Interview: Los Angeles Based Rock Band Super OK Talk About Their Debut Album "Departures"
Big thanks to Benjamin, Davey, Drew and Kat from the LA based rock band @wearesuperok who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss their recently released debut album “Departures”, and much more.
“The creative process behind this album was pretty loose and continually evolving. Sometimes one of us would come to the band with a whole composition and parts all figured out, and sometimes one of us would bring a starter riff that everyone developed their parts around.”
Where did the band's name, Super OK, originate and how did the four of you meet and then decide to unite and create music together?
The name "Super OK" came from Benjamin, who has a tendency to express enthusiasm by putting the word "super" in front of other words that don't really benefit from that word preceding them ("Let's meet at 7?" 'Yeah, I can super do that!').
As far as how we all met, well, we think that's a fun story - Benjamin, Davey, and Kat have all known each other for years and our friendships started in Somerville, Massachusetts. Benjamin and Kat had been roommates since 2012, and Ben met Davey in 2014, forming an immediate bro bond over video games and music. In 2015, we banded together temporarily for a Somerville festival called Porchfest - which is basically what it sounds like, bands throughout the town playing on their porches and lawns during an assigned "set time."
None of us realized at the time that we'd become a band, but later that year, Benjamin (who always wanted to move back to LA) and Kat started dating, and Davey started dating his partner (who also wanted to move to LA), we ended up moving to LA around the same time 2018 and found apartments a mile away from each other. That's when we started to wonder if more musical chemistry was there and we could do something with it. We began hanging out and jamming on covers, then Benjamin and Davey both introduced some riffs they'd been working on, and it quickly became a much longer list of all originals we were playing and Super OK was born.
Within a year, we found a drummer and we had been getting songs together and hoping to get into the live music scene in LA when the pandemic hit and yeah, that plan got sidelined for a while. Jamming got put on pause, our drummer left, and with nothing else to do, we hottracked our goal of recording and ended up with a full 13-song album.
After we all got vaccinated and got back to in-person jamming, we started our search for a drummer again, and that's when we found Drew. Kat actually found via the r/losangelesmusicians subreddit - she made a post, Drew's girlfriend Amanda saw it, and sent Drew over to us. On his first audition, we knew he was the drummer for us. We had just released a single that week and he had already listened to it and reached out to congratulate us, made click tracks for the songs we asked him to learn - he was just a total professional, an excellent drummer, and a good friend to have around. We're really grateful we found him.
Congratulations on the completion and release of the band's debut album "Departures"; tell us about your creative process for the album's 13 songs and the headaches (if any) that came with recording it remotely.
Thank you! It was a true labor of love and patience for us. The creative process behind this album was pretty loose and continually evolving. Sometimes one of us would come to the band with a whole composition and parts all figured out, and sometimes one of us would bring a starter riff that everyone developed their parts around.
About half of the songs were written before the pandemic, while the others we had to figure out and feel out from a distance, which was quite the experience. Once the pandemic set in, we had so much creative energy without an outlet, so we decided to record this album as a passion project to get us through the isolation and anxiety we were all dealing with.
Benjamin and Davey taught themselves how to mix tracks so we could make decent demos to communicate our vision to our amazing producer Chris Harvey. At the end of the day - well, the end of the year, literally - we got it together and got it all done by meeting over Zoom, sending stems back and forth, just piecing it together as the pandemic dragged on.
So while there was a strong learning curve and a number of headaches - mostly stemming from version control, creating and saving presets, and the stark difference between how audio sounds in and out of the DAW - the three of us feel that recording this album is really what got us through the pandemic.
Can we expect any music videos to be released from the songs on the album? If so, which one(s)?
Yes! Right now we're in the pre-production phase for shooting a video for "Push," song #6 off of Departures. That video is coming sometime later in 2022, and we're really excited for the story that we're building with director and co-producer JohnMark Triplett.
With the nation opening up post-CV lockdowns, will the band be hitting the road and touring?
We'd love to get out there and play some shows - it's the #1 thing we're working on right now that we want to do next. We're still acquainting ourselves with the LA music scene and trying to figure out exactly how things work, and building the community we want to be a part of.
We've started chatting with promoters and venues, so as soon as we get a show, we'll be shouting about it from the rooftops!
Between Benjamin and Davey, how is it decided who will be lead vocalist on a respective song?
When we first started jamming on covers, the person to bring a song to the table was usually the one who sang since they knew it best and we all love to sing! From there, as Benjamin and Davey were writing more songs, they'd sing what they introduced and work on it with the band to develop the song's direction, backup vocals, and everything that makes a song have that Super OK feel.
Really, all four of us are songwriters at heart - Drew has a whole bunch of songs and Kat has a few she's working on as well. We're already working on a dozen new tunes and you'll hear more from Kat and Drew with this next batch.
We're still celebrating and promoting “Departures”, and at the same time, we're full-speed ahead with our next album's worth of songs and really can't wait to share the next phase of Super OK with the world!
Interview: Dallas-Fort Worth Artist/Producer Louie Sace Talks About His New Single/Video "Up Some Mo"
DCWS connected with Dallas-Fort Worth based artist/producer @lordlouiesace for an exclusive interview to discuss his recently released single/video “Up Some Mo”, and much more.
“DFW has influenced me a lot. You can hear it in some of my music. I can get real soulful with it because I lost a lot of partners to the streets and I like to paint a picture with the music”
We’re huge fans of your new single/video “Up Some Mo”; tell us about what inspired you to write and produce the track and how you connected with Str3tch, who’s featured on your other DOPE track “It’s Called”?
The idea came from, every move I have been making in this music industry, I have been climbing up more and more. From my music streams increasing, to meeting new fans every day, and finally making money from what I love to do.
Str3tch is my homie from my city of Fort Worth TX. I have a studio that Str3tch comes to record and that's where we connect and discuss music and come up with new ideas!
