumanji

Facebook     –   MC Jumanji

Instagram   –  @MCJumanji

 

 

Meet No Rent: A Scottish HipHop Artist Who Does Not Fit The Stereotype

No Rent is a young artist who comes from Edinburgh, Scotland. However he does not fit the image of a stereotypical Scottish hiphop artist. No Rent has taken a totally different approach to making music, in comparison to other HipHop artists within Scotland. His sound has a slow melodic touch, which is  combined with auto tuned vocals and elements of Trap.

His music seems to be constructed for anyone who wishes to relax and unwind after a hard day’s work  or simply find escapism through smoking a spliff. In other words his music is wavey. The self proclaimed “Kurt Cobain of Trap” has had his content displayed on well-known platforms such as Noisey, DJ Booth and HipHop DX.

No Rent has recently released his new E.P entitled “All 4 You”. I thought it would be a great for me to speak with Edinburgh based artist in order to fully understand the concept of his E.P. I was also interested in finding out why he calls himself the “Kurt Cobain of Trap”.

Why did you give yourself the name “No Rent”?

“Haha, good question. I’ve avoided answering that until now just based on the fact it’s not a very exciting story. It just came about one night, I consumed too much alcohol while I was freestyling to some beat I made. ‘No Rent 2 Pay’ was the initial name I went for as I wanted to stay 100% mysterious at that point, but then cut it down to No Rent, with the help of my manager who persuaded me to stick with it.”

What made you want to create music?

“I’ve always been into music, since as long as I can remember. Which is funny because none of my family are – well they enjoy it, but not the extremes of creating it like myself. I started off writing songs, aged 14/15.

There are only so many notebooks you can fill with lyrics before you get bored. Then I simply recorded myself one day using some phone app, played it back and thought ‘shit – this ain’t half bad. If I’m willing to listen to this, surely others will like it too’. Only problem then was I didn’t have a clue how to properly produce, record and essentially make a record. I have friends who pursued college courses such as sound engineering etc but I was never the academic type.

All my learning of software I use today (Logic, Fruity Loops and Ableton now and again) has been self taught through some gruelling hours of watching Youtube tutorial after tutorial. I like to think it’s starting to pay off. Once I felt comfortable with the all the cracked versions I had downloaded I saved for a Macbook, decent mic set up and audio interface and still to this day record out of my bedroom and mix/master everything myself.”

You were recently featured on well-known platforms such as Noisey and DJ Booth. I’m sure that must have made you feel proud right?

“Of course it did. And for it to come this early in my career also. Having only released 3 songs officially and 2 of them to get picked up by some heavyweight platforms is a blessing, and made my believe in my craft even more.”

You’re an Edinburgh based artist but you’re currently signed to an American label. How did that come about?

“I’m an Edinburgh based artist but I’m actually unsigned at the moment. My management team are based out in the States so there’s an element of being signed to them. However when it comes to labels I’m still free for now. Once I started to feel comfortable in releasing my songs I just plastered them on submission websites not expecting anything in return, just to get them familiar with my music if anything.

I woke up one morning to an email from Justin (manager) saying he loves my music, especially the point of difference coming out of Scotland and that we should work. Of course you’d be a bit sceptical but everything added up and we built a relationship from there. I owe a lot to him in many respects, mostly him teaching me a lot about the music business.”

What do you think the American label saw in you?

“The fact that the sort of music I am making is so left field to what stereotypical Scottish artists are making prior to my releases. I was a clean slate in regards to my in depth knowledge of music business so them taking the time to educate me and keeping me on the right path initially was essential. I also made the label aware that I’m not going to stop and slow down. They loved my drive for success.”

Would it be fair to say that America is one of your main targets?

“For sure it is. Any artist would say the same regardless of what genre they’re in. Dont’t get me wrong, I’m Edinburgh through and through but unfortunately we’re not as open minded when it comes to this sort of music as other cultures are in this day and age. I’d love to be well known in my own city but if it means I need to go away for a bit and nail the U.S then so be it. My time will come to shine in Edinburgh, they’ll be familiar with No Rent at some point. I have no doubts.”

Your sound is very different compared to other Scottish artists what made you want to stand out?

“I’ve always been different. As cliche as that sounds its true. Growing up in a mixed race background (Father’s Iranian) that’s always been a point of difference anyway. If I could use that to my advantage in some way. I’m more likely to stand out as the Scottish/Iranian dude that’s making moves in Edinburgh, I’ll take it.

