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.

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.

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 Site, Facebook, and Twitter.

Showerz Spaceboy - Young & Restless

Showerz also know as Spaceboy is an up and coming musician from Walthamstow, East London. At the tender age of 16 he is eager to establish his place in the music industry by making his music appealing to a variety of tastes and genres. He hopes to transform his hobby that started in his bedroom into a career, inspired by the likes of Jay Z, Wretch 32 and Tinie Tempah. Earlier this month he release his mixtape The Method To Madness which and he is now in the process of releasing his pre album Young & Restless which débuts later this year.

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

'I’m Showerz but I’ve also recently adopted the name Spaceboy, so some call me Spaceboy Showerz. I’m, 16 from Walthamstow in East London which is the place that has really helped shape me, both musically and in general life'.

'When I’m not in the studio or performing I’m usually in school or catching up with coursework I like to keep busy and work as hard as possible. I rap and song write and it all started in a bedroom in East London'.

'I enjoy making music and I always want to push it as far as I can and break barriers; I think that’s my main motivation. I’ve had to grow up a lot sooner than most people my age, I’ve never really had much time to party or have fun outside of music but that’s not something I regret that’s just the way it has to be'.

'I think I’m very fortunate in terms of my audience, it’s so varied. From my old-school friends who all grew up on my local estate to young girls who come from complete opposite backgrounds. I’m just grateful I can make music which appeals to such a wide range of people'.

'I would definitely say the UK industry is at its best right now. I’m glad to see rappers and musicians in general breaking such massive barriers and opening doors. I think the internet has helped a lot of new artists build their buzzes, if you can use it right it’s your best friend. It’s definitely changed me, as the industry is evolving so am I'.

When asked to name three artists that he admires he says ‘I wouldn't say I admire them but I am inspired by Wretch and Tinie for all they’ve done for the UK’s industry over these past couple years. Seeing those two hitting number ones and breaking the states is inspiring. Overall, I think Jay-Z is definitely a big inspiration. Watching him over the past 10 years really shows how far this can be taken'.

'I’d say now the internet is the biggest and most powerful platform as far as promoting yourself with out a major budget and building a fan base goes. There’s really no limit in how far you can take it using the internet'.

'Right now I’m working on my Pre-Album ‘Young & Restless’ which is really shaping up nicely, plus we start filming the video for my first single this week so that’s also something to look out for also every Sunday I do something called #ShowerzSunday where I release a new free promotional track or video for the people so make sure you check them out! Finally I would like to take some time to thank my Tru Starz Entertainment team for being behind me and pushing me'.

Follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Youtube and download the new mixtape The Method To Madness. 

Writeway - One Way

Writeway are a gospel music collective from East London that consists of singers, rappers producers and songwriters. As a collective they are determined ‘Lead the world to live the right way!’ by making music with a positive influence entwined with their beliefs in the Christian faith. They have had the pleasure of working with commendable gospel artist such as Victizzle, Guvna B and Dwayne Tryumf in addition to performing at events in the UK and overseas.

I thought I’d catch up with Tunday, one of the four members of the group to find out where it all started.

‘My Names Tunday, I’m a gospel rapper, songwriter, and sports fanatic, I love gym and football. I released my 1st album ‘Identity’ on 13th June 2009 at an album launch with the MOBO Award winning Victizzle who won the Best Gospel Act 2009 which attracted 2000 people the event. I also won an award in 2009 from the Christian Broadcast Council which gave me the chance to tour the UK and abroad sharing my life experiences at youth seminars in countries such as New York, Florida, St Lucia and India. I have also worked with men from prisons and Youth institutions. My style is a blend of Hip Hop, Indie Rock and R&B.’

‘I wanted to use music to influence the people around me to live a life that was in direct contrast to the negative lifestyle celebrated by so many. I understood the impact that music had on the growth of a person and felt there was a gap in society that an organisation with the right manifesto could fill. Luckily, I came across individuals who felt the same way and liked this concept. So we all started this Journey together.’

‘The name Writeway is taken from Proverbs 3:5-6 meaning for God to direct our steps and lead us in the right direction. The names spelt that way because we want to lead the world the right way through our writing’

He feels that it’s very important to buy as an artist as ‘It’s a symbol of empathy and support. With the amount you invest as an artist, you wouldn’t want to see it go down the drain when someone could have easily bought your material. We all bought Triple O's album, a UK gospel artist who released his small project called ‘Come Home’ in December 2010.’