Can we expect to hear “Up Some Mo” on an upcoming EP or album release?
Yes, "Up Some Mo" is released as a single. We just released it and it's going crazy!
As a producer and artist, when you are developing a new song, do you generally produce the beat first and then write to it, or the other way around?
I go straight into production; I don't write my songs down and create them as I go!
How would you say that the Fort Worth and Dallas areas have influenced your music from a lyrical and thematic perspective?
I write a lot of my music about what I see going on in the DFW and my personal experiences and dealings with people out of Dallas-Fort Worth!
DFW has influenced me a lot. You can hear it in some of my music. I can get real soulful with it because I lost a lot of partners to the streets and I like to paint a picture with the music!
With “Up Some Mo” now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?
My goals are to continue on working on my craft, network and drop more music until I finally get their attention!
Interview: Boonie Mayfield Discusses His Brand New Album "Black Floyd"
Major thanks to Los Angeles based artist, producer, actor and filmmaker Solomon Vaughn a/k/a Boonie Mayfield who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released album “Black Floyd”, and much more.
“All the tracks were written and produced months apart, so there was no pressure. I had to let the songs breathe. I didn’t want to overthink or overdo anything...”
Big salute to you on the completion and release of your new album "Black Floyd"; what was your creative process for the development of its songs?
Thanks, much appreciated! Well, it basically all started from me recycling a boom bap drum loop I produced years ago during my beatmaking days. I loved the way the loop sounded slowed down, so I ended up creating new songs to it as the ideas came to me. The tracklist is literally the order each song was made, which all started with “Bootsy Collins”. That was the first song I wrote after my 3-year hiatus from music due to burnout.
Months later, I continued to experiment with the same drum loop and made “The Doubt Monster” and “Dream a Mile High”. I wasn’t even sure at first if I wanted to release any new music to the public. But once I had those 3 songs finished, I decided to release them as an EP titled ‘Black Floyd: The One Man Band’. Then after 2 more sequel EPs were made in the following years, I combined the trilogy into a full album. And that’s BLACK FLOYD.
What does the title of the album represent and what were some triumphs and struggles you endured while working on it?
My favorite rock band is Pink Floyd, so it’s definitely a nod to them because I’m heavily inspired by their work. The ‘Black Floyd’ logo has a triangle for the letter ‘A’ as a tribute to the prism from their classic album, ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’. And the letter ‘O’ is a looping symbol with the number ‘1’ in it to symbolize both the drum loop and the one-man-band. It also represents being a black sheep and embracing individuality.
One of my main triumphs was simply making music again after 3 years, because it took a lot of time and healing for me to come back to it. Another one was being unafraid to use my singing voice even though I don’t consider myself much of a singer. This is definitely the most vulnerable I’ve ever been, so I’m proud of that.
As far as struggles go, there weren’t any issues with the process of making the music. The struggles usually come AFTER releasing it to the public for me; having to deal with the rejections, uncertainty and discouragement that comes with putting myself out there again. It’s like I said in “The Doubt Monster” track: “Fearing every time I try, my heart’ll break.”
Would you say that the 3-year hiatus from music was beneficial to you when it came to writing and producing the album?
Oh yeah, most definitely. At that point, the chip on my shoulder was gone. I no longer felt like I needed to impress anybody or prove anything as an artist or producer, so my whole mindset and approach changed. Rather than treating it as if I had to “make a comeback”, I allowed myself the freedom to just live my life and let the songs come to me.
All the tracks were written and produced months apart, so there was no pressure. I had to let the songs breathe. I didn’t want to overthink or overdo anything. My approach to songwriting definitely changed as well because I’m mostly singing and barely rapping. I really like how I’ve been able to get my point across more with less words.
You're not just a talented producer and artist, but an actor and filmmaker as well; what do you enjoy most about being in front of and behind the camera?
I actually realized what I enjoy most about it after a friend of mine pointed it out years ago. He told me that beyond all the different talents I have, I’m a storyteller. That made a lot of sense to me because I operate the same way with both music and video.
I’m a performer and I love telling stories that way, but I also enjoy writing, producing, directing, arranging and editing the captured moments. And that’s how I am with music too. It’s always been about telling stories in creative ways for me, even if it’s just an emotion or an observation.
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
My own sound. That’s honestly been the best way I can describe my music when people ask, lol. I’m aware how descriptive words can trigger certain expectations from people, so I’m cautious with that. I could describe my music as “funky” to a stranger who thinks that word only applies to upbeat music to dance to. So, I’d rather them find out for themselves if they’re truly interested.
Sometimes the listening experience depends on a person’s own reference point. One of the people I played “Dream a Mile High” for said it sounded like The Beatles and g-funk. Another person thought it sounded like Andre 3000 and Pink Floyd. Those are all totally different types of artists, and I’m definitely influenced by all of them and more. But at the end of the day, my music sounds like me.
Stream and Share “Black Floyd” on Spotify
Connect with Boonie Mayfield: Website | Facebook | Instagram
Interview: London Rapper/Producer Lynx Cane Talks About His New Album "The Spirit and Its Fruits"
Major thanks to London based rap artist and producer @lynxcane for connecting with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his new album “The Spirit and its Fruits”, and much more.
“I really wanted to love every single song on the album fully before I released it, so every time I finished at least recording a song, I would just listen to it all the time.”
Big salute to you on the release of your new album "The Spirit and Its Fruits"; tell us what the title means to you and why you selected it.
Thank you! Yeah so the title is from the bible verse in Galatians about "The Fruits of the Spirit." The things listed in what that involves were the main bases and theme of this album let alone what I try to live by every single day.
I believe it's: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.
What was your creative process for the development of the 12 tracks, and how did you go about selecting the instrumentals that you didn't produce?