And again going back to the Scottish music we’re familiar with, it’s not that I don’t like it, it’s just that it is not me. I’ve always had the notion in my head that if I want to succeed in anything, I need to do it in a different way that’s not been done. Rock, its been done. Dance, it’s been done. An element of rap has also been done. So why not make trap beats with auto tuned vocals.”

Who were your musical influences growing up?

“Straight up – Usher ‘Confessions’. I remember buying that CD when I was like 12 and still at 22 I’m blasting it. Confessions Part I and II are the shit. Lil Wayne also, old Weezy though, like 06-08. I think Dedication 3 is genius. However other than HipHop and R&B, I was always into artists like Bjork, her album debut is still one of my all time favourites.”

You have claimed to be the “Kurt Cobain of Trap music”. Why do you feel that way?

“Haha, man, I thought I was going to avoid that question.  So basically that was included in the article that Noisey wanted to attach with the release of ‘For My City’ written by my manager. I wasn’t really aware until the morning of the release. I saw it and thought ‘aaaaye?’ but I liked it though. If you really want to understand what I mean then you should listen to my songs, especially when my EP drops. You won’t get everything I’m saying not because its BS but rather because its from experiences in my own life, which shouldn’t make it any less important to the listener.

They get an insight into what I’m saying without having to endure the pain/love I’m talking about. Like Cobain, the trials he went through in his life. I’m not by any means comparing myself to him in terms of life quality but you feel his pain and darkness through the lyrics without fully understanding what he means – until now with the likes of Genius you can annotate lyrics but you get my drift. May Kurt Cobain rest in peace, he was a truly a legend.”

I really liked your track “Little Bit”, thought it was melodic. What inspired you to make that track?

“I lived on my own at one point and just split with a my ex so had a lot of spare time and money which in hindsight I never used wisely but I wouldn’t of produced half the music I’m doing now. I had a bad microphone at the time so was just messing about anyway but stuck the beat on and recorded in one take.

I think you can tell with the intro of “It’s Young Metronome’” I wasn’t really taking it seriously. Wasn’t until later the next day, that I came across it again, cleaned it up mixed/mastered it and Little Bit was made. My ex actually heard the song on Soundcloud and made her feelings known.”

Can you explain the concept for your “All 4 You” E.P?

“I’ve always wanted to call my first official project ‘All 4 You” , playing on the word ‘YOU’ by leaving it up to the listener to decide who I’m referring to as ‘YOU’. This might be in reference to the women in my life or just music in general and my dependability on it to survive. It’s a 5 track project, 2 being singles I’ve released already ‘Little Bit’ and ‘Thanks To You’ and the other 3 tracks being unreleased.

Expect a lot of lyrics reflecting on subjects such as love, happiness, pain, heartbreak and excessive drug use. There wouldn’t be a No Rent song without the latter (laughs). All writing, production, recording and mixing/mastering has been done by myself in the comfort of my own room.”

What is the next step for your music?

“Firstly, see what the reaction to this EP is.. I’m already in the process of experimenting with new material such as beats, vocal plug ins. We’re in talks with getting me on a tour run over in the States, whether it’s a couple of weeks or months I’m definitely excited at the prospect of travelling the U.S supporting some cool artists and just building my connections for future projects if necessary. And ultimately getting signed.

My lips are sealed at this stage in regards to the talks being had with some labels out there but my main goal is to be financially stable through music and with the help of my team, friends and family I’m most definitely on the correct path, I’m just enjoying myself and will continue making music I hope people can relate to.”

You can listen to All 4 You below on Soundcloud but his E.P is also available on Spotify.

Follow No Rent on social media.

Twitter        – @NoRent

Instagram  – @FuckNoRent    

 

Meet Shae: The Gifted Singer

All images courtesy of Zek (@Z_snaps)

A fortnight ago South London artist Ms Banks posted a retweet on Twitter, which caught my attention. The original tweet that was retweeted came from an artist named Shae. Shae had tweeted a link to her first Youtube video, which happened to be a cover of Rihanna’s famous song “Work”.

Curiosity got the better of me, so I instantly clicked on that particular link. As I started watching her video I was immediately impressed. Shae successfully managed to add her own personality and style into the video, whilst honouring the original song’s theme.

Half an hour later, I began to hunt for more of her music on Soundcloud and became even more impressed. I admired the way Shae demonstrated her versatility within the various covers she posted on the app.

Earlier this year Shae was featured in the reputable MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards’ Ones to watch List for 2016. I felt that it was necessary for me to speak with Shae and get to know more about this gifted singer from Watford.

How long have you been making music?

I’ve been singing since I was really little as I started in church. Throughout my teen years I auditioned for X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent and The Voice, all to no avail, and then in August 2015 I put my first song on Sound cloud and since then the progress has been surprisingly rapid.

