Rebranding To M13 Music And Relaunching Dance Divo, Michael M

In this exclusive interview with Michael M, we dive into the rebranding of his label to M13 Music and explore what this new chapter means for his never-stopping artistic ride.

From celebrating a fond memory to hinting at what’s next on the horizon, Michael opens up about the personal and professional shifts that are driving his creative endeavors.

1 — What inspired you to rebrand your label to M13 Music, and how does it reflect the artistic direction you’re headed in?

My label partner and longtime collaborator, Giuseppe D, and I decided to change distribution to Vydia and figured while we were at it, let’s go ahead and rebrand and repackage the catalog. Mostly condensing singles and remixes. We then decided to name it M13 Music in honor of my late mother, Maria. 13 was her birthday and favorite/lucky number.

2 — Are there plans for DROZE, SYNES, and Jei to be involved in upcoming ventures with M13 Music?

Definitely! Once we finish uploading the catalog, we plan on releasing new singles by Jei, DROZE, and a long-awaited EP by SYNES. Not to mention solo and side projects from myself.

3 — Your brand new album, ‘It’s All About Me,’ features tracks from different eras of your career. How do they highlight your evolution over the years?

The earliest track is from the 1990’s “Twisted Emotions,” which originally was the A-side demo that featured “I Could Be This.” It progresses to finding my snarky persona in “Let Ya Have It” and later on in “Dear Diary,” “Downtown,” and “Rambling.”

4 — How did you choose which songs made it onto ‘It’s All About Me’?

Process-wise, we went through the list chronologically first. So “Twisted Emotions” and “Move Up” had to be included. I also wanted to include “Let Ya Have It,” because it was a precursor to “Dear Diary.” The rest of the album includes singles and album cuts from my first record, ‘Dear Diary Vol 1,’ as well as the ‘Da Freeks Remixes’ that made “Dear Diary” and “The Beat” blow up. The remix album, ‘It’s More About Me,’ out 8.26, will feature some of my favorite remixes of “Dear Diary,” “Guess Who’s Back,” “Star”, and more.

5 — Will there be a new single included?

There isn’t a new single, but there is a remix of “Let Ya Have It” by the Klubjumpers that’s available for the first time digitally, courtesy of Harlequin Recording Group.

6 — Will any of the beloved classics from your original catalog be getting a remix treatment?

That’s always a possibility. Maybe for the 20th anniversary of “Dear Diary” next year. Stay tuned.

7 — Back in the day, you promoted your tracks with cool videos and live performances. Will you keep that approach with your upcoming releases?

Most definitely. I like to incorporate pop culture moments or topics of the day with the video and then slip in our music. I think people retain the music more if it’s tied into something familiar. And yes, you might see me on stage soon. I’ll be performing at the legendary Stonewall Inn on Sept 30th for Chauncey Dandridge’s monthly artist showcase called Freak Out. Come see me do a few hits. I mean songs, LOL.

8 — Are you on the lookout for fresh artists for the new label?

I always have my ears and eyes open. They definitely need to inspire me like a muse, be hungry, and know who they are artistically.

9 — What has been the most rewarding moment of launching this project so far?

Looking/listening back at all the growth of myself as a vocalist, songwriter, and producer. Not bad for a little queen from Washington Heights and Hialeah.

10 — Finally, in what ways will your new music and label address social injustices? Could your tracks be used for activism too?

The C-ntroversy project was born during the pandemic. I just had to say something in a comical way so people could digest it on the dance floor. Thanks to TikTok, there’s a place to marry dance music with a message. Other songs like “Carry On” by DROZE, “Something’s Got To Give” by SYNES, and “Stay Strong” by Jei are uplifting positive songs that could be used to promote unity.

To explore and listen to M13 Music’s tracks, be sure to check out their catalog.

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