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This uncompromised, melancholic and dynamic post-punk rock from Copenhagen goes by the name of Mount Ego. With an untameable drive to relieve their creative vibe, Mount Ego has curated all of their energy to release their debut EP I AM NO ONE. The songs, painting pictures of family misfortunes, are backed by intense and energetic beats, bass-driven synthesizers and atmospheric guitars. A strong independent vocalist lift these efforts to a true level of cosmic understanding. With heavenly high ambitions, the band thrives to achieve recognition outside of their rehearsal studio with upcoming shows on a summer tour in Denmark this summer. This song has a really high energy! What starts off with a solo of strings, quickly turns into guitar party starring the electric guitar himself! A retro-punk type of feel; one of those songs you see everyone jumping or intensely dancing! The guitar is what gets me in this song. It comes in right where it is needed. The drums as a nice feature and then the entire band comes in with the vocals. The vocals are electrifying! Giving us a 80/90s classics with a up to date twist. It is a must we talk to these guys to get the low down on this song! Listen to "I AM NO ONE" here, and learn more about Mount Ego in out interview below! Hey there! Could you tell us a little about Mount Ego? Mount Ego is a Copenhagen based rock/indie band and foremost feelings being told through our music, which is never completed before we have felt it, ourselves. We go through a process that in some cases are short and on point, and in others long and dreadful. This is where our focus and persistency is eminent. It is crucial to us that we feel our music is thoroughly worked through in to every detail of a song and be able to be proud and vouch for it when it gets out there. What is the music scene like in Copenhagen? The Copenhagen music scene is very diverse and exciting if you go down a layer or two. Pop, hip-hop and R’n’b artists primarily dominate it. If you want to be listened to, and have people show up at your gigs, as a rock band such as ourselves it is hard work all the way! The audience is critical, but once you’ve gained their trust, Danish fans are very loyal. Who are some of your musical influences that have influenced your career in the music industry? As individuals in the band we have very different tastes in music. We believe our different musical upbringing is an advantage when being in our creative spaces. We somehow managed to find common grounds and inspiration in a small number of artists such as The National, Editors, White Lies, Interpol and two Danish bands; The Minds of 99 and Fugleflugten. We are, obviously, not trying to sound like a mix of these bands, which would probably sound awful, rather than trying to set free our sound. We’ve often been told that our sound is quite international. How much time and energy went into this new EP? We’ve spent 7 months since it was recorded just correcting mixes. In this case the writing process has actually been somewhat easier. Two of the songs where written overnight. Too much time was put in finding the right producer after we recorded the songs. So, it has been a little tough, and in some case we nearly made it to the point that we didn’t like the tracks anymore, fortunately the right producer came along and changed that. Could you give us some backstory on this EP? The backstory is Mount Ego finding its sound. As individuals in a collected creative environment coming together and letting the music find its course. Most of the song centres lyrically around family tragedies and misfortune. Some of them stories from our own lived lives. What are you most looking forward for the Tour in the summer? Naturally we look forward to getting out of the studio and present these songs live. We’ve only played a few of them live, and we really anticipate the reactions from the audience. We are a band who lives to play live, and we believe our music has its best expression when performed live. Connect with Mount Ego: Instagram Facebook #BuzzMusic

Hi Jennifer! Great to chat with you! Can you tell us a bit about yourself? Thanks for having me! My name is Jennifer Lauren and I'm a pop singer from Canada. I love, love, love spending time in the studio, performing, and drinking smoothies. How did you first hear about the ISINA Music Mentorship program, and what did it take to convince yourself to apply? I think my dad actually heard about ISINA through a friend or someone he worked with. ISINA is a mentorship program you can apply for. If you are selected, you get to spend 6 weeks in LA, all expenses paid, working with industry professionals, performing in awesome locations, and creating music. So.. it didn't take much to convince me. I applied with a couple original songs and I ended up being selected out of 30,000 applicants along with 15 other artists and musicians to live 6 weeks in Beverly Hills and meet incredible people.  