Uproxx Music 20

Uproxx Music 20: TOBi Utilizes The Soul And Clever Raps To Shine As A Vivid Storyteller

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TOBi 'Uproxx Music 20' image
Patrick Duong/Merle Cooper

TOBi’s 2019 album STILL is one of the few albums I’ve listened to that felt like a mirror was held up to my face. The Nigerian-born, Toronto-raised rapper has an incredible knack for vivid storytelling, and STILL is a perfect example. Through 13 songs, TOBi guides listeners through the highs and lows of assimilating into a new culture, the struggles are pursuing a music career under the rulership of overanxious mothers — Nigerian ones at that (IYKYK), and the pressures of finding success as a Black man in the world. Phone calls from a concerned mother who worries about her son in the late hours of the night, altering your name to “fit this lil’ game” as TOBi sings on “City Blues,” and of course, grappling with the sometimes elusive thing called “love” are all present on STILL. It’s an album I’m always grateful for.

There’s more to TOBi’s artistry than coming-of-age stories of a Nigerian teen-turned-adult figuring out his way in the world. His most recent album PANIC, released in 2023, is a soulful body of work that’s a bit more rough around the edges than his debut, with the rambunctious “Flatline” with Kenny Mason, the choppy “All Night Long” with Topaz Jones, and the funky “Time Out.” TOBi’s puts his soul on display as he paints a clear image of key moments in his life; it’s no wonder the album won Rap Album/EP of the Year at the 2024 JUNO Awards.

Now, TOBi has plenty of new music on the way, and if his recent single “Forgot We Were Seeds” with Mick Jenkins (their second collab), is a sign, what’s coming next will be just as good as what we’ve heard. Ahead of these upcoming releases, we put the spotlight on TOBi for our Uproxx Music 20 to learn more about his interests and inspirations.

See Previous UPROXX MUSIC 20 Interviews:

What is your earliest memory of music?

My earliest memory of music is listening to the animated Tarzan soundtrack produced by Phil Collins and falling in love with those songs at like the age of 5. The score for that movie was A1!

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

Honestly, coming out of Toronto, Canada, we didn’t have a blueprint to becoming a rap artist until Drake came through the scene. It was rare for a Canadian rapper to cut through the borders. Seeing what Drake did definitely put that battery in my back and then PartyNextDoor, all people from my city.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I’m learning how to play piano. It’s my favourite instrument to play and write to.

What was your first job?

A camp counselor at Horizon Arts Camp in Toronto.

What is your most prized possession?

My hard drives, haha.

What is your biggest fear?

Not doing everything I set out to accomplish.

Who is on your rap Mt. Rushmore?

Black Thought, Andre 3000, Kendrick Lamar, Cam’ron, and Jay-Z.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

Getting a villa in Jamaica with a built-in studio. Eating good food and fruits while making music. Enjoying time on the beach as well. Running games with my friends and family!

What are your three most used emojis?

🖤⚔🧬.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

Kendrick Lamar.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

Atlanta! I know it’;s finished now, but the surrealist nature of the show is exactly how my brain is wired. A runner-up show would be Rap Sh!t before it got canceled. Anything Issa Rae I’m with it.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality, and why?

Keanu Reeves, because he stays out the way and does good work!

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

Every human being is related. We’re all distant cousins 1000 times removed.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life, and what do you love about it?

“Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough” is just a perfect song. From the instrumental tricks and breaks to the vocal performance. The song makes no sense, how good it is. Also, it’s an instantly positive song. Hard to be in a bad mood when the song is playing.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

My favorite city to perform is Toronto! But I’m excited to perform in Lisbon!!

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

The Roots, Frank Ocean, Kendrick Lamar, Florence & The Machine, Sade and in Casa Loma in Toronto.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

I would be a clinical psychologist or on the path.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

I would go five years into the past and live harder!!!

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

Full steam ahead on everything. No doubt in your mind about your mission. Stay focused, love and live harder!

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

With fondness, a warm heart and hopefully they are dancing, moving and enjoying the people around them.

Uproxx Music 20: Lay Bankz Wants Your Attention, And She Knows Just How To Get It

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Lay Bankz Uproxx Music 20 interview
Pablo Flores Perez/Merle Cooper

For the past few months, Lay Bankz has been a mainstay on all social media platforms. Whether it be X (formerly known as Twitter) or TikTok, Lay Bankz’s reach continues to grow by the month. The rapper, who hails from Philadelphia and is just 19 years old, follows a simple philosophy: Make good music and make sure it lands in people’s faces. It’s an idea that’s become the status quo in today’s social media era, especially in recent years with the presence of TikTok. It also presents the harder task of not being too much in the faces of the audience where they feel trapped, get annoyed, and run for the fences. There’s a balance to be mastered here.

Time will tell if Lay Bankz masters this, but it’s been so far so good for her. Her rise to fame kicked off last summer with the release of “Ick.” The bass-thumping addresses the “sassy man apocalypse” and begs men to “tighten the f*ck up.” The song went viral thanks to a video of Bankz dancing to it at a gas station. Her moves, which were energetic to say the least, forced you to stop and watch. The same could be said about her latest viral moment, pushed by her new single “Tell Ur Girlfriend.” The hype single is wildly infectious and begs for a few listens before moving on to something else. Both records, as well as her debut EP Now You See Me, are proof that Lay Bankz wants your attention, and she knows just how to get it.

With more music on the way, we caught up with Lay Bankz for the Uproxx Music 20 series. Scroll down to learn more about the rising Philly rapper.

See Previous UPROXX MUSIC 20 Interviews:

What is your earliest memory of music?

I remember music from the time I was 3 years old. The first song I ever sang was “Irreplaceable” by Beyoncé.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

Honestly, myself. Music is a form of expression and it’s subjective. Once I learned I could say how I felt in another form of conversation, I took advantage of that.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I grew up playing violin, I play a little piano too. I wanna get better at the piano and hopefully start playing guitar.

What was your first job?

Sweeping in my stepdad’s barbershop.

What is your most prized possession?

My voice. It’s a gift that I can’t see or touch. Intangible, but not unattainable. It’s brought so much to my life and I couldn’t hold anything else to such high value.