After releasing "Spread Love" and "Fruits" as singles in November last year, I just felt that this sound and subject matter was something I wanted to delve into more deeper. I just took it one song at a time and not try to rush things like I've done before.
I really wanted to love every single song on the album fully before I released it, so every time I finished at least recording a song, I would just listen to it all the time. On the bus, the train, whatever. If I didn't dislike it after a few weeks, I knew it was good enough for the album for me.
In terms of selecting the instrumentals that I didn't produce, that was all about trying something new and challenging. It's always fun to do that because I feel like sometimes when you produce stuff for yourself all the time, you can get a bit comfortable on how you approach a flow or something like that.
It's fun to just experiment and try new things musically like that for me, so if it was something different but still cohesive to the rest of the other songs, that's how I picked them.
Do you plan on filming music videos for any of the songs on the album? If so, which one(s) can we expect to see?
So there's two music videos released at the moment. One for "The Day of Atonement" and another for "Spread Love", with that one directed and filmed by Higher Self, that I dropped a bit before the album.
"Spread Love" especially was so fun to make. I'm planning on maybe doing a music video for "Fruits" but we'll see haha.
When someone listens to the album for the first time, what do you want them to take away from the experience?
Hope. Literally hope. What I mean by that is all things that encompass. Love, inspiration, drive, perseverance, honesty, vulnerability, everything that just makes you feel like you can be better and that you are something for the people who feel like they can't do better and that they're nothing. Obviously something like this brother can rap as well haha but yeah if it just helps to inspire people like how making this album therapeutically helped and inspired me then I've done my goal.
With this incredible album now available for all of us to hear, where are you going next musically for your current and upcoming releases?
Haha thank you again! Honestly I don't know, I just go with how I feel in the present when I'm in a creative zone. However, I have been working on a few songs recently. Hopefully some will drop fairly soon. Plus yeah, it's just been again trying new things in terms of what I'm trying to sample like German prog rock and reggae, and experimenting with song structures which has just been an experience in itself.
Interview: French Producer/Composer Thomas Naszalyi Discusses His New Single/Video "Fashionista"
Big thanks to French producer and composer @Thomas_Naszalyi who connected with DCWS to discuss his new single/video “Fashionista”, and much more.
“When I created “Fashionista”, I began by choosing two chords, and a danceable rhythm to make them move musically... then I wrote a melody, with bass and drums. I wanted it to be a bit mysterious...”
What are some things, people or places that have influenced your creativity as a producer and composer?
I often recharge my batteries near the sea. I find a lot of inspiration on the Atlantic french coast.
I also love the world of fashion, for example, the movie The Devil Wears Prada is one of my sources of inspiration, because I find it so funny...
I listen to many electro artists. At first, I discovered Daft Punk, Justice, Bob Sinclar and David Guetta. In Pop-Rock, I love the universe of Coldplay, Muse, and Radiohead...
We're huge fans of your new single/video "Fashionista"; describe for us your creative process for its development and what software/hardware you used to create it.
When I created “Fashionista”, I began by choosing two chords, and a danceable rhythm to make them move musically... then I wrote a melody, with bass and drums. I wanted it to be a bit mysterious...
I worked with the software Sibelius 6, with the master bus settled on -30 dB, a very low sound, in order to avoid distortion, and when the writing process was finished, I made the mastering, and the sound was set at the industry's standards.
Will "Fashionista" be a part of an upcoming EP or album you are releasing? If so, what can you tell us about it?
Actually, the EP “Fashionista” has already been released... But now, I am registering the song “Fashionista” at the US Copyright Office, a new experience for me :)
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
I would begin by Passionate, because this is what I feel about music composing, and this is also how my music is...
then, Powerful and Danceable!
With "Fashionista" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?
I think I will continue to discover new things in the musical world, and to write unexpected music...
Stream and Share “Fashionista” on Spotify
Connect with Thomas Naszalyi: Twitter
Interview: Producer/Sound Designer Pluto Tideswell Talks About His New Album "Walk Alone"
Regensburg, Germany based music producer/sound designer Pluto Tideswell connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released album entitled “Walk Alone”, and much more.
“...”Walk Alone” is quite explicit. It represents a part of my life that is now gone. I am now at peace with it and going through this album helped me a lot to put everything outside.”
You've mentioned that your influences vary from pop to metal, as well as from techno to classical. Which genre(s) would you say had the most resonance with you as you produced and recorded the ten songs on the album?
That is a tough question.
I tried to keep everything under a certain kind of sound vocabulary but as you can hear the various songs are influenced from many electronic styles (synthwave, dnb…).
I love to borrow time signature changes from prog rock, or harmonic structures from older rock and roll or pop tunes. I think it is fun to challenge myself and the listener, to not fall always under the same loop of chords.
My main goal was to give a pop quality to the album but with a twist.
Tell us about how you got started as a music producer and which instruments you currently play.
I started my music career as a classical trained pianist and I was playing in some emerging bands in Italy. Around 7 years ago I started to get curious about music production.
I am quite an introverted person but I always have the need to express what is inside of me in a way or another. I find it almost therapeutic, like journaling.
Currently, I still play the piano, I've also started to play guitar out of need for a more portable instrument. Of course I don't know how much you consider sound design as playing an instrument but I spend a lot of time on that.
Congratulations on the completion and release of your album "Walk Alone"; how long did it take to complete and what was your creative process along the way?
Thank you so much! I must say it was a long way to get to the final product. I remember having the first idea for one song ('Take me away') maybe in 2016. I was fidgeting with the guitar and the main melody came along. This is not my main job but I love to do it. Because of this I have a limited amount of hours to work on my own music and that makes everything slower. With enough willpower bit by bit things get done.
I didn't want to rush the album but it should have come out earlier, also the covid pandemic hit quite hard and everything got slowed down.
About the process I mostly leave it quite open. I love when inspiration comes from nothing, when you start to sing a melody out of the blue and you say to yourself "Yes, this could work".