During this program is when I recorded Now Or Never, which has opened wonderful dream-come-true-doors for me. Incredibly thankful to have has the opportunity to take part in this program. What are some of the things you've picked up from your interactions with songwriters and producers who've worked with people like Beyoncé and Rihanna? So last summer I took part in the Vocalize U Artist Intensive and spending time with incredible mentors that the writers and producers or hits like Halo by Beyoncé and California King Bed by Rihanna was one of the incredible experiences that changed my life while attending. Honestly, the biggest thing I learned while spending time with these amazing people is to be true to yourself and who you are. People, whether in the industry or out of it, always have opinions on how things should be done, how you'll get "famous". People always said I have to figure out what my act is, figure out who I want to be as an artist and make it extravagant. I really struggled with that because I'm just not an extravagant person. I'm really chill and a total introvert. It just ended up feeling like who I was as a person wouldn't cut it if I wanted to be successful in the music industry. It's not a good feeling to have.  To have people that have been so successful in the industry, and having failed in the past like everyone else, unanimously agree on the fact that you just need to be yourself and do you was a total life changing moment for me. In the end, people want to connect and relate. Pretending to be someone else isn't going to do that. So I'm going to be myself, wear what I love to wear, make the music I freaking love to make, and go after every single one of my dreams. How would you describe the difference between what it was like to record with Davix Foreman, compared with some of our previous recording experiences? I've been working with different producers over the past few years now and what I've learned is that I respond and work a lot better to a more chill environment. I've worked with a couple producers that had really high energy and they were just like go, go, go! In the end I just felt rushed and started doubting myself.  Davix definitely has a super chill and relaxed vibe in the studio. What I loved about working with him is there was zero judgement and he was so patient. I'm still learning when it comes to songwriting, and he was always open to my ideas and trying things out. He also challenged me to up my game as a vocalist. I can't wait to work with him again. Does it change your appreciation for music as a whole when you see how seriously songs are crafted at places like Sunset Sound and Henson Studios? It was really surreal to be standing in studios used by legends. I mean, I was in the same studio as Julie Andrews was when recording Mary Poppins. That's nuts. And like two days after I'd recorded in Henson Studios, Nick Jonas posted a vid of himself on the piano in the exact same studio I recorded in. And this isn't me fan-girling. I'm not really one to do that. Though if I met Julie Andrews tomorrow, I would definitely have a mini freakout afterwards. It's funny cause while I was there I just kept thinking "man, this is so cool. I can't believe I'm here right now" but after we left, and still to this day, I kept thinking that I got to be in a place where people have made music that continues to inspire me today and I didn't feel out of place. It may be the Irish in me, but I feel like there's an energy and a vibe that is left there from all the previous people who created in that same space and the history they made. It was really cool and life-changing to just be in that energy. How does it feel to have something you wrote selected for a Netflix show? Having a song that I was lucky enough to create with Davix make it into one of Russia's top television dramas is still so unreal. It was also really humbling. The whole process was a huge learning curve for me and I feel so lucky and blessed to have supportive people in my life. When I finally watched the episode and heard both my singles Now Or Never and Enemy played in the show it was a moment where I thought to myself "See? You got this. You can totally do this." It was awesome. What do you hope to accomplish through music? I want people to be able to listen to my music, relate to it, and just feel. Whether it's just vibing out, singing to the top of your lungs in the car, or getting those chills all over your arms. I really love the connection people have with music. I just really want to be part of something bigger while doing what I love. What's upcoming for you in 2019? Way more music, more performances, and hopefully amazing new opportunities! If you want to stick around and see what happens, you can follow my on Instagram. Connect with Jennifer Lauren: Instagram #BuzzMusic