Earlier this year, you were featured in the MOBOs Ones to Watch List for 2016.  That must have made you feel proud?

Yeah, definitely. I was more humbled than anything else as I wasn’t expecting it at all. There was certainly a sense of pride at the fact that my hard work was being acknowledged by such a credible organization as the MOBOs but gratitude was the most prevalent feeling in me during that time.

Your mother is a Nigerian Gospel artist. Would it be fair to say that you inherited the gift of singing from her?

To an extent, yes. My whole family is quite musical; every immediate member of my family (mum, dad, 2 younger brothers and 1 younger sister) can sing, my littlest brother plays the drums and my sister plays the guitar and piano so music pretty much flows throughout my family.

My mum has been the leader of our church choir from as far back as I can remember so I guess you could say that has nurtured the musical nature of my family over the years, however my singing voice is extremely different to my mothers, which is probably due to my more contemporary musical influences.

Did seeing your mother sing inspire you to pursue singing as a career?

No, my love for singing has always been a passion of its own. I never looked at my mother and decided I wanted to sing because she did. Singing is something I’ve always wanted to pursue. However, as my mum has become more recognized in her field of Gospel over the years, and seeing all her achievements & progress, that’s definitely inspired me to work that much harder.

How did you manage to cope with going to University whilst making music and performing?

That’s a really good question. & the truth of the matter is I don’t know, because it was extremely hard, so hard that I genuinely thought I’d have to give up one or the other at a certain point in time. I studied American Theatre at Rose Bruford College of Speech and Drama which is a drama school university.

Drama schools are a lot more intense in comparison to general universities so during show periods we were required to be in Mon-Fri, 10am-10pm and called in on Saturdays 10am-4pm. Alongside this I was still trying to maintain my relevance in music by attending gigs, radio show appearances, photoshoots and making music to release on Soundcloud.

As you can imagine, I had a lot on. And now reflecting back on it, I can admit that sometimes I did take on a bit too much which resulted in me being overworked, but I made it through, and I can only put it down to lots of prayer, keeping my spirits high by surrounding myself with positive people and energies and keeping the ambitious fire in me burning. Passion is key.

What were your musical influences growing up?

Growing up was mainly Gospel. A few names are Kim Burrell, Leandria Johnson, Mali Music, Tye Tribbett and my mum of course. As I grew up I discovered my own personal taste and took a liking to artists like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Maxwell, D’angelo, Brandy, Toni Braxton, Beyonce, Amy Winehouse and Sade which pretty much formed my foundation and enabled me to mould my own unique style.

You’ve done quite a few covers on well-known songs. Are you doing that to gain more exposure?

It actually all started from my 30 second twitter video clips of me singing short snippets of covers. I only did it for fun but they started generating a lot more buzz than I had anticipated and people started requesting the full versions so I gave it to them, and from there I started gaining quite a bit of exposure and the listeners were liking it so I continued.

I do enjoy writing covers. I love being able to put my own twist on great music, it’s almost like my way of appreciating it sometimes.

What do you feel makes you different in comparison to other singers?

My sound. I genuinely can’t say I’ve heard any other UK female singer right now that sounds like me in the slightest, and that’s rare.

Unfortunately some Nigerian parents don’t usually support their kids in pursuing anything non-academic but seeing as your mother is a gifted Gospel artist I’m sure she is incredibly supportive right?

Both of my parents are incredibly supportive and have been since I was born. They realized that I had a huge passion for singing, and that I was genuinely good at it so they happily supported me in pursuing that direction.

I’m blessed to have parents who have been able to adapt to the generation for the better. I think that’s where the problem lies with African parents generally concerning this; the narrow mindedness and refusal to accept change with generation.

I felt that your track “Melanin” was really meaningful. What inspired to you to make that song?

It was very meaningful, and it came from a very honest place. I wrote the song because I felt like that message really needed to be heard at the time.

We live in a world where society does everything in its power to make my people feel less worthy. Black people. From our God given features, to our career potentials, to our rights to live. And that was the peak for me, the outburst of police brutality cases. Bodies dropping like they’re of no worth. I had to create something to remind my people that they are worthy.

What are your next steps?

I’m currently working on my mixtape which will consist of solely original material. I’m giving covers a break for a bit. Once I release my mixtape I’m hoping to tour off that for a while and just enjoy wherever that journey takes me I guess.

You can hear more of Shae’s music below on Soundcloud.

You can also follow Shae on social media.

Twitter        – @Shaezuniverse

Instagram  – @Shaezuniverse     

Facebook   – Shae