What inspired you to begin a career in music?
I remember watching an old movie called Sister Act 2 and there was a line where Whoopie Goldberg’s character was convincing Lauryn Hill’s character to keep singing despite her mothers disapproval, and she said something like “If you wake up in the morning, and you can’t think anything but singing, then you should be a singer” and that was it for me! Light Bulb moment haha
What differs you and your sound from other upcoming artists in the music industry?
I live in my own World, and have always done my own thing. This allows me to just be my own artist and I hope that shows in my music. I like a classic/retro feel, with a modern twist and futurist flickers in my songs. I would like to think this puts me in my own category. You should see when I’m creating songs, I hide the coolest futuristic sounds in my songs because I like the idea of people discovering the layers.
We are loving your latest release ‘Messed Up’. Please describe the creative process and inspiration behind the single and video?
Thank you, that means a lot. ❤️
I was humming the intro of “Messed Up” on the train and I pulled out my phone and started recording voice notes, regardless of the people staring at me haha. I rushed home and started with the organ and bass in the intro. I was thinking about how petty things can get in relationships, that tit for tat and how it’s just pointless energy wasted. If you listen close to the intro you’ll hear karate sounds and a church man preaching, this signified the spiritual battle within to come to that final decision to find your peace. And that’s the theme of the song, claiming back your time and putting yourself first! The video mimicked that, the burning of sage to clear the bad vibes (LOL), reflective moments in a spiritual place, then finally letting it go and walking away from the negativity… in Beverly Hills no doubt… a guy can dream right? lol
Everyone experiences good days and bad days, as an artist. When you have a bad day, what motivates you to keep moving and look ahead to the future?
Well after wallowing in self pity for at least 2-3 hours I normally snap out of it and remind myself why I wanted to sing and make music… It’s not about me. Music is powerful and it can do so much to help people in so many ways and that’s what keeps me going.
In your own opinion, what is the most meaningful song you wrote? What makes you say that one?
There was a song I wrote a while ago called “Keep Me From The Rain” and it touched a lot of people, and was one of my most requested songs (that I hadn’t released) to perform. You can find it online in odd places, but maybe I’ll do a re-record or film a live performance and get it back out there. Thanks, you reminded me haha
What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?
My advice would be to stay humble, be patient and stay learning. Don’t rely on other people as it starts and ends with you, and remember art is subjective, so don’t take anything personal (easier said than done, but really important). It’s a great time to be an artist because you can truly do things independently on a more levelled playing field. Definitely something to take advantage of.
What does the foreseeable future hold for you as an artist?
I’ll always be creating, it’s like breathing for me, I need that outlet like I need air. I see myself moving into film/tv as a creator and of course I’ll always be making music. I have hundreds of songs and it’s about time I share them.
Anything else you would like to add?
Thank you so much for the love and support Niji and all those reading. I can’t wait to share more music and art with you.
‘Messed Up’ is available now via all major platforms.
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