Dan Beltran released his single titled “Night Terrors” and he creates a calming acoustic instrumental with hints of influence from the classical guitar to modern folk music. It’s more challenging in my opinion for instrumentalists to fabricate hits that doesn’t have any vocals or lyrics due to the decreasing chances of the listener connecting strongly with the music. However, we believe Dan Beltran’s “Night Terrors” has this unique ability to give its listeners freedom to connect to the music however they choose. The open door that leads us to liberation of creativity and self-expression. We can paint vivid images that we feel best applies to the aesthetic of the music due to the dream-like resonance from the hauntingly enchanting guitar strings. If you’re looking for a well orchestrated sound that’s peaceful, relaxing, and fabricate a setting of serenity then you might want to check out “Night Terrors” by Dan Beltran. Listen to "Night Terrors" here, and learn more about Dan Beltran in our interview below! How has the journey been so far for you? It's been a wild ride with life's fair share of up's and down's but I'm here for it. What made you get into music Dan? My dad got me into playing guitar when I was 6 years old; I've kept playing ever since, and I don't think I'll ever stop. You have your own way of storytelling through lyricless music that we love, do you find it challenging at times? I've written songs for a mix of different genres and every time I've started the writing process, it's on guitar. So, when I'm writing these acoustic instrumental pieces, it comes very natural and is so therapeutic for me. I really enjoy writing this kind of music and I hope others can find a sense of peace in them as well. Mind telling us a little bit about your creation process of Night Terrors? The opening "riff" for the track was what started it all and was just something I just played on my own while playing guitar at home. I would always come back to it time and again and decided to make a song of it. What’s next for you? Any future plans regarding your music? Since releasing "Night Terrors", I'm starting to work on a debut acoustic album with mostly original music and maybe a cover or two with some collaborations. So I guess this where I tell you all to "stay tuned". Connect with Dan Beltran: Instagram Twitter #BuzzMusic

Hailing from Long Beach,CA the Rock-Pop-Americana group, Manuel The Band, was founded by songwriter, guitarist and vocalist Manuel Grajeda. The band consists of Brandon Charlesworth (Drums), George Madrid (Pedal Steel), Richard Fernandez (Trombone), Kevin Nowacki (Bass), and Matt Kalin (Saxophone). Described as “a breath of fresh air” by Julie Montante of Coachella Valley Weekly, Manuel The Band has fused an unorthodox range of instruments not normally seen in the pop-music genre. The band has made an impression on the SoCal music scene with a unique sound deriving from influences like John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band and Gram Parsons. Manuel The Band’s energetic live show has brought them to perform on many stages. Tuning into their latest single, “Strong Independent Woman”. This band is so cool. Before looking at anything involving the band I always listen to the song first and their sound is so warm and inviting. The bands connection sounds dedicated and effortless showing how well they work together. And not just the traditional sense of a band but all the bells (brass) and whistles (saxophone & trombone). The lead vocals in this song has a sound similar to a Adam Levine or even Sam Smith. His voice is easy on the ears and it’s mesmerizing. And of course I had to check them out and they are definitely a SoCal swag band. And the cover art is so simple almost like an emblem and it will be remembered because of that. Overall, this band has something and if you want to keep up with them, check them out @ManuelTheBand. Listen to "Strong Independant Woman" here, and learn more about Manuel The Band in our interview Below! Hey fellas. Can you tell us a little about the creation behind your new song "Strong Independent Woman"? This song was probably one of the coolest collaborations we've done as a band. It's a really "inclusive" song, meaning we've had a bunch of people come and play and put their own spin on it or add different feels and instrumentation to it when we do it live. The song started off as an acoustic piece written at the end of a relationship. It really show cases a cool mixture of our unique dimensions, juxtaposing horns with pedal steel. You never see that combo! So to be able to work out some amazingly unique parts with those instruments that work so great together was really awesome. George's pedal steel line is so ambient and beautiful. It tells a story of its own. Matt and Richard have these awesome horn lines that compliment the lyrics, adding a sort of "umph" to the story. When Brandon and Kevin drop the drums and bass it's as if the story really begins. It's super cool. We've also had the pleasure of performing and recording this song live with Jam in the Van, where our buddy, and amazing musician, Thomas DaVinci takes on the second verse. At the time I had finished up the first verse and I thought it'd be really cool to put a different spin on it. So I sent it to our Thomas and asked if he'd be down to write a second verse. Man, he brought the fire! He came back with the coolest second verse mixed with hip-hop and this R&B feel. It's a really cool rendition of the song and gives it a whole different story. You can find that version here. How do you maintain the strength within your band? You know, we're a really bonded band. We've traveled together, spent nights cooped up in the smallest hotel rooms together. Recorded together. Laughed, cried, been totally pissed off together. We've seen each other in our best and worst