Sunday 12 April 2015

Miss Radcliffe Meets......Hayzell

New Reggae sensation Hayzell definitely has the determination and talent to make his mark in the music world. His latest project 'RevoL.O.V.E.tion is proof of that.








Miss R: When did you first get in to music?


Circa 2008 (16 years old) all thanks to my dad being random, and making a bet between me and my younger brother lol.


Miss R: How long have you been writing lyrics?


I've been writing lyrics for about 8+ years now.

Miss R: Growing up, what type of music did you listen to?

Wow! a lot of music was pumped through my household on a daily. I can honestly say every genre except heavy/death metal. My parents are Jamaican they couldn't handle the screaming for 3 minutes and 30 seconds.
Miss R: What inspires your music/lyrics?


My surroundings, they bring out the greatest of ideas. I love making songs that  trigger emotions. All of my songs are from personal experiences of mine, people around me and of people I don't know but I observe their lifestyle and write it down.

"Do For Love"




Miss R: Do you produce your own music too?


I have produced a song once. it happened to be the first ever song I recorded in a studio. It's somewhere lurking on YouTube waiting to haunt me later in life. But I'm currently learning to play guitar and piano as I do want to produce for myself properly and for other artists.


Miss R: Your mixtape 'Revo.L.O.V.E.tion' is out now...What can people expect from this?

People can expect 14 tracks of pure heartfelt feel Good vibes, even though I wrote that project in a dark part of my life. It birthed some amazing tracks for people to connect with.


  Revo.L.O.V.E.tion

 


Miss R: Do you have a favourite track from 'Revo.L.O.V.E.tion'?


I can't choose a favourite, they all are special and unique in their own way. The people would have to do it for me lol.

Miss R: What else are you working on right now?


I'm working on a new project called " For the L.O.V.E" it's the follow up to "Revo.L.O.V.E.tion" it's 100x better! I can't wait for people to hear it! I also have another project I'm working on but I gotta keep it hush, it's for world to enjoy.
Miss R: Do you have any shows coming up?


I have a show on the 31st May. It's the Embankment summer Market Festival around 18k People will be at the event over 3 days. There are more shows coming in, I'm currently waiting on confirmation of dates.



Miss R: Which artist or producer would you like to work with in the future?


It would be great if I could write a song with Sean Paul, Collie Buddz, Stromae, Nico & Vinz, Tinie Tempah & Big Sean. As far as producers, Stephen Di Genius, Diplo, Major Lazer, Pharell, M.Fazz, Timbaland.


Miss R: What are your goals?..Do you want the big record deal or would you prefer being an independent artist?


Being signed to a major Label is something I'm looking forward to doing soon. I want to learn about the industry and understand it better than the back of my hand. Being independent is great however, I'm very confident in my music and I truly believe the world will embrace my sound. My music to be Global!
Miss R: Do you have any other interests/talents outside of music?

Food lol! Mi love mi food! I like doing normal things.
I want to travel the world. I feel it's a sin that as humans, we have around 100 years each on this earth to live, but we don't explore the earth. I would like to get back into acting once I've established the music.





@LifeOfHayzell

instagram: Lifeofhayzell

https://soundcloud.com/lifeofhayzell

Thursday 9 April 2015

Miss Radcliffe Meets......Water Seed


If love that smooth, jazzy, funky, fresh, soulful, uplifting and possibly even addictive music, then let me introduce you to the sounds of New Orleans band Water Seed. After hearing their mixtape "Retro Electro" (which is absolutely amazing) I instantly became a fan.
I caught up with the leading man and multi-instrumentalists Lou Hill.


Miss R: There are 5 of you in total. Yourself, J Sharp, Shaleyah, Cinese, & I.M.A.
How did you all meet? When was 'Water Seed' created?

I met J Sharp while playing at the New Orleans Six Flags Theme park Jazzland.  Cinese came on board while we were displaced in Atlanta.  She'd just moved to town and wanted to do something new.  We met via a craigslist ad entitled something like "Flutist new to town interested in joining a soul band".  I.M.A. came on board via a mutual friend.  I was producing a singer in Atlanta and one night she asked if I had a problem with having someone else come over and colab.  In walks I.M.A. with a Yamaha keyboard and a guitar.  Shaleyah was referred to us by an extended friend of the band.  We were in the process of looking for a new singer.  We got hold of one of her performance videos and we asked her to come one board.


Miss R: How did you come up with the name 'Water Seed'?


As crazy as it sounds it came to me in a dream.  Water represents Knowledge and Seed represents Growth.
















Miss R: You have such an energetic sound...I felt uplifted after hearing "Show, work and Prove"  What inspires your music?

I actually wrote Show Work and Prove a few months after Hurricane Katrina. I was staying with a friend in Atlanta and was asked to write songs for a girl group a la Destiny's Child.  I went out and bought a bunch of current music (I'm about 15 years behind the curve of what's currently hot) and about 3 days later Show, Work and Prove was born. The concept for Show, Work and Prove was to create a dance tune for a girl group with a Michael Jackson/Usher vibe.

"Show,Work and Prove"  
   
Miss R: What music did you all listen to growing up? Has Jazz been the main influence?

I grew up listening to just about everything.  I spent most of childhood in downtown New Orleans just outside of the Treme area.  Music was everywhere.  Brass Bands, Mardi Gras Indians, Funk bands, Rap Battles you name it and I was exposed to it at an early age.  Later in middle school and high school I started to develop my own musical identity which actually started with pop and rock.  By that time I'd identified that I wanted to be a musician, preferably a drummer in a band, so I started listening to old rock artists.  The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and then later Living Color, Rush and Van Halen.  I was still listening to and partying with friends while listening to urban music but I was studying drumming that I felt at the time was more accessible to a young drummer.
After high school I was awarded a talent scholarship to Xavier University of Louisiana. Upon entering the music program at XU I was basically thrown to the wolves of jazz.  I remember walking into my first band class and feeling smaller than an ant.  Everyone in the class was amazing.  After getting my butt whipped day after day I had to stop listening to all other forms of music to get a grasp of the language of jazz.  It took about a year for me to really start to understand jazz. After that year it didn't mean that I could play it, it just meant that I could start learning to play it. Once I figured it out I started to develop a massive appreciation for the music I grew up with.  Stevie Wonder and James Brown were no longer artists that were just played during family reunions they were as complexed as the best Bach Concerto.  The rest is history as they say.


Miss R: You have a show coming up in Seattle with Black Stax this month.

What can people expect from the show?

Ok, that's a hard question. My advice to the fans in Seattle is to expect the unexpected.  We perform for each and every venue like it's an arena that seats 50,000.  What ever you paid to get in, be prepare to get every cent worth.

Miss R: What do you like the most about performing?

I think the band has really began to come into it's own. Being back home in New Orleans, has allowed us to really play a lot of shows and really put on the shows we would like to perform. 
It's a great place to be original and people there actually get it.
I thoroughly enjoy getting on the stage being fully aware of what surprises we have in store and watching the audience respond to us pulling musical rabbits out of our hats.  It's like the old saying from the TV show The A Team.  I just sit back and think "I Love it when a plan comes together".

Miss R: Are there any other artists you would like to collaborate with?

I would love to work with Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Maurice White, Stanley Clarke, Corrine Bailey Rae, Lianne La Havas, Lenny Kravitz, Gary Clark Jr. and the list goes on.

Miss R: Do you have a process when writing songs? Do you come up with the lyrics first or the music?

My personal process is all over the place.  Sometimes I get the music first and sometimes I get the lyrics first.  Sometimes I just feel the need to write and I sit at the piano and start playing.  It's important to me to let my muse do as it will.  I do believe that sometimes you have to produce a good tune even when you aren't inspired.  I think the greats are really good at understanding how to make a hit even if their muse is on vacation.  In the past when I have been put into those situations I have had to learn to produce what was required of me without inspiration.

Miss R: I'm in love with  'Retro Electro' especially 'Night And Day'
& 'We've Got To Do This' Do you have a favourite track?

Wow Retro Electro was very special for us.  It was the first album we've recorded at home after moving back to New Orleans.  We have lots of New Orleans musicians on this one.  It was a great experience and opportunity to record some of the cover tunes we perform at our live shows.  It was really great that we had the chance to actually release it for free.
I can't say that I have any favourite tracks, but I will say that the 1st track that stood out to me was Sade's "Couldn't Love You More".  When we put that one together I thought this project may turn out to be cool after all.

"Retro Electro"  

Miss R: Would you guys like to perform in the UK in the future?

We would love to make it over to the UK.  It's one of our dream location.  People ask us that question all the time.  The truth is we were only offered an overseas trip once to Russia, which we did for 3 months.  I guess it's a compliment when people ask why haven't we accepted an offer for and overseas gig yet.  I put that question into the same category as when people ask why haven't you signed to a label yet?  Truth is no has ever offered.

Miss R: What's next for 'Water Seed'? Are you working on a new album?


We have been working on the new album for about 8 months now. Compared to Wonder Love 1 and 2 and Retro Electro which only took about 4 months to complete, we are really taking our time with this one.   We have put a lot of work into it and we want it to be something really special.  I spend some portion of everyday working on it, so I have no idea when it will be ready.  I will say that it will be well worth the wait.

"Build Me Up" feat. Jon Bibbs
Miss R: Do either of you have any other passions outside music?

I think we all have hobbies outside of music.  I can't for sure say I know what we do away from music.  Most of us workout on a regular basis and I believe at least of us enjoys comics.  I'm not saying who.

Miss R: What advice do you have for upcoming groups/artist?

Work hard.  Be creative.  Practice everything.  Make sure that you are prepared for all and any opportunity that crosses your door. Study, Study, Study. The industry as much as possible.  Network and at all times keep an open mind without sacrificing your integrity.



@WATERSEED

instagram.com/waterseedmusic

http://www.reverbnation.com/waterseedmusic

Wednesday 8 April 2015

'Chocolate' by Polo Paul ft Niqa Mor & E Pope

Deep message from coming from Polo Paul with his track "Chocolate" featuring Niqa Mor and E. Pope. Showing appreciation to black woman....Listen to the lyrics especially the poem at the end!


 
@PoloPaulMusic

soundcloud.com/polopaulmusic

How Many MC's (Freestyle 2015) by Lloyd Banks

While we await the release of 'Cold Corner 3' Mr Banks drops his freestyle over the legendary 'How Many MC's' beat by Black Moon.







You can also get 'The Beast is G Unit' EP via iTunes.
itunes.apple.com/gb/album/the-beast-is-g-unit














http://instagram.com/lloydbanks/

http://facebook.com/lloydbanks/
 
@lloydbanks

Tuesday 7 April 2015

New Music: "Let Me" by Richard Osborne feat Olivia-Louise

Smooth!!! New music from UK soul-singer Richard Osborne. "Let Me" features fellow British, songstress Olivia Louise. produced by Kayzee.







@rdfosborne

@Olivia_LouiseUK

@mrkayzeeprod

Miss Radcliffe Meets......So Realistic aka Reala

Already making a name for himself, James Richard Brooks also known as So Realistic/Reala, has opened up for Kendrick Lamar and Talib Kweli, Skeme, Fly Union, Asher Roth, Action Bronson, Oddisee, OverDoz & Elzhi.
After just one listen to his track "Reala (than the rest) Andolini" I was hooked! The beat and flow are on point and I absolutely love the video..I had to know more about the Hip Hop eMCee from Arizona.

  
So Realistic "Reala (than the rest) Andolini"




Miss R: I LOVE the video for "Reala (than the rest) Andolini" which was filmed in Tokyo...How did you end up there?


I play professional America-football in the Japanese X-League so that's why I was out in Tokyo. And, of course, wherever I go I'm working on my music. I love it. I'm traveling the world just doing what I love, I'm extremely grateful for that. 
I appreciate you taking the time to peep that video. Thank you. 



Miss R: Name Some of your musical influences. Who did you listen to growing up?

My biggest influences, within Hip Hop, are Talib Kweli, One Be Lo, Masta Ace, Jean Grae, Lupe Fiasco, Brother Ali and Jay Electronica.  Lately I've been listening to a lot of J. Cole, Drake and Kendrick Lamar because I feel like that's the bar right now for dope Hip Hop. I keep my ear to the streets so I know what's "hot" and at the same time I make music that I like, so if my fans like it, and I gain new fans, that's a huge plus.


Miss R: How long have you been making music?

I wrote my first verse to a Grayskull instrumental in 2005, I was 16 years old. 


 

Miss R: Do you come from a musical family?

No one in my immediate family was musical per say, but I had an uncle who was in a band growing up. For me, I think, I got into music because of how certain songs/artists made me feel. I feel like that's why music is so special and it'll never die because there's songs like "Zion Train" by Bob Marley, that literally re-inspire me every time I hear it. Every time I play that song it FEELS brand new and to me, great artist make you feel that certain way. 

Miss R: How would you describe your style to those who may not have heard your work? And how do you differ from other artist?

Tough question, I don't really know, nor do I care about having a specific style. I make music that I enjoy.  What would you say my style is?
As far as differing from other artists, I think I'm just myself. There's no other me so if I'm just myself, I stand out.



 Miss R: You have a unique sound which is why I'm excited to hear more from you.
You are about to drop your new album "Left Brain" what can your fans expect from this album and where can they get it?


My album will be available for free download, the release date is still TBA but I'm hoping April 2015. It's really just an autobiography of sorts. My LeftBrain is my right hand, which is just a transmission of my soul.


Miss R: Where has been your favourite place to perform? Where would you like to perform next?
I don't have a certain place I liked performing more so than just performing with Overdoz.  It was the greatest experience I've had because they're wild and crazy but at the same time take the music so seriously and it shows via their performances and their success or buzz or whatever you want to call it, it's dope as fuck.  Being able to tour with them and open for them a couple times was a lot of fun. 
Miss R: Have you ever competed in battle rap?

Na I haven't. I don't battle, I got too much to say to waste time battling. I'm trying to enlighten, encourage and educate. I have zero time to degrade another rapper. With that said though, I do talk about "sucks rappers" the rappers who exploit our culture for money and the rappers not carrying on tradition. 
Miss R:What has the feedback been like from the people in your home town?

Good and bad. Some people fuck with me, support me, some people hate on me and some people think I should be in the NFL as opposed to chasing dreams. Everyone's entitled to their own opinion. That'll never affect me, slow me down or speed me up. 



Miss R:Are there any other artist/producers you would like to work with in the near future?

Black Milk, Masta Ace and Jhene Aiko


Miss R: What was the last album you bought?

Geez, umm... Good kid ,Maad City,  maybe? 


Miss R: What are your plans for the near future? Are there any other projects you're working on?

I just want to get this album out, promote it, market it and try to get the most out of it.  I'll have a follow up project early 2016. I'm already working on that. 

Miss R: Thank you for your time and all the best with your Album and future projects.


MUSIC: soundcloud.com/so-realistic

TWITTER: @RealaAndolini

Monday 6 April 2015

'Sunshine' by 4i

UK rapper/singer and songwriter 4i has brought us another gem from his 'Soul Rich' tape. Check out his latest video for 'Sunshine'
If you haven't yet got yourself a copy of 'Soul Rich' by 4i then fear not! click the link below.
https://4iofficial.bandcamp.com











SUNSHINE by 4i
 



@4IOfficial
https://soundcloud.com/4iofficial
www.facebook.com/official4i

'SUNRAYS' by Chairman Maf

Pure Vibes!!!! I am loving this...Check out 'SUNRAYS' by Chairman Maf.




For more click the link  https://soundcloud.com/chairmanmaf  Also don't forget you can get his album 'PAINT' which is out now via  http://chairmanmaf.bandcamp.com/album/paint

@ChairmanMaf