What is your biggest fear?

Not being able to sing. Or not being able to take care of the people who rely on me.

Who is on your hip-hop Mt. Rushmore?

Missy Elliott, Kanye West, Lauryn Hill, and Jay-Z.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

I would create jobs with the resources for everyone in need.

What are your three most used emojis?

😭💖🙈💁🏽‍♀️ — I couldn’t pick between these four.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

Raye.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

Bridgerton, only because I’ve been watching it a lot recently.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality, and why?

Beyoncé, the way she controls any narrative placed upon her on any platform is admirable as ever. She always shows a sense of resilience, and she never does too much nor does she try hard to be herself. I love that about her.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

Black-own everything.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life, and what do you love about it?

That’s hard to say, there are so many songs I love. Doubling down on only one would be unfair because I grew up on so much music that I love for different reasons. Even to this day, I hear new music all the time that I appreciate for different reasons.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

Philly, the love different from your own city. I’m excited to go out of the country and show my talents overseas.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

Latto, Flo Milli, Cash Cobain, NLE Choppa, and Tyla in Atlanta.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

I don’t know. Maybe playing soccer or painting professionally. Whatever I would be doing would involve some sort of creativity or me being active because those are things I love. I got accepted to 23 colleges too, so maybe I would’ve went to school to study law.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

The past, just to visit moments and feelings I feel like I didn’t get to feel entirely because of how fast they happened. I experience so much every day and my life moves so fast that it’s easy to not entirely take in what’s happening to me. I wouldn’t want to see the future because I’m gonna always get there. Why rush to see what’s already written?

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

Love yourself first, because not everyone will love you how they say they do.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I want my music to be held in high regard, I want it to be timeless. 2050 and after.

Uproxx Music 20: RIMON Moves With Grace And Sings To Soothe The Worrying Mind

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RIMON 'Uproxx Music 20" Questions
TBD/Merle Cooper

The first time Eritrean-born, Amsterdam-raised singer RIMON graced my ears was back in 2021 with the release of her second EP I Shine, U Shine. Its six songs present a blend of dancehall, neo-soul, and hip-hop that soothe the ears as much as it adds a pep to your step. “Out Of My Way” is a perfect example of that as RIMON issues a warning to a soon-to-be partner moments she begins an endless free-fall into love. Immediately after that record comes “Got My Back” with Denzel Curry where the two artists play the role of two partners filled with gratitude for the support they give one another.

Three years later, and RIMON has only gotten better. Her latest single “Flowers” is a towering epic that magnifies her pleas to loved ones as she begs them to accept the well-deserved praise and honor she bestows upon them. Prior to that record, RIMON professed her commitment to a lifelong love on the triumphant “I Choose U” with RINI before calling on Kelz2busy to ensure the memories of a past relationship would live on in her mind on the enchanting “Can’t Forget.” It’s these records and others that emphasize RIMON’s graceful approach and determination to soothe the worrying mind, even if it’s her own in some cases.

RIMON is currently hard at work on her debut album, and in the midst of that, the singer found a second to answer our Uproxx Music 20 questions that shed light on her inspirations, influences, and future aspirations.

What is your earliest memory of music?

It has to be me listening and watching the video of “Lady Marmalade” by Christina Aguilera, Missy Elliott, Mýa, Pink, and Lil’ Kim on this tiny television whilst I was living on a boat that temporarily hosted refugees. I was so intrigued by all those badass women.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

A lot of people. I was considering it, but I thought it would be very difficult. Until SoundCloud and streaming became a thing and the entry to releasing music was way easier than before. I’d listen to people like Abra, SZA and Jorja Smith before they blew up and seeing women making a career for themselves without huge labels convinced me to also try.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I used to play the piano as a kid, I kinda forgot everything. Except for some basic chords, but I told myself to get back into it and bought a piano to practice. In the pandemic, I tried the guitar, but I don’t want to give up on my long nails [laughs].

What was your first job?

I used to deliver the local newspaper in my town when I was 12. That sh*t was so hard, and way too heavy to carry by myself, I don’t even know if that sh*t was legal.

What is your most prized possession?

I don’t often buy very expensive things, but I think a bag that I got gifted from Louboutin. It’s fully covered in Swarovski diamonds, I can’t even find the price online that’s how I know it’s expensive.

What is your biggest fear?

Subconsciously it would be losing my mom, but I don’t want to give into that fear.

Who is on your R&B Mt. Rushmore?

Nina Simone, Beyoncé, Lauryn Hill, and Erykah Badu.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

I’d book a big ass private jet that fits all of my friends and family and fly to a destination that is not too far, let’s say Milano, Italy. We’d take the morning to go shopping for everyone — clothes, glam, everything. Then we’d head to Lake Como, rent a boat and spend the day on the water, eating, swimming and drinking. From here we’d have dinner near the lake and then take the plane to London to spend the night partying over there and all stay in the same hotel and wake up with a hangover. Good memories and a brand-new wardrobe.

What are your three most used emojis?

🌹💐😇.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

Kendrick Lamar and The Weeknd.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

I hardly watch TV shows at the moment, but if I could pick a movie it would be Dune 3.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

Rihanna! See just seems so fun, a rebel at heart and looks like she’s always having a good time, but also remaining a bit private, you know? As well as her being the businesswoman that she is and always including her roots, it’s all qualities and things I relate to myself.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

That astrology is real. It’s just too accurate, and lots of people think it’s bullshit, but I truly relate to so much of it, in regards to myself but also people around me.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

It’s between “Ultralight Beam” by Kanye West and “Yebba’s Heartbreak” by Yebba. “Ultralight Beam” is just a spiritual experience packaged in a song, it’s just too good and so powerful with the choir, Chance’s verse, and the drums. “Yebba’s Heartbreak” is one of those songs that had me crying so many times. Her vocals, the lyrics, the piano, everything about it is just so beautiful.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

I think Paris! It’s the place I’ve performed the most I think so far, and I just love their crowds, you can tell they really appreciate music. I’ve never performed in New York, so that’s definitely on my list!