states and come out stronger and more united every time. I think we're lucky that, from the start, we already had good chemistry and a good bond, but when you spend so much time together you either work and become stronger, or you don't. We've had our hardships, like any band, where things seemed like "oh shit, how are we gonna pull through this one?" But we always do and we do it as a cohesive unit. I (Manuel) am a total history nerd and love to make the connection with the Greek phalanx: It only worked if the guys worked together and looked out for the guy next to him. It was strong and formidable. Totally nerding out here, but I think we work in a similar way. We look out for each other and we decide on things together. We're a family and bonded by our love for what we do. What inspired the song Strong Independent Woman? Ahh yes. The song inspiration. Well, it's a relationship song. Shocking, I know. The song is really about being with someone who deserves more than what I had to give at the time. I don't care to write generically, and this song is no different. This person was, well, IS a very special person and what we had was truly beautiful. Beautiful, but not solidified. I, at the time, was making very different choices about where I was going in life and what I wanted to do/ pursue. I just don't think I was right "there" as a relationship needs. So, when things didn't work out this song became a reflection of just how strong and amazing this woman was/is and where my head was at during that time. What do you hope listeners get from this new single? I was having this conversation the other day with a friend. I always have a struggle with this one. For me writing lyrics and making melodies is a therapy for me. It helps me get out what's on my chest. If people get anything out of the song, I hope it's an inspiration to find a way to do the same. What can we all hope to see from the band this year? Yes! We have such a cool year planned with so many big things coming up. We will be dropping two more singles after this one and an EP by summer. We're in the talks about a music festival or two and possibly a tour. So, keep a look out- we might be heading your way! Connect with Manuel The Band on social media: Instagram Facebook Website #BuzzMusic

Chloe Caroline was born and raised in Manhattan Beach, California. Her music and artistry radiates a warm, authentic, SoCal vibe. Having influences from Fleetwood Mac, Amy Winehouse, Dusty Springfield with the pop and writing sensibility of Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift. Her cover for “Last Christmas” made the Radio Disney Holiday playlist. Performing and writing for a number of others and herself she has an extensive resume that shows how compelling she really is. “Old Souls” was released in 2018 and here for us to tune into. Chloe Caroline, you have truly embodied an old soul in the modern day flesh. Modern day old fashioned is the perfect description for her sound. This track is one of those down home, sweet, sultry, lyrical lullaby’s. This girl has that southern belle with a touch of SoCal soul. The piano and organ take this track over the edge in bliss a true melody. This is one of those tracks that is easy to listen to first time around and you can’t help but to let it repeat. Listen to "Old Souls" here, and get to know more about Chloe in our interview below! Hey Chloe, care introduce yourself? I am a Los Angeles born and raised beach chick who happens to be a singer-songwriter. I’ve been based in Nashville for 6 years now but split my time with LA still. Speaking on "Old Souls" what type of music was played in your home growing up? When I say everything, I mean everything. A lot of classics though. My dad was in a rock band when i was little so definitely a lot of 80s rock, and a LOT of 70s (Fleetwood Mac, The Carpenters, Cat Stevens, Carol King, Rickie Lee Jones, Dolly Parton). But I also grew up around that time of awesome female pop with Michelle Branch, Avril Lavigne, Shania Twain. What influenced your pursuit in the pop music scene? I have never want to define my music one way, i just wanted my melting pot of a sound to allow the music to speak for itself and i think pop gives you the freedom to do that. Growing up in LA influenced that sound because it’s also a melting pot. It’s why if I had to label my music, i always say “its a new Southern California sound”. You can hear that freedom, those stories, and that vibe in it. There’s going to always be a molding of old with the new in my music, like something organic with synthetic in some form. You got keep your roots twisted in to what’s happening currently music wise so you always stay authentic. What's the message you're trying to relay to your listeners with “Old Souls”? I wanted to bring intention to people’s attention. Way back then, there was more intention behind everything—music, relationships, work, clothing, etc. The effort was put in and the quality was just better. We live in a world where its quantity over quality with most things and it affects us every day. It’s why it’s harder to date, harder to stay focused on anything, and harder to get the output we still want, all because we’re choosing to not value things the same anymore. If you could collab with any artist, who would it be? Why? Stevie Nicks because she’s a total free spirit, a creative genius and undoubtedly always been herself. She fought her work even when her own band didn’t believe in it. That takes guts. What's next for you in 2019? I plan on releasing the next wave of my music and doing whatever I can to push my boundaries creatively. This is music that challenges the status quo a bit. I wanna find cool ways to bring me even closer to my fans and get to connect with them, I really want to share in this experience with them and bring them along like never before. Whether that’s touring, visiting places I’ve never been (hint hint), and on social media. Connect with Chloe: Instagram Twitter Facebook #BuzzMusic

