Browsing Tag

Hip-Hop

Stic N Move’s This is My Life became a vibrant new pulse in the heart of hip-hop

Posted on 22 April 2024

Stic N Move merged the vibrant soul of Reggaeton-inspired beats with the core of hip-hop in his latest single, This is My Life, which radiates the warmth of exotic rhythms and a palpable sense of old-school hip-hop grit.

The intrinsic authenticity within every element of Stic N Move is a refreshing divergence from the cliché rap tracks with rappers waxing lyrical on what they think the genre wants to hear. The instant hit showcases an infectiously charismatic approach that’s bound to captivate any hip-hop enthusiast.

Stic N Move, born Eric Braxton, lives his lyrics, expressing a genuine pursuit of passion over the trappings of fame. His music isn’t crafted from the fabric of superficiality; instead, it’s woven with the threads of personal truth and dedication to family.

The construction of the track is killer. The polyphonic keys are a vibrant extension of his personality, seamlessly matching the energy and conviction in his voice. The result is a sound that could light up any room and invigorate any playlist.

Stic N Move continues to redefine his journey by committing to projects like a new podcast and writing new songs weekly. His relentless drive and innovative spirit are making significant waves, promising a future rich with potential and new anthems for his growing audience.

“This is My Life” is more than just a song; it’s a statement, a manifesto of an artist who refuses to blend into the background, urging everyone to live authentically and passionately. As Stic says, leave your hatin’ at the door and embrace the groove.

This is My Life is now available to stream on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

FCF’s U AND I is a dynamically exhilarant dancefloor catalyst

Posted on 21 April 2024

“U AND I” by FCF is a revolutionary dancefloor catalyst that ignited the sphere of alt-electronica and added intense anticipation around the producer’s upcoming LP.

The track launches with a tender progressive house pop prelude, where deep reverberating basslines and soulfully intoxicating vocal lines set the stage for the impending infectious aural oblivion to come. As the mix escalates, it transitions into a hypersonic entrancing hit that promises not just to bring listeners to the brink of euphoria but to climax with them through an exhilarating fusion of psytrance electronic layers and Spanish guitars. But don’t think the peak is reached here; before long, FCF introduces adrenalizing rap bars that evoke raw tribal energy, seamlessly interwoven with reprising female vocal harmonies. This blend is not just innovative; it’s evolutionary; while some artists are content with constructing floor fillers, FCF went one step further by dropping a track that could start a riot on even the most subdued dancefloor.

FCF, hailing from Lisbon and inspired by artists like Rosália and Travis Scott, has a proven track record of breaking boundaries in electronic music. His eclectic influence—ranging from techno and house to hip-hop and reggaeton—allows him to craft tracks that challenge the conventional frameworks of music production.

“U AND I” exemplifies FCF’s unparalleled ability to fuse fire, fervour, soul, and rhythmic magnetism into a coherent whole that resonates across diverse audiences.

U AND I was officially released on March 2nd; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

In Conversation: Frostbyt3 Breaks Down ‘OUTCHA MOUTH’ and Talks New Horizons

Posted on 18 April 2024

This week, we explored the defiance and high-energy expression in Frostbyt3’s latest track, “OUTCHA MOUTH,” featuring Juice Box and ETHNL. Released on April 12th, this single marks a significant shift from Frostbyt3’s earlier pop and R&B influences, diving into a realm of gritty, experimental rap with a live-performance feel designed to rally the crowd.

In this interview with A&R Factory, Frostbyt3 reveals the inspiration behind the creation of an anthem that not only challenges the negativity from others and self-doubt but also sets the stage for a much-anticipated album. Dive into the conversation as Frostbyt3 discusses the transformative journey from SoundCloud experiments to major stage ambitions, offering insights into collaboration dynamics, creative processes, and long-term visions

Frostbyt3, welcome to A&R Factory! Thanks for the opportunity to sit down with you and discuss your latest single, OUTCHA MOUTH, featuring Juice Box and ETHNL which dropped on April 12th. We love how you brought your high-vibe energy to a track that asserts boundaries with maximum conviction in the bars and beats; what inspired you to create this track and run with this infectiously expressive style?