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

Rosalía, Travis Scott, Tame Impala, Burna Boy and Erykah Badu. This is based on energy and the ‘live’ experience. I think it would be somewhere near water. Maybe in the Azores? That would be cool.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

Probably still in the creative industry. Either a creative director, photographer or director.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

Definitely the past! What’s fun about knowing what’s ahead of you? Also, I’m a sentimental and nostalgic person, so I’d just love to relive some of my best memories.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

Stand your ground more, stop being too nice to people, and have clearer boundaries from the jump.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

As something that impacted some part of their lives, even if it’s a small part. That it encouraged them, healed something in them, or helped them feel less alone in their feelings.

Uproxx Music 20: Honey Bxby Crumbles Up Her Soft Girl Era With ‘3 Words, 8 Letters’

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Honey Bxby 'Uproxx Music 20' Image
Mastermind/Merle Cooper

Honey Bxby prefers to be blunt and get straight to the point. Beating around the bush is a waste of time and sugarcoating her truth isn’t the sweet life she imagined. This philosophy is present throughout her 2023 EP 3 Words, 8 Letters. Whether it be through provocative requests for the continuation of an addicting love on “Poseidon” or simply boasting about her sexual prowess on “P*ssy Power.” We also have the thrill of a spontaneous one-night stand as depicted on “Touchin’” which received the remix treatment from Kalii and Busta Rhymes. The point is: Honey Bxby always cuts to the chase.

Almost a year later, the game plan is the same as she gears up to release the deluxe version of 3 Words, 8 Letters. Look no further than “Fkn Him Too,” the SWV-sampling single that Honey Bxby uses to not only brag about sleeping with another woman’s man, but to make it clear that she and the unnamed woman are sharing the man in question. Talk about no f*cks given.

In her announcement for the deluxe of 3 Words, 8 Letters, Honey Bxby shared a message with her fans that was wrapped in her trademark honesty. “I’m officially out of my soft girl era, the old me? I deaded the b*tch as well as all ties to anyone who did me wrong,” she wrote. “I know it sucks for my sh*tty ass exes to watch me flourish when they wished bad on me [giggling emoji] REST IN PIECES. Honski is coming.”

In the spirit and keeping it real, we caught up with Honey Bxby to learn a little more about her and discover her influences, inspiration, aspirations, and more.

What is your earliest memory of music?

Probably 4/5 being in the crib with my father and listening to him and watching him make music.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

Myself. I always wanted to make music and be someone, watching other people do it just gave me the motivation, especially when I found Kehlani. But it something I was always gonna do.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

No I dont! I wanna learn how to play piano and guitar.

What was your first job?

Working at a daycare, I was a senior in high school. Those kids were stressful & I was getting paid pennies!

What is your most prized possession?

Everything I have!

What is your biggest fear?

Losing everything or getting stuck in a wild natural disaster like a tsunami.

Who is on your R&B Mt. Rushmore?

Kehlani, Amy Winehouse, Aaliyah, and Beyoncé (duh!).

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

Traveling to Tokyo and I’m shoppinggg! Because 24 hours ain’t enough.

What are your three most used emojis?

🫶🏼🥹🤭.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

Drake, Kehlani, Beyoncé, Kanye West, Justin Bieber, and Miley Cyrus.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

Honestly… it’s not a current show but Once Upon A Time if it was still on air because it’s my favorite show!

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

Cardi B or Sexyy Red because they’re super raw and authentic. They don’t care nor do they try to fake anything when it comes to who they are.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

Don’t wear open toe shoes when your feet aren’t done!

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

Oh my God, I have no idea! There are so many! Right now, I’ve been blasting old PartyNextDoor and my favorite is “Sex On The Beach,” it just feels so good and reminds me of being young. That as well as “Latch” by Disclosure & Sam Smith, you can’t play one without the other.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

I loved Toronto, I would love to go overseas though! Like London or Tokyo.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you.

Rihanna, Drake, Kehlani, PartyNextDoor, and Kanye West.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

I’m not sure.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

Five years in the future, just to make sure I’m 100% where I’m at. My past self already knew I was gonna overcome everything.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

Your time is coming when you least expect it. Continue to be 18 and figure yourself out.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

As that fire ass R&B queen! An icon, a legend, and a sweetheart.

3 Words, 8 Letters (Deluxe) is out 4/26 via Atlantic Records.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Uproxx Music 20: Lokre Dives Into A Liberating New Era With The Sizzling ‘Body’

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Lokre interview Uproxx Music 20
Alexis Rose/Merle Cooper

Nowadays, Lokre is trying to have a bit more fun.

It’s been over a year since the Toronto native formally introduced herself to the music world with her emotive and transcending debut Elizabeth. The project, two years in the making at the time of its release, is a sprawling spectacle of affirmations and self-confidence boosters that were equally beneficial for Lokre to sing as it is for her listeners to hear. As beautiful of a listen as Elizabeth is, there is only so much healing and self-affirming one can do before one enjoys the fruits of their labor. So, for her latest era, Lokre will do just that — beginning with her sizzling new single “Body.”

The song was announced last month with a message from Lokre. “I don’t wish to sing about healing,” she wrote on Instagram. “It’s all I talk about. I don’t need to bring you something heavy, you carry enough. Something to feel to love to move to. I can give u one 2 slow whine ur waist 2 :).” “Body” is just that as it sizzles with flavor and seduction, a perfect recipe to draw in Lokre’s target who stands at a distance admiring the view she provides. Its accompanying video steams with anticipation as Lokre dances and flaunts her body for watching eyes.

Lokre’s liberating new era is underway and as we wait for what comes next in it, Uproxx caught up with her to learn more about her background — her influences, interests, and her goals for the future.

See Previous UPROXX MUSIC 20 Interviews:

What is your earliest memory of music?

Seeing my mom sing in church every Sunday. I remember being a kid and thinking, “One day I’m gonna be old enough to lift my hands and sing too.”

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

My mom. She had me in classical training and introduced me to the importance of practice and performance when I was young, the same way her mother did for her.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I play piano, guitar, and enough drums to tell a drummer what I like. I’d love to learn the harp.

What was your first job?

I did voice-overs for Crayola and modeled for local department stores as a kid, I guess I’ve never really had a plan B since then.