UK based, Romanian producer Pascal Junior presents something very special indeed, as the Epic Tones label head drops his 'Infinity' LP on promo. Traversing across a mix of soundscapes, from the vocal goodness of 'Feelings', through the to the more bass heavy 'Got You' & beyond, 'Infinity' continues to set out Pascal Junior's production agenda & kicks off Epic Tones year in style. Set to fire up an abundance of global club floors & radio airwaves in the coming weeks, this is 'Infinity'. Stay tuned. Listen to "Infinity" here CONNECT with Pascal Junior: Soundcloud Facebook Instagram

Kevin Edworthy, aka KVNE, is the founding partner of The KillaKollective, an independent label, with the stated goal of bringing community back to the music industry. According to doctors order, his latest song, "On The Low" should be consumed at least once a day (“or as needed”) until the prescription has been exhausted and it's time for a refill. Edworthy enjoys his trap percussion. But this isn’t hard-hitting Atlanta drug-pushing flow with the hats so crisp it sickens and the vocals so warped you wonder if there’s an IV purple drip in your arm you forgot about. Instead, this is firmly within pop territory. Think more of a Post Malone and Tory Lanez concoction, and less of a T.I. or Migos joint. The song starts with some chords that unfold in mystery. It could take a heavy turn, or dissolve into high quality video game soundtrack fare. It isn’t long before the dope rap build-up arrives, and you’re launched into a glistening world of diamond rings and Hennessy, informed by the industrial past of Hamilton. No, not the musical. Rather, I’m talking about the Canadian industrial town struggling to reinvent itself in the era of global manufacturing. There’s something very pressing here. But it’s silky smooth at the same time. Not bad for a 27-year-old from Canada. Listen to "On The Low" here & connect with KVNE on social media: Instagram Facebook Twitter

Maurico is the epitome of a hard worker. This Nashville native began at the age of seven, experimenting with old keyboards and cassette players. Growing up he never had the money to get the proper equipment, but he made things work by being creative. By the time he was in high school, Maurico was writing his own raps and performing in clubs. After spending five years in a collaboration, he decided to branch out on his own. Coordinating a promotions team, release parties, producing and shooting videos, Maurico stopped at nothing to gain notoriety on his own. Not letting his circumstances make him a victim he took what he had and made a way for himself. And with that attitude brought along the connection with Matchbox Twenty member Kyle Cook. This connection was the birth of his five-song EP. And sharing his latest song “Goals”. This is such a heartfelt track. Something that shows adversity. I love that he uses both of his talents of singing and rapping as a really amazing collaboration in this track. It gives the track a double feel almost like it’s several features. I love the beat as well. It is slow and bouncy giving it both that R&B and Hip-hop swag. The lyricism in this track is extremely influential and motivational. There was a lot of work and thought put into this track and its message really gives us an insight to this talented artist. Listen to "Goals" here, and get to know more about Maurico in our interview below! What’s up! Can you introduce yourself to our readers? I’m Maurico a Hiphop and RnB artist from Nashville TN. What about making music do you love the most? I love the creative process. I like to make music that sounds beautiful no matter the style. My whole focus is to create a great vibe embedded with powerful lyrics. I like pushing the limits and aiming for new sounds and moods. I’m most proud when I’ve created something that doesn’t sound like someone else. The freedom to create exactly what I’m feeling at the moment is what’s important to me. There’s nothing like injecting your emotions into a work of art and then stepping back to appreciate what you have made. The best part is sharing it with the world and gaining feedback and appreciation from them as well. Affecting someone positively gives me a sense of fulfillment. That’s my aim. How would you say your hometown influences your music? Nashville is a huge influence to my music because first and foremost it’s home. This is where I became everything I am. So much of my up bringing contributes to the music