Thank you so much for having me! I am super excited to talk about my music! I would say coming off of my last album, “EMOTIONALLY UNAVAILABLE”, that was very pop and R&B based. I wanted to create something that sounded different from what I usually make. I wanted to create an anthem that was show-ready and had a hook that was easy to memorize. Recently, I have been watching a lot of rap performances and seeing what artists have brought to the table with that type of energy. That is exactly what I wanted to bring out with this new single. A fresh new take on how I want everyone to turn up when they listen to the song.

What inspired you to create the track?

The track idea came at a time when I noticed not only with myself but with the media in general how people like to try and drag others down once they see they are making something good out of their own life. Not only that, but it also plays a role in how we sometimes talk down about ourselves and we might not even realize it. There have been moments in my own life where I was like “Am I even built for this?” or “Am I good enough for this?” when I know I am and have proven myself time and time again. I would say this single is a commentary on negative talk in general, whether it’s from others or yourself. Keep any sort of negativity out of your mouth. As far as the production on this track, in the car, I listen to tracks like “FE!N” by Travis Scott and Playboi Carti. I did take huge inspiration from the album, “TESTING” by A$AP Rocky. That album is so amazing and the energy on that album is incredible. If you’re a fan of grundy and experimental rap, check that album out.

Could you walk us through your creative process for writing and producing a track like “OUTCHA MOUTH”? Where do you usually start, and how do you know when a song is ready to be released?

It’s honestly been trial and error. I usually either have a hook already in mind and create the production around the hook and verses, or I’ll start from scratch and make the beat and then add the lyrics of what I believe the song should be about afterwards. I think, this time around, the beat was finished and I had demo lyrics. In my mind, I was like, “ETHNL would go crazy on this!”. Two weeks after sending it to ETHNL, I told myself “No. ETHNL and Juice Box would be an insane combo!”. The rest is history.

How did the collaboration with Juice Box and ETHNL come about, and what was it like working in the studio with them?

I have worked with both artists before. ETHNL and I have worked numerous times to a point where we know what works and doesn’t work. Juice Box I worked with a lot behind the scenes and we have one song out called “Honorable Mentions”. I thought this was the perfect time to have both of them back and they delivered.

From your early days on SoundCloud to now, how have you evolved as an artist? In what ways have your initial influences shaped your current music style?

As a music artist, I’m always learning. I’m always listening. I have learned so much from not only learning what my fanbase is like, but also tuning in to other musicians and understanding how they operate in the music realm. I’m always asking questions. How do you engage the crowd on stage? How do you get the fans asking for more? How did they create certain songs? I feel like these are the key concepts that, over the years, have helped shape my sound and who I want to be as an artist.

Does OUTCHA MOUTH set the tone for your upcoming album?

I would say OUTCHA MOUTH is just one piece to an entire theme-driven album. The album itself has a bunch of different tones. I’d like to think of each song on the album as having its personality. It’s cool because OUTCHA MOUTH as a single can stand on its own, but on the album, it brings life to the album listening experience.

Engaging with your fanbase seems integral to your approach. How do you hope your music, especially the new single and upcoming album, will resonate with your listeners, both old and new?

I want this album to give people hope. I don’t want to spoil a lot, but this album has been a reminder to me of why I wanted to make music in the first place. It has so many different feels and vibes, but it all has that Frostbyt3 feel that fans know and love. It truly has a lot to offer for familiar listeners, as well as people listening to my music for the first time. I encourage people to listen to some of my recent work to get a good feel of the genres I have worked with so far.

Beyond the upcoming album, what are your long-term goals for your music career? How do you see your sound and artistic identity evolving in the future?

I have some big plans in the works. I am currently planning on doing live shows. That is what has been important to me. People love and need live music. The last two home studio albums I dropped, “WHINTER SEEZYN” and “EMOTIONALLY UNAVAILABLE”, I call “quarantine albums”, because they were released during the middle of the pandemic. At that point, musicians and artists weren’t able to do much. Live music was in a weird place. Now, I feel like this is the time to go hard! I want to give people that Frostbyt3 experience live! I would love to do a mini-tour! As far as my sound and artistic identity, I see myself pushing myself further with my music. I’m always making music every day. My music and creativity are always evolving and changing. I can’t wait for the world to hear more from me.

