Interviews
Embracing Emo Rap: 7Seven Talks New Track “Blind” In Interview
On this occasion, we delve deeper into the music, inspirations, and vision of 7Seven, an emerging rapper from Chicago, Illinois determined to make a lasting impact through his unique blend of emotions and storytelling. His new single “Blind” is a must-listen!
1 — At what point in your life did you embark on your journey as a rapper?
Around the age of 12 years old, my father took me to the studio for my birthday and I just fell in love. Watching him rap, the engineer mixing his music, the environment, the sounds, it was like I found something that I could resonate with. From that point on I declared myself as a rapper and went under the name, “JJ_Sensei” which was my first ever Rap name. and that’s just about how I got the ball rolling when it came to my journey.
2 — Is there a reason why you choose “7Seven” for your artistic persona? Does it hold any symbolic meaning?
Yeah, the reason I choose 7Seven, is because it holds a biblical meaning for me and my fans. The number seven is a biblical number in the Bible that represents completion. It’s me saying I want to become the best version of myself humanely possible and take my fans along with me so they also can become the best version of themselves humanely possible through the will of God and Jesus Christ. That is why I choose the name 7Seven and why it means so much to me.
3 — What specific experiences influenced the lyrics of your new song “Blind”?
The main experience was me getting tragically heartbroken by a girl, and me foolishly hoping that despite that heartbreak, we’d still somehow be together despite all the pain I’ve been through with her. The lyrics were me crying out hoping that she’d realize that we should still be together and that I want to be with her forever and ever despite all the things she put me through.
4 — What Emo Rap means to you and how is it reflected in your music?
What Emo Rap means to me is, a genre of music where you can be openly vulnerable with people, open up, and express how you really feel, not how you are, but how you really actually feel. Not like when you’re faking your personality at school, or when you’re putting on a facade that you’re happy at work, but your true thoughts and inner emotions, inner emotions like when you get home you lie in your bed for 4 hours just from the exhausting task of faking how you actually are. Emo Rap is an outlet for not just men but women or any person of color or gender to really let it all out for themselves, so they can feel better. It’s reflected in my music heavily really, it’s the biggest aspect of it, almost every song, lyric, hook, chorus, and bridge was influenced by this genre of music. Emo Rap is reflected in my music also by the passion I put into every lyric, every song, every bar, and every chorus. It’s almost like you can feel my pain and emotions through the screen when you listen to me. That’s how Emo Rap in itself reflects off my music.
5 — Men’s mental health is an important theme in your compositions. Why do you believe it’s crucial to address this topic?
I believe it’s a crucial topic because I personally feel men’s mental health is all but neglected in today’s society. Men’s mental states need to be brought to a bigger light so we can change the perception of men’s emotions as a whole. Like when someone says, “Oh you’re a man, you’re not supposed to cry” or, “You’re a man, you shouldn’t be feeling depressed, you should honestly just ignore it.” The main reason I address a topic like men’s mental health is to remove these horrible stereotypes for men not just for my state, but around the world as a whole. We need to address this topic to improve men’s mental health for the future of our nation and for the future of men as a whole.
6 — Do you believe tracks like “Blind” can truly make a difference in today’s society?
Yes, I believe my track could bring about change, even if it’s small, it could be the smallest thing ever, but If this song helped a single person in the world, helped them feel better, or just improved their mood, I could die a happy man knowing I influenced one singular soul on this earth. I believe I could make a difference in society if brought to the right audience. That’s truly what I believe.
7 — Can you identify any other tune in your repertoire that aim to increase awareness or bring about change?
Yes, my song “Out Of Mind.” Also aims to inspire the same thing. The song is me singing about how I’m “tryna come up with something different that’s not a love song.” Because eventually, I grew tired of writing about pain and heartache, it’s supposed to symbolize growth and development for young adolescent teens who are stuck in the same cycle of going through misery and pain with a family member, girl, or any other adversity there facing. The song is meant to inspire people to break the cycle and move forward.