I create. Nashville is also a musically diverse city, which adds greatly to my different styles. This again helps in freedom of creativity. "Goals" is such a vibe! Can you tell us a bit about the creation process of the track? Did you face any challenges? "Goals" was created from a place of wanting success. Everyone has some sort of idea of personal fulfillment. This fulfillment is the reason we wake up everyday. It gives life its meaning. I wanted to make a song that not only encourages myself to set goals and shoot for the stars, but also encourage others to do the same. I want people to have a sense of fulfillment in life. I think that brings true happiness. I believe everyone deserves to experience that feeling. What is your favorite line in “Goals” and why? My favorite line is: “Even if you working two jobs do what you gotta do to make it out. And they’ll probably never believe In you Gotta show them what you about.“ This line I know hits home for a lot dreamers and visionaries. When you are trying to be someone great you have to work harder then you have ever worked. A lot of times it requires you to step out of your comfort zone and do things differently. When you have a dream or Vision sometimes other people can’t see what you see until you make it reality. This makes it hard for people to believe in you and support you at the beginning. Usually this is one of the most painful realities of chasing your dreams. I wanted to encourage people to keep pushing until it happens. Be great. Never give up. When having a creative block what do you do to unblock? When ever I have a creative block I take some time to rest, recollect my thoughts and experience new things to refuel my imagination and overall knowledge. It’s hard to recall a thought that has never been put inside your brain. You have to consistently fuel and feed your mind with knowledge. I read, listen to inspirational music, inspirational speakers, spend time with family and friends, and overall just aim to experience more of life. Once I’m refueled I’m ready to release it into the music for the world. What can listeners expect from you in the near future? In the near future my fans can expect a continuous effort and push toward better, more fulfilling music. Music that influences a more healthier fulfilled life. My new brand is “Better Music. Better Life.” That is my focus and vision for the future. I’m currently releasing lots of singles and in the process of creating a album entitled “Thanx A lot.” I want my listeners to have a positive listening experience that adds to their life and doesn’t subtract. Connect with Maurico: Instagram Twitter Facebook #BuzzMusic

Arsnk is an upcoming artist that has a unique sound of eerie guitars paired with authentic lyrics that give the listener a nostalgic feel. Currently, Arsnk has five released singles on Spotify which include, “Brother” (her latest single), “Godchild”, “Paralyzed”, “Real Human”, and “Cut Through”. Arsnk’s music somewhat resembles the dark techno pop of Lana Del Rey although Arsnk has a more classic rock sound to her but is highlighted with some dark synths creating her own sound. Her song, “Brother” greets the listener with moody and melancholy guitar scales that are incorporated into the song very melodically. Arsnk’s vocals tell a story of angst and wonder. Her lyrics match with the very moody and dark guitar instrumentals. Arsnk tells her story of what seems to be her family life and all of the loose ends that she has not tied up with them. The slight breaks in her voice give the song a very raw and honest appeal to it. The song has a great buildup that is different from most songs, but makes it even more impactful. Arsnk is sure to be an artist on the rise. Listen to "Brother" here, and get to know Arsnk better in our interview below! When did you start writing music? I started writing music 6 years ago, but I was writing lyrics and poems and short stories since I was 12. Do you plan on releasing an album in the future? Yes, absolutely. I have loved the immediate interaction of singles, because I feel the music stands alone as its own entity as well s in a group, but I am so excited to put out my album later this year! Who are two of your musical influences? Radiohead and PJ Harvey In one word how would YOU describe your music and how do you think OTHERS would describe your music? I would describe it as: raw, others would describe it as ethereal Is your song, “Brother” about your own family life or is it fictional? It is an amalgamation of fact and fiction, about searching for meaning and truth in a family set up and an exploration of us all as brothers and sisters What's next for you? I have a new band! We play April 16th at Iron Triangle and May 1st at The Other Door, plus will be playing in San Francisco and New York later in the year. Connect with Arsnk: Instagram #BuzzMusic