Stream OUTCHA MOUTH on Spotify now.

Follow Frostbyt3 on Instagram.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

West-London’s Drill king, Light served fierce flows and savage lyricism with ‘Ko-Lee Noodles’

Posted on 16 April 2024

Light’s latest single, Ko-Lee Noodles, is an indomitable testament to the West-London-hailing rap artist’s fierce fortitude. His ever-growing loyal fanbase, which is pushing him ever closer to the 1 million stream mark, will note that his signature of mellifluous grooves, punchy flows savage lyricism has followed him into this drill hit, but this time, there’s a relentlessly fierce intensity to the release that is as real as it comes.

The last time something hit so hard, dinosaurs went extinct, but Light’s legacy in the UK rap scene will never die; he’ll be riding high for as long as he continues to wax lyrical with unparalleled ferocity.

With the melodic emotionally charged instrumentals tempering the energy while drenching the polished production in a haunting atmosphere, Light’s candour becomes all the more affecting in the confessionally confronting release.

Light was officially released on April 16; stream the single on Spotify or watch the official music video on the GRM Daily YouTube channel.

To stay up to date with all of the latest releases from Light, follow the luminary on Instagram.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Crafting His Own Creed: Sareem on His Album ‘YOU MADE ME YOU’ and Personal Evolution

Posted on 15 April 2024

 This week, rap luminary Sareem sat down with us to delve into his latest album, ‘YOU MADE ME YOU,’ an infectious blend of sharp rap flows and dynamic beats that trace his journey from hustle to redemption. In this candid discussion, he reveals the profound personal stakes involved in the album’s creation, reflecting on his emotional highs and lows and the introspective process behind his music. His narrative weaves between personal accountability and empowerment, all set against the backdrop of challenging industry relationships and intense self-discovery. Join us as Sareem unpacks the layers of his latest work, offering a glimpse into the mind of an artist who not only embraces but celebrates his complexities.

Sareem, thanks for sitting down with us to discuss your new album, YOU MADE ME YOU! First things first, we would love to hear the story behind the intriguing LP title and how it encompasses the 13 tracks contained within. 

Hi Amelia, thank you for having me! The title YOU MADE ME YOU is a way to take responsibility for my actions. The only person standing on every decision I make is myself. Throughout the album it’s responsible for my hustle, degeneracy, coming to terms with reality, and eventual redemption. It’s a mantra that alternates between blame and empowerment. I came up with it when I wrote a draft of BURN IT DOWN but I scrapped that verse for the final version you hear today.

We love the juxtapositions between the sharp rap flows and the experimentally dynamic beats; is there a particular artist who acted as the foundation of your influence or is your style a result of a broad range of inspirations? 

Broad range for sure. I made a playlist of who I was listening to as I made the album and it’s got everyone from Danny Brown to Master of Puppets, Mac Miller, The Weeknd, Kendrick, Nirvana, etc., if you name somebody there’s a chance they had an influence. I leaned towards albums based around people who are cool having a 360 view of themselves. The Weeknd especially is a beast at doing this – his shittiness is on display and he doesn’t really care if you love it or hate it, it just exists. He’s not trying to boast either and I really took that page from him and put it on here – I can’t sing like him but that 360 view of me is very prevalent throughout the album.

Now that the album is out in the world, can you share the highs and the lows of creating the release? 

The highs were performing throughout the state for sure. I previewed this album in San Francisco, LA, San Diego and Vegas. Being on the road really puts in perspective how delicate the whole process is and I’m glad I thugged out a 9-hour drive up to SF with my DJ Yungwatercycle aka MalikTalking. I got to rap on Chuck Inglish’s beats and he let me have a ton of freedom of creating through them. David really came in clutch and we found a consistent sound by just thuggin out the recordings – I think we laid down 9 songs in a day to start it. It made me step up my game for sure.

