Category: Music

DJ Culture & Music, events, House Music, Movers & Shakers, Music, Reflections, theshineprjct, Toronto, Vancouver

theshineprjct presents: From The Underground Up 🔼⬆️↗️⤴️ A Zoom Panel – Women Bringing Underground Based Businesses to Life- Nov.2020

theshineprjct

The Presentation: From the Underground Up, Women Bringing Underground Based Businesses to Life

Zoom Registration Here: https://bit.ly/2TsMI1a

The Talk: I bring a closer lens to these women and their brands, what it takes to build, grow, maintain and now in #COVID; pivot. Women have always had to maneuver to succeed-no matter the circumstance.

We’ll discuss the tools, inspirations and resilience required to keep going. (more stuff too….)

Panelists: Anané Vega (@nulumovement), Asya Shein (@fusicology), Czarina Mirani (@5.magazine), Dam Bee (@drumsradio), Jaidene Veda (@jaideneveda_), and Nneka Gryffyn (@aptentertainment)

#womeninspiringwomen #deephouse #industry #dancenation #housenation #afrohouseuk

The Team:🧿

Moderator/Creative Direction: ms.Chinedu Egwuenu (theshineprjct.com,urbcomgrp.com)

Designed by:@puffazmadeit

Social Media Management: @liliae.mcdonald

Biography, DJ Culture & Music, Music, Toronto

Nicole Chambers Uplifts Us With Take Flight

theshineprjct

Her voice is poignant with a strong and powerful message that speaks to the times we’re currently in. I listened to this song so many times. It’s gorgeous. She channels Sara Vaughn and Erykah Badu can you hear it? She also equally enjoys Ari Lennox and Victoria Monet and Lil’ Wayne. She reaches in from a VERY different angle that not everyone can hear at first listen. I first saw her at The Hustle a late evening showcasing that ran at the Drake Underground for a little while a few years ago.

We met on the West-end before the COVID lockdown of 2020 started and had no idea whether to wear masks or not-but it was like we’d continued where we had left off that night.I met plenty of new folks that night and some old Toronto faves in the crowd that I recognized and with all the folks I saw, I just knew it was gonna be a dope night!

For the record, all the performers that night were amazing and it made me proud to see locals at a series that was so fresh at the time. It was such a proud moment as 20 years prior, I had always wanted to see stuff like this all over the city!

Take Flight slid right into my Spotify Discover Weeklies sometime in February and I wanna add: I really love both my automated music finds as well as the stuff I’ll always pick first…there’s a specific sound and style I like. I’ve been introduced to some really dope artists (through Spotify) and I take more interest in Canadian ones as I love to hear what they’re working with. ‘Take Flight’ is beautiful. The sweetness in her voice makes the message hopeful, full of wonder and discovery.

Ms.Chambers: Writer,Vocalist,Bramptonian,sometimes performing in Toronto,writes her ass off. As always I asked about the process and it’s quite unique.She went from journal entries and reflections with eventually evolving into songs and later feelings…it was never really about writing poetry.For someone like me who notices words-her lyrics sound pretty poetic…

About her latest track Take Flight: How would you (yes reader,you) best describe meeting your true soulmate? Do you know? Are you sure? It feels the way this song sounds. In a world filled with co-dependent lyrics how would you best pick up on lyrics that describe that knowing, that feeling? The elation,the wonder,the peace and the innocence. Listen to this song a few times-once you hear it-if you know, then you’ll know and you’ll appreciate the once in a lifetime experience through this song.

What would you tell artists who are breaking into the scene? In this case brand new like yourself? I’m new right now…..so I’d say keep putting out music. You don’t need to show everyone what you’re doing but it’s great to have a small circle or group of friends that you can present some of your ideas to make sure they’re real ones who’ll give you honest feedback y’know-A small connected circle,start with that. Sign up for different shows in your city. For example I didn’t know about Brampton’s Very Own was being run by Black Women and I’ve gotten a lot of opportunities from taking part in local stuff.

What’s 2020 been like for you so far? It’s harder to find stuff at the moment since things have slowed down and I added in ‘especially with the Coronavirus’…….and she added ‘since local is the focus we can’t go NOWHERE,yup.’

I saw the Hustle Academy-what I really liked is that she sang covers and later her own stuff…..How do you feel about doing covers? Erykah Badu is my favourite,I love Neo Soul covers and TLC especially. WE might have shows again…I’ve got the same guitar player so we’ll definitely do something again….She recalls that night very clearly, she sang something by Summer Walker, she also did one of her own pieces Committed Fool and TLC’s decades old classic No Scrubs. She likes a little bit of a mix of old and new sounds……

Is the vibe different out there? Nicole proudly states ‘I was born and raised in Brampton….and as a brand new artist yes, I feel the big difference. When I do shows in Toronto I’m often asked where I live and new fans and supporters are often shocked….and we laughed hard at this……cuz I’ve lived out there for some time…….’there’s ALOT of talent in Brampton and sometimes we forget how many people have lived at one time or are from Brampton and please give it props….she starts listing them (artists) off Roy Woods,Alessia Cara,Jessie Reyez and also Tory Lanez…….

Around that time I had attended a FACTOR event Women and Inspire Toronto Serial Entrepreneur & Sandbox Studio Owner/Creator Kiana ‘Rookz’ Easmond spoke about her experiences in the industry-she talks about very specific topics women face-from image development to being questioned for their talent and building a viable and memorable career. Rookz talked about one of the issues she felt Toronto had which folks not sticking around long enough to watch artists grow. I turned the question over to Nicole.

TRUE or no? Is that a thing Nicole? Not sticking around to grow? There are so many new people dropping material every month and yes nowadays Toronto is a bit of a hit factory. It can be overwhelming for both the artists and fans….it’s important to have female artists all existing together so that vocalists and writers can all somehow collaborate alongside each other-it’s as if she knew Meg and Cardi B were about to drop something almost 6 months later…!

I was so excited to talk about Take Flight-For those who know, the feature rap artist ‘Stretch’ is from Scarborough his tone, his flow and his writing is stellar. She loved working with him and she announced that they’ll continue working together in the future. And about the message she didn’t think many people would make the connect at first and at the moment this meet up was right after Valentine’s Day she’s so sweet too when she says ‘I’m really into love right now…. and I wrote this song for the person I hope to meet .I haven’t met him but I wrote it as if I had met him already’ (the power of manifestation at work there.)

For someone who doesn’t write poetically….she sounds like poetic justice. Listen to the song a few times…..If you’re on any kind of a soul mate journey-you’ll really get this…I’ve noticed that her voice has gotten stronger over the years since HCIF How Could I Forget (look up this song) She’s been doing intense vocal warm ups before shows and daily (as her body is her temple) and it has made a HUGE difference with her vocals. We talked about Reiki healing and it’s helped her voice.

About your future: Where do you wanna take this? I want to travel-Europe, the states, anywhere my music will take me. As for collabs-more local collabs…Stretch is on the list Mole, Zensoul, Junia T (who was nominated for Polaris Prize Shortlist in 2020) She notes that they are amazing people and excellent artists. She’s working on an album and is due this September..she’s aiming for an RnB album/jazz flavour with a Hip Hop flavour – she really loves a wikked drum pattern. Expect something a little experimental…it’ll be fun! I write all my music but I want to have some poetry in it finally so working with MCs will bring that extra piece to my next album…

If you’d like more nuggets of treasure-check out her beautiful and growing discography.

 

 

DJ Culture & Music, Establishments, events, Movers & Shakers, Music, promoters, theshineprjct, Toronto

UNCDTNL SUPPORT: The future of publicity in Toronto is bright!

theshineprjct


Meet the two women partially responsible for the next wave of women music executives in Toronto: Yvette Angela and Deneita Evans

From what I understand UNCDTNL Collective are women of colour executives mentoring women of colour?

UNCDTNL Collective is a company that specializes in project management that support underrepresented individuals and groups. It is this specific program where we’ve created a mentorship component.

At what point did you decide to connect and collaborate?