I like to work with what your subconscious wants to say. I think this line of work can bring out much more from me.
What does the album's title "Walk Alone" represent, and were there songs that you recorded that did not make your final track list? If so, why not?
Well, "Walk Alone" is quite explicit. It represents a part of my life that is now gone. I am now at peace with it and going through this album helped me a lot to put everything outside. We always go forward and I think it is important to remind yourself who you were and how you changed.
There were some ideas that didn't make the album but I never finished them. I wanted to have an intro track but it got implemented in the song "Greed". I had a different idea for the ending, something more instrumental and grandiose but with time I realized that "Black bile" was the right ending. I think the album now has smoother transitions.
How did you go about deciding the sequence of the ten songs on the album?
The sequence follows my personal experiences. There is a line of thought that has a beginning and an ending and it goes throughout the whole album. But I am not going to reveal that!
With the "Walk Alone" album now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of the year?
My year is quite full. I am producing music for theater, dance and video productions.
It is something different and has to be approached in a different way. Somehow it is harder because there are more "rules" to follow due to the nature of collaborating with other artists, but I like the challenge.
For personal production I already have quite an array of songs on the side but I don't know if I will be able to release them this year. They need a lot of cleaning and perfecting.
In the next release I want to explore a darker side of me and a darker kind of music.
Stream and Share “Walk Alone” on: Bandcamp | Spotify
Connect with Pluto Tideswell: Instagram
Interview: DaeShawn Forrest Discusses His New Single/Short Film "A Moment in Time"
DCWS connected with 22-year-old San Francisco Bay Area native DaeShawn Forrest for an exclusive interview to talk about his newly released single/short film “A Moment in Time”, which will appear on his upcoming album “Transparent 2”, and much more.
“The number one thing that inspires my art is real life experiences. Whatever I go through in my personal life naturally makes its way into the art I create. It just so happens that these last few years have been absolutely crazy.”
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you choose?
Transparent, authentic, and relatable are the three words I would use to describe my music.
Congratulations on the release of your new single/video "A Moment in Time"; tell us about your creative process and what motivated you to write the song itself.
This song is based on true events that happened in my personal life. I was engaged and on track to getting married around the start of the Spring in 2021 before things unfortunately ended some months before the wedding.
It left me devastated because, like in the video, I wasn’t the one that decided to end things. Immediately afterwards I found myself in a depression and decided to release all of my heartache into music and “A Moment’s Time” was one of many songs I ended up creating during that time. I knew this one was special the moment I played the chords on my piano.
Was "A Moment in Time" your first experience co-directing a visual, and do you plan to direct again for yourself and/or other artists in the future?
Actually my first time co-directing a visual was for a song off of “Transparent 1” called “Naive”. That one was also storytelling in nature just like “A Moment’s Time”.
I absolutely plan to direct again for myself because it was an experience that I truly loved. Not only am I passionate about music, I’m also passionate about film-making and telling real life stories.
Directing allows me to bring those stories to life to the best of my abilities. I would be open to directing for other artists as well if the opportunity ever presented itself.
"A Moment in Time" will be featured on your upcoming album “Transparent 2"; how would you describe this project, and when can we expect its release?
“Transparent 2” is deep. It’s emotional, inspiring, and very relatable. I made it a point to not hold back on the many different things I was going through in my life at the time from my engagement ending and the heartache from that, to my depression, suicidal thoughts and my anxiety, trust issues, you name it. But, when going through all of those things, if you're serious about finding the light at the end of the dark tunnel, you’ll find it. And after a while I found it.
So, on this album you might cry, and then you might get angry. You might end up feeling inspired and rejuvenated, developing a new appreciation for life like how I did. Or, maybe, you’ll end up being reminded of the importance of letting go of the past.
Perhaps, you’ll end up experiencing all of the above. One thing is for sure, this album is for anybody who has ever gone through a dark time.
You've mentioned that you have released two albums, one EP, and one mixtape in just three years. What are some things/people/places that inspire your creativity as an artist and do you ever get writer's block?
The number one thing that inspires my art is real life experiences. Whatever I go through in my personal life naturally makes its way into the art I create. It just so happens that these last few years have been absolutely crazy.
I’ve gone through a lot of growth as a person and have experienced a lot of hardships. Some of which actually hasn’t made its way into the music. Sometimes the songs get so personal and so deep that I have to shelve a few.
There are moments occasionally where I get a little bit of writer’s block, but I’ve learned over the years how to get myself past it. Usually, for me, it ends up being about how I pace myself. I do my best to make sure that anytime I work on music I come with a fresh mind.
Stream and Share “A Moment in Time”
Connect with DaeShawn Forrest: Instagram
Interview: Rich Writer Talks About His Debut EP "Mongo Slade"
Big thanks to Bronx based rap artist @Affluenzaimmune who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his debut EP entitled “Mongo Slade”. Check out our Q&A with this talented emcee right now!
“I feel no one really checks for Bronx MCs. Brooklyn, Harlem, and Queens got it; no hate, I love New York, but I’m a Bronx dude and I wanna help bring some attention to our borough.”
How would you say that your hometown The Bronx has influenced the music that you create?
It influenced me a whole lot; it's the Mecca right? My pops was in a group called Ultimate Force with Diamond D; their first album has some of Fat Joe's earliest recordings.
I'm from 1010, which is considered the true birthplace of hip hop. I feel no one really checks for Bronx MCs. Brooklyn, Harlem, and Queens got it; no hate, I love New York, but I'm a Bronx dude and I wanna help bring some attention to our borough. We full of untapped power and creativity.
Congratulations on the completion and release of your debut EP "Mongo Slade"; tell us about your creative process for the project and where the title originates.
First, thank you! My creative process for this project was introducing myself as an MC as a person, and putting some of it out there in the beginning. No one knows me now but they will, and in my head it would always start as who is Rich Writer so each track i looked at it as a piece of that puzzle.