The lows, however, shit where do I even begin! I fucked up a ton of good relationships during the process of it. The album is a 2 year biography of my time in LA and I fell in and out of love multiple times, had to get in a fucked up state of mind to write a solid amount of it, just dealing with myself. I’m a very high and low person and it turns off people who don’t know me as well. I became somewhat isolated because I didn’t like people getting the wrong idea of me if they didn’t see me daily or weekly. It plays heavily into songs like Protect my Soul, Who Was Down or Let Go. Then Burn it Down is me getting over me and everyone else’s shit.

What did you learn about yourself while creating the album?

I’m an emotional motherfucker man! I really wrote this shit from the soul instead of tryna sound clever 24/7 and it made a ton of difference. I learned that I’ve stayed consistent from my thoughts like 3-4 years ago too – I reread something that I wrote about the 360 view from 2020 – and I read it after I submitted the album lol. So that was cool to know that I’ve kept it true to myself in a way. I’ve learned how invested I have to be to make it in music and how much of a journey it’ll continue to be. But the further I get the more intense I become and the more consistency I maintain. We are who we choose to be – not who others say we are. Last thing I learned was how to be cool with being hated and not conforming to those who don’t deserve to be conformed to. I’ll elaborate on that next album!!!!!

Some of the singles have already made their way onto Spotify’s official Alternative Rap Playlists, how does it feel to sit among rap royalty with your hits ALL NATURAL and DIP SMOKE?

It feels great but it feels like it’s only a start. I need to leverage it into real work, and get onto On the Radar or XXL. A playlist isn’t the end all be all but I’ll always be thankful for what I have. Chuck produced 9 of the songs but I feel like DIP SMOKE and ALL NATURAL will be the biggest off the tape. Shoutout Relaye.

How did you hook up with the legendary producer Chuck Inglish, and what was it like working with him on this release?

I opened for Chuck when he got added to a line-up featuring Joey Purp and myself in 2022. He was DJing and I told my DJ that I had to get his number or something. So I did. Chuck is super cool and we worked out a deal for a beat tape that eventually became the album. He gave me complete freedom over everything and he’s the fuckin homie. I hope we work more in the future, he’s a great producer and an even better person.

Leading up to the release, you opened for some massive names – Ghostface Killah and Raekwon to name a few – how did those shows go down and do you have any tales from the road? 

Ghostface and Raekwon was a hell of a show – for whatever reason I was bumping Only Built 4 Cuban Linx that entire summer. Read Tao of Wu. Manifested that shit without really thinking about it? Anyways we got a ton of my homies to kick it after the show and we were just getting tossed in the green room – you know what? I tend to set up everything with my shows so I’m tame until afterwards, anything I’ve done I’ll show you off camera because I want to keep getting invited to shit lmao. Just know my songs are all based off mostly true stories 😉

What’s next for Sareem?

I will be dropping singles and waterfalling my songs for the rest of the year. I believe I have 40 songs that are unreleased that were made during this album – they will see the light of day this year. Might fuck around and go on a run wit this shit.  Thank you again for having me!! REEM TEAM OUT

–

Stream YOU MADE ME YOU on Spotify now.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Louvie exhibited his unflinching hip-hop narrative of tenacity and providence, Pray for Me

Posted on 11 April 2024

Louvie’s standout release, Pray for Me, is a striking embodiment of hip-hop’s power, deeply rooted in the artist’s personal journey. Hailing from Washington D.C., Louvie, born Ricardo Carter, has been crafting his musical identity since the age of 16, drawing inspiration from a spectrum of genres, with artists such as T.I. acting as his foundational influence.

The single opens with a melancholic melody, its moody waves setting a contemplative tone; the vocals, distorted with saturation, draw listeners into Louvie’s world, until the beat drops and Louvie’s cadence kicks in, ensuring each lyric aches with impact and sincerity.

The track is an unflinching narrative of hardship, resilience, and faith, resonating with anyone who has faced life’s relentless challenges and pushed through adversity with no one to stand with them on the battleground as they fight their way up from a disadvantaged position.