‘As a group we'd love to collaborate with Mali Music. His qualities are so diverse, a producer, a rapper a singer. He'd compliment our sound on a track because he sounds like 3 different people in one! Our music is aimed at young teenagers aged 13 and upwards. Our siblings are those ages, and even though we are in our early 20's, we haven’t forgotten what its like to be in our teens and we obviously know what its like to be a young adult in this world. We appeal to this age group because we relate to them.

                    

He’d describe the journey so far as ‘a roller coaster ride in the dark. Thrilling, fun but a scary ride because you just don’t know what’s going to happen next. I’ve got a sophomore album out soon, but I’m not going to reveal when it will be out just yet’.

The collective consists of three other members who go by the name of Presha J, Leke and Rhema, this is what they had to say.

‘I'm Presha J, im a 22 year old is a rapper. I released a single in 2008 called “No More” featuring Tunday which pushed me to start my first project which was my EP named “Changes” in 12th December 2008. I also released a music video named “Whose Side Are You On” that has gained over 31,000 views so far and was also featured on Channel AKA playlist. On the 10th December 2010, I released another video called “Changes” which was taken from my EP, which has prepared me for my release of my 1st album in 2011. My style is a mix of Indie Grime, Hip Hop and RnB.  

Aside from music he ‘goes to the gym’ and ‘writes a lot’. When asked about his journey so far he says ‘This for me has been exciting, I can’t complain, I love music so I'd say it’s a privilege! Im currently finishing up on a few singles planned for the year and my 1st album.’

‘My names Leke Akinyemi I’m a 20-year-old worship leader, singer and songwriter, I’m also an official worship leader in my church. I’m currently working on my EP and a music video for 2011. I have collaborated with the likes of Dwayne Tryumf who is an International Gospel Artist, Victizzle who won a MOBO Award for the Best Gospel Act in 2009 and Guvna B who aslso won a MOBO Award for Best Gospel Act in 2010. My style is R & B, Acoustic, Indie Rock and Worship.

When he’s not making music Basketball is his hobby. He would describe his journey so far he says as ‘a motorway journey, some what of a tour of Life, making many stops and progression along the way. I’m working on various things but focused on my E.P. and a single! The Writeway Short-film is also due to be released soon!

‘Yo my names Rhema and I'm a 21 year old rapper and youth leader in development,

I've always desired to use music to spread my testimony. I am a newly recruited artist on this firm. I released my first music video & Downloadable track with Writeway on 31st January 2011, which received 5,000 views nationwide & over 1,000, downloads within the first week. My mixtape is set to be released in later this year.

Aside from music he also I loves basketball and writing! He says that his experience so far has been ‘Awesome’ he explains ‘I've met a lot of people, this time last year I’d never think I’d be doing what I’m doing now, I’m just very grateful, a very awesome journey. I have a free mixtape coming up this year, please look out for that! I'm working on it as you read this lol!

According to the collective  the ‘Impact is more important than music but music will be the foundation for WriteWay to expand and create an open door for the youngsters of this generation to use their gifts whether it is singing, acting, photography or to represent the youth in politics to continue in the “right way’

For more of Writeway, you can now contact them via  their Official Site or Facebook.

Stefan Paul - Sketch Designs

Stefan Paul is an artist from East London, mostly known for his portraits designs and most recently as tattooist and interior designer. You could say his talent runs in the family, as his brother Shawn Paul, who is also his business partner, started the Sketch Designs company back in 2005, which is now a company they both own and have been running ever since . Their work has caught the eye of many mainstream musicians, such as Ironik, Dizzee Rascal and Skepta.

I thought I'd catch up with Stefan Paul himself to find out where it all started. 

'The ability to draw can be used for various things. That's why I've gone into tattooing and designing' says Stefan. 'Sketch Designs was introduced to me by my older brother and partner who is as skilled as I am, but with more experience. He brought me into Sketch Designs when he realised my skill level really improved.

He's noticed that 'a lot of portrait artist in particular just stick to portraits' so by expanding his craft to include tattooing and interior design he feels this is what makes him different. He says 'my audience is everyone, literally everyone. Young and old, poor and rich, Black, White or Asian. You name it. By drawing anything on their request, I appeal to them.

'So far he has managed to catch the eyes of musicians within the UK music scene such as that Skepta, JME, Frisco, Ironik, Dizzee Rascal, Double S and many more. But one day he would ultimately love to design ‘for the queen’. He says ‘If my passion was not art, it would have definitely been football. I was pretty good before I was diagnosed with asthma. But everything happens for a reason I guess.’

Right now we are working on our gallery; we have had it for a while but were just waiting to launch the website first before we begin to invite people over. So look out for your invite later this year. I am on Facebook, Twitter and Myspace non stop networking as much as I can, I also give out business cards every day and as I said our website is currently in its finishing stages, so you can definitely expect a lot more from us.

For more of Sketch Design, you can now contact them via Facebook , Twitter and Myspace and as mentioned above keep your eyes peeled for the opening of their fourth coming website and gallery later this year. 

Big Cakes - Blue Cheese

'I've always loved music and always wrote lyrics, so taking it on a professional level was the only thing that made sense', say Big Cakes who is a hip hop musician from East London. Earlier this year he released his mixtape 'Preheat' which featured artists such as Raggo Zulu Rebel, Flow Dan, Sherry Davis and Morfius. Since then he has released his debut album 'Blue Cheese'.  I thought I'd catch up with him to find our more.

'He or she who has ears should hear me. Every hip hop listener should hear my music because the essence of true hip hop is preserved in it', says Big Cakes when asked who is his audience. 'I'm quite skinny, most people expect me to be a big out of breath character that eats cake all day, but Big Cakes is a next kind of cake. After all what's a party if u ainte got CAKE? I've always loved music and always wrote lyrics, so taking it on a professional level was the only thing that made sense'

'Preheat was mixtape just to warm things up while I cooked up and served up my next meal' in this case he means his debut album Blue Cheese' which now available via iTunes. He says 'Before you cook something in an oven you preheat it, to get it ready at the right temperature to start cooking’ which was the idea behind Preheat.’

Cakes has had the pleasure of working with a variety of musicians including Raggo Zulu Rebel, English Frank, Mike GLC, Flow Dan, Frizzle, Logic, Lowkey, Mic

Righteous, Sherry Davis, Nadine Walker just to name a few. In the future he would like to work with Nas, Ghostface Killah, Beyonce, Jehst, Chris Brown and Rhianna. He says 'I think the collaboration of such diverse angles and views will be a beautiful thing'

The music industry has changed in the sense that 'Over here, I would say the market is getting bigger but ideas and originality is dwindling.' I love music and so supporting it is a standard operating procedure. I buy music all the time, from people selling CDs after shows or downloading from the internet. I haven't actually bought a CD from a shop in a little while but that's because I haven't been to a music shop in ages'

In the future Big Cakes hopes 'to keep setting goals and achieving them. You can now BUY his new album Blue Cheese from iTunes or Bandcamp, add him on Facebook and follow him via Twitter.

Sir Spikes - Cast the First Stone

‘I’ve always been into music from a young age, I used to turn all the pots upside down and beat them with sticks' says 21 year old Samuel Jimmah formally known as Sir Spikes from East London, who is a musician, poet and aspiring actor. After migrating to the UK, just over 10 years ago he found his love for music. Samuel is currently working on his forthcoming mixtape 'Cast the First Stone' which débuts July 2011.

I thought I'd catch up with him to find out where it all started. 

'I'm a poet, rapper and an aspiring actor' I have always been into music from a young age. When I moved to the UK ,I fell in love with Grime’. This is where it all started for Sir Spikes, who originally claimed the alias 'Spikes' due to his love of knives. ‘I used to listen to and record sets on my mums old tapes, which she wasn't too happy about.' What he loved about Grime, was the rawness of the scene, the ability to say anything. Sir Spikes found himself writing lyrics which he then recited over the beats recorded making him feel as though he was really there on the radio himself, but it wasn't until year 8 where he decided to write more. 

'I was way too shy to let anyone hear, but as I got older my confidence grew. I was a very angry and violent growing up which influenced a lot of my early material. I felt like an outcast the only tune I felt that people listened to was when I rhymed so to me that was my voice.' As he got older 
he started to realise that he could do more with his gifts, but it only really hit him after loosing two of his close friends and coming close to loosing his own life. From his experience he started writing poetry, as he found it easy to put his words on paper. For him 'poetry quickly became a release rather than waiting for a beat' to record music. 'My music has grown and matured a lot and have finally found my self through music. '

'No other musician is like me', he says when I ask how he differs from other artists. 'I'm far from big headed, but I feel that the scene hasn't experienced a mind like mine. I bring soul to a track which enables the listener to fall in a trance and be taken on a journey. I appeal to a lot of people from males to females and to a general age simply because I am very versatile. I don't tie my self down to one thing, like to explore to create new things'.

It's obvious to see that the UK music industry has opened up and allowed a variety of artists to take the mainstream by storm, but for Samuel all he can see in the current industry 'is people who really don't have a passion for music'. He says 'most people go into the industry simply for the money so the messages they reveal are shallow. I would like to bring back heart and soul to music. I am inspired by singers such as Adele because she is real. Nowadays when you switch on the TV all you see are recycled versions on a few people. No one is original any more.'

Michael Jackson, Alicia keys, Jessie J, Adele, Eva Cassidy and Tracy Chapman are just a few of his many inspirations he feels 'they are true to themselves and they truly care about the influence of their music.' In the same vein he admires artists from the rap scene such as ‘Kanye West, Dizzie Rascal, Wretch 32, Tu-pac, and Gigs’. He feels inspired by them as they prove that it is possible to make it in the music industry, despite all the negativity around. He says 'if you work hard and push for it then nothing is impossible’. He is also inspired by a lot of Nigerian artists such as Debanj, 2face Idibia and Ice Prince, he says ‘I am a proud Nigerian so I support the music’.

'Open your eyes and go for it' is the advice he gives to up and coming musicians 'you only loose when you stop trying. Hard work plus determination gives birth to success. Clear your minds and vision how your life will be when you make it'. In the future, Sir Spikes hopes to have a successful career in music and give back to others by 'helping the less fortunate'.

His mixtape ‘Cast the First Stone’ is due to be released July 2011 so be sure to support him. For more of his music check out his Soundcloud, Youtube and follow him via Twitter.

Dirty Danger - The 'I Ainte Rich Yet' EP

He began making a name for himself at the tender age of 13, taking his music from local youth clubs to pirate radio stations. Now at the age of 24 he has released his début album entitled 'I Ainte Dead Yet'. Dirty Danger is a musician from East London who has worked with some of the industries bests musicians including Wiley, Sway, Chipmunk and Lethal B. Similar to many artists, he has made a number of sacrifices throughout his career, yet he has stood by his words of wisdom, contending, 'if you don't believe in yourself who will? I thought I'd catch up with him to find out his views on the current music industry as well as what his future music plans are.


What do you do and how did it start?

I’m a grime producer and mc from Bow - East London. An area notorious for UK grime music and its stars who include, Dizzee Rascal, Wiley, Tinchy Stryder and many more. Since the age of 13 I've been making music with a group called Ruff Squad the same group as Tinchy Stryder. We started MC’ing at each others houses and youth clubs which quickly escalated into pirate radio and local raves. As our name grew bigger in the streets my passion for music became stronger and years later at the age of 24 music is my profession.

What difficulties have you faced and how have you overcome them?

Within the music industry, from the start of going on pirate radios to making music videos I faced so many difficulties and still face them this very day. I would say communication, finance and exposure have been the hardest things to overcome and the only way I have learnt to deal with these difficulties have been my belief. I always say to myself if you don't believe in yourself who will? So with that thought in mind I managed to stay determined to make people believe in me no matter how many knock downs I come across.

Who are your current competition and what makes you different?

Every act in the UK is my competition. I’m different because I’m not trying do what the majority of the UK music scene are doing. My music is a new fresh sound, I’m trying to bring back the dance in Grime with tracks like 'Hardbody' but at the same time hit them with my knowledge and my experiences of life, which you can hear in my album.


What motivates you as a musician?

Just the simple case of loving music motivates me. I’m always up for hearing something new and different so I can feed off of the energy.

Which artists have you worked with and who would you like to work with?

I've worked with most of the grime scene from Wiley to Lethal B to Sway and Scorcher, Ghetto, Chipmunk etc. In the UK I would like to work with Giggs and a guy called 'BADNESS' I love the rasta style he’s got going on.

In your opinion. how has music industry changed in the last 5 years and how have you adapted to this change?

Well the scene has exploded for UK grime/hiphop within the mainstream; I don't think anyone believed that the music would have got this big that even the likes of P Diddy and Jay Z are showing an interest. I give props to Tinchy, Wiley, Skepta, Tinie Tempah, Chipmunk, Giggs and N Dubz for taking it there.


What's the concept behind your album 'I Aint Rich Yet'?

I would say that this album is not your typical Grime CD. Its my own take on grime, which is filled with a mixture of party anthems, emotions, hard life, street life, and love. I think it’s a good introduction for the world to hear who Dirty Danger is and what he’s about

What can we expect from you in 2011?

I dropped my album on April 4th nationwide so that's currently my main focus. Soon I'll be touring from the 14th of March with Skepta all over the UK and you’ll be hearing a bag full of music videos for TV and the Internet.

To listen to more of Dirty Danger, you can buy his debut album I Ainte Rich Yet via UK Record Shop or Digital-tunes, follow him via Twitter, or you can personally contact him via his Facebook.

SoulBruva - The Musician, Presenter and Comedian

After opening for musicians such as Kelly Price, Calvin Richardson and Glen Jones, featuring on MTV Base, Channel AKA and Ben TV, as well as winning an award for the UK's Best Unsigned Act of Lightning FM in 2007, it's obvious that SoulBruva is well on his way to becoming a star. SoulBruva is a Hip Hop musician from East London who has been experimenting with music, and establishing himself as an artist for the last 5 years. I thought I'd catch up with him to find out where it all started, as well as what he has planned for 2011.

When did you realise your passion for music?

As a kid I would sing, rap and dance all around the house when the radio was on, but it was only in my late teens that I started to really listen to music and think about creating my own. I officially started recording in 2004, then in 2005 and 2006 I started gigging.

What does your alias SB stand for?

Being called 'SoulBruva' most people would think I'm a 'Soul Singer' which I can understand - but that's not the case. My name is a presentation of my passion for music and the fact I make music with my heart and soul.

How do you differ from other musicians?

I am myself! I don't follow the crowd. I always do me and what is true to me and I'm not scared to be different.

What would you say are three qualities a musician should have and why?

I would say, Talent, Passion and Confidence. Talent because it make's you stand out from the rest. Passion because you have to love what your doing as well as have the confidence, to perform in front of people.


Where is the best place music has taken you?

I was given the chance to open for Kelly Price, Calvin Richardson and Glen Jones at a concert, after winning the award for Best Unsigned Artist of ‘Lightning FM’ Chart in the UK Unsigned Festival in March 2007. My music video "4Real "4Real" has also appeared on MTV Base, Channel U, Ben TV & OBE TV.

Who would you like to collaborate with and why?

Eminem because he's not afraid to be different. His talent, flow, lyrics and heart felt, soulful music is just amazing. He's someone I really look up to and admire.

What are your interests aside from music?

Spending time will my loved one, family, chilling out, goings to shows and
watching movies.



What are your views on the current UK music industry?

I'm loving it. It's finally at a point where UK music is taken more seriously and is up there with music from the US.

What can we expect from you in 2011?

Well I'm focusing on my music a lot more and putting myself out there as an artist, so more tracks and performance are in the pipeline.

For more SB' you can catch him via his Myspace, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube pages

Terra Artist

From youth clubs and pirate radio stations, to becoming the talk of the town in 2007 Terra Artist began to situate his place in the music industry with the release of 'Junior Spesh' - which featured additional members of Red Hot Entertainment. The song received huge airplay via Radio 1Xtra as well as Choice FM and has enabled 21 year old Terra to develop his solo career. Although he has been writing since 2003 and released his début vocal 'Who Is It' in 2005, Terra Artist has faced a number hiccups, including promoters and DJ'S blocking him out of the scene. Over the past two years he has been working hard to build up his fan-base, as well as prepare his forthcoming releases, one of which includes 'Ying Yang' which is due out in May.

I thought I'd catch with Terra himself to find out where it all started as well as how he managed to overcome the industries difficulties.


What is your profession and where did it start?

Im a recording artist in the UK, ive been writing and recording songs for about 3-4 years, but my passion for music begun when I was 15 years old.I started practising in my room, and following my older brother to radio sets which taught me how to mix and what's what.

What problems have you faced in the music industry and how have you managed to overcome them ?

Boy! Ive faced alot you know. It's like you take two steps forward and 1 step back so it's a struggle, but im down to fight for what I love doing. In this industry it's predominantly a 'dog eat dog world' alot of other artists, be it singers / producers / dj's etc are all fighting to get to the top and sometimes you have to just think about yourself in order to get there. I've had DJ's and promoters blocking me, not playing my music for reasons unknown to me, interferring with bookings or shows that I'm supposed to perform at, as well as beats being given to other artists and a bag of things. You just gotta keep your head up and maintain ambition.


Which artists do you aspire to and why?