What is your most prized possession?

Probably my car. It’s not the dream Jeep, but it was the first purchase I made when I signed my first contract & I’m proud of her.

What is your biggest fear?

Being too deep. Like this question.

Who is on your R&B Mt. Rushmore?

Mine has a lil’ more estrogen. Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, Sade, and Alicia Keys.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

Ok, I’m in a space somewhere in Chile with trees around me and a view of the ocean. There’s a white grand piano and vinyls I’ve never heard that I’ll sample and I’m drinking cacao that I packed in my suitcase from Guatemala. Then I’m gonna read some poetry by Pablo Neruda that probably inspires me to write. After touching the ocean it’s local red wine and pasta. Always pasta. Oh and I’m completely alone. Don’t call me.

What are your three most used emojis?

🖤, 🫂 and 👁.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

Her Majesty, Sade.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

Catfish. Is that current? I don’t know, but I have an absolutely insane story to share.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

I just like when people are human and don’t forget how to be compassionate. Alicia Keys does it well.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

There are no coincidences.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

“A Song For You” by Donny Hathaway. I’ve never heard more honesty and feeling on a recording before. It’s like he’s right there in the room with you.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

I love performing in Toronto… earning hometown love and seeing that grow feels really special. Playing in South America or Trinidad would be an incredible feeling, cultures where the rhythm is just in their bones.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

Hear me out: It’s in a canyon in Arizona for the reverb and the vibes. The artists in this order: Jhené Aiko on her sound healing, Cleo Sol, Alewya, M.I.A., followed by Her Majesty Sade.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

I’d probably be a writer or journalist. Maybe next lifetime, we collab.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

The past, because uncertainty about the future is how we build faith. If I could show LOKRE 5 years ago how to love herself the way I do now, we might’ve avoided some bruises. But I wouldn’t change a thing.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

Along those lines, love and trust yourself deeply, because you will always be the common denominator in your story. Build it on love and you will only be willing to accept what you are worthy of.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I want them to say they felt seen, held, and inspired by my art. I want to be remembered as an artist who amplified the light in others just by moving effortlessly in my own. That would be fire.

Lokre’s “Body” video is out now. You can watch it above.

Uproxx Music 20: Elmiene Is A Simple Man Learning To Appreciate The Past So He Can Thrive In The Future

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Elmiene 'Uproxx Music 20' interview
Sirui Ma/Merle Cooper

Elmiene (pronounced el-mean) is just a few months removed from completing the biggest year of his music career. In 2023, the 22-year-old British singer released two EPs, El-Mean in March and Marking My Time in October, before setting out on the road for a North American tour with stops in major cities like Toronto, New York City, and Los Angeles. In between all of that, Elmiene made his live performance debut beside Robert Glasper and Yasiin Bey for Louis Vuitton in Paris, made his debut at England’s legendary Glastonbury Festival, and collaborated with stars like Stormzy.

With all of that in mind, you can understand the concept behind Marking My Time. It was a moment for Elmiene to acknowledge and absorb his surroundings all before the whirlwind of building a successful music career yanked him away into a new reality. “When my life started speeding up massively,” he said after releasing the EP, “I had to learn how to keep an eye on both sides — appreciating the past in order to do the future the right way and do it justice.” And that future is looking extremely bright for Elmiene.

The British singer launched his 2024 campaign with his new single “Crystal Tears.” The record exquisitely grapples with loss, whether it be through death or the end of a relationship, and the regrets that follow their departure. Elmiene’s grief and pain seep through the 2000s R&B-inspired production as he pleads for a second chance, one that deep down he knows he’ll never get. With that, Elmiene is left to accept the new reality, something he captures with a pair of lines that show the strength of his pen. “Afraid to hold the glass I know I’ve broken,” he croons. “Take back all the notes I know I’ve chosen.”

Ahead of another tour that begins on April 4, Elmiene took a moment to speak with Uproxx to share his inspirations, interests in and outside of music, and how he hopes to be remembered.

See Previous UPROXX MUSIC 20 Interviews:

What is your earliest memory of music?

Listening to “7 Days” by Craig David on my cousin’s old music hard drive.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

D’Angelo was definitely the first person that made me start listening to music more intently and seriously.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I’ve recently started to learn the keyboard and I’m completely obsessed, forever chasing Stevie Wonder.

What was your first job?

Making car breaks in a factory in Frankfurt. Old dark days.

What is your most prized possession?

The hundreds of voice notes on my phone of me working on music. I genuinely have nightmares of accidentally deleting them.

What is your biggest fear?

Being alone.

Who is on your R&B/rap/afrobeats Mt. Rushmore?

Joe, K-Ci from Jodeci, Dino from H-Town, and Usher.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

I would hunt monsters on Monster Hunter for 6 hours with breakfast then play keys for lunch at a restaurant that has a piano. Drink freeway peach ice tea by the river. Go home and play Street Fighter 6 ’til the end of the day for dinner.

What are your three most used emojis?

🧞🤖❤.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

D’Angelo.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

One Piece live-action. I really, really wanna be Kuma.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

Katt Williams. He just doesn’t seem to let anything ever really bother him.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

No one could convince me that Zangief isn’t the best character on Street Fighter.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

“Another Star” by Stevie Wonder is one of the best songs I’ve ever heard in my life. It’s the rhythm the beautiful poetic lyrics and the energy that make that song what it is.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

New York City is my favorite to perform in, the energy there is infectious. I’d love to perform in Stockholm, D’Angelo did an amazing performance there.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

For a festival lineup, it would have to be D’Angelo, The Roots, Lewis Taylor, Stevie Wonder, and Lauryn Hill and it would be in Falmouth.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

Pub security.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

100% go to the past, I’d rather really take in and refresh on everything that’s happened rather than skip and miss out on 5 years of my life.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

It’s okay to pick up the phone and call back.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I’d like my music to be remembered as an honest diary of my life and character, like a really good time capsule of all the important chapters of my life.

Marking My Time is out now Polydor Records/Def Jam. Find out more information here.