The track is a testament to his skill as a lyricist and his capacity to weave complex emotions into universally compelling music. Pray for Me is not just a testament to Louvie’s talent but a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of being the architect of your destiny.

Pray for Me hit all streaming platforms on March 23; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Unveiling the Multicultural Beats: An Exclusive Interview with Stuee Singh at A&R Factory

Posted on 7 April 2024

In conversation with A&R Factory, Stuee Singh, the multifaceted artist behind the culturally rich single ‘Spiritual Sharabi’, unveils the layers of his creative universe. From intertwining his Sikh heritage with contemporary pop dance to embedding profound spirituality in mainstream music, Singh’s journey is a kaleidoscope of cultural, linguistic, and philosophical dimensions. His transition from a corporate titan to a music maestro is a tale of bold choices and authentic self-expression. This interview not only explores Singh’s multilingual prowess in English, Punjabi, Hindi, Danish, and Thai but also dives into his aspirations to infuse spirituality into hip-hop and pop. As we traverse through his experiences from Bangkok to Copenhagen, Singh shares insights on his upcoming projects and collaborations, promising a future rich with diverse musical explorations.

Stuee Singh, welcome to A&R Factory, we discovered you through your multi-cultural harmony of a single, Spiritual Sharabi, what was the creative inspiration behind this release, and which emotional themes underpin it? 

“Hi A&R Factory, honoured to be interviewed. Hello World. I’m Stuee Singh!

There are 3 creative inspirations for this song. the first is my cultural heritage, I wanted to make a song with a current vibe with Pop Dance and cultural elements. My second inspiration is my own story, being an international Sikh from a business background, I wanted to represent my culture in a cool way with intellectual and thought-provoking lyrics. My third inspiration is spirituality, I am spiritual and love to add a sprinkle of it to pop mainstream music.”

Rapping in English, Punjabi, Hindi, Danish, and Thai is no small feat. Could you share how your multilingual abilities influence your songwriting process and the way you connect with diverse audiences?

“Well I grew up hearing English, Hindi and Punjabi, So those 3 languages are very easy for me to think and rap in, Danish came later when I lived in Denmark for 6 years, and Thai I picked up by growing up in Thailand.  I am curious by nature and enjoy discovering new cultures, I find it inherently easy to connect with people from all cultures and backgrounds.

So it’s easier than it seems to feel my lyrics and write and sing in these different languages. I’m also adding Spanish in my next release. :)”

What is it about spirituality that inspires you? 

“Spirituality for me is about self-discovery and being fully present in a moment, I think it helps me be calm, creative and wise. I love it.”

Transitioning from a successful corporate career to pursuing music full-time is a bold move. What was the turning point that propelled you to follow your passion for music?

“It sure is! I’m quite proud of myself for taking this leap of faith and following my dreams and being my true self.

I think the turning point or should I say. The realisation point was on my 37th Birthday, I thought to myself, I’ll be turning 40 soon, it’s now or never. I’m not getting any younger so Carpe Diem!”

You aim to sprinkle spirituality and more positive vibes into mainstream hip-hop. Can you elaborate on how you amplify these elements in your lyrics and rhythms?

“Yes, so Pop and Hip Hop have had artists that sing about spirituality such as Pentatonix who high songs from the bible in a pop dance way, also MC Yogi who sings about uplifting topics. I am inspired by them and want to do a bit of that for my music with my own culture.”

Having lived in Copenhagen and been born in Bangkok, how have these diverse experiences shaped your musical style and the messages you want to convey through your art?

“Copenhagen is a great city, friendly people who live a healthy lifestyle and celebrate diversity. I also worked for a Global Danish Biotech and did an MBA when I was there. So, this gives me more thought-provoking and knowledge themes in my lyrics, also my passion for excellence and attention to detail was brought out more by being in Denmark where people have similar values.”

You’ve mentioned your goal to change the game of mainstream hip-hop and pop. What do you believe is missing in today’s pop and hip-hop scene?

“I think mainstream Pop and Hip Hop is missing me! haha 🙂

Well, I don’t know of many multi-lingual artists with a business background, that too with a Sikh cultural background.”