The title comes from my love of pop culture, in this case, a movie with Sydney Poitier and Bill Cosby. In the movie they were attempting come up of some gangsters in the betting game; Bill Cosby’s character went undercover as Mongo Slade to trick Kansas City Mack and I loved that part him fidgeting with the gun and it felt right.
Were there songs that you recorded that did not make the final tracklist? If so, why didn't they make the cut?
There was one track “Better Days” and it just didn't work for the EP. That track became “I Remember”, that I released earlier this year.
Tell us why you decided to release the "Mongo Slade" EP on your birthday (March 7th).
So I've been working in this EP since I was 20; I kept putting it off because of depression and just finding my footing in the world as a young adult. I felt at one point when I had my second son that I shouldn't be pursuing this dream and just be the best husband and dad I could be. My wife helped me realize that I couldn't if I didn't pursue my dreams and work on my craft.
I was born on the 7th; they say that's God's number and 30 they say symbolizes you dedicating yourself to your "calling".
It just made sense; it was cemented in me. I’ma do this.
With the EP now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?
I want to get more music done; another EP maybe. I’m working on the AAVEs first tape with Nivlac Lemaj. It’s gonna be ill.
I want to get some music videos done for “Mongo Slade”; really get it out there, and just work on myself to get better musically.
What can you tell us about The AAVE and your multimedia company, Inner Child Network?
The AAVE is the idea that you’re not alone in your journey to wherever your art takes you, whether you are a dancer, rapper, singer, painter, fashion designer or whatever. You have a network of people that support you.
Inner Child Network is a black owned and operated multimedia company that encourages black creatives to embrace their inner child because it is the basis of your creativity. It's the community that you came from that you want to give back to. It’s where you get your sense of family; it's you turning on the game after a long day at work; it's what helps you connect with your children watching cartoons or playing outside and we have so much in store.
Music, skits, podcasts and video game streaming; definitely check us out. Look up innerchildnetwork on all social media platforms.
Interview: Mika Lion Discusses the Song "Buta Man", Off Her EP "Tipsy Rover"
Be sure to check out our exclusive interview with Canyon, TX based artist Mika Lion, as we discuss her new song “Buta Man”, which appears on the EP “Tipsy Rover”, and much more.
“Everyday life and the ups and downs inspire every song. Right now with me being in college as a full time and working full time inspires my songs a lot because the time that I do have outside of that I strive to make memories and create unique experiences in my life. ”
We're huge fans of your new song "Buta Man", which appears on your EP "Tipsy Rover"; Describe for us your creative process for this song, and the EP overall.
“Buta Man” was about me telling my story about my spring semester in college where I had just lost my grandma to cancer and I wasn’t handling it well but I chose to stay in college and act like it didn’t phase me. So instead of saying how I felt I just partied and had so much fun to avoid my feelings. I was like that mac daddy on campus. I was hanging and chilling with every girl that let me. Then a lovely girl came into my life and I had to make a choice of continuing down that path or let myself be seen and actually fall in love and be with one girl instead of several.
I chose the girl of my dreams and the last few verses are about how I chose her metaphorically and that I didn’t have to hide from her I could just be myself so I basically didn’t have to hide my soul in order to be with her.
How did you and the producer Zurtha connect, and generally, what do you look for in the production that you decide to write to?
Zurtha and I connected in person. I was on my lunch break and he just happened to be working playing his beats in the market that I stopped in to grab my lunch. We had a brief conversation and exchanged contact information and we tested out the beat over a simple freestyle verse and that is how “Buta Man” became a thing.
Especially as a songwriter, what are things/people/places that inspire you to create new music?
Everyday life and the ups and downs inspire every song. Right now with me being in college as a full time and working full time inspires my songs a lot because the time that I do have outside of that I strive to make memories and create unique experiences in my life.
I get the most powerful ideas when I’m getting off work and taking a scenic drive through back roads and just letting my mind be free.
Can we expect a music video for "Buta Man", or any other song off the "Tipsy Rover" EP?
I have already released a music video for the song “Believe” and I just recently released the music video for “Buta Man”.
Later in the 2022 year there is a planned release for the music video for the song “Sorry Not Sober” that is a part of the EP “Tipsy Rover”.
With "Buta Man" now unveiled to the DCWS audience, what can we expect next from you musically?
February 2nd I will be releasing another album “Body Gral” and for everyone that loves “Tipsy Rover” there will be a part 2 released September 14th.
Stream and Share “Tipsy Rover” on Spotify
Connect with Mika Lion: Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
Interview: Jus NBL Talks About His Latest Song "In My Bag"
Shout out to West Philly based artist @Westphilly_jus who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his new track “In My Bag”, featuring JP Da Illist, and much more.
“Growing up in West Philly influenced me to think outside the box when creating music...”
Salute to you on the release of your new song "In My Bag"; tell us about your creative process for it and how you decided on the beat by Turk Money.
I was looking for beats on YouTube and stumbled upon it. When I first heard it, the lyrics immediately came to my head then I began writing.
I decided on the beat because it was something uptempo.
"In My Bag" will be featured on your upcoming project "Rebirth Of The Cool”. What about Miles Davis led you to create a tribute to him?
His restless spirit creating innovative music that was different from his last work, his fashion sense that inspired me a lot as not only a artist but a person. Finally, his lesson on creating what’s not there instead of what’s already there.
How would you say that your hometown, specifically West Philly, influences the music that you create? Also, who are some artists from your city that have inspired you throughout the years?
Growing up in West Philly influenced me to think outside the box when creating music.
Some of the artists that inspired me in the city are Shawn Smith, Meek Mill and Nitro Nix.
Along with the "Rebirth Of The Cool" project in development, what are some of your goals musically for this year?
My goals musically are to record more innovative music, go out to perform more often and get more recognition for my music.