We met in 2017 during our volunteer run at Yonge-Dundas, where we were handing out flyers for that years’ Manifesto. We just clicked and from working with each other and learning about our love for music, putting on shows, and what we felt was missing from Toronto at that time. We started talking and a little bit later, UNCDTNL was on its way.

What are some of the things about hip hop and R&B that becomes a little more challenging (aside from event production and talent buying.)

Curating hip hop and r&b shows in spaces where they aren’t welcome. Toronto loves the aesthetic of hip hop but doesn’t want live performers. It’s challenging to find the space where we are not only welcomed but embraced, not policed.

For Yvette and Denieta: What makes a great event from start to finish

D: I’d say the most difficult thing about planning an event would be keeping organization the whole way through, to make sure we’re not skipping a beat and we’re covering all our bases. Especially when it’s a decent sized group taking on a huge event. Also, being prepared when things randomly change and you now have to quickly find solutions.

Y: For me, it’s the lack of resources. Sometimes we will have a vision and it might be hard or close to possible to execute. So we either need to find/create the sources. We usually work with what we got until we can get what need and want. But it’s a huge hurdle to overcome, but we always do and we end up with more than we hoped.

What do both of you feel about carving your own path vs. following the industry standard? (What are some of the things that you feel have to be followed or blazed “blazing your own path”-Explain front and back of house?

We believe every path is different, we don’t think there is any industry standard. There’s space for everyone, you just need the passion and persistence to get there. The only thing in common with us, our mentors, mentees, colleagues is that we are all went for what we wanted. Sometimes that means volunteering internships, attending networking events – just putting yourself out there, working hard and you’ll see the fruits of your labour.

What you want to say to the next gen music entertainment women of colour executives in Canada?

Persistence, patience and passion is all you need. Sometimes it seems as though your goal will never get accomplished but it’s not true – it’s coming. But it only happens with hard work, be the best worker at every job that you do. Research and know your craft, and always be open to learning more.

What kind of events do you want to create in the future? Any company,client,group,biz,artists?

We are working on another volume of our show ‘Sunshine’, we plan on making some changes and doing it even better than our first one. We are planning on getting involved with more festivals in the country (such as Pop Montreal, VELD or NXNE) and also we want to continue to provide resources to those who don’t know where to go. We also are going to delve into art, Deneita is a huge art fan so that is in the works – to represent local visual artists.

How can people stay up-to-date with UNCDTNL? INSTAGRAM: @uncdtnl

Show Info:

CANADIAN MUSIC WEEK: Ebhoni, Witch Prophet and Sydanie.

May 8th at The Baby G (1608 Dundas St West)

Doors Open at 8pm / Show Starts at 9pm.

Tickets are $12 Online and $15 at the Door. 

Buy tickets: bit.ly/UNCDTNLCMW

DJ Culture & Music, events, Music, promoters, theshineprjct, Toronto

LUXELIFE SOUND Touches Toronto

theshineprjct

A few minutes before I arrive at a Downtown Café last Fall, she sends a quick text identifying herself as the one with the big curly hair! Walked up to the glass doors and yes, she had the massive hair and the warmest bubbly smile. We just dived right in! Cleo Ellis, one half of LUXELIFE SOUND broke down for me how the business came about, and like most of the conversations I’ve had with shineprjct interviewees, it was soooo organic!!!!

With the strong ongoing 2018 theme of women-lifting-women up and the pride I can hear in her voice, this story  is definitely a huge accomplishment. She didn’t expect it to take the direction it did ‘it kinda just happened’ Ellis said.

Originally from Edmonton, she  moved to Toronto from Vancouver  in 2014  to pursue her Masters Degree in Professional Communication and almost immediately started a  volunteer position with Canadian PR Powerhouse Natasha Koifman of (NKPR) during their TIFF IT Lounge. That was also how she met her now business partner, DJ Lissa Monet — and unbeknownst to them both, that was the beginning of Toronto’s first all-female boutique DJ booking agency — LUXELIFE SOUND. JUST.LIKE.THAT.

Cleo Ellis – Partner
Photo: @djpplus

Anyone following Monet on Twitter will notice that she drops needles of wisdom navigating the industry as a tenured DJ and as a woman. She’s one of Toronto’s most well known DJs and has pioneered the way for a host of other DJs in the city, particularly female DJs.

DJ Lissa Monet – Partner

Even further ‘Our DJs are more than just a playlist. They actually have the skill needed to live-spin to the needs of the crowd’. LUXELIFE SOUND’s goal is to set a luxury standard of service for their clients, but also to ensure each and every DJ on their roster is paid their worth and treated fairly — the DJ industry, particularly in the club sector is notorious for these issues.  Cleo takes the time to educate each client on the expectations of hiring a DJ, while making the process seamless and simple on both ends. . One of the most engaging parts of our exchange was her communal ideology. ‘In our world, everyone gets a bag and everyone shines’ (Yeah, baby EVERYONE).

For years she was on the club circuit  and transitioned to corporate events , all while keeping a keen eye on other up and coming  lady DJs in the space. Many of whom  I’ve seen and heard at various events all over the city. The grouping of what is now LUXELIFE’S  roster includes a few definitive selectas from all over Canada. Cleo explains ‘we lucked out in that every DJ on the roster is so different; if the client requires a certain style, WE DELIVER and that is our strength’

Although business is flowing in from all over Canada they are not yet ready to expand nationwide but would like to continue reaching clients from coast-to-coast. “One day we hope to replicate this model on a larger scale in other cities, and maybe even expand to the US — but slow and steady wins the race. We want to be able to have the infrastructure to support a move like that”.

If you’re looking for more LUXELIFE SOUND has a dope SoundCloud channel  right now. Keep your ears open for the ladies at the next private party, it might be yours! Wishing LUXELIFE SOUND amazing success in 2019!

Follow ‘em IG: @luxelifesound

Follow ‘em on Facebook: @Luxelifesound

Biography, DJ Culture & Music, events, House Music, Movers & Shakers, Music, promoters, Reflections, theshineprjct, Toronto, women & entrepreneurship

DJ Heather – Apollo Records – (APT) Chicago’s – International – House Music – Summer Series 2018 – (Chicago) Pt.1

theshineprjct

With DJ Colette doing a sound check, I sat with DJ Heather instead: Instead, Heather and I had a REAL good chat.We talked about soooo much- from coming of age,to transitioning into motherhood and remaining artistically inspired. I’m glad the interview was split,we had more of a ‘let’s meet for drinks’ kinda chat.She took control of the energy and convo as I’d expected from a DJ and we journeyed through each topic pretty much like her set later on that night at Second City Sessions. Her energy and style are undeniable.

At 20 years in-she’s reflective and is now finally feeling that she is progressing,thriving,comfortable and starting to feel good….she said ‘as an artist you do have moments where you ebb and flow continuously’ So where does this endless motivation come from? ‘There’s an engine inside of you that continues to drive and regardless of what people think about age,gender-all those social mores fall to the wayside’

On coming of age and being a DJ she says one of her greatest moves forward is when she started focusing on herself and all the other chatter just disappeared- it didn’t matter anymore. The people who usually bring up the age or gender thing are those wondering how long its gonna take to achieve a certain status OR they feel that you’re not inspiring as much as you think you are. But along with that-there’s a clichéd phrase that ‘if you’re not inspired you should retire…..’I don’t really feel like I’m at that stage now to do that and there’s been many times through my life as I’ve DJ ‘ed and I remembered that making music hadn’t really been a thing that I grew up with-I never said I’m going to be a DJ, it kinda just happened’

What role has music played for you? Music was always been something that ran parallel with what I was doing with my life. Working for record labels, I was still always in the music industry but not truly focused on the art of DJ’ing. And over time I really enjoyed the element of DJ’ing because of the ability to TRAVEL. There were numerous friends I met and even still today I continue to meet more people and still enjoy what I do. It can be a struggle at times now because I have an added family element to it (just ask Colette) but it still gives me life, it still gives me enjoyment-the literal act of playing music for people is so satisfying but it becomes more of a difficult thing trying to make a living from your art…and I think that doesn’t matter what age you are-whether in your 20s,30s,40s,50s,60s-whatever 70; but in my personal experience I’m a big fan of artists regardless of the medium they choose.

I admire the fact that she has continued with what she does cause you know, it ain’t a regular job. She explains as an artist that ‘the ones who continue to create probably do it because it’s an ever-present thing like a scratch’ and in this case she has to itch……..lol

We are very aware that in accordance to society, even with modernization and some changing values-regardless of what they do,women often take pause from their paths,careers or jobs. Heather re-iterates ‘we do struggle with stuff and even I took time off after he (her son) was born. I was off for five months give or take, maybe three months?…..And my first gig was New Years Eve the following year!’

About how IT (pregnancy) went: I played up until my seventh month- so yeah, I was at the club and my husband was leading me through the venue and I was playing and literally he helped me up onto this stool. But it was a part of my life that I wanted to experience. Being in a relationship with a person (knowing this is the person I’d love to have a child with) and with this  addition it made me change the way I operate in terms of the flexibility of working when I wanted to (that was gone.) Being regimented,being scheduled and disciplined came back-it was like being in college again. (In a strange way.) You still have all this time but you have to learn again how to make that time work for you because you don’t have a lot of it- and between trying to compartmentalize the childcare with everything else, it kind of dampened. I’ve come out of that little ‘baby-ness’ stage. He’s got his own schedule now-he’s got his own feet. He’s in school so that gives me the opportunity to drop him off and I can work as much as I can during the time that he’s at school.

Do you travel with your son yet? He’s yet to come with me on a trip but he’s seen me play at street festivals and stuff. So he feels at home.

Have you noticed his musicality? I see it- but it translates into the fact that he thinks the DJ stuff is cool and he likes to dance. He’s still kind of figuring out what he likes. He’ll pretend to play…We’re just letting him pursue what he wants to pursue and just kinda find his feet. He’s in the studio sometimes, other times he doesn’t want to be in there. Yesterday he came on his own and gave her a sticker installation with labels to be there for her in the room and she put it on a speaker. He left a piece of himself there with her.

How important is it to have a partner that understands what it takes? Has it been easy? It’s been helpful for sure-I wouldn’t say ideal; but it’s great. We’re in total opposite worlds. He’s in corporate construction and I’m in art and music so we’re not really perpetually talking about the same thing. We appreciate each other and we appreciate what we can offer. He’s more in the tactile side of corporate design so he works with colour and fabrics.He’s more on the art side of his business as well. So we still appreciate art in very different ways.

Mind if I ask how you met? He met me as a DJ, he arrived at my show early and met at the booth. And here we are quite a few years later….. 😉

DJ Heather on relationships: As any relationship goes whether it’s a friendship,marriage or partnership (it is work) but if you both know that your end goal is the same and you don’t want to bail and you’re ready to work through it- that’s half the battle and that’s what’s kept us going and it’s just that awareness. It’s difficult when you’re polar opposites.I wanna be able to do my thing and express myself but I’m also a Mommy and if I weren’t doing this I wouldn’t be the mother I am.Being myself means that I won’t ever have a sense of animosity-so there is a lot of freedom I’m given for sure- and I’m very lucky…..

It’s a powerful conversation to have at this time when women are making bold movements to balance work,purpose,entrepreneurship and identity-This had to have been the highlight of our discussion as the theme running globally is women’s empowerment. There’s no direct path…..I explained my level of concern at this juncture in my own life. She admits ‘I never thought I’d be married, I never thought I’d have a child. And both have happened and I’m still maintaining some sort of career that I’m happy with. I’m still always trying to find out methods that feel organic and natural and very honest. And I’m still trying to maintain that honesty, its very difficult to do. She still feels very fortunate to have people that she can still play records for and can share music with them for this long! And I said surprisingly WHY NOT! Fabric 21 and the House of OM Mix CD were stellar projects-Her insightful breaks from my questions had me looking at her role from many angles.

 

She explained this to me: As a DJ you know that the number of DJs-per-capita has grown. There’s the myth about what a DJ does and what a DJ actually does. Many of those who are discovering the art now are finding that there is no way to kind of ‘break in’ to the scene-unless you have a big record or a ‘team’ or unless you have ‘followers’. Now there are all these other things that you don’t have the luxury of cultivating over time. It’s more instantaneous (Where’s the lie? It’s true-this is one of the industry’s biggest changes!) 

Let’s humanize DJ Heather for a moment: She’s grateful for the opportunity to learn a lot of stuff through trial and error. Hopefully she says,’I’ve built a reputation of being a solid DJ but all the other stuff comes with it. The music stuff is great but hopefully being known as a decent human being and the other stuff falls in line. And of course your relationships should be great. I’ve always tried to make life ‘normal’ and not take it as seriously but only take things as serious because its important to me-this is where I’ve found more balance. It’s about balance. Balance is a good thing.’

It’s about the music: I asked her about new Apollo Records track ‘The Acid’ with Berlin based Detroit producer Lauren Flax (June 8). She’s a great producer,Lauren is one of  her fave persons and can produce her butt off. It dropped June 8th and this ‘Acid’ track Heather describes as raw, to the point and machine based. They collaborated on this track and there are remixes out on her label. (partnered with Dann X and Little Mark) At the time, (May 2018) teasers and promo packs had gone out-the single is now available on Traxsource and the acidity is fresh!

Is there a revival of the Acid sound? There’s a kind of revival but just like Nu Jazz it comes in waves. When people say Deep House is back or Acid Jazz is back-it doesn’t really leave. IT sort of appears in waves of consciousness and you hear these records and they’re kind of throwback but they are also sounds that people really love to hear. There’s warmth,grit and depth.

About Blackcherry Recordings, it says House and Downtempo…….is that something you prefer? Do you like that sound? Yeah, as it pertains to Black Cherry I try to have it perpetuate the Chicago sound-It’s more trackier (polished) stuff as well as Downtempo stuff so it’s a kind of homage to Classic House sounds-let’s say upfront tracky stuff (that’s what I tend to focus on with Blackcherry so I was happy to bring it back with that J-Fader EP and I’ve got something coming out with another artist she’s from Chicago T Mixwell….She’s fantastic and she produces lovely music……the track is currently untitled but its’ coming out before the end of the Summer/early Fall.

For artists on the label are you looking for something specific (sound?feel?) When you receive submissions?You know if I feel something, again-its an honesty thing. It’s like this is right..someone’ll send me a track and a few pieces. I might play it out to see or get a sense of where it could go, if it’s perfect or if I think it’s super hot. I play it and get a response and see the initial feeling about it. That helps me verify in that moment. Its like oh yeah…this is pretty dope. I decide if I’ll make some changes and that kinda thing-I kinda like to test run stuff. I do the same with Apollo Records music as well. I test it out at the club and how a room responds to it spatially. It’s not always in the spirit of House Music. For example Derek Dunbar submitted some stuff and I gave it the nod. It’s nice for people to have it (new stuff) so they can put it out because there’s a market for it.

Do you ever have people approach to ask you to help them out or hook them up? (a leg into the industry) Sometimes,but it’s not that blatant, the help now people are looking for are things like ‘could you say something about my track or could you chart it? could you tweet about it?..but again I do share stuff that I feel connected to. So if someone asks me and its kinda weird, I’m not sure but if I kinda know them and they need a little push I’ll do it, its no problem as I’d want anyone to do the same for me.  In the past I would usually reach out to people and tell them their track was awesome and because they were so enthused, they would literally help me out and PUT ME ON tour and let me open-but there’s plenty of that stuff that clubs don’t wanna do anymore.

She explains the way being PUT ON works today: They’ll have these tours where the headlining DJ picks their supporting cast…..unless you have a camp like Dirty Bird they’ve created a culture where everyone’s in-house and literally everyone who’s with the label throws their own events and showcases their own artists, that’s a  formula that has worked for them.So from top to bottom all night,you’re gonna see people who’ve put music on the label or down with their crew and it’s worked! And when they’ve put their people on they’ve added a particular flavour. People are trying to replicate that formula-sometimes it works other times it doesn’t. Or you’ve had stages that are set up at one event or big festival….and let’s say  for example you have Green Velvet, he’ll have a stage with people he really likes and it works.

I tried to do that at my Smartbar residency by kinda mixing it up with people who haven’t played at the club before. I want to get them in the rotation-so they can get used to the club setting…..(it helps them build confidence too!) Sometimes the club sees the new DJ’s potential and they might want to put that person on. By doing that-new people bring a network of friends OR FAMILY, that’s what it should be about! She’s passing the torch in a sense…..Having friends & family who come out to her events gave Heather confidence back in the day. In an encouraging way she says ‘they can put these on their resumes,get other gigs or put that flyer aside as part of their archival information’ It’s almost like passing the torch……

Imagine what kind of advice she’s going to offer which such an in-depth interview…..Must read. 

  • Don’t be limited with what you think you should be doing versus what you truly want to do. Take risks when you feel like you should. Even now- She still feels nervous before a show and (the fear factor is good.)
  • Never assume what’s going to happen at a venue-even with a sound check (you may have an idea of what to expect but you never know…..all those things are nice to know, but you won’t always know)
  • Make sure you have all your tools (part of your arsenal) to rock the crowd. There might be people at a club, festival or rave who have no clue who you are….its a reality. Don’t forget that you’re there to entertain, to bait and switch…. sometimes it’s okay to give people something that’s relatable. That’s where the balance is.(Starting out as a primarily HipHop DJ gave her another tool to use-because Hip Hop audiences usually only dance to shit they know (truth lol) and that’s the commercial aspect of it. But she was able to squeeze in stuff during sets back then- she really understood the art of DJ’ing, whether it was with Downtempo or Hip Hop

 

What about the way women connect on an emotional level with what they do musically and artistically (Production/DJ’ing/Music?)  I shared with Heather  recording artist Kelela’s Opinion piece from earlier this year at  Resident Advisor and it  then spurred a whole conversation on how to proceed beyond that context. She clearly has had different experiences but the future is here. She says, ‘All Women, Women of colour,Transwomen and LGBTQ groups- these are the voices in vogue now…how long will this platform be in place? Will it stay a trend? Being in the industry for as long as she has been-she doesn’t really feel that it’s no longer about the ‘shine’ on music or artists that has changed-it’s just something people are used to now. After all IT IS entertainment. But women have always been behind the scenes and contributing for a long time. From management, to artists, to DJ’ing, to production and just now we’re seeing women as par for the course. Her advice with these changes is to take advantage of this platform, the visibility, the people paying attention and to not be afraid to ask questions and speak out-especially within a learning capacity. If people think you’re being ridiculous it’s okay….don’t worry about the boys club. There are plenty of women,spaces and places where you can find help, get questions answered, obtain resources from blogs, online and printed media outlets and even platforms like YouTube tutorials for example to learn production, DJ’ing techniques and still maintain anonymity. Feel free to learn your craft the way you’d like.

Just like any other city in the world Toronto’s tempo has changed and what people enjoy has changed as well. DJ Heather from sister city Chicago is excited to still be able to play from a fresh spectrum and it sounds like that! Second City Sessions is a collaborative project that was born from their (DJ Colette and DJ Heather’s) House of OM CD release back in 2006 when they toured and traveled with Fred Everything and Andy Caldwell. Fans love to hear Colette and Heather spin together and they deliver the synergy that works between them whenever they play. DJ Heather will be playing alongside Gene Farris, Jason Hodges,Teeloo and Mike Gleeson on Saturday July 27, 2018 after the lunar eclipse at Toronto’s CODA-it’s gonna be an electric one!!!

img_4638

DJ Culture & Music, Establishments, events, Music, promoters, Public Relations, Reflections, Toronto

Canadian Music Week – CMW 2018 – The Information Age

theshineprjct

img_4419

A full week of non-stop music, panel discussions and mentorship all here in the T-Dot! This has to be one of the largest Music Week’s held in Canada this year! The official program guide was jam-packed with dozens of events hourly (Held at Toronto’s Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel and all over the city.)

Jointly presented by San Rafael and Amsterdam Brewery-I don’t even know WHERE to begin-this Canadian Music Week was PACKED with current information; From the Mentors’ Cafe to the panels, to industry organization exhibitors (SOCAN, MROC,FACTOR)

It was refreshing to see all the various organizations that work behind the scenes to assist artists in bringing forth new-ish ways of tackling the good ole industry…..

Their app was quite good! I loved the high touch accessibility of the app and it was much easier to navigate than look through the program and section it off with post-its like I did in the past…..or maybe I like apps. My favourite was the scheduling tool! You know where to be and at what time……

Blockchain

With the app I found Blockchain Music:Set It and Forget It,You’re Getting Paid it’s been a hot topic for a minute and this was a conversation circulation at ADE2017! Panelists (Dino Celotti,Jason Robert,Jesse Grushack,Ritesh Patel and Steven Masur) all part of the Music Production and Indie Label industries,collectively explained Blockchain and how it benefits the artists and the cascading industry as a whole. It’s great to see that many panels across the board had a heavy focus on the future of the industry with all the new talent and new technology. It’s interesting to see how they’ll connect and grow to make things a little more efficient (especially for the artist.)

My takeaway from this presentation: Blockchain could work if implemented correctly by making sure who gets paid at what point in the process of the file sharing process-and that this is a huge task and a bit of a lengthy process.

Lemme re-iterate here: The idea of being able to move assets between artists or from business to business in a seamless process, can make distribution simpler. With Blockchain promotion is still primary and editing and recordings can’t be remixed or altered. Blockchain is great for tracking transactions and artists still maintains rights to their music.

I ventured over to the SOCAN,!eDDS and travel booths-What’s travel got to do with it? Hundreds of people came through all week (May 7-13, 2018) especially very specific cities all over the U.S. and Canada. What makes this so important is that the cities closest to us all play a role in boosting the travel,tourism and music industries!

Part of the infrastructure built around the music industry depends not only on the talent, businesses and establishments but it may partially coincide on the neighbouring cities closest to us.

Discover America located in Mississauga,Ontario in conjunction with city states nearby- ‘promotes U.S. Travel and Tourism to Canadians in Canada. They offer ‘a variety of initiatives that connect travel and tourism stakeholders on both sides of the border’
Hotels, travel agents and Motor Coach Airlines are members of this organization.

I spoke to Dream America Canadian representative and Montreal native Pedro Barbosa who delved a little more into the topic of music festival tourism and the mandate in place for the cities involved in boosting their travel and tourism initiatives for any of the music festival seasons. Barbosa mentioned that ‘most of these places present today have routes covered by Air Canada or Porter Airlines-so there’s the routes that bring Canadians and Americans from all over the country, it gets the word out across the country and it’s kind of like a trade and exchange…..some of the places exhibiting here at #CMW2018 are even closer to Montreal than Toronto is’.

We talked about the benefits of visiting cities that have broad musical varieties. He’s big into Jazz and Metal but some city scenes he feels ‘are much smaller and there appears to be less of a fan base even when the scene is popular in that city.’

Barbosa did mention though that ‘when it comes to niche [music] markets, it’s the markets themselves that don’t always reach tourist outlets. Tourism boards tend to focus on specific genres and in order for Tourism Boards to present music venues,events and seasonal programs in their plans and more liaisons can be formed in the future to promote all music across the board.

All representatives for each city/state were highly informative and provided tons of info on the vibrant nightlife for each of these cities. Surprisingly,Portland has a very vibrant Underground House scene and Choose Chicago (sister city to Toronto,) representative spoke in detail about Chicago’s House and Underground scenes…..it’s looks like a coincidence that just a few days ago it was announced that there would be a lunch hour dance party at Daley Plaza! (Yaassss Chicago!)

Portland – The cities represented at this year’s CMW all had one thing in common: thousands of Canadians commute from all over Canada to all these places-each booth was set to highlight their musical influences,entertainment and nightlife. I spoke to Director of Content Strategy Karen Martwick about Portland’s offerings and was presented with information about Craft Beer, Independent Design both Interior and Graphic by Independent Artists. The other booths held tons of information for Canadians on: Myrtle Beach, NC (undergoing major reconstruction), Georgia (Explore Georgia-Macon/Decatur and other historic sites.) And finally Austin,Texas. I look forward to delving into their Underground scenes in the future!

!Earshot for Indie Artists !Earshot Digital Distribution (!eDDS) really stood out among all the booths because of its slant on music distribution.Partially funded by the NCRA (National Campus & Community Radio Association)  It’s an online platform that is designed to get music from the Canadian music industry to the Canadian College campus and community radio sector.) With so many platforms internationally available in 2018 it’s easy to overlook a distribution system like this. Canadian College and University radio is still a powerful method to chart Canadian music and with Canadian Pride at it’s all time high over the last few years, I think this is an essential resource alongside all other local and global platforms. Over 90 stations are on this roster in May 2018.

!Earshot
NCRA – Ottawa

Independent artists will be able to fully access this database this September. The cost is $7 per song and $50 per album! College Campus radio is still one of the most powerful outlets for pushing new and local music.  The list will grow by September especially after Canadian Music Week-check out the details here: I highly recommend any new or existing artists getting their feet wet and/or would like to do a little more national radio promo…..Tap into this resource as a starter or accompanying promotional tool.This is exciting!

Late Night Delights

What I missed: the Drake Underground with Amber Mark (her vocals possess Rihanna’s abruptness and Sade’s familiar sounding velvety Contralto. Live Nation artist tickets were sold out right away-no luck in May, I’m sure she’ll be visiting Toronto again!

What was recommended: Taiwan Beats (ABAO) Aljenljeng, JADE EYES and Dizparity

What I enjoyed: Ottawa MC @draemusic. He closed out for two of T.O.s hottest crooners: Tika and Sophia Danai! That night was electrifying (TIKA, HMLT,Sophia Danai and BAYLA.)  Drae laid some strong lyrics with a very. live. band. I’m lovin’ the live band and MC sound all over again!

Can’t wait to hear what next year’ll bring!

Biography, DJ Culture & Music, events, House Music, Movers & Shakers, Music, New Jersey, New York, promoters, theshineprjct

Honeycomb Music – Josh Milan :Two Time Grammy Nominated, One For The Team (January 2018)

theshineprjct

Photo Josh Milan

I enjoy writing spiritual lyrics, conscious lyrics that touch your very soul. I love writing lyrics like that-just because I love it so much!  …..and in rolls anotha one *cue DJ Khaled

The journey to the Grammys is not quite as straight a path as it appears and as this article is being published mid–January 2018, Honeycomb Music Label Owner Josh Milan is a certified two-time Grammy nominee. To see someone in the community reppin’ a music genre that is marginally recognized by the greater music industry-is amazing!

shine – I’m thinking there’s no way that he’s not going to take home a trophy. No way. Not this year…..

House/Dance Music-singled out and officially categorized in and around the main ‘streams’ is a BIG deal. Not that it makes it any less underground or exclusive but it keeps the culture alive and well. Good music, good lyrics and great instrumentation are definitely a BIG deal in the Land of Josh Milan. I was surprised; not that he shouldn’t be a contender on that list, but mostly that the Dance category was added to the newer category list! Again, right next to Louie Vega!

Milan feels that things need to change (with respect to the Grammy Nominations Review Committee)he says, ‘there are some excellent recording artists, producers and musicians coming out of the scene/community from all over and it’s something that needs to be recognized. This is how the culture needs to be kept alive. ‘Something needs to change in the industry’

I asked him how he felt about the Grammys transitioning into a more digital judging process-he felt that the decision-making process, as advanced as it has become, indeed makes voting easier and more inclusive of all artists-but life still remains modest as a recording artist.

Milan fully understands that many still may not know who Louie Vega or Josh Milan are but he does feel that, ‘it would still be our position whether we win or not; to teach and direct our people through music…..it’s challenging he says, ‘because there’s no money in it, NO MONEY chinedu!!!!’ lol

(I had to laugh about the way he said this BUT he really emphasized that there is STILL no money in music.)

The second surprising transition on top of the 3 new musical categories is that key players contributing to an album now include (Producers, Songwriters, Sound Engineers and Mixers!)

According to Billboard.com, any supporting roles ‘credited with at least 33 percent or more playing time on the winning album will be eligible to receive a Grammy in the Album Of The Year category’.  The biggest and most groundbreaking move is that full albums from the Classical, Jazz and Dance categories will now be included. This is a subtle but very successful way to pull the ‘Underground’ to the forefront and keep the culture alive.

It’s sad that the Grammy Association took so long to wholly recognize other genres but exciting that these genres can be introduced to broader audiences to build and sustain the scene. With the ‘best’ artists embraced by the Academy its’ a great starting platform for vast audiences to focus on strong artists in each category. With Canada and Canadian Artists making waves globally in other genres-especially at this year’s Grammy Awards Show, this huge path widening for Dance Music lends exponential opportunities here up north. Especially those artists known to us.(Yay, Canada!)

Dance is broad but Dance encompasses so much and that’s the beautiful thing about this move! Milan feels that it’s truly an honour to be acknowledged by his peers and it may enhance the types of projects he’s going to work on from here onwards. It might even expand his artists network. But no matter what-He is focused on doing more music.

Being in the scene,working in the industry, loving the industry doesn’t have to be solely about the money if you have a clear idea of what you want to do.

Milan has left a huge imprint on the music scene over the last three decades. His participation has spurred musical movements and global scenes.That picture is BIGGER than money right? We talked about his career and the future of Honeycomb Music:

shine – Congratulations on your first and second Grammy Nomination!

JM- Thanks so much!It’s a great thing to say that I’m a Grammy nominated guy-it would be nice to say Grammy Award Winning Recording Artist Josh Milan….BUT mostly it feels good because I’m being acknowledged by my peers!

shine – How passionate are you about this music?

JM – I enjoy writing spiritual lyrics, conscious lyrics that touch the soul. I just love it so much! I know as artists that ‘we outta know better because when people approach me and tell me that the sounds and lyrics really resonated with their spirit, it makes it all worth it. We’re still gonna be doing what we do. What do we call ourselves? Musical heroes? Yeah, we try to save the world with our lyrics’. That’s what I’m tryna do. I’m still gonna do that! I’ll be that guy forever!

shine – Where would you like your career to go now?

JM – I want my music to be the kind of music that people are going to remember 20 years from now. I think at this point that’s where I’d like my career to head-in that direction. I’d like to have the kind of music that lasts forever, not so much what’s hot in the club right now. I want my nieces and nephews to listen to my music and be able to remember the lyrics. Longevity and all of that. I’m going for that timeless sound.

shine – When did your journey with music start?

JM – Back in the day, I started playing the organ in church. As I discovered my musicality I was unaware of my family’s church rules on playing instruments. You’re chosen to play. And with me being so young, I begged my cousin to show me everything and he showed me and I kept at it everyday, all the time. It was a natural thing at the time, and so I jumped on the organ and figured it out…… I started playing TV shows and anything I could remember in my head. I played it. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I learned I had a gift. I knew I could play- but I didn’t think it was a miraculous thing to play by ear.’ (yes, it is JM!)

shine – Studying piano is hard. I appreciate those who do what they do musically. It’s mostly hard when you’re taught and it’s not your learning style, its a lot harder when you’re older than school age. It’s not impossible but IT’s challenging.

JM – I don’t know how to read music, but I tried once. It was sooo hard…it just boxed me in so thoroughly. IT turned me off and I couldn’t do it. I know what it’s like for something that comes to you naturally.

After his revelation it made me wonder about school and how it turns kids off of learning….all it takes is just one person all it takes is a good teacher that’s able to recognize that a kid has a talent.He mentions one of his favourite writers and greatest Nobel Laureates of contemporary American literature (James Baldwin) who was given tools (books by classic authors) at such an early stage by his teachers at a time when African-Americans were given very little opportunities-this story inspires him.