Black Kenn is a rapper who was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, a state so racially strained that the NAACP issued an advisory warning people of colour their civil rights could be violated if they travel there. This is the culture Black Kenn was socialized in. And when his basketball dreams fell short, he turned his attention to music. He’s been revelling in his rap development ever since. Back a year ago on “Wintertime Interlude” we have some rudimentary but potent drum machine work, soft vocals drowned out by 80s-horror synths, and the mix comes across a bit repetitive. But what’s most memorable about how cold and distant it sounds. The elements don’t quite work together, but still a depth to it. Meaning behind the shock cheeseball horror reminiscence of the synthetic elements, you know there’s some dank bars to unearth. We start to see that come into being on the Gas & Instrumentals Album from 2018, where a bit more complexity results in harder hitting tracks. The confidence of the assault means you start to suspend your disbelief. You start flowing with the cadence, such as on single like “No Pad No Pencil.” This fits perfectly within the canon of modern gangster rap. You might not be a huge fan of hearing a rapper rhyming “phone” with “phone.” But this is where we are as a society. “Get money” music is in, and Black Kenn has been mastering the sense that the darkness it takes to bring that to life. He manages to drop nicely constructed choruses that are catchy — but, you know, not too catchy. The droning beat goes on and on. And you start to believe there’s no escape. And that’s what we saw with Digital Trappin’. This is sickening shit, and that’s just how you want it. It gets inside your head with brooding, intentionally unpolished hustle flow. With this release beats have becoming more pronounced. The swagger comes into its own. Now with the "Chippi Chippi Freestyle" we get another journey into the heart of darkness. It’s founded on a beat from Miami-based producer Redda, previously used by Sheck Wes in his song Chippi Chippi, on the MUDBOY album. Wes has said that Chippi Chippi is when you’re “leaving a place in a state of anger, with intentions to get high.” It’s obviously a situation Black Kenn understands and wanted to add his own take on. By the way.. the video is definitely worth checking out, since it make it looks like he’s in a video game level in the UK. It’s expertly shot, the VFX are rad, the colours are amazing, and his yellow jacket is awesome. But it’s the content that stands out. “I’m comin’ for your head” he barks. You can’t help but enjoy how he rhymes Chippi with Mississippi, in a way that sounds consequential. While Sheck Wes, thought to use the Mississippi rhyme in his own Chippi Chippi song, he definitely missed the prime opportunity to use the underused gem of the English language “jiffy.” Black Kenn didn’t miss the chance. And now I want to put peanut butter on a banana. Thanks a lot Kenn. While Sheck Wes’s verses reflect more of a high-end international travel vision, and a musician who’s in the mainstream crosshairs, in a way Black Kenn’s is more interesting. That’s because it reflects a street-level grind giant artists crave the chance to embody. In the song Black Kenn revels in having that vantage point. But if he keeps improving at the rate he has been, he might find himself, too, cradling a colourful basketball on a deserted island. Under blue skies by day and beside a fire at night. Listen to "Chippi Chippi Freestyle" here and get to know Black Kenn in out interview below! Great to chat with you! Can you tell us a bit about yourself? What’s the word! It’s Black Kenn checking in an I’m all about dividends. I’m a young entrepreneur out of St. Louis Missouri trying to make the world a better place. How hard was it for you to let go of your dream of being a professional basketball player? Very hard. I’m still low key holding on to it. I haven’t fully let it go but it definitely was a challenge for me. It was something I dedicated everyday of my life to. What was it like growing up in St. Louis, Missouri? For those who might not know, what were some of the challenges and opportunities for the average person there? At first growing up was cool in St. Louis but now the city is a lot different. The vibe just ain’t how it use to be. From my position, opportunities were limited and we have to be different in order to stand out. I guess that’s why I am the way that I am. What do you think was the biggest factor in your recent development as an artist? Trusting myself and not second guessing myself. At the end of the day I had to do me and not care about what others say or think. Sheck Wes said Chippi Chippi is “leaving a place in a state of anger, with intentions to get high.” What does it mean to you? Its exactly the same thing but I am being more particular about the strain which is Cookies. I was smoking cookie at the time, chips ahoy is a cookie, so its basically my twist on Chippi Chippi. Why was it important for you to put your own spin on the Sheck Wes’s Chippi Chippi track? I really wanted to get back to what some of my favorite artist did and that was freestyle and rap over other artists beats. What do you think the best part about being a rapper is so far? I really don’t care for the attention, but the best part for me is that I can have a voice and an influence on the world! What's next for you? More music. More shows. More merch. More businesses. But the sky is the limit so shit who knows. Connect with Black Kenn on social media: Instagram Black Kenn #BuzzMusic