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
Prolific, Innovative, Musician
Stream and Share “In My Bag”: YouTube | Apple Music
Stream "Luke 9:5", the Newly Released Album by Ezza of Choom Gang
DCWS is excited to present to you, “Luke 9:5”, the newly released album by Ezza (of Choom Gang), which is the Niagara, Ontario rapper's most laser-focused effort to date.
DCWS is excited to present to you, “Luke 9:5”, the newly released album by Ezza (of Choom Gang), which is the Niagara, Ontario recently-graduated Personal Support Worker/rapper's most laser-focused effort to date.
The focus on “Luke 9:5” is on spinning spellbinding narratives with witty lyricism over classic east-coast style hip hop production. Enlisting fellow Canadians Rsonal The Beatchef, NOMSTKS, and LethalNeedle, as well as Russian boom bap producer KULYA on the score, as well as a slew of local emcees - including Canada's underground rap legend Sayzee - on guest verses, “Luke 9:5” is a magnum opus which sees Ezza's ability to both rap and construct a cohesive body of work reach unheard heights.
This year, Ezza plans to continue his journey as a Personal Support Worker while making things happen with rap simultaneously. Ezza is growing into the epitome of a pandemic-era artist.
Listen to the very DOPE “Luke 9:5” album right now, and connect with Ezza on his IG. Also, be on the lookout for our in-depth review of the 17-track project coming very soon!
Connect with Ezza of Choom Gang: Instagram
Interview: KARMAA Talks About Her Brand New Album "this is ME"
Big thanks to Texas based artist and mental health advocate @catchmekarmaa who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss her new album, “this is ME”, and much more.
“I wanted to create a project that would move people the way that movie moved me. Embracing every part of me and sharing the not so good parts of myself with the world to show that what they see on social media isn’t always what people are going through in life. ”
Congratulations on the completion and release of your new EP "this is ME"; tell us about your creative process for the five songs and what the title represents.
Thank you. My creative process behind this project as a whole was to have a rollercoaster of emotions. I based it on some experiences I've had in my life and attempted to write in a way that would be healing rather than triggering.
Track 1 took the longest to write because I wanted to really describe how I experience anxiety. Track 2 was simple for me to write. I placed myself in high school when I was bullied for being queer to the point that I was suicidal and nobody even noticed. Track 3 was the first track completely written and recorded. I found rock bottom was the easiest for me to write about. Track 4 was written almost a year before I finally found the perfect beat. The beat was actually created around vocals for a different track completely but work in progress sounded perfect so I scrapped the other and moved forward with work in progress which is now a fan favorite. Track 5 was a last minute addition. Drvke Beats posted a snippet and I knew I had to have it. I actually had to pull over on the freeway to write the hook to this one so I wouldn't lose the lyrics. Then after I started driving again I had to pull back over to write the verses. I wanted to remind those listening that it's okay to be low, it's okay get depressed, it's okay to not be okay. You're not alone in those thoughts or feelings so please speak up and out. We need you here.
The title was inspired by the movie The Greatest Showman. I wanted to create a project that would move people the way that movie moved me. Embracing every part of me and sharing the not so good parts of myself with the world to show that what they see on social media isn't always what people are going through in life. Everybody has a mask but I took mine off. I embraced the vulnerability in hopes that others will see that they can now take the mask off and talk about their feelings.
Were there additional songs that you recorded but decided to not include on the EP? If so, why did they not make the final track list?
There was one other song that was supposed to be the opening track. I wanted the emotional rollercoaster to start with a confidence high then spiral but the track at the end just didn't fit. So that one was pulled. Which I think was the best decision. I love this project and it's been reciprocated so well.
Do you plan on filming music videos for any of the songs on the EP? If so, which song(s)?
I do intend to get at least a music video out for work in progress. I had initially wanted to do a short film going through each song as a whirlwind of emotions that a lot of us face daily, weekly, monthly. That may still happen, who knows.
Tell us about how you got started writing and recording music and how your advocacy for mental health awareness coincides with the songs that you create.
I started writing poetry in 8th grade after taking a creative writing course. In 9th grade those poems started turning into raps. Lyrics have always flowed through my head and my parents said if we got our degrees we could pursue whatever career we wanted and they'd support us. So in 2014 when I graduated early with a Bachelors Degree they said chase your dreams. I didn't start recording until 2017 which is when I released my first album. It was garbage, and has only progressed since.
At the end of 2019 I decided from 2020 on that I'd only create music I love and it has to include messages around equality, LGBTQ+ experiences, mental health, self love, self embrace and positivity spreading. I've removed over half of my catalogue because it was music I hated, didn't support my brand and was music I thought would help me fit in which didn't help me stand out. So now I proudly touch on "taboo" topics and make sure that those who feel "not normal" feel heard.
When someone listens to "this is ME" for the first time, what do you want them to take away from the experience?
I want them feel the pain, see the vision painted through lyrics, and embrace the emotional rollercoaster. Even if you yourself have never gone through mental health struggles, I wanted others to at least get an idea of what those struggles can look like. How does anxiety feel? What does depression look like? Is rock bottom different everybody? I want them to feel. I also want them to hear this journey and realize that things don't change overnight but that with time and healing it does get better.
With "this is ME" now released, what are some of your goals musically for the rest of 2022?
This project has been my absolute favorite. I'm proud of its success and reach. Moving forward I'm dropping singles to stay in your face.
I have some re releases coming, I have a bunch of new stuff coming. Some fun rap, some sexy pop, and a lot more songs with messages. I'm also working on an album set to drop later this year. Mateus Seth is executive producing and engineering this project and so far it's incredible. I'm really excited for what's to come this year.
Connect with KARMAA: Website | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Merch
Interview: Granite State Producer Fee the Evolutionist Discusses His Collaborative Release "Beast Over Beats"
Big thanks to New Hampshire based producer @FeeEvolutionist who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his brand new single/video “Beast Over Beats”, and much more!