Uproxx Music 20: Bairi Emerged From The Darkness As A ‘Fire Siren’ To Reckon With

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Bairi Uproxx Music 20
Zammarroo/Merle Cooper

Bairi (pronounced bye-ree) makes the kind of music that forces you to sit still and absorb everything that comes out of it. It’s captivating in the best ways and heightens the senses all before seizing them for the duration needed. It’s a conclusion I came to one of the first times I heard the Pennsylvania-born singer back in 2021 with her “Paraíso” single. With an enchanting violin and scintillating piano keys as the background for the captivating record, Bairi takes command with vocals that are both dominating and alluring, a perfect recipe to draw you into a front-row seat for her show.

If “Paraíso” lies on one end of the spectrum for Bairi artistry, her latest single “Come My Way” is on the other end. Where “Paraíso” is sweet and soothing, “Come My Way” seeks refuge on the dancefloor. The upbeat number is filled to the brim with sensuality and anticipation as the fulfillment her body craves is within reach. Both songs are expected to appear on Bairi’s upcoming debut EP Fire Siren which is due April 22.

“This project represents the darkness and events leading up to my finally committing to my purpose (music) and really deciding to love myself; or at least it set me on the path of learning how to,” Bairi tells Uproxx. “It was a very dark and confusing time during which all I knew was pain and distraction — until the suffering of my choices opened my eyes to the truth of who I really am. I hope that by the end of the project, the listener understands that while it heavily touches on toxic themes, it is not a story about the conscious decision to be toxic; rather, it’s about breaking the matrix that kept me in those toxic cycles.”

Together with the arrival of “Come My Way” and the announcement of Fire Siren, Uproxx placed the spotlight on Bairi for an Uproxx Music 20 conversation that dives into her inspiration, interests, and the unique moments that make Bairi the artist she is today.

What is your earliest memory of music?

I’m overwhelmed thinking about all of the backseat revelations in my parents’ cars when hearing a song for the first time (i.e., my first time hearing “The Thong Song” in the McDonald’s drive-through or dramatically staring out of the window while Mike Shinoda’s remix of “Crawlin” by Linkin Park made me fall in love with orchestral arrangements). Still, the two memories that stand out to me the most are when I heard “When You Believe” by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston in the credits of my favorite movie Prince Of Egypt, and when I heard “Journey to the Past” by Aaliyah in the credits of Anastasia. There’s something about being completely enamored with a movie and then hearing your favorite singers drive it home. It’s the same reason I almost cried hearing Jhené Aiko in the credits of Creed. It’s probably the reason I’m very dynamic in my compositions.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

My grade school choir director, Mr. Joseph Farrell, really helped me believe in the power of my voice and the importance of being hard-working and disciplined to nurture my gift, even though it was just recently all of those lessons hit me. When it came to actually pursuing music as a career though, the first person that shifted my perspective into becoming an artist was my friend Dave Langston. When I first got to New York in 2015, I was majoring in English literature when I met him in a Psych class. One day we sat in my car as he played me his music and when I told him I sang he very seriously told me I needed to pursue it. He got me in a studio doing vocals for him and then eventually it was in that studio I recorded my first EP that released in 2016. Will always be soooo grateful for him.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

When I was a kid, my grandmother gave me a Casio and I taught myself how to play a lot of the music in the video games I was playing (Chrono Cross, Final Fantasy 8, 9, X, X-2). I took a few piano lessons, but got really nervous and never finished. I do plan on mastering the piano one day to honor my inner child.

What was your first job?

I worked at Chocolate World in Hershey at 15 years old as a food service worker at this little dessert creation studio.

What is your most prized possession?

My bear Dodi that my dad got me I wanna say around 2003 before he got deployed. Everyone makes fun of him, but that’s really my rider!

What is your biggest fear?

I read this question and got a little nervous to answer it. I think it changes based on the season in my life. Right now, I have an irrational fear that my dreams of being a superstar and performing on all of the stages I’ve dreamt of aren’t going to happen. Anybody can tell you I love singing and my career more than anything else. But with that being said, fear is just a lack of faith. I’m being shown that I need to let go and just let it all happen to me versus trying to do too much and control everything. Whoever is reading this, you can too. Don’t be scared of the unknown. Don’t be scared to be the biggest version of yourself.

Who is on your R&B/rap/afrobeats Mt. Rushmore?

Beyoncé, Aaliyah, Usher, and Justin Timberlake.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

I would hire someone to organize my business/administration/finances, hire a tour manager to set up a tour for my project, pay everyone I’m working with now the money they deserve, fly my team, family, and all of my favorite creatives to Camp Bairi: a remote location by the beach to finish up my project and do all visuals, production of all of my merch ideas, create and finish music, feed them amazing food, have intimate convos, etc. I know that sounds like a lot for 24 hours but generally, a perfect day for me involves loving on my loved ones, journaling, making music, dancing, performing, eating sushi, sharing my art with others, improving however I can, and creating stability and inspiration for myself and everyone around me.

What are your three most used emojis?

❤️‍🔥 (my preferred heart emoji cause I’m fiery), 🥹 (when I’m feeling sentimental, which is VERY often *laughs*), and 😭 (because I be crying laughing)

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

6lack!! I have actually had one for him in the tuck for years, I’m just waiting for the right time. In addition, I NEED to work with Ludwig Göransson on a movie soundtrack.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

Hot Ones, anything that Issa Rae does, Abbott Elementary (I’m from Pennsylvania, Quinta!), Dave, Grammys, Oscars, Tonys, Emmys, People’s Choice Awards (hope these count). There are soooo many podcasts I want to be on too. I love chatting.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

Beyoncé. She’s incredibly hardworking and courageous and advocates for herself and her ideas. A very clear example of purpose and alchemy.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

This is sooo random, but I’m completely convinced that Kanye West’s “Say You Will” production is inspired by Kingdom Hearts’ “Dive Into The Heart”. There’s absolutely nooo evidence to prove this, like none at all, but I don’t care *laughs*. Listen to both and tell me I’m lying (and I won’t care).