JM – Kids have so many tools available to them these days due to technology. Kids can maneuver all that (tech) with ease and this is a huge step forward especially with very specific things like music and music production

Milan noted that nothing about the music business and musical content is intended to create inspiration or direction because music is sold and made for profit. That’s why he enjoys making and playing the music so much. This is the main reason he decided to make and distribute all his music on private label Honey Comb Music. At Honeycomb he says,’we keep it nice and clean’.

Honeycomb Logo

shine – Transitioning from a recording artist in the early 80s to an independent label owner and artist today-what are some of the biggest changes?

JM – One of the biggest changes I’ve seen is the steady decline in content and talent. The entire industry and record labels particularly has taken a complete turn/change. The excitement of good music has turned into the excitement of a lot of money. The good music suffers, y’know? Rarely do you find a great full album anymore. Back in the day you’d find just every song is like ‘ahhh man I love this’ its a rarity now. And of course, artists aren’t making the kinda money they are making today. Another is the cash grab.

Everybody is fighting for pennies whereas in the past people were chasing larger sums of cash. From 1989-2017 numbers/dollars/publishing and royalties have dipped a considerable amount. That’s a DRASTIC change. People (accomplished musicians even) hold extra regular gigs just trying to keep a roof over their heads. And finally, label ownership. Don’t come in thinking you’re gonna be making all this money.

It’s just not gonna happen. Everything’s rented. From women to vehicles. That’s why I have my own label. If money is gonna be shrunken and swallowed up-I’d like to be the one in control of it at least. That’s my position. I would politely decline any label offers-especially with creative direction and control. I’d like to have that. They (big music companies) need to make money.

shine – At what point did you decide you wanted to become a recording artist? 

JM – I wasn’t.  got looped into this thing, it was an accident. I was enjoying my musicality and I met a guy at church. I was playing and doing my music thing. Chris, lead singer of Blaze told me about a DJ that could make beats. We had no idea what a record deal was. We had no idea what a record label was-we would make tapes. We’d play music against record beats and come up with songs. Those recorded tapes we handed over to a guy in the neighbourhood who had just started a record label.

At that time in 1984, a record label was a real BIG deal. We had no idea about studios. IT was unbelievable. We made $500 for that and eventually Kevin sold his tables and we gathered $1000 and recorded something in the studio. We became recording artists after that. The 2nd label we signed with was Quark Records.

img_3404
img_3403
img_3405
img_3406

We got on the radio. 1987 was the last time you could hear a House record on regular rotation on major radio. Then the 90s came-that’s what ended it all. Those were the last days….. it was the end of commercial House as I knew it. The other genres started to take over. The New Jack Swing and Hip Hop was becoming the future. We were slowly fading away. Shortly after that we were signed to Motown. That was HUGE.

shine – Did you meet Berry Gordy?

JM – Yes, I got to meet my heroes. I met Berry Gordy and Diana Ross. I’ve seen major things!!! I wouldn’t trade my independent for any of that.

shine – What happened at Motown?

JM – We were (Blaze) was dropped from Motown. They looked at us as the next Earth, Wind and Fire. A fully planned Marketing strategy was set up…….it was a big plan. Motown signed Boyz II Men and included them on very many promotions with the other big Motown artists at the time. Heavy D being one of them……Boyz II Men would go on to be one of the biggest acts for mainstream Adult/Contemporary but Josh Milan remained connected to the people.

After Boyz II Men’s debut- Blaze was dropped. They didn’t start anything or develop anything with us. House was seen as a bad idea and all projects related to Blaze were dropped. We were fortunate to have huge records in the scene. Many artists were supported by the masses. We had a good run. We got gigs. (this is possibly birth of the Underground maybe?) We had a good run……I realized very quickly that I had to create Underground sounding House Music.

That’s the only way I could survive. At the same time-commercial acts Robin S,Cece Peniston,Black Box,Neneh Cherry,Martha Wash and Technotronic were dominating the charts. I decided to go hardcore. My lyrics have been consistent to this day-but the sound was almost more dark and club-definitely not a place for the radio anymore.

shine – Who’s Alexander Hope?

JM – I used the name Alexander Hope. I did a bunch of songs under that name. Blaze made a few hits at the time too-I Found Love, Consequences and a song called Saturday (it was huge). We (Blaze) survived the 90s!

img_3407

shine – What was it like trying to make it in NY then?

JM – At times like those are when I loved the industry the most- any scene is supported by the locals in NY-you could be part of any scene in NY and make a living. Of course it would be a modest living. But you can survive.

shine – What are you working on right now?

JM – I try to find artists that make noise vocally. Reminiscent of Earth, Wind & Fire style music [loud with horns] I’m looking for loud music with horns and good lyrics. I look for strong instrumentation and solid production are key components I strive to re-create a 70s for 2018 sound. I’m currently working on a few singles with artists Ramona, Dawn Tallman and New York based Afro Latin group Ritmo Y Tumbao (percussionists who embrace African and Latin Rhythms) I add vocals and more rhythm to their music.

shine – Are there any favourite artists you’ve met over the years?

JM – Over the years I’ve met so many greats-from Phyllis Hyman to Bobby McFerrin but really, I would like to work with Chaka Khan. (Even accomplished individuals have people they admire!) I’m not sure if she’d work with me though. She’s my shero. I channel my inner Chaka Khan for #inspiration. I feel that maybe she wouldn’t take me seriously. I’ve wanted to work with her my whole career! (Ahem Ms. Khan are you reading this???)

img_3401

shine – What are some of the new rules to learn about the good ole’ music biz?

JM – It’s really important for artists to learn the rules of this biz, don’t come into the studio thinking that you’d like to work on music wanting it to sound a certain way. If you don’t know the rules, how can you win? Learn about publishing which is extremely important. (One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned.) Publishing rights for music and lyrics are even bigger than gigs. Keep all rights to your publishing. It IS a business. Treat it as a business first and foremost. Louie Vega is someone who has taught me about the business first. He taught me a lot. We both took different routes towards our careers. Louie to DJ’ing and myself to the studio.

I’m sharing this kind of advice so no one has to go through this walking into the industry. Many singers and vocalists arrive to the studio with no conversation or agreement and talk nothing about being paid. Many artists passionately want to perform and sing but this forewarning is solid. Lofty and dreamy ideas are great but before entering the studio, there should be some discussion about what you’re doing and how it looks financially.

Producers reading this might not like the candid advice I’m giving but it’s truth. Artists, don’t get burned! It’s rare that all-encompassing details are so direct-with these financial times we’re all really fighting for the dollars and if you don’t know something; nobody’s gonna try to tell you-be forewarned from here! You gotta get what you need for yourself. It’s an ugly business. Get it? Got it!

Stay Tuned

Every year he holds a birthday boat ride in NYC. Louie Vega, Jihad Mohammed hosted a House Music cruise on the Atlantic last year with guest DJ Mike Dunn (Chicago) and he brought it! This cruise happens every year!

The shine prjct wishes Josh Milan and Louie Vega all the best this month at the Grammy’s. Take one home for the Global House Team! 

-shine

Credits: https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/grammys/7832881/grammy-awards-changes-online-voting-album-rap-categories

Biography, DJ Culture & Music, House Music, Movers & Shakers, Music, promoters

Ralf Gum-GO GO Music-International-House Music Series-Creative Connection

theshineprjct

ralf-gum-sofa-01

When I meet artists with an extensive and accomplished body of work….I’m not sure where to start and what to ask….I’d love to ask about IT all. He’s released a slew of hits year after year over the last 6-7 years. He’s one of many really good German Soulful/Deep House talents with a production career spanning many decades! In the 90s he played at Studio Lounge (Wuertzberg, Germany) and Club Airport in his own town. On his first visit to NYC in 1991 he said ‘it was then that I decided that House Music was IT…..He became more focused on it after hearing people like Louie Vega and Ron Trent playing pure House all in one night- ‘I remembered how I had been so used to playing all genres at home and it blew him away.’

In 2001 he started label GOGO Music and used it as a platform to keep his style of music consistent and real. With such exceptional production he brings absolute harmony, soul and groove to the music! UK Blues & Soul Magazine says about DJ Ralf Gum: ‘He emphatically demonstrated his ability to orchestrate Soul House goodness on the grandest possible scale’ (And he does this well!) His productions have become more lush and full-bodied over the years. They’re deeper. I can identify a RALF GUM production anywhere!

In 2008 Gum released a very impressive debut project titles ‘Uniting Music’. It was unique in that it was one continuous connected piece of music-like a mix CD but seamless. With this production he pushed traditional DJ mixing boundaries. I wondered if he created a piece like this for creativity’s sake or for the sake of being able to mix for a long period of time-I realized he enjoyed both. We talked extensively about his connection to creativity…..

When he first arrived to Pretoria he really missed playing long sets and wanted to create a journey where he could play some obscure music and because there was more time, he could be left to create what he callsed an up and down of moods. That was one of his many main goals when looking for the right venue. The night would be split into two sets and everybody played 4 hour sets. With a open venue, it was easier to showcase more sounds. It’s not possible to pack all that into 1 hour sets. ‘It’s a lot of fun, I love this style especially when the venue has an amazing sound system. It’s just one of the ventures I ventured in when I first arrived here.’ (That was for him.) For the House Head, he says ‘it’s incredible-the real House Heads will hear old,new,known and unknown and this is just to keep House culture alive.’

Ralf visited South Africa for the first time in 2008 and during many of those visits he conducted DJ workshops. Those trips then became every two-three months. On his later visits he brought his wife. He loved that national SA radio plays sounded like a bunch of well crafted mix-tapes on air and at the time it was Osunlade’s latest playing on a taxi radio-like top 40 plays everywhere else. All media outlets promote and cover all aspects of House music unlike Germany where he comes from-national or local broadcasters would hardly play Deep House and National TV didn’t report about House either. It was never treated like other popular genres like Hip Hop for example-this is one of the reasons why he chose to change locales……

You’re not the first producer/DJ to talk about South Africa’s support of good House Music. South Africa REALLY supports the artists and now you’ve moved there-how’s it been? 

‘It opened up the possibility for a different way of life for me to be honest. I used to travel a lot for gigs and like many other DJs do today  for example I’d play in Europe one day and then tomorrow be in Asia or whatever.’ He emphasized that South Africa changed his life in many ways because the need to travel far was no longer necessary. He realized that over time he found much better gigs because this country has the highest consuming House Music fans in the world. He boldly sums it up that ‘wherever you go-you find educated crowds who are really into the sound which makes it a pleasure for a DJ like me to play for them.’ (I just love that he calls real House Music fans educated crowds! )

His move South reduced his time on the road and he could still play the same amount of gigs or more. He honestly says, ‘I obtain income and I can still do my music and most importantly I’m being appreciated as a white person of all places like South Africa…….. considering the history with apartheid….. which only ended 23 years ago…’ I paused for a second before continuing our conversation to let that sink in-that he even considered if he would or would not be embraced in a country with such a tense political history and that he would even speak about this as an artist. This was another topic that further broke the ice in our conversation. He matter-of-factly stated,”My race has a lot of implications… because people still don’t really trust the white man here……and this is very understandable and truthfully my luck is the music. Music is my connection with the people and through the music I’m very much accepted here…..with confidence.’

In 2012 Ralf emigrated to SA with his wife and kids. And dropped hit after hit, remix after remix with : All This Love For You, Complicated, Fly Free, Little W.12th St., Free Is All I Wanna Be, Take Me To My Love, The Pap and SO many more!

What was it like throwing your first conference/event at WMC (2006)? Did any opportunities come out of there? How were you received by fans? What was your expectation?

RALF: Tons of preparation, organization and very exciting to have an event in a space where you are not located. Many factors depend on the outcome of the event than if you were in your home town. I’d been to Winter Music Conference a few times before I organized the event with the label. So I didn’t completely tap into something I didn’t know. I’d been there for some years. It’s a challenge. It was a vehicle to promote the label. Over the years I’ve held 3 or 4 events with partners at different locations. We had great parties we had an impressive line up. So yes, I loved doing it. I stopped doing them because I felt that Miami didn’t have the relevance anymore which it used to have for me. In addition-it’s far away for Europeans. Its easy to reach for Americans but the costs involved in doing an event there just didn’t justify the fun and promotion. I eventually stopped doing them. It’s a great occasion to make contacts.To meet people. It’s especially great if you are new in the industry. Its important in case you’re starting a label and wanna get its name out there but it lost relevance for myself because I felt I had the contacts already. The only reason to continue is to take advantage of a nice and warm holiday!

 

 

GOGO-Music-Logo.jpg

 

What are you working on today? This year? Who would you like to work with? Multi-genre?

I loved every collaboration to be honest. Most people I worked with again usually because it’s a mutual pleasure. What sticks out though is working with Monique Bingham. We go back a long time and everything we do REALLY has an impact so I feel we are a special match when we work together. Maybe Monique Bingham sticks out the most but I always find it a bit unfair because working with other artists who have a musical mindset and who love working with and creating music like I do……are very important.  I usually have a good feeling to pick who I should work with before I start working on a project. Sometimes even understanding why they are in the industry helps a project along…..if creation is the actual reason…it (the idea) usually works out perfectly with me… and to put out quality work is the spirit of creation.

Ralf-GUM-feat.-Monique-Bingham

You’ve been to Toronto? You mentioned at the beginning that you’ve been to Toronto once? Yes. In the Winter. It might have been 2009. Or 2010. I had a great, great night. He wasn’t sure what to expect. He was told (by the promoter) that Hip Hop was to be played and later on that night move on to House. He said ‘I was like oh shhhhh…..it could’ve be one of the nights that the crowd would maybe expect something a little bit more commercial. It wasn’t at all what I expected. It was an amazing party! I can’t wait to come back at some point……’ (That’s Toronto!)

Sir LSG

Currently (June 2017) he is finishing up Sir LSG’s project (Circles-cop that album it’s gorgeous!) and his own album. (We talked a few months ago!)  Sir LSG’s album dropped yesterday! This past July/August he was helping with some mixing. He was inundated with requests to mentor and assist so many artists when he first arrived to South Africa and couldn’t help everyone. He’s helped break artists like Raw Artistic Soul and Black Coffee. He’s decided to focus on one artist at a time to be more effective and also give the artist a strong platform to steady their own career. Ralf will be refocusing efforts on his own projects soon and we should expect an album from him next year!

Here’s a Carl Cox quote: Your favourite artist was once a local artist, don’t wait until they blow up to start supporting. How do you feel about what he said?

He answered me with a German quote: ‘The Prophet Doesn’t Count In His Home’ but not being understood is a great school of learning…….Unfortunately we live in times where a lot of things are based on media hype and if you’re able to travel continents with your music and so forth, you suddenly become interesting to media that might not have cared about you for a long time. Actually you might have been doing the same thing in front of them all this time.

The reason being I can’t explain. I feel like I said its wrong but I wouldn’t know how to change it. I strongly believe you have to make it to a certain point in your hometown or country before you should start venturing out to other territories and as well you grow your skills while working with smaller audiences. For me it was a great school to fight against the prejudice that Deep House received. People at home thought it (Deep House) wasn’t hard enough and people can’t party with it enough. It made me better at reading crowds and work them rhythmically and get away with playing music that certain crowds wouldn’t necessarily listen to. It took me awhile until I was able to start travelling with my music. A good DJ is a good DJ and a good artist is a good artist no matter where he comes from. Look at the artist for his craft and not where it has taken him. And of course the city pays attention to it because it makes money…..

Next to the passion which is the foundation for creating or doing anything related to the arts is patience- which is extremely important unless you have a super hit and become a star overnight–usually is a long way to popularity or whatever you wanna call it or just to be able to make a living with your art. If you keep having passion or patience it will work out for you. I’m pretty sure there will be a lot of obstacles financially and in other aspects or other but you can overcome them and at some point with enough talent it will work out. It’s the most fulfilling thing to really do what you want to do and yeah if you make it to the point where you can fully focus on your passions. Its the most fulfilling and best thing that can ever happen to you but I think patience is the key!

 

Super special thanks to DJ Ralf Gum!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DJ Culture & Music, Establishments, events, Manifesto, Movers & Shakers, Music, Social Media, Toronto

Manifesto 11 -Toronto-Let’s Re-CAP!

theshineprjct

Post-Manifesto re-cap and I’m still reeling from the festival’s High Energy vibe. A weekend mash up of Oldskool meets NuSkool under many historical roofs and under the open sky. (RBC Echo Beach) It was such an exciting weekend to look forward to and what an unexpected show it was! (The weather was fabulous!)

The peaceful party vibes continued all 4 days! Shout outs to local lady DJs Dre Ngozi and Nino Brown alongside special guest Selecta Vashtie for throwing down! What I loved was the way all eras and genres connected to Hip Hop legacy with pride and knowledge. All events were spread out all over the city!! Local acts Tika Simone,The Sorority,Sean Leon,Derin Falana,Matthew Progress and Majid Jordan all represented! Truly a pleasure to watch and sing along!

FullSizeRender - Copy (6)

Sitting in to chat with Brooklyn’s Sweetheart Vashtie, we get to see the other side of urban culture and what it actually took for her to build her foundation from the inside/out. Che went from the mundane to the spiritual to the video light perspective. We learned a lot about how she ‘arrived’. Her story’s amazing. In a new age of the music industry, where it doesn’t take much to be notable, we often forget about what it takes to get there. Vashtie talked about Health/Wellness, the Art of Networking, her time at the record label, her travels, her childhood and her heritage. She’s a remarkable young woman. No wonder she’s sought after! Not only did Manifesters walk away with a little bashment but they walked away with some gems for self development.

FullSizeRender - Copy (3)

Right now as social media reigns, Che asked about her play-by-play social postings online (prior to her arrival to the T.Dot that weekend.) She talked about her reasons for relying on it so much, “I think it comes from my filmmaking, storytelling side…..I feel like if you’re watching something, you should see it all-the conversations I have with people…..from having a blog…I want to show that I’m like everyone else.I come from a generation where we just don’t share information—and so now making a connection with people with every snap (Snapchat) I feel like I’m showing what’s happening. Back then (in 1998/1999) I felt that Social Media was so strange and I’m coming from a generation where we just don’t share information….but with technology we can talk to anyone anywhere”.

With social sharing permitted at a showcase like Manifesto-all angles of the weekend were splashed all over the web and city. Yes, there were smartphone users all over the concert but the ability to capture these moments helped show the world what’s here and it’s an incredible kind of new beginning.

FullSizeRender - Copy (4)

If Manifesto is one of many Urban Culture fixtures that collectively brought the rest of North America to look at Urban Culture they way they did this June-I’m down. What’s most inspiring is to see the crowds of people at the live concert and parties enjoying all the incredible acts! Toronto is diverse-all ages and all faces really show what a mosaic looks like united in music and I love that.

The verdict: Toronto people love music and support local acts with force. According to Vashtie, (Che didn’t have to twist her arm or nothing) J Canadians are killin’ it with talent. Manifesto you’ve come a long way, Toronto let’s keep going!

Biography, DJ Culture & Music, Establishments, House Music, Movers & Shakers, Music, Offering Recordings

House Music Series –International- Summer 2017-Migosy-Offering Recordings – AfroHouse/Future Deep

theshineprjct

Last summer as I sifted through some of the new tracks over at Traxsource. I stumbled on one of Amsterdam’s upcoming Afrohouse DJs. The track released at the time truly ‘quietly invaded the scene’. 

Fantasma is a gorgeous tune. He’s signed to Offering Recordings and has the deeper sound usually coming from that label. Earlier this year we talked about his plans for the future with Offering Recordings. Let’s look at his discography.

He’s dropped solid tracks for the last five years. Skyline (ITH) 2012 (Defected Records), Life Takes Time 2013 (Tribe Records),Embrace You 2014 (Z Records), Loyal People 2015 (Offering Recordings), Follow Through 2016(Global Diplomacy),Fantasma 2016(Offering Recordings) Each track has built on the release from the previous year.

Before this interview I went checking for your biography and found an awesome discography. I found maybe….one interview. Is this by design?

Thank you, and good to hear you liked the interview. It kinda depends on the questions that are being asked. I try to give as much information about myself as possible without the feeling of reading a book or something. But always pure and honest.

Get to know Migosy….Migosy is based out of the Netherlands which lends a very unique sound to the Afro House style.Offering Recordings and Migosy were brought together because it was a combination of the right timing as well as his unique/rhythmic sound. Offering Recordings is always looking for something fresh and new.
Music was a strong influence from a very early age. He remembers fiddling with his Mother’s amplifier. He’d mess around with buttons and knobs. He’d turn the amplifier on/off in a rhythmic way.

He laughs ‘it would keep me busy for minutes…my mom would stop me of course because I was interrupting the music and that’s was pretty annoying for her’

As he got older at about 12; My brother (Fode) got me a PC so I could explore my musical needs a bit more. I had no idea I’d be making hits some day. He thanks his brother!!! ‘thanks bro’ It’s amazing when family can/does support your goals somehow.He grew up listening to 80’s music: Prince, Michael Jackson, Duran Duran, Ollie & Jerry, Rocksteady Crew, Earth, Wind & Fire which made a heavy impact on Migosy wanting to make music. I could easily fall in love with their music. One very important person in his life, his sister Aisata Blackman she taught him how to really sing!se taught him how to sing in a different tone and how to vocally harmonize. It’s so enjoyable. They used to sing along to 90s RnB-R Kelly,Shai,Jodeci (ain’t nuthin like 90s rnb!)Aisata is currently the lead performer/singer in Sister Act-The Musical (in Germany) I’d love to watch her perform if I (shine) get a chance!

You’re based out of Amsterdam-besides ADE what is the Underground House scene like over there? Is it anything like London or NY? I haven’t experienced the underground scene in London or NY yet but I can say Amsterdam is poppin’. There is so much raw talent here. That’s why myself and my good friend Deep Rooted Soul started our concept Cuisine @ Club NL, Sifa Siluvangi (Label Manager,Offering Recordings/DEPTH Music) recently played that other night was fire!!! It’s a concept where we book DJ’s who have their own sound and are not afraid to try something outside the box. Currently we’ve moved to a new spot in Amsterdam which we’ll reveal soon!

During ADE we work with many international names & labels in the scene such as my big bro N’Dinga Gaba & Global Diplomacy, Federico Luyo & Double Cheese Recordings/House of Franky, Pascal Morais & Arrecha Records, Paris Cesvette, (Ministry of House) Todd G and many more.

5) How has the Netherlands embraced your signature musical set? (What do you like to play?) I have to be honest, it took a while for people to understand what I was playing, but it didn’t take long for my sound to really stick. We as Dutch people have so many choices so you really have to come up with something good to impress us. (kinda critical yes?) lol

6) Describe your spiritual connection to music in general? What about Dance Music?Everything in life is a vibration, with music it’s the same thing. That explains why music can trigger sadness, anger, happiness or euphoria. It triggers our emotions. Now that I’m getting older I seem to understand this more and more. Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and charm and gaiety to life and to everything. -Plato

8) With the warm reception of ‘Fantasma’ are you working on anything new for 2017? 2018? I’m actually always working on something new so I can play exclusive music in my sets. You’ll notice on his Jan 2017 top 10 Traxsource choices. If I can surprise myself I will definitely surprise the crowd I’m playing for. I like to test my music first before I put it out. But there will definitely be some new releases coming out this year.

9) When are you visiting North America? Do you intend to visit North America? There aren’t any plans just yet but I would love to pay a visit one day!

10) Any advice for other cats in the game? For young cats starting out? We all have our own story to tell.It’s okay to be influenced by anything, but make sure you stay authentic and create your own sound.  That way you’ll stand out from everything.

Migosy on Twitter>>>https://twitter.com/migosy

Migosy on FB>>>https://www.facebook.com/Migosy/

Migosy on IG>>>www.instagram.com/migosymusic

Migosy on SoundCloud>>>www.soundcloud.com/migosy