“The hip hop scene in New Hampshire is currently growing and being cultivated. It’s becoming more diverse and inclusive. My affiliates and I are part of this movement and the art form is respected now more than ever.”
Big salute to you on the release of your new collaboration “Beast Over Beats”, and its animated video. Tell us about the song itself; how did you go about deciding which artists would be featured on the track?
My inspiration for “Beast Over Beats” was to bring together the hip hop community in my area. I was inspired by the classic boom bap tracks from the golden era of hip hop. The theme is that each mc picked an animal that they identified with to metaphorically represent on the track.
I reached out to artists dedicated to their craft from New England who represent their regions. I wanted a mix of Hip Hop veterans and new talent. Cody Pope, Quo and myself are from the Nashua area. DJ Myth represents Manchester. Alunar Landing is from Maine. Pro & D-Tension are from Lowell aka Mill City where I was born. It’s a dope mix.
From a production perspective, what was your creative process for the instrumental and what software/hardware do you use? Also, do you sell your beats?
I play drums and percussion so my creative process usually starts with the drums then I’ll add a bass line. This is how I created “Beast Over Beats”.
I really like working in Reason which I used to make the beat then mixed down in Pro Tools. My nephew Matty at GCS Studios in Nashua actually engineered and mixed the song.
Another cool fact about the track is that the beat in the song changes every 8 bars so that each mc has their own unique section to rhyme over.
As far as selling my beats I’m definitely open to licensing opportunities and collaborations.
What can you tell us about the hip hop music scene in New Hampshire? Is it difficult for homegrown talent to grow a fan base and get exposure for their music?
The hip hop scene in New Hampshire is currently growing and being cultivated. It’s becoming more diverse and inclusive. My affiliates and I are part of this movement and the art form is respected now more than ever.
I believe it can be difficult for any artist to grow a fan base but if they love their craft and stay persistent, progress is inevitable. My advice is to be engaging and include people from your community. It takes time but if you love the craft then your fanbase will grow organically.
Once you feel like you’ve got a hot track don’t be afraid to set aside a budget for promotion. Just make sure that the people you team up with have respect for the culture.
How did you get started as a producer? Who were some innovators that inspired you musically?
What first got me interested in producing was curiosity and a love for the music. I wanted to learn as much as possible about the all the elements of hip hop culture.
Ski, who produced Jay-Z’s “Dead Presidents”, was an inspiration as far as beat making and production. I remember sitting in his living room on 110 Street in Harlem and watching him bring old vinyl samples to life. It was magic to me. I’ve witnessed him flip deep soul samples into bangers, some of which went gold.
With “Beast Over Beats” now released, what’s next for you musically heading into 2022?
This Christmas I’ll be dropping a joint called “Back in the Dayz” produced by Ski Beatz. The track features Pro Lyrical and is a tribute to our old crew X-Cal. It definitely has a classic Hip Hop/R&B feel. Then, in early February I’ll be releasing “Ain’t No Love”, which is a social commentary on the current state of the world. Proceeds from the song will benefit needy families in Southern New Hampshire.
In closing I would encourage anyone who is interested in collaborations to get at me. Lastly I would like to thank Dopecausewesaid for the interview.
Peace party people ha ha see ya later!
Connect with Fee the Evolutionist: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Interview: Queens' Own MoneyHouse Kev Discusses His DOPE Single/Video "Chop"
Big salute to Queens based artist @officialbosscuz who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his very DOPE single/video “Chop”, and much more.
“I feel like nowadays artists are always trying to keep up with a trend, which causes music to sound similar, mediocre, or non relatable. I use what I go through and how I feel as my weapon.”
What are some things/people/places that influence the music you create?
My number one influence is emotion. I feel like nowadays artists are always trying to keep up with a trend, which causes music to sound similar, mediocre, or non relatable. I use what I go through and how I feel as my weapon.
Sometimes it’s hard expressing yourself to people but for some reason once I connect with a beat its over, whatever is on my mind is coming out. Sometimes going out for a walk or driving through the city can help me brainstorm some ideas to write about as well.
We're huge fans of your new single/video "Chop"; what initially inspired you to write the track itself and how did you connect with its producer, Beatsbyroki?
At first the track was just another song I was working on in the studio, but I noticed a lot of people I let hear it were gravitating more to it than any other songs I made. Eventually I finished putting the song together and re-recorded it at my homeboy Ty Benjamin’s studio.
Normally I only work with production that’s made specifically for my sound and brand but something about this beat caught me, so I looked into the producer, who is Beatsbyroki, and I learned that he produced “Denied in UK” by Lil Durk as well as “Believe Me” by Rod Wave. With those credentials I had faith in his production and I reached out to him via email for the licensing rights and contract.
What do you look for in the production that you write to, and where generally do you find your instrumentals?
in my production I look for Melodies. Once I find the right sound that fulfills my niche I try to fill them in with words and stories. Instruments that I naturally gravitate to are pianos, acoustic or electric guitars, synths, and vocal samples. Generally I receive beat packs and emails from various producers I found liking to but once in a blue moon I’ll go through YouTube beats and find something worth writing to.
Regarding the very lit visual, how did you and the director, Kawal, come up with the treatment, and who was your leading lady?
Around the time of the shoot I was staying in the Hamptons, so everything kind of happened last minute. I ended up driving out to the city around 11/12 pm, at that time Kawal was busy with another client so I had hit up my mans Zeus Anderson who’s also an artist, engineer, and videographer to catch the scenes for me.
The night before I reserved a suite at Hotel Indigo in the Lower East Side so I figured I take advantage and use it for my video. The model I used is Coco aka chokola.goddess on Instagram. Her and I actually met in a deli, it was like 2am; I seen her with a friend and she definitely was standing out, so I ran down and got her info. At that time I didn’t know I would use her for my video but I kept her in mind and I believe everything happens for a reason.