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

Again, “When You Believe” by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey. Two of the best voices in music, a choir, incredibly profound production and message, and the fact that it will make me cry no matter what I’m doing when I hear it. I’m listening to it right now to test the theory and it’s not failing *laughs*. There are a lot of perfect songs to me, but this is always the first one that comes to me.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

It’s a toss-up between New York and Atlanta for my favorite city to perform in. Two of my favorite, most lit performances were in either and the energy was unmatched. I’m excited to perform in a church in Italy. When I was in 11th grade I passed up the opportunity to do this because a lot was going on in my home life and I was just so scared and lacking confidence that I couldn’t show up how I needed to. I can’t wait to redeem this moment for myself.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

I tried to realistically and tastefully answer this question at first, but truthfully, what I really want is Doja Cat, Billie Eilish, RAYE, Chloe x Halle, Doechii, and myself. I think all of us are extremely dynamic, cinematic, and immersive, with some similarities but different enough for it to feel like a full spectrum of music. I’m the opener I don’t even care *laughs*. Either Madison Square Garden, which is one of my lifetime goals, or somewhere that feels like a wonder of the world, like an oasis in the desert or hot springs in the mountains. I know this all sounds ridiculous; I’m tired of trying to make sense of everything *laughs*.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

A counselor/therapist or teacher of writing/music, most likely counseling. At some point, after I get into a comfortable position within my music career, I want to get a counseling certificate and extend my services to creatives already in the space and young kids as well.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

I’m struggling with this question! I know we aren’t supposed to have regrets, but there’s definitely sooooo much wisdom I would share with myself 5 years ago that would save me from a lot of unnecessary suffering. While a vision of the future would be amazing, I can’t promise that I wouldn’t hold onto that vision too tightly and let it get in the way of my present. I have to plead the fifth here. I’m grateful to be able to reflect on my past and have a good enough relationship with God to get insight into the future and have enough faith to see it through even when it’s dark.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

Seek respect for who you are instead of love for who you’re not. You are naturally kind and a natural light, you don’t need to prove yourself or lessen yourself for the right people. You belong without trying.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I would like my music to be remembered as an experience, as a key to unlocking revelation within people’s spirits, something that gave language in the natural to the truth within, whether good or bad. I’m not perfect, and I hope that the honesty and journey that I take throughout my music/career/life teach a lot of lessons on how to know and heal oneself.

Fire Siren is out 4/22. Stay tuned for more information.

Uproxx Music 20: Isaiah Falls’ Voice Plays All The Roles He Needs It To — Just Ask His ‘Florida Baby’

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Isaiah Falls 'Uproxx Music 20' photo
Natasha Velez/Merle Cooper

The first thing that caught my attention Orlando singer Isaiah Falls was how infectious, yet simple his breakout track “Florida Baby” is. Bouncy production that initially begins as sweet and tender before the drums arrive serves as the backdrop to Falls’ message to his “Florida Baby” — an independent woman who takes care of herself and doesn’t need a man, but doesn’t mind one if they’re worthwhile.

Falls’ vocals vary from song to song. The difference is sharp when you compare songs like “Florida Baby” and “Pain In My Voice.” On the former, Falls’ voice is pitched higher than other songs in his discography, and on “Pain In My Voice,” Falls’ vocals are brought down to earth to emphasize the emotions and pain he carries throughout the song. Then there’s “Sin On Purpose” which cements Falls’ voice as an instrument meant to be used in numerous ways, rather than just as is. The gritty “Flirty” and the soft and delicate “Tell The DJ” are additional examples of the wide field in which Falls employs his voice.

With a voice that plays all the roles he needs it to and songwriting that’s equally as good, Isaiah Falls has the ingredients to make a nice splash in 2024. A snippet he posted on TikTok is sure to make its rounds amongst ’90s R&B lovers this summer. Things are looking good for Isaiah Falls, so we caught up with the Florida native to learn about his inspirations, interests in and outside of music, and how he hopes to be remembered.

What is your earliest memory of music?

My earliest memory is growing up in church and my parents being a part of the band.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

My two older brothers, both artists themselves, heavily influenced me to pursue music.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I pick up a guitar every now and then, but only know how to play a handful of chords. It’s definitely something I’d love to get more experience with.

What was your first job?

My first job was being a busboy at a restaurant cleaning tables.

What is your most prized possession?

My laptop is my most prized possession.

What is your biggest fear?

My biggest fear is my mother passing before being given the chance to experience better days and where my career will take us.

Who is on your R&B/rap/afrobeats Mt. Rushmore?

Some of the most influential R&B artists to me are Miguel, Sampha, Aaliyah, and PartyNextDoor.

You get 24 hours to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

If I had 24 hours to myself to do absolutely anything with unlimited resources, I’d put all of my closest family and friends on a plane and take us somewhere special on vacation, probably somewhere like Greece, and treat them to anything they’d like.

What are your three most used emojis?

🤞🏽, 🫶🏽, 🤎.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

A feature I need to secure in this lifetime is from Kendrick Lamar.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

If I could appear in a current TV show’s future season, I’d choose Euphoria based on how the show is shot and directed.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

I respect Vince Staples for being unapologetically himself, and I admire that.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

My opinion is a PBJ sandwich is the best sandwich of all time.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

The best song I’ve ever heard in my life is “Slow Motion,” by Juvenile. It’s the perfect balance of “smooth” and “playa.”

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

I’ve only performed in a handful of places, but I really enjoy performing in my hometown Orlando, I’m most excited to perform in London.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

I’d have Tyler The Creator, Juvenile, Snoh Aalegra, SZA, and OutKast perform at my music festival. I’d host this festival in the middle of downtown Orlando.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

If it weren’t for music, and since I’m also a graphic designer, I’d lean more into being a creative director.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

I’d choose to see five years into the future to get a glimpse of my family and make sure they are doing well.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

If I could give advice to 18-year-old me I’d let him know to keep pursuing music, you are on the right track.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

In 2050, I’d love for my music to be remembered as boundary-pushing and risk-taking.