8 — When it comes to connecting with your audience on an emotional level, do you encounter any challenges or is it a natural ability of yours?
I find it to be natural for me because my audience are people just like me who’ve been through something horrible and they feel like there’s no way out, nobody you can relate to, and that’s what I’m here for. I’ve been in countless situations like that, where I felt hopeless, alone, like nobody was there, so connecting with my fans on those matters is extremely natural to me and I have no problem talking with fans or getting to know them better through that subject matter.
9 — What factors do you consider when deciding whether or not to release a music video for a song?
There’s a lot really, does the music video resonate with the song and speak the right message? Does the imagery portray what the song was trying to communicate, does the lighting compliment, not only the song but the tone of the video itself, for example, if it’s a heartbreak song and I’m making a music video for it, let’s say I choose the color red, is it a dark red? Does the dark red compliment the scenes well? Not only that, is the camera quality good? The camera angles? every single piece on the set is to contribute towards the message of the overall song, so there’s a lot I consider when I’m deciding whether or not to release it. I also think about when would the right time to be to drop it as well, cause I wouldn’t wanna drop one 2 months later after the release, the momentum and hype would have most likely left by then. So there’s just a lot I consider when I’m deciding on whether to release a music video or not.
10 — What’s next for 7Seven in the upcoming months?
What’s next for me? A lot, I plan on releasing another upcoming single called “Loner.” It’s my favorite piece of work I’ve made so far. Then I plan on dropping an album in the following months called “Bump In The Road,” it’s a direct sequel to my first album which was called, ‘The Journey.’ It’s about how I’ve hit a bump in the road to my journey to becoming the best version of myself, I plan for it to be the best work I’ve ever released to date. So stay tuned for it, I’m really gonna rock the world with it.
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Paul Mayson‘s first-ever album, ‘One Life,’ is like a special mix of his love for House music, blended with different kinds of sounds and cool collaborations from artists all over the world. You definitely don’t want to miss this interview!
1 — With the release of your debut album ‘One Life,’ what are your expectations for how listeners will connect with the music?
My goal was to showcase my story and my sound. And for it to be an uplifting, positive, and summery album. Hopefully, it feels like that! It’s a collection of songs made at the moment, to make you feel happy and free. It’s about embracing life, the good things and the bad. And about doing what makes you happy.
2 — You’ve teamed up with a diverse range of international artists on this material. Please let us know how these collaborations came to be.
It was really exciting taking elements from different genres, working with a group of great artists who come from very different backgrounds, and bringing all of these sounds and flavors together on one project. A lot of artists I meet myself, reach out to the people I’m interested in. I often travel abroad to work on music together and do sessions in London or LA. Sometimes collabs can also happen through the label or the publisher, but ultimately it’s great to have an artist-to-artist relationship.
3 – What compelled you to emphasize the themes of life, freedom, and diversity in this album?
I’m very passionate about House music culture and the way it started. Which was all about positivity and celebrating life together. I love that message and think the soulful, feel-good element of House music is what always really attracted me to the genre. And to music in general, including other genres like Soul and RnB.
4 – Can you share more details about the process of integrating experimental elements into the music production of your album?
A few of the songs (like “Tell Me How” and “I Want You”) were basically made during one big jam session. It’s me just trying out completely different sounds, textures, and rhythms and experimenting with live drums, guitars, and whatever I feel like. Letting go of any rules connected to dance music allows for a really fresh approach to the album songs.
6 – How does the artwork complement the album’s concept?
It emphasizes the feel-good element and the overall message of the album. Life is in front of you, it’s there for the taking. You’re in the hallway, step into the light and embrace life.
7 – Will there be another amazing music video like “Have It All,” dropping in the near future?
We released a really cool art piece and visualizer for the album which I’m very excited about!
8 – Given your ambition to push boundaries within the Dance genre, do you think the bunch of producers already out there could make it tough for you to really stand out?