Looking ahead, what new themes or musical experiments can your fans expect? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re particularly excited about?

“I’m officially going to launch my first album this year! I’m super excited about it, also I have been selected to be a part of Rishi Rich’s mentorship program. He is an iconic music producer and in my teenage years inspired the world by bringing UK Punjabi music to the world with his hits and songs with Jay Sean. I’m very grateful and excited to be mentored by him and collaborate in the near future!”-

Stream Stuee Singh on Spotify and never miss a new release by following the spiritual visionary on Instagram.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Twivee orchestrated an RnB hip-hop vignette of resilience and motivation with Ray of Hope

Posted on 5 April 2024

Twivee, the UK-based RnB and hip-hop fusionist delivered a compelling narrative of resilience and motivation in his latest single, ‘Ray of Hope‘.

‘Ray of Hope’ is a storm of fiery emotion, rampaging through Twivee’s distinctive vocal lines. His voice carries a unique blend of rough and smooth, soul and gruff grit, consolation and conviction. This duality in his voice mirrors the complexities of life’s struggles, making the track an emotional odyssey worth taking.

Twivee orchestrated a perfect backdrop for the mood of the track. The indie lo-fi elements, washed in saturation, amplify the intimacy and vulnerability of the release, while the grooves in the chorus are infectious, locking listeners into the momentum, making it a go-to anthem for anyone doubting their ability to navigate through life’s chaotic moments.

Twivee’s talent as a writer, producer, engineer, singer, and rapper shines through in this self-produced track. The bridge serves as a pivotal moment in the song, bridging the gap between the negatives and the positives. Lines like “Behind these eyes, I’ve seen pain” and “But I’ve seen skies and where it rains, it clears sometimes” encapsulate the essence of the track – a message of hope and perseverance.

Ray of Hope will hit the airwaves on April 5th; stream the single on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Touch down in ‘BUDAPEST’ with Zulu Abantu’s Seminal Alt-Hip-Hop Track

Posted on 4 April 2024

Zulu Abantu may have cut his teeth in the grime scene, but he is coming into his own through vibrant genre fusions, especially after the drop of his latest single, ‘BUDAPEST‘. This track is a cultural mosaic, melding the raw edge of grime with the soulful depths of R&B and the universal appeal of pop.

‘BUDAPEST’ resonates with an exotic flair, breaking the monocultural mould with its eastern rhythms that weave through the production atop the trap beats, while Zulu Abantu’s vocal versatility is on full display, proving that his voice can effortlessly bridge grime, R&B, and reggaeton.

For those who crave rap tracks that abstract from material reality and transport you to domains you’d die to explore in physical form, ‘BUDAPEST’ hits the mark. The hooks in this track are not just irresistible; they are a siren call to those seeking musical exploration beyond the conventional.

Zulu Abantu’s journey from grime to an eclectic mix of genres is a testament to his artistic evolution. With a decade of dedication to his craft, he’s got what it takes to perpetually change the atmosphere of the alt-hip-hop scene.

BUDAPEST hit the airwaves on March 20; stream the single on Spotify and YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Sojourn to Tijuana with The Dream X’s Latest Serving of Hip-Hop Exoticism

Posted on 2 April 2024

After The Dream X racked up over 600k Spotify streams with his sophomore single, Tijuana, we had to know what the hype was about, and we quickly found it within the instrumental exoticism of the vibrant sojourn of a release which will leave you riding high on the waves of the oceanic production.

With the hazy melodies working in contrast to the bitter-sweet lyricism which explores the anti-climax of post-breakup hook-ups, there are as many layers to the emotions as there are to the genre-fluid instrumentals which fuse Latin guitars with a pseudo-trap backbeat and afrobeat colour.

Tijuana is the kind of track you’ll hit play on and feel the compulsion to crank up the volume until it’s slamming through your speakers and melodiously reverberating through you so you can savour the honeyed elixir which pours from The Dream X’s vocal harmonies which groove between his rap bars.

The Utah-based rapper, singer, producer, and actor is a fucking phenomenon, and we’re already desperate to hear what comes next.

Stream Tijuana on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast