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Interview: Vence Ray Shares Insights About His Musical Journey

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Welcome – Thanks for sharing your music with us! How has 2021 been so far for you?

Thank you for taking the time to listen to my music. 2021 is shaping up to be a very productive year for me so far.

Your latest track “1,000 Cuts” REMIX is a laid-back blend of smooth lyricism and a clean production. This remix won a remix contest hosted by Nadia Vaeh and Fluid Audio. How did this song come together?

I had three songs to choose from for my remix. I wanted a song that would stand out: a song that I could put a cinematic and somewhat of an epic spin to. I made the conscious decision to not listen to the originals before working on my remix. Listening to the vocal stems, the “1,000 Cuts” melody and lyrics stood out to me the moment I heard it.

Interview: Vence Ray Shares Insights About His Musical Journey

Where do you draw inspiration from when you compose your music and what’s your favorite part about the process?

I always look for the story in the music I’m composing. As cliche as it sounds, I like to “let the music create itself” and orchestrate with sounds and chords that tell the story, no matter the genre of music I’m creating. For example in the “1,000 Cuts” remix, I used a rhythmic clock ticking sound when the lyrics said, “clock runs out…” Or before the line, “I only love you when the lights dim,” I have a light switch sound that cuts every other sound in the music. This also happens to be my favorite part of the process: discovering the elements that tell the story.

How did you first get started in music? Run us through your story.

When I was about six, I started playing the piano with the help of my father. Later on, I went on to learn the drums, guitar, and pretty much any other musical instrument that we had at our home. At the age of 10, I started performing in my parent’s band in Haiti. I got my first taste for music production while creating musical arrangements for our band’s live performances. In 2010, I found myself in the U.S. without a band to perform with and discovered the world of Digital Audio Workstations. This discovery revealed my true passion for music production and composition. I have been creating music ever since.

If you didn’t like music what would you like to do?

If I wasn’t doing music, I would definitely be doing something in the fitness industry. I love being at the gym and working out on a regular basis.

What are your fondest musical memories? In your house? In your neighborhood or town?

One of my fondest musical memories would have to be when I could finally do a proper octave on the keyboard. My hands were still small and my left hand couldn’t reach a proper octave for what seemed like an eternity. I was so happy the day that I could finally play a Cmaj9 accompanied by a proper octave on my left hand.

What’s your motto or the advice you live by?

“You are your most important piece of gear.” We musicians (myself included) get wowed too easily by the “latest and greatest.” I have to remind myself that whether I’m using just an iPad or a full studio, the feeling in my music should not change because I’m the most important piece of gear.

What would your idyllic life as an artist be like?

Making the music I love, seeing my music have a positive impact on people, and supporting myself and my loved ones with my music would be my idyllic life as an artist.

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?

There are many amazing artists I would love to collaborate with. I loved working with Nadia Vaeh. If I had to choose someone else right this moment, it would be Sia. Her songwriting, tone, and versatility are out of this earth.

What’s been your greatest musical accomplishment so far?

I would say that winning this remix contest has been my greatest musical accomplishment so far. I had been holding off on releasing my music to major streaming platforms, but this contest kind of forced my hand in a very good way. Now that the wheels are rolling, I plan to keep that momentum going!

Interview: Vence Ray Shares Insights About His Musical Journey

Thank you for speaking with us! For our final question, is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for having me. Thank you to Nadia Vaeh, her team, and Fluid Audio for the opportunity. Be on the lookout for new projects from me in the near future.

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Interview: Vence Ray Shares Insights About His Musical Journey  Interview: Vence Ray Shares Insights About His Musical Journey

 

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Texas-Based Legendary Country Music Artist Todd Barrow’s Latest Album. “American Made” Feels Like His Best Work Yet, and for a Good Reason!

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Texas-Based Legendary Country Music Artist Todd Barrow’s Latest Album. “American Made” Feels Like His Best Work Yet, and for a Good Reason!

How hard it is to describe such a noble icon in the country music realm, a name that rings with deep resonance and appeal—the name Todd Barrow. This genuine, award-winning country musician epitomizes the essence of greatness in the realm of country music. With a string of accolades, chart-topping hits, and unforgettable performances, he has solidified his place as a true legend in the genre. His talent and dedication have earned him widespread acclaim, and his contributions to country music have left an indelible mark on the industry. From his heartfelt lyrics to his soul-stirring melodies, every aspect of his music resonates with authenticity and passion. Whether performing on stage or composing for film and television, he consistently delivers excellence and leaves audiences captivated by his artistry. With a career spanning decades, he continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for years to come. Truly, he is a titan of country music, deserving of every accolade and acclaim bestowed upon him.