Michael Jackson, legend! Despite all the slander and torture he received from the media he just kept level headed. I'n not saying im like him, but his quality of humbleness show through my music.

How are you different from other artists?

I think there's alot of different and unique artists out here, but it's the minority. A lot of artists just chase the women, cars and jewellery and rap about things with no substance. What I think makes me different is that I couldn't care less for what people think about ME, as a person. My music speaks volumes, I write about what I've been through, what I've experienced and what I wish for. A child of 10 years old can relate to some tracks, then you get an old lady who can also relate to my music. LOL, so its mad like that.

What was the last album your purchased and how important is it to you to do so as an artist?

Ermmm...i hardly buy albums which is bad. I normally buy singles, or download which is probably even worse in terms of supporting the scene LOL. But the last album I bought was Dizzee Rascal's first album "Boy In Da Corner". I felt him, I liked his flow, his song subjects, his approach to music was wreckless he didn't care. I just knew he was gonna blow up. Plus being from East London - Bow - i was around him as a youngster with my older brother, back in the day he really represented UK / London grime!


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

A lot of people tell me that my music appeal to people aged 16 to 19 year or mainly females. I think it's because most of my songs are love related, not all happy stories, some are sad. I've even made a couple get back together from a song of mine called "Angel's Message" which can be found on youtube. I took that as a compliment, ive been hurt before in the past and love does mess you up so i put all my thoughts and feelings on paper with that song.

Where is the best place music has taken you ?

A song i was featured in called Junior Spesh definitely opened doors for me, Being played day in day out on big stations like 1xtra and Choice Fm was a shock. Also being invited for a Channel 4 interview and a couple shows and tour dates. It made me think on a whole new level.


What advice would you give to someone entering the music industry?

I know people hear this all the time, but its probably the best peice of advice if you want to chase a dream, not just music but anything. Be yourself...don't let anyone tell you otherwise, dont try to fit into any sort of crowd because then you'll just blend in and be the same. Especially in the music industry, labels want a fresh beginning because soon, the cars, money, diamonds and sexy women will die out.
Just be you!

What can we expect from you in 2011?

Videos,videos,videos, albums! I'll be doing my own songs and projects with some good features so stay tuned. I done alot of ground work in 2009 and 2010 so now im ready to launch properly. Make sure you buy my single "Ying Yang" on iTunes its out in May!

For more of Terra Artist you can contact him via his Facebook

Clarity Defined - The Songwriter Herself

She started writing songs at the tender age of 11 and is now on her way to become a huge success. Clarity is a 23 year old musician from Liverpool who grew up listening Blues, Motown and Michael Jackson which influenced her to create her own style. Although she has been blessed with the talent of of singing, her passion lies in song writing. Her future aspirations include developing and expanding her skills as a musician alongside studying for her degree in Creative and Professional Writing at The University of East London. I thought i'd catch up with Clarity to find out more about her progress as an artist as well as he views on the current UK music industry.


What do you do and when did it start?

I am a songwriter/singer. I like to put the songwriter first because that is my ultimate aspiration. I started writing songs when I was 11 years old and I haven’t stopped since. I enjoy singing very much and feel blessed that I’m able to both. Although I intend to try to pursue a career in this too, I feel my truest talent lies in writing and I would be ecstatic for a career in just that. I take the singing aspect of things very seriously, but just don’t feel a lot of opportunity for personal growth currently exists in this. I mean, I can write as much and as many songs as I like, but having never had professional singing lessons, I’m not going to wake up tomorrow and have a better voice. I’m hoping the one day, It will be enough to take me to where I want to go and from there, I can progress.

When you where younger who where your music idols and have they influenced your style in any way?

I was brought up listening to a lot of different styles of music. I am very eclectic, just like my Dad. I loved Michael Jackson when I was younger, and so did my family. But my Dad listened to a lot Blues and Motown and I feel this very much influences my style and possibly even topic of writing. It wasn’t until I was a little bit older that I started taking the singing aspects of things more seriously so I would say more contemporary artists influences my style. This excludes most chart music. I struggle to find inspiring contemporary ‘popular’ music. It’s a shame because a lot of talent lies within ‘products of the industry.’


What would you say is different about the British Music scene?

I think the British music scene is brilliant because it’s not afraid to explore different kinds of music, fusing genres of music together to make brand new ones. I think the British music scene, given the chance, could set worldwide music trends. I think we’re slowly but surely putting our mark on the industry and gaining support from overseas. For example, the linkup between Skepta and Diddy, I mean, come on, that was something, right?

What was the hardest decision you've made in your career?
The hardest decision I have made in my career has been my decision to go to University. I could have very well continued to network and gain experience within music, but I decided that I had to have a plan B. I have no problem with ever needing to use my degree to get a 9-5 job, but it’s there just in case. It had nothing to do with a lack of faith or a pessimist view on my future; the music industry is just so fickle and even the greatest of talent gets overlooked. I finish University in May 2011. I do what I can in music in the mean time but being a student has ultimately had to come first. Once it’s over though, watch this space!

How often do you make music and who are your audience?

I write songs all the time. I have a tendency to just walk around making up new lyrics. The people I live with have got used to it, although it doesn’t go down too well when they’re watching their favourite TV programmes. You know when I’m in the house because you hear me before you see me. I don’t record songs that much anymore because, well, to be honest, producers don’t seem to be cutting it for me these days. I’m trying not to fall into a specific genre/scene, I want to branch out and start exploring who I am as an artist, making the kind of music I want to make, not the kind of music I’m making because I have no choice given the beats I’m being sent. A band would be ideal for me. I would say my audience in anyone enjoys good music, lol. Possibly more specifically women, solely for the fact that with me being a woman (incase you hadn’t noticed), I tend to write about relationships what I have been in with guys and obviously that is going to be more relatable to women.


Which female musician do you aspire to be like (if any) and who are your main influences?

I wouldn’t say that I aspire to be like any other female artist. I like to think that I’m just me, and that I aspire to stay true to whoever I am as artist throughout my career. I do adore and am heavily influenced by artists such as Jazmine Sullivan, Christette Michelle, Melanie Fiona, John Legend, Adele, Jessie J, ahh the list goes on. I pretty much appreciate any artists with any sort of uniqueness and those who write their own songs too.


Which artists have you collaborated with and who do you plan to in the future?

I have done the odd collaboration for underground MCs and what not, but to be honest, I’m not very big on collaborations at the moment. I think I need to spend time exploring my style of music, making it clear to the rest of the music world what kind of songs that I want to be writing and singing so they understand what kind of artists would match well with me and vice versa. I get a lot of people hollering to work together and although I appreciate all talent, I don’t intent to waste any time recording music that will portray me as being someone that I’m not.

Where do you see yourself in 2011?

I see myself continuing to invest as much time as I can in music in the first part of 2011, maybe do a bit more in regards to showing what I’m all about on YouTube and my social networking sites, and then once I’m finished at University to delve right in. I may possibly shoot a video at the beginning of 2011 too, providing I can decide on a good choice of song. The links are all there, I’m just waiting for the right moment to utilize them. And once I do, it’s onnnnn :-D

To get more from Clarity herself you can log onto her Facebook.

Roses - A Distinctive Anecdote

From idly typewriting as a youngster, to typing her very own novel. Naomi has completed her first publication titled, 'Roses: A Distinctive Anecdote'. She saw a gap in the market, one of which she thought to fill by giving urban adolescence's something to relate to, as well as enjoy to increase reading amongst the younger generation. Although the book will appeal to teens, it’s primary audience are young adults aged 18, to 24. The novel is cultivated in the fabulous backdrop of 21st century East London and told with the realest UK urban flavour, ROSES offers a light hearted insight into the flamboyant world of fiction’s cheekiest sweetheart Mz. Bumper Queen. The $1000000 question is: Will Marcia Burton’s love life ever be a harmonious bed of roses? I thought I'd catch up with the author herself to find out a bit more about the Novel.


What do you and when did it all start?

I’m an aspiring author and marketer. My love of writing started as soon I was able to read and write. I'm fortunate as I’ve always had a lot of support and encouragement from my family and friends. As a child I was over the moon when my Mum bought me a typewriter one Christmas and a word processor a couple of Christmases later. About five years ago, my Dad gave me a plastic folder of stories I’d written when I was around six. I was so surprised that he’d kept them all that time and well it reminded me of why I love writing. My keen interest in marketing began when I was studying media and sociology at college which led to me taking up a Media Studies degree at university. I’ve always been fascinated by the way we communicate with each other further more the way media conveys messages to its intended audience.

What does writing mean to you?

This might sound cheesier than a block of Edam, but honestly writing for me is like breathing. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than entertaining the reader as well as fuelling their imaginations. No matter what kind of situation I’m in at any given time, I always find writing whether it’s on a personal level or for a story helps me to relax.

What is your book about and does it reflect anything specific?

ROSES: A Distinctive Anecdote: (synopsis)

A girly summer holiday to the raving capital of Ayia Napa ends with self confessed party animal Marcia taking a wallop from food poisoning and bumping into one hell of a chocolicious stranger, Marlon Reid.

Back in London, life for quick witted Marcia better known as Mz. Bumper Queen spins on the carousel of a corporate career, university, sparkly nights out on the town with the girls and those reoccurring kick ass superhero dreams.

Tossed into a blossoming haze of bouquets, slow jams and flirtatious dates with the ever scrumptious Marlon, Marcia’s anxious to bury the recent love traumas of her past but when fate makes a cameo appearance she’s left wondering if the chances of fresh love will bloom with a rosy ending or wilt with dreadful consequences…

Not only is ROSES 100% FREE DOWNLOAD but it also positively reflects modern UK urban culture. I think that this representation is crucial given the rise in gun and knife crime amongst British Urban teenagers and young adults. It’s also the realness of the characters that helps the reader to relate to this debut e-tale taken from THE URBAN TALES OF MZ. BUMPER QUEEN fiction series.


Which authors have influenced you and why?

I’ve been influenced by a number of different authors but my favourite have to be Eric Jerome Dickey, Andrea Levy, Sister Souljah, Leone Ross and Khaled Hosseni. I love the way Eric Jerome Dickey, Sister Souljah and Andrea Levy bring their characters to life in the following three books: Friends & Lovers (EJD), The Coldest Winter Ever (SS) and Small Island (AL). As for Leone Ross, it’s the gripping way in which she recounts researcher Laurie’s Gunst’s reportage on Jamaica’s political and gang history in Born Fi Dead . It’s so well written you actually feel like you are there as the events unfold. Khaled Hosseni’s The Kite Runner is also written in such a powerfully beautiful style, I was almost in tears by the time I’d finished reading it.

What are the do's and don't to making a good book?

I’m still learning the do’s and don’ts of writing a good book but I’ve found that having honest feedback (professional if possible) during the drafting process is fundamental. Letting someone else review my work gives me a chance to see it from an alternative perception. The feedback allows me to see what works within the story and amend what doesn’t, even if I have to revise it a million times over before I get the flow on point.

What problems have you faced and how have you overcome them?

It’s been shown that some of my intended target audience don’t enjoy reading and this has always been a big challenge. Feedback from market research so far has shown several reasons for this, ranging from reading being boring, not being able to picture the story in their head to the person not being able to relate to the story being told. The marketing team and I are keen to show that ‘ROSES’ furthermore ‘THE URBAN TALES OF MZ. BUMPER QUEEN’ is more than just another fiction series. This is because the stories cleverly epitomise a lifestyle in which our target audience British and international, male or female will very much be able to relate to as they experience it everyday. As a result of these findings, we are currently working on marketing strategies to help promote ROSES to that particular audience early next year.


How important is it for a writer to read and what books would you suggest?

I think that reading is paramount if you are a writer. I’ve found that reading all kinds of material from blogs, newspapers, leaflets, to different genres of books have helped me to develop my writing style so I’d definitely recommend it to others. As an aspiring author, one book that has been very helpful is Jack Bickham’s The 38 Most Common Fiction Writing Mistakes.

What is the weirdest story idea you've thought of?

Considering ROSES falls under the chick-lit genre category, I wanted to show versatility in my writing style so I featured the fantasy genre to add a twist to the story. This is seen when the main character Marcia leaves reality to find herself living in her own dreams. The reason why this happens, I can’t reveal but you can find out the answer by reading ROSES.

Where is the best place your writing has taken you?

Like most writers, I have a very active imagination, so depending on what it is that I am talking about, I can be taken all over the place. For anyone that has read ROSES, they’ll be familiar with the name Kingsley Levi Johnson better known as the Jamrock royality ‘King’. I’m currently working on his debut story ‘MR CHINN: KING OF THE HILL”. At the moment, the writing’s transporting me from South London’s Streatham Hill to Jamaica’s Portmore. This is more than appreciated considering all the snow and freezing weather conditions we’ve been experiencing lately.

If you would like more from Naomi, you can log on to her blog Namsta's Blog. For the latest info on the fiction series please check out 'THE URBAN TALES OF MZ. BUMPER QUEEN' blog.

Marcia also has her own Facebook page which can now add.