I think individuality is key. Doing something you’re passionate about. Telling your own story. If you go into that process, the outcome will be unique. Not following trends and doing my own thing is what helps me stand out and allows me to be ahead and I try to keep pushing myself.
9 – Among your studio essentials, what’s the item that you consider the cornerstone of your setup?
Quite a lot of my work is digital. I carry my laptop around and can produce and write anywhere with it, whether it’s my home studio, the studio in Amsterdam, a hotel, or even an airport. That’s what makes it flexible and international! Just being able to work anywhere and get the creative process going. At home I also love my Adam A77x monitors and I also use a Prophet synth.
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In this exclusive interview, Swedish producer Tobtok discusses all the details about his latest single as part of the ongoing countdown to the upcoming ‘My Friends’ EP. This is a collaborative effort with farfetch’d that you definitely shouldn’t overlook.
1 — Congratulations on the release of “My Friends.” Please tell us more about the influences and musical style that shaped this cool track.
Thanks! This tune has taken inspiration from bits and pieces of tracks I’ve been into over the last 10 years, everything from Daft Punk to Fred Again. It contains a lot of micro samples and vocal lines that are in a similar vein as old French House records, but we also wanted to experiment with the current UK rave sound, which we think ended up in a pretty unique and interesting way.
2 — How did you and farfetch’d navigate the creative process together, especially when faced with differing ideas or disagreements?
We were kind of on the same page with most things to be fair. Jerry from farfetch’d is a very creative guy and he loves to bash out new ideas, which worked well for me to develop into full songs. We worked on every track together in my studio and finished them off together. Of course, we had some different ideas about certain things but since none of us had a big ego, we just compromised. I think when you like the same kind of music, you usually think quite alike.
3 — What sets this collaboration apart from your previous singles?
I think this is possibly the strongest single from the EP. It feels catchy and is super simple yet not too boring. It also has Jerry’s voice in it which is unique to any other of our tracks.
4 — Can you share any funny anecdotes about specific moments while crafting “My Friends”?
We have hidden a few wacky voice notes in it as a sort of ambiance. It can be heard in the second verse or whatever you wanna call it. You clearly hear Jerry laughing about something, but I can’t remember what it was.
5 — Is this tune part of an upcoming album or EP?
It’s track no.3 from our ‘My Friends’ EP which has a total of 6 tracks. It was released via Perfect Havoc on 29th September.
6 — What are your emotions when your music receives recognition and praise from other producers in the industry?
It’s always so much fun to get praise from your peers and colleagues. These people live and breathe music and probably hear way more stuff than the average listener, so I guess they tend to be less impressed by music.
7 — Has your signature sound as Tobtok undergone changes over the years?
Haha most definitely. I started out with French House which evolved into Nu-Disco. I later jumped on the Tropical House train (quite early on in my defense). Left that and tried something cooler with my track “ABER,” and from there, it’s been more of a mix between UK and Deep House.
8 — Is there any specific music genre you’re eager to explore?
Old School Disco and Soul. I’m a big fan of the 70s as a whole, that’s why I’ve bought a few vintage Roland pieces in my studio and a Rhodes Piano.
9 — Considering the global nature of music today, are there any international artists you’d love to collaborate with?
I love Jungle right now, for reasons made quite obvious in the previous question. They’ve mastered this cool retro 70’s/Motown sound and yet managed to make it sound fresh somehow. I’d love to just hang out in the studio with them and see what they do.
10 — As we conclude, do you feel that there’s a certain formula that artists can follow to produce chart-topping hits?
Nowadays, it’s all about doing something that stands out from what everyone else is doing and probably also adding a sprinkle of nostalgia and familiarity into something. A good example is the new Peggy Gou record which is a massive hit that takes inspiration from ATB but puts it in a new and interesting context. It doesn’t hurt to have a massive TikTok following either lol.