The album “American Made” captures the essence of country music—every inch of what has made listeners, young and old, fall in love with the genre. As someone who comes from an era of music where authenticity, quality of lyrics, and sound still stand for something, he makes it count and delivers a performance spanning 30 minutes and 17 seconds of crisp, refreshing, captivating, heartwarming, and memorable listening experience.

To say that the opener “Country’s Just Cooler” hits closer to home feels like an understatement. Talk about how catchy, infectious, and unforgettable it is. Barrow’s own heavenly sound is quintessentially country…there is no separating it from the genre. The way he takes us through a story with a captivating chorus to remind us just how cool country music is, is how I imagine paradise (If at all it exists!) The mellow guitar and mandolin, rhythmic piano, precise drums, heartwarming harmonica, and his own beautiful voice seamlessly entwine and wrap around a listener like a warm embrace.

Another stunner is “Girl Like You,” a danceable masterpiece with a lively concoction of the acoustic guitar, percussion, harmonica, and piano backed by Barrow’s own distinctive and velvety vocals characterized by a rich, twangy timbre that accentuates the intimate appeal of this romantic single. His delivery offers listeners a heartfelt glimpse into his soul…call that magical spell!

I imagine Texas with its vast open landscapes and rugged terrain, and I know it serves as the perfect backdrop for the essence of country music. That’s how I even knew the single “West Texas Wind” would appeal to me before it had even started playing. As the West Texas wind dances freely across the open expanse, carrying with it tales of resilience, longing, and adventure, so does the plaintive wall of the guitar and drums, the subtle touch of the piano, and the haunting appeal of the harmonica as Barrow takes us through this unforgettable adventure with his soulful and heartfelt vocals!

Echoing the timelessness associated with country music, the song “Outlaw in Me” is country music personified. This is the kind of music that makes you want to go another round in your favorite joint, as it speaks to your heart and soul in equal measure. Barrow’s stunning vocals add that rustic charm to the sound, running the gamut of a listener’s emotions as he offers something soulful, heartfelt, and authentic. He captures the essence of storytelling, delivering lyrics with sincerity and emotion.

If someone does not stop me, I swear I’ll keep on going…well, I’m pretty old school myself and have always found the need to leave something for the imagination. I don’t know how Barrow managed to make “American Made” so evocative, haunting, unforgettable, catchy, and timeless, but the fact that he did deserves critical acclaim.

Check out the link below, stream the album in its entirety, and let’s compare notes. Sounds like a plan, right? That’s what I thought!

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Christian Music Singer Paula Shelton’s Critically Acclaimed Debut Single “I Will Go” Is a Genuine Testament of Her Faith and Convictions.

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Christian Music Singer Paula Shelton’s Critically Acclaimed Debut Single “I Will Go” Is a Genuine Testament of Her Faith and Convictions.

Paula Shelton’s genuine love for Christian music, instilled in her since she was just a young girl, and nurtured through her participation in church choir and high school band, has morphed into an insatiable passion for Christian music as she seeks to use her tremendous gifts to spread the message of hope, restoration, and gratification in Christ. She brings the message of Christian salvation to all people through her soul-stirring music, which features uplifting lyrics, expressive instrumentals, and an angelic voice. Her sound is characterized by authenticity, heartfelt worship, a message of hope, musical excellence, and integrity. The music serves as a powerful vehicle for sharing her faith and inspiring others on their spiritual journey. She would greatly appreciate you joining her on this journey, as she appeals to your heart and soul through genuine messages borrowed from the Holy Scripture.

“I Will Go” is her debut single, released in 2019. This track marked a significant milestone in Paula’s career that was just in its inception stage and is a tune that has achieved significant success. For example, it has over 25K streams on Spotify alone.

A sincere and heartfelt masterpiece, this song emerged from Paula’s thoughtful introspection about how she can do more to spread the gospel truth and be available to be used as the Lord’s vessel for spreading the messages of hope, love, and redemption.

The catchy and memorable lyrics, “Wherever you send me, I will go,” from that unforgettable chorus serve as the cornerstone of the track’s powerful message as Paula avails herself before Christ to be used in whichever way he pleases.

The accompanying instrumentation is splendid – chilled yet expressive, warm, and lush, spanning indie and contemporary pop. It offers such a captivating backdrop that beautifully complements Paula’s heavenly vocals.

“I Will Go” is a sincere expression of Paula’s beliefs, values, and personal experiences with spirituality. Her approach here is a form of worship, seeking to glorify God and inspire others with its powerful lyrics. Her performance is heartfelt, creating an atmosphere of reverence and devotion.

Despite the uplifting message, the song’s musical excellence is undeniable. Paula showcases her impeccable skills as a vocalist, songwriter, and producer, creating a song that is both spiritually uplifting and musically captivating.

This talented songstress invites you to savor the lyrical depth and masterful execution of “I Will Go,” and encourages you to share it with others.

Follow Paula Shelton on her social media platforms for more updates on new music and her other creative endeavors.

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Colorado-Based Rap Artist Jr Da Hillside Hustler Demonstrates Lyrical Prowess With His Catchy, Energetic, and Engaging Summer-Inspired Anthem, “Sunroof.”

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Colorado-Based Rap Artist Jr Da Hillside Hustler Demonstrates Lyrical Prowess With His Catchy, Energetic, and Engaging Summer-Inspired Anthem, “Sunroof.”

Hailing from Parkhill, Colorado, the lyrical talent and entertainer JR Da Hillside Hustler has consistently evolved as an artist, transforming from a young street-influenced musician to a masterful lyricist. whose name is mentioned with a measure of respect among his peers. Despite facing several adversities in life that may have seemed insurmountable, he triumphed over them all, transforming them into fuel to reach greatness. He is an example for so many aspiring artists out there. All you need is hard work, patience, persistence, and, above all, a never-say-die attitude. He has a magnetic charisma and demonstrates an insatiable hunger for self-expression, armed with intellectual firepower and an introspective outlook on life that allows him to fearlessly dive into the depths of his own experiences to create music with personal appeal.

JR Da Hillside Hustler has developed a high level of lyrical sophistication that characterizes his intellectual rhymes. Growing up in the streets of Parkhill, he delved into street culture and flirted with danger on a number of occasions. These experiences are reflected in his rhymes, which are born of lived experiences. This is what makes his music relatable, as so many listeners can identify with his pains, struggles, and wins, the culture, and everything in between that makes life worth living.

Currently, Da Hillside is making waves following the release of his new 6-song EP “Dollar$ & Dreams,” which showcases his ingenuity, versatility, and lyrical prowess. The track “Sunroof,” a single from this project, stands out as a dynamic summer anthem.

“Sunroof” has so many likeable features; from the onset, the beat is crazy and slaps like hell. The dynamic blend of 808s, bass, drums, emphatic hi-hats, and captivating samples creates an infectious energy as it provides a captivating backdrop, delightfully supplementing JR Da Hillside Hustler’s bold vocal delivery.

On the mic, Da Hillside showcases such command and fluidity. His flow is smooth, delivering clever rhymes with such effortless and inventive flair and finesse. You can tell this is where he belongs because he’s right at home with that performance.

The engaging verses are framed by the memorable chorus, which makes this jam an unforgettable anthem. The memorable hooks will continue playing in your head even after the song is over.

A banging, summer-inspired hit anthem, “Sunroof” cannot be denied by any hip-hop and rap music fanatic. This track enhances the atmosphere in any setting and gets folks busting some eye-catching moves thanks to the irresistible beats and equally inviting bars.

I’ve been repeatedly listening to the jam, and it feels better with every successive experience. The music just grows on you, and soon enough, you’re just vibing, dancing to the tempting beat, and singing along to an infectious hook.

JR Da Hillside Hustler is a dynamic lyricist who seamlessly blends the roles of rapper and artist. This trailblazing sensation is taking the music industry by storm with his unparalleled talent, infectious beats, and thought-provoking lyricism.

Music like “Sunroof” showcases Da Hillside’s insatiable hunger for self-expression, his razor-sharp wit, and his innate competency to paint vivid pictures with his words that resonate with listeners on a profound level.

JR Da Hillside Hustler is an artist in the truest sense of the word and deserves the critical acclaim he is getting. This is rap music personified, backed by a first-class performance that is truly unmatched.

With that said, how about you add this brilliant anthem to your playlist and make it a habit to listen to it daily?

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