PartyNextDoor is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Uproxx Music 20: Hennessy Keeps Her Head Above Water With Music — The Best Therapy She Could Ask For

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Hennessy Uproxx Music 20
Tnick/Merle Cooper

Hennessy begins her recently released EP, Maybe I’m Oversharing with a voice memo she recorded on New Year’s Day this year. The soft-spoken spends a little over two minutes admitting her flaws and bouts with depression and anxiety. At the same time, she questions those who criticize her for a moment of weakness, wrongfully assuming it’s connected to laziness or insufficiency in her life. By the end of the voice memo, Hennessy finds solace in her attempts to overcome her mental health struggles and a moment to explain herself and overshare a bit about her life, something the voice memo allows her to do.

Born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, Hennessy dove headfirst into a music career in 2020 with her debut single “1-800-SLIDE.” Since then, she’s used music as a medium to find her voice and recover from life’s ups and downs. Her debut EP Time Revealed, released in 2022, exhibits this the best as its six songs document the crushing rise and fall of a relationship that, in the end, was “all for nothing” as the project’s lead single details.

With later singles like “I’ll Be” and “Forever & A Day” in her back pocket, in addition to Maybe I’m Oversharing, it’s now clear that Hennessy has not only accepted but embraced the healing nature of music. Keeping that in mind, it makes sense why the singer ditched her therapist after their last encounter, something she poignantly details in “Therapy Session” on Maybe I’m Oversharing.

Days removed from the release of Maybe I’m Oversharing, as well as Virgo men-bashing freestyle on the New York-based platform On The Radio, Uproxx spent some time with Hennessy where she unveiled her love for Brandy, concerns for teleporting into the future, and her hope to heal with her music.

What is your earliest memory of music?

I think probably Sunday cleaning with my mom. She would always play old-school R&B and my brother would play rap in his room. That’s how I acquired my music taste.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

I think myself. I was in the hospital in a coma for so long and when I woke up, I was like, “Damn, if I died, I really didn’t do all the things I wanted to fully commit to in life and one of them was music.” In elementary, middle, and high school, I did all the talent shows. I did America’s Got Talent and The X Factor, my mom brought me to them. I knew if I would’ve died, I wouldn’t have died fulfilled because I didn’t pursue music. So when I left, like literally soon as I got healthy — not even when I got healthy because I was still kinda limping because of the surgery — I went to LA and I went to Atlanta to record.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I want to learn how to play the bass. I love it on all my songs, like every record, I have to have live bass on it. So it’s like if I’m having live bass on all my records, I want to be able to go on stage and actually perform with it.

What was your first job?

My first job was at the Boys & Girls Club. I was working with kids, I was like 14.

What is your most prized possession?

Definitely my hard drive. I’m done for if it’s gone.

What is your biggest fear?

I think dying before I accomplish everything that I want to do. I think because I have come close to death already, I really want to accomplish everything that I want to do because I know it’s possible.

Who is on your R&B/rap/afrobeats Mt. Rushmore?

Brandy, PartyNextDoor, Lauryn Hill, and Jhené Aiko.

Brandy is the vocal God, a layering queen, and my favorite R&B artist of all time. PartyNextDoor is the originator of trap R&B rnb, and without PND, we wouldn’t have a bunch of our favorite R&B male artists who were, of course, influenced by him. Plus, his production and pen are crazy. Lauryn Hill gave us one of the best albums of all time, and she was able to blend hip-hop and R&B so well, I’m heavily inspired by her. Finally, Jhené Aiko is one of the pioneers of this modern R&B sound for women. I feel like people don’t give her enough credit. She really created a subgenre in R&B for all the soft-toned singing girls. People have one idea of what R&B should sound like – with crazy runs, belting, and all – not knowing the beauty of the genre is that R&B can come in all types of forms and tones. I think we need to start giving Jhené her flowers.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

I’ll stay in Rhode Island. I’m eating mad crab legs. I’m going to Wonderland and I’m paying somebody’s college tuition at the strip club. I’m buying my car that I sold, I’m buying back my 1970 Buick. I’m buying all my friends things that they always wanted. I’m paying my friends’ student loans back as well. I’m buying my mom a crib, I’ll pay it in cash. I’m gonna tell everybody to meet me at the mall and I’ll buy them whatever they want. I’ll go to a grocery store like Stop & Shop or Shaws and pay for people’s groceries. I’ll go to AS220, find an artist who is in high school and wants to become a singer just like me and give them bread to start their music career. I think I’m just naturally a humanitarian so I want to give people things if I had unlimited resources. I don’t know what I would do personally besides eat crab legs. I think I’ll be fulfilled with that and getting my mama crib.

What are your three most used emojis?

💯🩸🦇.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

Young Thug.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

Rick And Morty because I want to do voice acting. I feel like I’m awkward on camera, but when there are no cameras around, I’m able to actually showcase my personality. So if I was a voice actor, I just know it’d be fire. I have the voice for it. It’ll be fun too and I love Rick And Morty.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

Cardi B. She shows her personality a lot. She’s really just unapologetically her.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

Virgo men are not good people and Young Thug is the most influential artist of our generation. No one can ever change that for me either.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

“Put That On Everything” by Brandy. It’s my favorite love song.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

Bangor, Maine is my favorite city to perform in. I want to perform in Toronto really badly, they have a really great R&B scene.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

It’s gonna be in Providence, RI. It’ll be fire to bring a music festival to Rhode Island. I like how artists have festivals in their hometowns. Jack Harlow just announced he’s doing one, I like how Tyler The Creator does it, and I like that J. Cole and Drake have their own too. So it’ll definitely be in my hometown. It’ll be me, Kehlani, SZA, Young Thug, Cash Cobain, and Drake of course. I gotta bring Drake to Rhode Island, Drake has to experience Rhode Island.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

I would be an Africana Studies professor at a university because I think that’s what I want to do when I’m like 60 years old.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

I think I’m too scared to see the future. What if I don’t f*ck with it? What if I die so now I just see black? Like I’m dead so I wasted the five years for nothing. I think I’ll go to the past to relive some moments, just to get that feeling again.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

You should’ve never dated that man.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I went to Brockton for Luke Bar’s listening party for his “Flawless” single and one of the guys that owns the venue came up to me and said Time Revealed was one of the best projects he’d listened to that year because he was going through something dark. I told him I just dropped a three-pack, but I didn’t tell him the names of the songs. I told him that if you liked Time Revealed, you’ll like this one because this one is me being more vulnerable and expressing my mental health. He’s like it’s crazy because a lot of people don’t talk about therapy when it comes to mental health and I told him I have a song on the project called “Therapy Session.” So I just want my music to heal people because every time people DM me or tell me my music just helped them, it makes me feel better and like I have a purpose outside of just releasing music. It makes life worth living.

Maybe I’m Oversharing is out now via Pousome Records. Find out more information here.

Uproxx Music 20: Dende Makes Music For Unapologetic Lovers And ‘Wish You Were Here’ Is Proof Of That

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Dende Interview Uproxx Music 20
Qurissy /Merle Cooper

There’s no shame in romance for Dende. The Texas singer has a knack for letting his heart bleed on records nor letting a teardrop or two fall if the moment pushes him to that level of emotion. Whether love is at his doorstep or on the other side of the world, Dende years for it in a way that few in today’s R&B landscape do. His music recalls when singers begged and pleaded in the rain – something Dende has done through his music (see “Better Than Him”).

Dende’s impressive run, which dates back to last year’s ’95 Civic and Before We Crash projects, continues with his latest EP, Wish You Were Here. Through three songs, Dende recalls the moments of longing during a trip to the UK that separated him from a lover. His irrefutable feelings about his partner on “Your Intro,” the sultry invitation for romance to fulfill a burning passion on “Slide” with J Warner, and the celebration of flawless chemistry on “Jigsaw” all make for a soul-stirring display of love at its peak.

Along with the release of Wish You Were Here, Uproxx also caught up with Dende to discuss his start in music, his love for Usher, and his commitment to defending Arby’s at all costs.

What is your earliest memory of music?

My earliest memory of music is sitting at the lunch table in elementary school. This girl, Danielle, and I had a sing-off. People around the table were judging it. I don’t remember what song she sang, but she could not sing for real, and I sang “You Don’t Have to Call” by Usher. They voted for her, and I went and cried in the hall.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

Funny enough, the person who inspired me to take music seriously was Chance The Rapper. Senior year of high school I begged my parents to let me go to his concert. They were kind of strict, and Acid Rap had just come out. I was obsessed, and at the time, he was just preaching independence and working really hard at making music.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I actually know how to play a couple of instruments. I know how to play piano, guitar, & drums. I was in drumline all through high school and some of college. The instrument that I wanna learn how to play is the saxophone.

What was your first job?

My first job was at Kroger, a grocery store in Texas. I was a — I don’t know my official title, I think it was a cart getter? I’d go get the carts. Eventually, I became a bagger, and then I became a cashier.

What is your most prized possession?

My most prized possession is my grandpa‘s rocking chair. It’s really not comfortable at all, but I love it. My dad gave it to me after his dad passed.

What is your biggest fear?

My biggest fear is probably not reaching the potential that I know that I have. I’d hate to not live up to the standards I hold myself to.

Who is on your R&B/rap/afrobeats Mt. Rushmore?

My R&B, Mount Rushmore, is as follows: BOOM! We got Usher, we got Luther Vandross, we got Brandy… I don’t know how many heads are on Mount Rushmore.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

Aight, I have 24 hours and unlimited resources let’s get it. First, I wake up, I look over to my left, and all I see is this nightstand and a lamp, and one of those old-school alarm clocks. The ones you still got a hit, but they were brown and they looked weird, but everybody’s grandma had them in their house, but that’s what I have. Then I look to the right, and all I see are those trays that people have bed-and-breakfast breakfast on. I have one of those and on that tray is just a mimosa and a cigar, it’s already lit, but it was just lit, and there’s nobody there.

So I sit there, I’m drinking this mimosa, I’m smoking a cigar in bed, and then the alarm goes off, and I smack the alarm, and I get out of bed. I get in my car, and in this timeline, I have a McLaren, and I drive that McLaren up to Six Flags, and I have a fast pass. I get on every ride five times. I return to my McLaren and drive to the movie theater. I love watching movies in the movie theater. I feel like it’s a dying art, and we need to appreciate it more. I watch every single one of the Harry Potter movies on the big screen in order, then I go home. When I get home I walk in, and there’s another mimosa and another cigar ready for me to go to bed. That’s what I’m doing for my 24 hours.

What are your three most used emojis?

🛝🍑🤤.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

Usher. I could die a happy man.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

It would be That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime! I love anime, and it’s basically all I watch. I’d love to see myself animated.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

The celebrity who I admire for their personality is probably gonna be Tyler, The Creator. I feel like he’s always just wanted to be himself authentically, and I pride myself on doing the exact same thing.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

To be honest with you, I will never let the internet or anyone else convince me that Arby’s isn’t good because I feel like we’ve all been conditioned by Twitter to make this running joke that Arby’s is terrible. But every time I ask someone if they’ve ever eaten Arby’s or when the last time they ate it they either have never eaten it or they ate it when they were like eight years old. So I challenge everyone to go to your nearest Arby’s, go get a buffalo chicken slider and the curly fries and then shut the hell up.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

The best song I’ve ever heard is “Almost Doesn’t Count” by Brandy. That song is amazing. My favorite thing about it is that the first verse feels like a hook. It’s crazy, but it’s amazing. It’s such a well-written song, I love it.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

My favorite city to perform in so far is Atlanta because I love seeing all the black faces in the crowd, that makes me super happy. A city that I’m really excited to perform, and I have to do two of them, is gonna be DC and Toronto.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

So BOOM, my dream lineup, including myself, is going to be Lucky Daye, Usher, Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, and Avril Lavigne. This sounds like it doesn’t make any sense, but that’s because it doesn’t, and that’s OK and we’re gonna do this in Malibu on the beach.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

To be honest with you, I’d probably still be doing AC work. I got my HVAC license and it pays pretty well.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

I would see five years into the future simply because I don’t think living in the past leads to anything productive.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

I would tell my 18-year-old self to accept help quicker.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I’d like my music to be remembered as an impactful period in people’s lives. I remember what I was going through or where I was when I heard specific albums. I just wanna be able to be that for other people.

Wish You Were Here is out now via CXR. Find out more information here.