Can we expect to hear "Chop" on an upcoming EP or album in 2022? If so, what can you tell us about the project?
I’m not making any promises, but I am working on an upcoming project surrounding the topics of romance, heartbreak, and betrayal, and “Chop” might actually play a part in the promotion of it or at least make it as a bonus track on the project.
With 2021 winding down to a close, what are some of your goals musically for the new year?
One of my main goals for the new year is to introduce my sound to the world. I’ve been working on my creation for a few years now and “Chop” was like a sneak peek of what I have in store. I also want to get more tapped in with the music industry so I’m looking into doing more features, more videos, and achieving some certifications in music production, recording, and more.
Stream and Share “Chop” on Spotify
Connect with MoneyHouse Kev: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Interview: Chicago Based Singer-Songwriter Maurice James Discusses His New Single "Angels Exist"
DCWS connected with Chicago based singer-songwriter Maurice James for an exclusive interview to discuss his new single “Angels Exist”, and much more.
“When I started writing this song, my girlfriend and I had just celebrated our fourth anniversary. At that time, I was experiencing several strong emotions such as gratitude and wonder, but most of all, love. In reflecting on my relationship with her, it hit me that I’ve been fortunate enough to love someone who loves me back truly. Out of that realization came the words that became “Angels Exist.”
When did you first start songwriting and singing? Were there any artists or bands that have influenced you artistically?
Growing up in church, I was constantly surrounded by soulful, meaningful, and energetic music. And every Sunday after service, I would run over to the baby grand piano to play. This sort of naturally transformed into me creating my own melodies, which then also led to me writing my first song, "Open Up My Eyes", in 9th grade.
The choir at my high school, Providence St. Mel, ended up performing it and I then went on to write the graduation song that the choir sang my senior year. And that's when it hit me, "Man, you might actually be pretty good at this!". And I've been writing ever since. Of course, there are strong church influences in some of my music but I also am very heavily influenced and inspired by John Legend and Coldplay.
Congratulations on the release of your new single "Angels Exist"; tell us about what inspired you to write the song, and whether we can expect a music video for it next.
Thank you! When I started writing this song, my girlfriend and I had just celebrated our fourth anniversary. At that time, I was experiencing several strong emotions such as gratitude and wonder, but most of all, love. In reflecting on my relationship with her, it hit me that I've been fortunate enough to love someone who loves me back truly. Out of that realization came the words that became "Angels Exist." I am also working on visuals, so be on the lookout for that!
Will "Angels Exist" be featured on an upcoming EP or album? If so, what can you tell us about the project?
I don't currently have plans to feature it on an upcoming project, but I am looking to release a long form project in the near future.
What are you most proud of with your debut EP, "Rear View", which was released in 2020?
I'm definitely most proud of the fact that I stayed true to my artistic self. Listening back to "Rear VIew", each song is a part of who I truly am, regardless of what is considered popular or hot right now. I'm very proud to be able to say that!
With "Angels Exist" now released, what is next for you musically?
I'm currently working on a new single that I am working to release early 2022!
Interview: T. Gambine Discusses His Single/Video "New Thing", Featuring Sean DeVair
DCWS connected with Bryan, TX based Christian Hip-Hop artist @TGambine for an exclusive interview to discuss his new single/video “New Thing”, which appears on his album "T.Christ'D Up II: The Awakening".
“When I sat down listening to the tracks on this project, “New Thing” just stood out to me as a song that spoke to a new believer or someone who is going through a trial in life. I felt that at this time, it would be perfect for the first single and video.”
Salute to you on the release of your song "New Thing", and its accompanying music video. What inspired you to write this track and how did you connect with Sean DeVair?
Thanks, “New Thing” was created to let the listener know that no matter what you’re facing, God is doing a new thing in your life. It was produced by my close friend and brother Tank Dawg.
The track just had that good feeling sound to it. I knew it needed a singer for the hook, so I reached out to Sean DeVair. I’ve known him since before our Christian music days. We’ve been collaborating since 2010.
Sean DeVair was featured on “T.Christ’d Up I”, so I figured it would be a good idea to feature him on the second project.
As you mentioned, "New Thing" appears on your album "T.Christ'D Up II: The Awakening"; why did you decide to shoot a video for this song, and who directed it?
When I sat down listening to the tracks on this project, “New Thing” just stood out to me as a song that spoke to a new believer or someone who is going through a trial in life. I felt that at this time, it would be perfect for the first single and video.
Tell us about the "T.Christ'D Up II: The Awakening" album; how many projects have you released prior to this one, and do you have a favorite song on it?
“T.Christ’d Up II": The Awakening” is album number 9 for me. It’s a part two of an album I did in 2013. My personal favorite song on the album is a track called “Made It Through.” That track for some reason speaks directly to me.
When you started writing rhymes and recording, were you a secular rap artist, or have you always been a Christian Hip-Hop artist?
Music for me started at around the age of 14. I automatically had a thing for free styling; writing bars took a little longer for me to figure out though.
I was rapping secular until age 25. At the age of 26, I felt the call to go Gospel. Many kids were looking up to me, and I wanted to be a better example to the next generations.
My wife BC and I travel regularly to juvenile centers in Texas to minister to the youth using our gift of music and preaching sermons. We have an outreach called Grind4God Ministries based in Bryan, TX.
With "New Thing" now released, what's next for you musically?
Now that the “New Thing” video is out, we’re just focusing on trying to lead more souls to Christ through it. That’s our goal for all future projects.
The next video would be a song called “Fear” that features Sean DeVair and my lovely wife BC. We look forward to you guys seeing what God does through the ministry.
Stream and Share “T.Christ’d Up II: The Awakening” on Spotify
Connect with T. Gambine: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook