My Youtube Playlist

22 May 2012

Mercston - Tsunami & E Class

He’s featured on national radio stations such as Kiss FM, Choice FM and BBC 1xtra, collaborated with some of the hottest names in the industry including Ghetts, Chipmunk, Bashy and Wiley, released a highly anticipated 11 track mixtape entitled ‘Ventilation’ and is well known for tunes such as Summertime and Good Old Days.

Mercston is a musician from East London, who like many artists, has been pursuing a career in music since his teens. I caught up with him to find out about his latest release his Tsunami, taken from his fourth-coming mixtape E Class, his influences, as well as how and why he decided to return to the music industry after incarceration.


I’ve been heavily involved with music since I was 18. I started out listening to the Pay As You Go's, the Rolldeep’s the Nasty Crews, and Ruff Squads. Then I decided…Hold up, I can do this too, and I started to make music in 2005.

I've grown up listening to music my whole life. My dad’s a DJ so at home there was always a lot of rare grooves, funk, soul, reggae RnB and hip hop playing on the Technic decks. All of these genres play a part in the music I record today - I have an old soul, lol.

I'm a quarter of The Movement" so I've worked with Ghetts, Scorcher and Wretch 32, that's family right there! Ruff Squad, Wiley, Bigz, Donaeo, J2k and many many more musicians. To be honest, I usually keep it in house, but I've worked with some amazing singers.

My time away held me back from releasing music, I even stopped writing for a year.

Then a good friend of mine, that i met, named Ray, reminded me of the gift I've been given – It’s not a talent, this is a gift - so I have to utilise it.

I started listening to music again and began writing to the best of my ability which helped me along my journey.

I believe labels know what I'm capable of but are scared of taking the risk, but it's all down to timing. So when the time’s right, it's right. I’ll just keep recording and making great music.

Jay Z has been a big influence, he's still the best in my eyes up untill now. Mase was a big influence; I use to think I was that brudder there, lol.

In the UK, Wiley was a big influence. He helped me to believe in myself and told me if I press on people will have to take me in, a similar thing was said by Chunky B, a good friend and the first producer I ever worked with, I appreciate them both.

The whole Movement team have been there too, they’re all great artists and being around them gave me no choice but to up my levels and be the best I can be.

At the moment, music hasn’t taken me anywhere great, but I foresee the future, so in the next interview I’ll let you know, lol.

My alias is just a spin off from my surname "Marston" I generally beat up the riddim put before me so I was given the name Mercs and kept the "ton".

Sacrifices, I suppose going to university. I know my family would have loved me to go because music has its ups and downs, but they wish me the best in whatever I do.

Me going to uni would have led to a concrete career. No regrets, just lessons learnt, without them I wouldn't be me today.

The music industry seems to be getting a little more accepting in regards to the music and artists being let through to showcase their sounds of music on a bigger scale.

I still feel not enough risks are taken and that this country needs to let go of this "one at a time" attitude, other that that, it's progressing.

There are so many artist out there right now I couldn't tell you who's next to blow.

I've seen so many people have a good buzz and been sure they’re about to blow then for "one at a time reason" nothing comes of it.

What’ next? I’ve just dropped my new video on the May 21st entitled Tsunami ft Siah Spiderman and Jaze Aliga which is taken from my forthcoming mixtape E- Class, which is dropping very soon.

The tape consists of different genres of classy music. It's named E class because a lot of people refer to my music as a touch of class another words "he class" hence the E class like Merc E class "ya get me" lol - if your one of those I appreciate that.

With this tape, I think I"ll take my fans back to my first mixtape "The End of the Beginning" you’ll find some smooth tracks on there for the ladies Apart from that I'd like to end this interview by saying expect the unexpected!

Peace and love Mercs !

For more of Mercston, you can now log on to his Official Website.

21 May 2012

Realmz - LoveTrain & RDVision

‘LoveTrain symbolises the love I share with the public and how they can be all aboard by supporting the clothing line’, explained 20 year old Realmz from South East London. After dabbling in the art of music and video he decided to use his creative expertise to build a clothing label that aims to build social cohesion.

I caught up with Realmz to find more about his label, Love Train, the current projects he’s working on, the messages behind his output - musically and visually - as well as where it all started.


I felt the clothing industry needed a revolution and I feel my label is just that. LoveTrain is an urban unique brand that emulates the purity and love that we should all have for each other. It aims to attract and include everyone, young and old, black or white, it’s just really about creating unity.

My music career started in school, I collected grime instrumentals but never writ any lyrics for them. Then I found confidence to write from my friends Leader, Bizz & Vazer - who are also artists From South East London – which was just what I needed and I’ve continued writing lyrics ever since.

My lyrics are influenced by my experiences and whilst pursing my career I’ve also learnt new skills. Originally, I wrote and listened to Grime music, but I began experimenting with different genres and I’m still challenging new genres today.

My videography started a few years ago in the summer of 2009.

I wanted to give underground artists a platform to express themselves, so i started editing the music videos I recorded, which was a good way for me to gain practice on the art.

Over the years I have provided artists with an efficient reliable service, which has thankfully strengthened my business and gained me a large fan base, but I know there's still progress to be made.

My target audience are those who indulge in the newer realm of music and entertainment. By which I mean that we are creating a brand new style of music for unique artists. I try to expand on my audience all the time by bringing new ideas and concepts that involves everyone.

The message I convey is a meaningful yet simple, ‘I hope that through my music and media I can design a vision for people to understand". It’s also important to be yourself most importantly, be something no one else has yet, channel a new route, don’t hold back your talents and really do everything in your power to express to full potential, so in a nutshell, "don’t hold back".

A typical day in my life includes mainly filming scheduled artists, attending studio sessions. where I work on different music projects to better my music.

I rarely have spare time, but when I do I use it to plan for fourth-coming projects the week, which may include filming, music or even selling product from my clothing line.

I like to chill with my team members, friends and family who are also music and media orientated. I work very hard to achieve my goals.

Alongside all my other stuff I’m also training to become a teacher, learning to play the guitar, piano and drums - which I hope to use elements of on my next mixtapes.

I’ve worked with artists such as Griminal, Kid Bookie, Dot Rotten, Mz Bratt, Fugzi Malone, DQ, Icer, Invasion Alert - at their 1xtra set 3 months ago - Izzy Kaye, AGFly, Double M, Recky Rampz, Complex - from USA - Big Spree - from Trinindad - and many more which you can find via my Youtube, Soundcloud and Facebook.

I’ve also worked with ITV's star Lucy Harold in her Hedd Magazine photoshoot which I filmed alongside Wowa Designz.

Not forgetting the recent project I filmed on MMA Boxer Brett Size-Land also alongside Wowa Designz which was used for a Hedd Magazine interview.

The magazine covers topics such as cars, models, fashion, celebrity interviews and more. In the future I plan to work with a lot of people, but mainly those who want to support me and my vision. No one specific.

I influence myself, through my journey in life is expressed throughout all my talents. When it comes to music i do find some grime artists very inspiring such as Ice Kid, Dot Rotten, D Bo, Lowkey, Black The Ripper, Devlin and others but I’m a very versatile listener so listening to a variety of different music helps expand my ideas.

I’m also influenced by those in my team such as Leader, Grief, Close Range, Tyrant, Intruder and Wowa Designz who give me advice and help to guide me.

I have alot of stuff coming, Musically: The Rise Of The Realm Volume 2 mix tape, which Is a follow up from my first promotional CD Rise of The Realm Volume 1, Leading The New Realm, which is a joint CD with artist Leader, from Motivated Music and Double M.

Leading The New Realm Volume 2 which is a joint CD following up from the first promotional CD Leading The New Realm and the Revolution, which is a team CD by Team Revolution that includes Grief, Leader, Tyrant, Intruder and other features such as Bizz, Agfly. I also have a few singles coming soon.

With RDVision I hope to continue to expand and meet more people via music videos and interviews, but I hope to include sports in the near future. I hope to build an empire from RDVision eventually.

Other than that I have a few movies and adverts coming soon. So look out for this, on top of that I still have items from my clothing line LoveTrain yet to come out  such as the Snapbacks, Beanies, Baby Clothes, Accessories and Underwear.

Plus other expansions on that original clothing line including Less Is More Clothing. Besides all that maybe a teaching career or guitarist who knows.

For more of Realmz follw him via Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Soundcloud.

18 May 2012

G Range - Money Back

The evolution of the music industry demonstrates that as a musician, solely singing or rapping just isn’t good enough, which is why a variety of musicians have adapted their craft to become visual editors, producers, song-writers and actors all at once.

However, this doesn’t always work, but after watching one episode of the virtual sitcom, True Ghetto Stories, I help being interested - even more so arranging an interview!

G Range, an East London musician who uses visuals to communicate his music, to find out about his journey into music, what his alias represents, his inspirations and more.

Everything you see and hear is me being myself and finding a way to express that. I never set out to make people laugh or feel sad; it’s just the way it’s turned out.

I'm an artist; it does me more justice because I create both visuals and music.

I love to create things to provoke an emotion whether it is to laugh or to feel sad and reflect!

That way, I hope it’s more appealing because it’s all genuine and from the heart.

It started in Hackney, East London where I was born. I've always been creative from as early as I can remember, but I consciously decided to turn my hobby into a career about 4 years ago.

When I say career, I mean doing things more professional and making the sacrifices it takes to have a career in this industry.

My music its authentic the emotion is real and the message is point blank, I think my audience recognise this and appreciate it, I also think my audience are open minded and daring like myself - ready to try new things.

My alias represents me, G for Gabriel which is my first name and Range which stands for distance, so it’s Gabriel's distance.

It basically reflects my spirit and drive to reach a higher level and always push boundaries.

I’m inspired by Tupac, mainly for his raw rap delivery, the passion in his voice and in your face lyrics! I also like Redman, Ludacris and Busta Rhymes for being visually entertaining and also sick rappers at the same time!

Sometimes when people see my True Ghetto Stories they think I’m very funny but not sure if I'm a good rapper. Then they hear my music and can’t believe how good I am and that's what I like, having the balance of good visuals and music.

I love the industry right now, it’s healthy and I'm happy that so many UK artists have crossed over to places that the scene hadn’t before, so it gives artists like me a platform to take the scene even higher.

I’ll be releasing a single called MONEY BACK very soon; I’m currently in talks with different labels regarding who I'll release it with.

But In the future you can expect more creative and entertaining music and videos and live shows across the country.

For more from G Range, you can now check out his new material via Youtube, as well as follow him on Facebook and Twitter.

16 May 2012

Ayo - Boom Ayo

Ayo is a musician from East London who started his music career at the tender age of 12. After experimenting with music with a childhood friend they then formed a duo ‘Illstarz’ in which Ayo became the lyricist and his friend made the beats.

Ironically Illstarz, is now the title of the label he co-owns. He then spent some time in the US during his teens where became heavily influenced by the Hip Hop Culture that gave rise to artist such as Jay Z, Nas, LL Cool J and Mobb Deep.


Ayo has recently release his latest single ‘Boom AYO’ featuring the likes of Princess Nyah, J2K and Frisco. I caught up with him to find out his sacrifices, future collaborations and his views on the current music industry.

I was influenced a lot by Hip Hop and staying with my cousin at the time it encouraged us to form a rap group, we recorded a few demos over known instrumentals, but were lacking original material.

So using tips and tricks learned from an old friend who used to make beats with, I began the production side of my career. Now years down the line I’ve managed to marry the two skills, rapping and producing, and add a little singing. Now my mission is to share it with the world.

I decided to turn my hobby into a career ‘when I was around 19, when I finished college and began working at a bar.

I was still doing music although it wasn’t something I did to support myself financially, but it would find a way of taking up all my time because I was so passionate about it.

Eventually, it started effecting my job at the bar in a bad way and i was called into my manager’s office. She sat me down and said "i can see you are not putting 100 percent into this job" I agreed and then explained to her why, she then said "either you put full focus on this job or you might as well resign because you will end up getting the sack" and that was my last day at the bar.

Two weeks later I sold my first production, a track called 'Married' which I did for 'Dj Ironik' 'warner music' - his record label at the time - paid me £2000 for it. From that point on I knew this was my new career and I never looked back.

I think my audience spans from the inner city to suburban youths and from the young to mature. I don't try to appeal to anyone I just do music I like but because my taste varies, I think it’s easy for someone to find at least one song of mine they like.

I don’t have any regrets, I think with anything I do, I go into it knowing there is no choice but to make it work.

Even if it’s harder than not doing it in the first place, so I never wish that didn't do things.

I love the music scene right now; I think the hunger that was prevalent in the 90's by artists is coming back! People are trying different things and working hard which inspires good music. My message is don't feel like you have to put yourself in a box to be cool, you can be respected for doing what you want to do.

Social networking really helps because you can reach people and know that your reaching them, whereas back in the day you wouldn't be able to see who your fans were or how many fans you actually have. Now you can communicate with them, you can also show them new music without having to do the full on promote via TV, radio concerts.

I’ve worked with quite a lot of artists, just to name a few, Labrinth, Dionne Broomfield, Jason Derulo, Rebecca Furguson, Roll Deep, Wretch32, Jessica Lowndes from 90210, Natt Weller, Paul Weller's son, the list goes on.

I really want to work with some more afro beat artists and maybe some rappers from the states such as Jay Z

Check out my new single 'Boom Ayo' it’s got a heavy urban remix ft J2K from Roll Deep, Princess Nyah & Frisco from Boy Better Know.

For more of Ayo, you can follow him via his Official SiteFacebook, and Twitter.

3 May 2012

Shivz Dot - Refuge

With 10 mix-tapes, 2 albums and a nationwide tour under his belt in addition to featuring on the MOBO’s Awards and BBC1Xtra Home-grown segment, and signing a management deal with The Rising Tide, we can only anticipate what’s next for East London musician, Shivz Dot.


I caught up with him to find out where it all started, who he’s collaborated with and his plans for the future.

‘When I was 14, I had airtime over both Urban Tings FM & Axe Fm in North London which were both huge internet Grime radio platforms back in 2005 and 2006‘, explained Shivz, when asked where his career began.’

This exposure enabled him to attract an audience, allowing him to rub shoulders with Grime Pioneers and most importantly get airplay across various London radio stations. He Recalls ’me and my friends started going to every radio set from Angel Whitelion to Dagenham, Redbridge and barking.’

At the age of 19, he  signed to a music management deal with Hackney’s , Rising Tide which specialises in training courses, creative apprenticeships, master-classes, and artist development , all of which provided Shivz with the skills and network base to pursue his music.

‘In 2008, I was selected as one of the final 10 to open at the MOBO awards, which was a great experience that I’ve used to better my craft.

During that time I did have to drop management due to a few shady movements, but I’ve learnt to NEVER mix family and businesses. ‘


‘I haven’t looked back since. They’re ‘no regrets’ - like Dappy says. But I’ve definitely sacrificed my social life, but it’s not really a sacrifice when I totally enjoy what I'm doing full time. I've been dominating the mix-tape scene with 10 releases, 11 on the way.

‘I’m sitting on 2 albums worth of material and I toured nationwide in 2010’ where he performed at the Big Chill, Lovebox, Indigo2, Hackney Empire and Bigga Fish. He recalls ‘It was a good feeling to see the crowd show mad appreciation for London talent.’ His 2nd tour is set to take place this summer.

‘At the end of 2011 I had my first national airplay on BBC1xtra on Target’s Home-grown show. In January I released my ground-breaking Refuge video which went viral and now has over 20,000 views to date.’

‘On my mix-tapes I say what I like and no one can tell me anything, but with the album stuff I tend to use my intelligence more than my ignorance,’ he laughs. ‘I appeal to all ages, all ages, but prominently 13 – 25.

'My influences are the old skool and just ground breaking moments in general in all types of music I tend to watch a lot of documentaries and archive footage of all the greats in music industry.'

‘I don't try and appeal to any audience I do the damn job and people just love what I do from all walks of life I don't go in the studio trying to get a certain sound anything you hear is just natural progression an I guess I’ve just proven I can do grime but easily switch up an go commercial & still sound damn good.

When asked about current and future collaborations he says ‘Let’s just say I've worked with some R & B Royalty within the UK when the album drops everyone will know.’

When asked who he’s inspired by he replies ‘me myself & I’ He continued ‘I have to aspire to better myself and that’s inspiration within itself.

I've turned down management deals from Crown Music who manages Jessie J not to mention a deal with Virgin so I’m not jumping into any contracts just yet, but expect an album sooner or later, more videos and just raising the bar worldwide.’

Shivz Dot's latest mix-tape Authentic is out now.

Also, you can follow him via Twitter and Youtube, as well as contact him personally viaFacebook.

2 May 2012

Jazzmine - North London's Rising Star

Like many musicians, 17 year old Jazzmine, grew up listening to the likes of Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Coldplay, but after watching Leona Lewis win the X Factor in 2006, the North London songstress decided to turn her hobby in a profession and hopefully make her dreams a reality.


I caught up with Jazzmine to find out what she focuses on when making music, any sacrifices her plans for the future.

My mum always told me, you’ve gotta be happy in your job, so I thought if music was my career, nothing would make me happier. God gives people talent for a reason and if you love something you should pursue it, so I decided to take the first steps.

At college people were studying for careers they love and could get a job in. But, studying music and getting a job in the industry, seemed so far away, so I studied hairdressing and worked part time as a hair stylist.

Where it started…

But after being made redundant, I thought it was a now or never so I began to take my singing more seriously. In late 2011 my best friend suggested I start doing covers on Youtube just to get my voice heard, it was always was something I’d considered but didn't know how to go about it - I didn't even have an account.

I had to start somewhere, so I jumped straight in, made a quick video and shared it online and as a result I got a lot of positive support and good feedback.

I remember watching Leona Lewis on X factor back in 2006 and when she won I realised that dreams really can come true. Singing always helped me concentrate I used to hum a tune to myself and then words from whatever I was thinking about just followed, so I started to write them down.

They started out on paper as notes which turned to poetry and then eventually song lyrics. I've always sung around the house, school, on the bus whenever I had a song in my head I would have to sing it out loud.

Her musical message…

Music has to mean something so it connects with listeners. I tend to focus on whatever's in my head and then let it flow, everything has a deeper meaning.
I focus on breaking the mould and making a better life for myself and my family. I don't want to just wake up to fortune I want to make it through something and that is music.

She recalls ‘one day I was looking out my window, thinking there's so much outside, so much more than what I had inside, it wasn't fulfilling.

Sacrifices…

Time is my only sacrifice, I have put a lot into my music which could have gone towards college work, but the way I see it is there's got to be sacrifices if you really want something and I anticipate a lot more in future. No pain no gain!

Hobbies…

Irish dancing, it’s a a great way of keeping in shape. I competed professionally when I was 7 and travelled a lot to different countries through such as Spain, New York and Ireland of course!

Her audience…

I'd like to think my voice appeals to a wide audience and I have a range of listeners. I think my audience will develop more over time.

A variety of ages can identify with me musically because as I interact a lot with different genres and styles which have a lot of similarities and musical interests.

The music industry…

Being a new artist in the UK when there's so much talent out there I'm bound to face comparisons. It’s hard to come out as something no one's seen and will accept. Even if you’re genuinely just being yourself people might say you're trying to be like so and so or you're similar to this person.

I think every artist should be known in their own right instead of being ranked against everyone else out there. There’re a lot of female artists doing big things at the moment and they’re all individual and bring something different to the industry, especially with a lot of British ladies coming through so quickly.

She adds ‘in a male dominated industry people think girls should be a certain way. The raunchy thing is in right now, so there's pressure on females to be sexualised and as a young female artist there's pressure to be a certain way, but I don’t have Nicki Minaj's body or Rihanna's raunchiness.

I'm just Jazzmine, so all I can hope is that people are able to appreciate that.

Her inspirations…

‘Whitney Houston, Beyonce, Alicia Keys and Rihanna, Adele, Jesse J and Leona Lewis’ – she explains ‘they had a dream from a young age and not only made it a reality but pursued it relentlessly.

Alicia Keys, I've loved her ever since I heard Fallin. Rihanna, she made it big in such a short time and wasn't afraid to reinvent herself, Adele her voice and her level of achievement is inspiring. Jessie J, her song writing ability is amazing and she writes in a way that a lot of young people relate to. Leona Lewis, she's so humble, I don't think she knows how great she is!

I'm generally a fan of strong female vocalists but I also love Snow Patrol, Coldplay, The Script and growing up I was a big fan of Avril Lavigne!

Future plans…

I don’t just want to be a Youtube cover girl; I'm working on my original material. My 1st track should be out this year and I am also working on a demo/EP.

I'm really working hard so you can expect a lot from me. I don't wanna say too much, everything is a working progress so catch up with me in the near future to see where I'm at

You can now catch follow Jazzmine via Twitter and Youtube. :)

22 March 2012

Gems - Road To Damascus

Gems is an music artists from South East London who released his debut album 'Road To Damascus’ last year, which has accumulated immense support on and off line. Overall, he uses his craft to illustrate his life and the things he’s been through, which initially started as a hobby when he was in prison in 1999.

Outside of music Gems works as an outreach & development worker for the Princes Trust, where he works with 16-25 year old helping them into employment and education. He has worked with young people for 6 years were he has acted as a holistic mentor, facilitating music workshops and life skills sessions.

I thought I’d catch up with him to find out more about his audience, sacrifices, collaborations and more.


What do you do and where did it start?

That’s a great question. To be honest it is really hard to pinpoint and single out one specific thing but if we are talking in regards to what I do musically, I would say I am a rapper and a song writer. I initially started rapping or free-styling in 1999 as a hobby and just to pass time whilst incarcerated in prison.

Who are your audience and how do you appeal to them?

I have never been one to pigeon hole myself so I would say my music has and does currently appeal to individuals that possess a diverse musical taste.   In addition to that the audiences that I have performed to and that have given me feedback have all hailed from different walks of life and different countries with rap not necessarily being there first love. But ultimately one thing that they do all have in common is that they share a genuine appreciation for music that is honest, transparent and depicts real life.

How has the scene changed and what impact has this had on you as artists?

The scene has changed immensely from when I first started out in a number of ways.  Not to sound too much like an old man (laughs) back then when I started rapping there was no Youtube, Twitter, Facebook or any of the other social networking tools to help you promote your gifting’s. So the power of the internet has given the music industry a massive facelift.  At present from one click of a button the whole world can be exposed to your music in the matter of seconds as before it was a much more hands on practical approach which involved more leg work.

Back then you also relied more on the radio stations, DJs and video channels to help promote you – though those components of the game have not lost their value they are no longer the only ways to market yourself as the mediums and outlets for music have grown.  Also there were only a handful of artists doing rap music in comparison to now were we have seen a massive influx and rise in the UK with so many up and coming artists’ grafting on the underground as well as the mainstream  ones taking the charts by storm.

In summary I would say the artistry levels have progressed and evolved as well as the public’s appreciation and acceptance for the art form expanding immensely.

When did you make the transition from music as career in comparison to it being a hobby and what does it mean to you?

It’s crazy because I work full time, been married for nearly 6 years as well as do music – so it’s a massive balancing act. I would say though I started taking music seriously in 2004. After taking some time out in 2005 my seriousness kicked back in around 2007. To me music is a way to express thoughts, feelings and capture emotions and convey them in your own creative style. I now realise the importance much more as what you say can have a massive effect on your listeners whether it be good or bad. For me I see music as a way to promote Jesus and highlight how great he is.

Have you made any sacrifices to pursue your career, if so what where they and has it been worth it, any regrets?

Many sacrifices have to be made in life especially if you have a goal or dream that you would like to see transition into a reality. I have had to make quite a few on my musical journey with two coming to mind. First sacrifice as mentioned above was when I took some out from music mid 2005 which in hindsight proved to be a defining moment for me as I was going through loads of internal changes which then began to have a massive positive impact on my outlook on life.  At the time I was so focused on music that if I had not nipped it in the bud it could have become a huge hindrance in my change process, as music took up a lot of my time and required extreme focus and attention.

I became a Christian in late 2005 and realised that God was more concerned with my soul and character than my musical gifting’s.  So in taking time out I learned that you should ‘’never let your gift take you where your character can’t keep you’’.  To some it may seem like I took a step back when in fact at times I did think that as well but now when I look at it I have seen the great impact that it has had on me as a person and writer to this present day.  But it was actually a sacrifice that has helped my music career.

Also when it comes to money (laughs) I have gone without buying certain things that I may need/want to be able to invest into my career.

Regrets – can’t say I have any – everything has been one massive class room experience as I have learned some priceless truths on my travels and picked up some valuable nuggets.

Where is the best place music has taken you?

Music has allowed me to perform in a vast amount of diverse arenas in and out of the country. Some of these places include -universities, schools, night clubs, churches and Notting hill & Manchester carnivals.  I have been overly fortunate to perform in Germany at a massive youth conference which was an experience of a lifetime as well as gig in Wales. The most diverse setting I have performed in would be when I performed at a massive conference in Bournemouth which was full of politicians, judges, dignitaries and professional practitioners from all over the country.

Who have you collaborated with and who do you plan to work with in the future?

I have collaborated with Mobo award winner Jahaziel, Dwayne Tryumf and Linslee Campbell who is a great musician that has worked with likes of the Light House Family. I have also worked with a few British underground gospel artists as well as working with a rapper from Michigan (USA) by the name of Colt Sack and not to mention SLR (Street Light Rimes) and songstress Shivon Bailey.

Who do I plan to work with in the future? (Laughs) loose lips sink ships we’ll see what the future has in store.

What can we expect from you in 2012?

I am still promoting my mix tape - Road 2 Damascus- which came out in 2011. This is still available for download at www.gems-music.com. You can also be kept up to date with all my latest songs and videos via my site as well. I will be releasing a compilation CD which will be a collaborative effort from myself and my partner in rhyme SLR which is titled ‘’The Great Invitation’’. You can also expect more videos & features as well as a few exclusive treats.

For more of Gems, log on to his Official Site.

Kozy - Ali Kosé

After covering tracks from the likes of Lil Wayne, Maroon 5, Jessie J, John Legend and more he’s managed to accumulate more than 50,000 YouTube views. Not only is this South London male a songwriter, but a producer, singer and composer that uses his craft to work with disaffected young people in his local community, where they've worked together to set up an independent radio station.

Kozy formally known as Ali is a musician who started MC'ing at the age of 16, where he made the commitment to write songs to reflect the social times in which he lived.

Since then he has grown from strength the strength expanding his craft. I thought I’d catch up with him to find out more.

‘I sing, song write, play multiple instruments, produce and compose music from different genres. Says Kozy, he continues, ‘when I was 12 I started playing guitar’ from there on he began to develop his love for music. He continues, ‘when I was around 21 years old, I started singing and i found my passion for music grew stronger and before I knew it was taking vocal lessons to develop my unique voice.

For Kozy, Music is ‘self-fulfilment and spiritual healing’; he explains ‘when I sing I feel happy, I feel complete and pure in my soul.

‘My audience are people who enjoy genuine vocal gymnastics and the appreciation of a well-trained voice. Usually, people who feel music from the heart and soul can relate to my raw approach.’

‘My natural focus, versatile vocal range as well as my ability to sing in a pop genre, sweeps across the board and finds its charm into fusing with any given genre of music. I think appeal to people through adapting my lyrics to all age groups and writing songs everyone can relate to.‘

‘I am inspired by Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Motown, Prince, Stevie Wonder, Queen, Frank Sinatra, Baby Face, Boys 2 Men, Fugees, Wyclef, Dru Hill, Musiq Soul Child, Glen Lewis, Pharell Williams, Ginuwine,  Donell Jones, Jon B, 2 Pac, Bob Marley, Damien Marley, Joe, Miguel, Sade, Dr Dre, Dark Child, Destinys Child, Turkish artists, Latin music, film music.’

‘Pretty much anything I can enjoy listening to and take an influence from to help my creativity. The reason why I love music in general is because of Michael Jackson.'

'His tape was bought for me when I was 5 years old in the 80's and from there I fell in love. I’m passionate about all genres of music but, I especially appreciate production from the likes of Quincy Jones for his versatility across the board, especially in film and music production.’

He would say that 3 crucial qualities of a musician are ‘feeling, uniqueness and ability to convey a message’. He explains, ‘A musician should be almost like an actor who can make you feel the theme of the story he or she is narrating through the flow of a unique expression and role play.'

When asked what we can expect from him in the future he says. ‘I’m at the stage of recording my professional original material. So you can expect to hear some unique sounds that I’ve composed wrote & produced myself, with some spectacular music video concepts to go with that. Once that’s done I’ll be touring all around the world making my merchandise available.'

For more of Kozy you can log on to his Official Site as well as follow him via Twitter and Youtube.

9 March 2012

L Momrelle - The Easy EP & Blue Bars series

Although he’s a full time student he dabbles in music part-time which has allowed him to work with over 25 up and coming artist from South London, namely MC Tigz and Bartoven. He says “as soon as I finish my degree this year music is going to be a lifestyle.”

L Momrelle is a musician from South London who plans to take his music career to the next plateau after his studies. I caught up with him to find out where it all started, who he’s collaborated with and his plans for the future.

'I'm a music producer from Lewisham; I've worked with loads of musicians from Lewisham and worked in 5 studios as a recording and mixing engineer.

'I mainly produce, but I dabble in everything music wise other than singing and dancing.'


'It all started Primary school; everyone would mess around rapping and beat boxing in the playground and rap to monophonic ringtones. Then in secondary school it just continued and over time progressed.

'I found that I was much better at anything creative like art, music and media than subjects like history, geography and science. So after my GCSEs I studied music technology at college and loved it which is where it all really started for me.'

‘When I make music, my focus varies, it depends on the situation.  Sometimes I'll have something in mind that I want to make so I'll focus on capturing a feeling, or sometimes I want to make something better than my last beat, so I try to outdo myself.'

'With the 2 projects I'm working on “The Easy EP” series and “Blue Bars series” I'm focusing on making good music with people from the borough - Blue Bars - and focusing on making the deepest music based on sampling - Easy EP.’

‘At the moment there isn't really a set audience, it’s just people that like my music so it ranges from young aspiring teens to adults. Ideally I'd like to appeal to everyone and anyone but more importantly I have to make what I enjoy making, so anyone that hears my stuff and likes it is my target audience.'

Some of his inspirations include Ryan Leslie, 40, Terrah Danjah and Davinche. He explains ‘Ryan Leslie and 40 - Drakes main producer - are big inspirations because in my opinion they’re the best, but I have respect for producers like Terrah Danjah and Davinche because they've done a lot for the scene I basically grew up in.'

He decided to take his music more professional during his ‘final year of university.’

He explains, ‘I felt I've secured "the normal" lifestyle, meaning I could have a stable job with my degree, but instead I want that to be something to fall back on. What I really want is to take my producing skills as far as possible and just do my best.'

When asked what 3 important qualities of a musician and why, he replies are ‘their personality, being genuine and being good at their craft,’ he elaborates, ‘it’s important to show personality because then people like the artist and not just the music.'

'Being appeal to appeal to a wider audience is important but, it’s just annoying when the person’s not genuine, like they're just trying to do music because its kool but they have nothing to say.

'If you’re trying to be a lyrical artist and your contents not good then it’s just not good! But if you’re trying to be a wavey mc and your contents wack but your mad wavey then you’re good. If an artist does all the above then they're good.'

When asked what we can expect from him in the future he says ‘Loads of collaborations, the “Easy EP” and "Blue Bars" series.

'A lot of work with MC Tigz and Bartoven - I'm feeling them at the moment - Grime, Rap and possibly some Bashment. Just expect the unexpected really...'

For more of L Momrelle log on to his Official Site, listen to his music via Soudcloud and Youtube and follow him via Twitter and Facebook .

19 February 2012

Fonzie - Drank In My Cup

'Football is my wife and music is my side chick' says. Fonzie the 22 year old member of the music collective Non Stop which includes Magic, Handles and D-1. Fonzie is a musician from West London who ironically picked up a mic and decide to pursue career in music only 4 months ago after his 1st performance at iLuvLive. Since then he has continued to release music such as Drank In My Cup and I Get Fly Girls' via YouTube.

I thought I’d catch up with him to find out who is audience is, the best place he’s performed and his plans for 2012.

‘I have fun with my music’ says Fonzie when he’s not gaming on skateboarding or playing football. I got my alias from my dad we used to watch "Happy Days" and he just used to say I’m cool as Fonzie, so i took that and never went back.

‘I’ve always been interested in it so 4 months ago I picked up a mic and thought "let me give this a try.  A lot of the artist these days are too serious and forget to be themselves, so I think they all tend to be the same.’

‘I try to aim at everyone when making music. I used to be on the road thing so I know what those who hustle are going through. I stopped because I started to see my brother was following in my foot steps and I didn't want him to go down that road.’

‘I’m a laid back cool guy so I do, do some tunes for the cool dudes. I was also brought up in a house full of women, so I tend to know what they are going through as well, so generally I just try and make music that EVERYONE can relate to.’

One of the best places I’ve performed at would have to be ‘iLuvLive, because it was my first performance’ He continues, ‘I was drunk so everything sounded on point, but I got mad positive feedback so it’s all good’ he laughs.

I think in this industry, ‘artists should be their own person. Everyone’s talking this gun thing or drug thing which is messing the minds of young people. Artists should definitely change their tune and talk about something else; everyone doesn't have to know you’re a “roadman”.

He would advise up and coming musicians to ‘NEVER STOP WORKING’

‘In 2012 you can expect to hear my name everywhere. Not just my name though, also my team Non Stop which includes. Magic, Handles and my producer D-1, look out MAYNE!!’

You can now follow him via Twitter and Facebook  as well as check out his music via Youtube

18 February 2012

Marvin Live - Pre-Season and Live Show

Music means the world to me and I hope I'll be able to continue making it for many years to come’ says Marvin Live who originally entered the music scene in 2003 making Grime music under the alias Be Marvel, alongside musicians such as DDark, Skips, Spyro, Kills K and Beastie. After taking a well-deserved break from music, developing and expanding his craft, Marvin returned to the scene in January 2011 to pursue his music career.

I thought I’d catch up with him to find out his thoughts on the current scene, sacrifices and future plans.

‘I’m a rapper and song writer. I'd say it’s hard to distinguish my audience as I make music for a variety of genres – acoustic, hip-hop, dub step and electro. But, I feel I appeal to my listeners through simple concourse line and a very enthusiastic flow.

‘The scene has changed dramatically since 2005. Artist have more of a brand like approach, image plays a huge role and the internet is a big platform which allows artists - like myself - to gain fans, without any artificial promotion.Personally, this hasn't made any sorts of changes in an artistic stand point, but definitely made an impact on my promoting and marketing approach to the industry.'

He decided to make the transition between music as a career in comparison to being a hobby in ‘March 2011’,he continues.

‘The love I possess for music is huge, and to be giving the ability to speak your mind and views on music is an amazing feeling, especially when it's appreciated in the right way.

'Music means the world to me and I hope I'll be able to continue making it for many years to come.'

‘My biggest sacrifice has been time. I rarely
see my friends and family due to studio, meetings, videos etc. Making steps closer to my dream, no matter how big the steps are, is always worthwhile. So far I would say The Roundhouse EMI showcase is the best place I’ve performed. I was given a huge opportunity to perform alongside great up and coming acts.

I've worked with a number of artists since I've been back. Treble clef, Mr Lonely, Trun, Ddark, Terra, Smokie Badbrey, Elshay, Bex the list goes on, but I‘m also good friends with most of them. I know it's a little farfetched but I've always wanted to work with Adele, Estelle, and Lana Del Rey.

‘I have two mix-tapes already finished called Pre-Season and Live show’, he says when asked what we can expect from him in 2012, he
continues.

‘I'm currently working on another one called Staged, but I would say just expect me to flood the industry dramatically. “It’s going to be a LIVE year "

You can now follow him via Twitter, add him on Facebook as well as watch all his latest music videos via Youtube.

26 January 2012

Eddie Masih - I Remember

After covering Hallelujah by Alexandra Burke he was nominated in the World Music Online Radio Charts, where he won 3rd place, not to mention being the only UK act in the top 10. This exposure allowed him to accumulate a large fan-base that has taken him to radio interviews; tours and huge events such as The Birmingham Soho OscarsThe Oracle Trust Ball and London where he has opened for UK Boy band The Wanted.
Eddie Masih is a 19 year old musician from Birmingham, England who has been pursuing his music career since his early teens. He has recently released his new Funky House single I Remember, which is attracting a lot of support. 

I thought I’d catch up with him to find out more about his journey.

'I’m as a model, singer and song-writer; music has always been my passion. But unfortunately at a young age I developed cancer which stopped me from singing. 

'From that moment on I decided to teach myself again and I’ve never stopped since, singing and songwriting based on my life experiences.'

'I started like anyone else with doing videos locally, but luckily they’ve spread global and ever since then things have progressed taking me to gigs, radio appearances, tour, newspapers and a lot more and I’m hoping to keep pushing it as much as possible until I reach my dream.'

‘I’ve worked with a lot of UK rappers, but my dream would to be to work with my idols, either be Mariah Carey or Stevie wonder, too be honest I’ve got too many people I would love to work with or even meet. '

'My music represents love and life and faith. I believe love is the only thing that can be given and received freely. I always keep god in my music as he’s kept me strong through everything in life, and I think it’s me being different what attracts listeners to me.’

‘I’ve learnt that this industry is not just a hobby but something you’ve got to work on 24/7 and always push yourself. When you’re deep in the music industry it can break down your confidence but you learn to never give up on faith. There are loads of people that inspire me, seriously, I could name so many. 

'I've learnt so much from artists including vocal techniques, especially from Mariah Carey. Overall he would say that ‘no matter how bad your life starts out you can always make something huge out of yourself.’

In the future we can ‘expect a lot’ he says, he continues ‘I‘m doing TV work, radio work and new releases, a lot of upcoming gigs and I’m close to signing a couple of life changing contracts so you should be hearing a lot more from me.’

For more of Eddie log on to his Facebook and Youtube