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You must read this interview with Kouss! He used to rock it as a badass drummer in the Stellar Revival band, but now he’s spilling the beans about how he switched things up and got into making electronic dance music (EDM). The spotlight is now on his latest track, “Can’t Go Back.” Learn more here.
1 — Putting your sound into words, how would you convey the mood and sensations that your music evokes to someone unfamiliar with it?
My music aims to be an uplifting and thoughtful blend of Progressive House and Dance-Pop. Even though the music is very dancefloor-friendly, the songwriting is very Pop-forward. I also love mixing live instrumentation with electronic production to create layered recordings. As a drummer, having live elements mesh with the electronic really brings out a unique texture.
2 — Your transition from Rock music with Stellar Revival to EDM is quite remarkable. Can you tell us more about it?
The transition from Rock to EDM is an exciting and natural creative evolution. I’ve always been passionate about electronic music, so finally being able to fully immerse myself in the genre as a producer and songwriter has been fulfilling. My background as a touring Rock drummer also gives me a unique musical sensibility that I try to incorporate into Kouss Records.
3 — As a drummer, you had to adapt to a different genre. How did you translate your rhythmic background into this new realm?
When approaching any genre, especially Dance music, I’m utilizing my background in percussion to create grooves and drum patterns. The drum parts still come from the same creative place whether I’m sitting behind a drum set or drawing with a MIDI controller. I will say that with EDM I find myself focused more on groove and restraint.
4 — In what ways have Illenium, Zedd, and David Guetta played a role in shaping the sound of your new single “Can’t Go Back”?
Illenium, Zedd, and David Guetta definitely influenced the melodic and atmospheric vibes in “Can’t Go Back.” Their music motivates and challenges me to produce massive soundscapes on the highest level. They’re all melodic magicians, and I continue to be inspired by their work. I also feel like I put my own spin on “Can’t Go Back.” It’s almost like the line between EDM and Pop became blurrier on this track.
5 — What’s the story behind the song title?
“Can’t Go Back” is generally about moving forward and not dwelling on the past. For me personally, it’s about evolving as an artist and person.
6 — Anna Kline’s presence on “Can’t Go Back” adds a unique dynamic. How did this collaboration come about?
I was introduced to Anna soon after starting the Kouss project by “Can’t Go Back” co-producer and dear friend Phil Barnes. The second I heard Anna sing I knew I wanted to work with her. She’s an incredible songwriter and an awesome human. It was an organic collaboration that we’re both stoked about. Definitely be on the lookout for more collaborations with Anna in the future!
7 — How do you aim to connect with listeners on an emotional level through this single?
I aim to connect with listeners on an emotional level through the authenticity and musicality of “Can’t Go Back.” It’s about delivering that special feeling to the listener. We crafted this recording from a place of passion as artists. The lyrics are relatable and cathartic, and Anna’s vocals draw you into this sonic world we created. We also tap into some nostalgia with the Big Room House vibe. But overall the goal was to give listeners an authentic musical experience that resonates with them, regardless of what genre they usually listen to.
8 — For “Can’t Go Back,” did you experiment with a combination of electronic elements and live instruments?
Yes, “Can’t Go Back” mixes electronic production with live drumming and live guitars. The live instruments give the song a dynamic texture and human feel. Not every Kouss song will have live instruments, but it’s definitely a major part of the debut EP coming in 2024.
9 — Looking ahead, how do you envision your music style evolving?
I want to continue bridging the gap between organic and electronic. Creatively, I think there’s a lot of meat on that bone. I also don’t want to limit myself to a single genre or style. I love all types of music and ultimately hope to develop a sound that draws from those diverse influences and experiences.
10 — Lastly, reflecting on your journey so far, what’s been the most memorable or rewarding moment of your music career?
Working with talented musicians and creators who are excited about my music has been humbling and inspiring. I didn’t expect it, but the reaction to “Can’t Go Back” has been both unexpected and validating. It’s so cool to see the song played in clubs, gyms, and cars. I’m truly fortunate to share my passion for music and connect with listeners who share the same passion.