HANNAH RENTON A SKY-ROCKETING MUSICAL SENSATION
“I get most of my inspiration when listening to the radio in the car and singing along,” she says, “so that’s what I would like people to do with my tracks.”
Artist | Hannah Renton
Writer | Prempeh Akontoh | Music Curator & Web Blogger | www.positivechangeformyjukebox.com
Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/positivechangeformyjukebox
Website | https://www.dpbrecords.com
UK BASED ARTIST JASH TALKS ABOUT HIS LATEST CHARITY SINGLE
'US TOHETHER'
The latest interview with UK based artist JASH, who recently released his latest charity Single Us Together. All proceeds from the single, aim to benefit Abandoned & Alone Dog Rescue (AADR).
What aspects of your music do you feel are the most representative of your identity?
I feel the lyrics represent me. I try to be honest and write songs from personal experiences, or from experiences I have witnessed via friends.
What factors initially drew you into the style(s) of music, you’re now most comfortable recording & releasing music in?
I have always loved acoustic music, just a guitar and vocals. However, I also love Pop and R&B, and the latter two, I would say have been the route I have taken. I think what drew me in was my inspiration, which would have to be Michael Jackson and the Weeknd.
What is the broader lyrical story for Us Together, beyond its meaningful connection with the AADR Charity?
Actually it started off as a love track which I left open. It wasn’t tailored to a girl, and could be interpreted as many things. Most of the song was completed when I decided to donate all the sales from the song to AADR, who do an amazing job with their cause.
What are the most important things you envision, a newfound listener of your songs, would take from them, both musically & lyrically?
Have you bonded with & maybe even made the decision to adopt any dogs you may have met, whilst working with the charity thus far?
Yes I would love to adopt all of them if I could. I already have 2 huskies and I wish I could have more, but it wouldn’t be fair to me or the dogs.
Do you ever take the time to actually listen to your own songs, just to see and get a feel for what they sound like for your listeners?
I do listen back to the songs, usually it is to see how I could improve. It helps me to develop myself, and to ensure the next songs turn out better.
What are your thoughts on digital interactions (Social Media), between yourself as an artist & your fans?
I think it’s a great thing. I need to do more to be honest, but finding the time is always a challenge.
Does the recurrent process of cultivating & developing your overall sound, ever reach a maturation point for you, or is it truely neverending & continuous?
I think it is never ending. I don’t think anyone can say they have fulfilled their potential. It is always a developing process.
Who is your all time dream collaborator? Why?
I would say the Weeknd as MJ is no longer with us.
Who are your major influences? Why?
I would say the Weeknd is the most influential at the moment.
What are your thoughts on the notion, that as an artist, “…one has to continually reinvent themselves & evolve musically, stylistically & lyrically;” with each major project pursued?
I think this is true. I think artists need to work on themselves to improve, to develop and create new sounds, which differ from what is out there already.
How do you take all that’s contained within your work, and bring it to life, when performing live for an audience.
Try to put passion into the performances, and show the emotion which went into the song making.
What was it about Us Together, that inspired you to position it as a release to benefit the AADR?
I started to get involved with AADR during the time of writing Us Together. It wasn’t completely finished, but after finding out the cost to run AADR, and the great work they do, I wanted to help in some way. I decided to donate the downloads from the track to AADR. The song itself is about love, and having everlasting love for someone, or something. I thought it would fit well, as it could easily relate to dogs cats etc, the fact I do music for the love and not to make money from it, was another reason I wanted to position the release, to help AADR.
What parallels do you find between the UK and US music markets?
I think the markets are similar. The same tracks tend to be in the charts. I do think the UK market is more POP/Dance and less R&B, whereas the US is more R&B focused.
For you, what elements of the creation process are a reflection of your home?
I would say a large part, I love to zone out in my room. But also, thinking about the experiences I had in the past, as well as experiences my friends have had. These help my when I write my lyrics, or to help decide what to write about.
What is a song you wished you’d written/recorded?
I wish I could have done the vocals for Kygo (Firestones), that was an amazing track which I loved, and is still one of my top songs.
What are your thoughts in regards to the songwriting side of the creation process?
I think you need to feel and have a connection to what you are writing about. If it’s a love song, break up song, meeting someone for the first time. It all needs to come from within, which makes it that much more real.
How would you advise someone who desires to follow in your footsteps?
I would say “Just follow your dreams, if this is what you want, to go out and work on it.” It’s a hard road and it is not easy, but it’s fun, and if you can find a great team around you, it will eventually work out.
How would you advise someone who desires to follow in your footsteps?
I would say “Just follow your dreams, if this is what you want, to go out and work on it.” It’s a hard road and it is not easy, but it’s fun, and if you can find a great team around you, it will eventually work out.
What subjects do you find the most difficult to write about, when initially conceptualizing & planning a new song from scratch?
I don’t think I can do songs about money or showing off. I feel happy doing love songs, which I feel is my main thing. Also upbeat songs tend to be my focus, and making people feel good.
Does the overall feel & vibe for Us Together serve as a preview, as to the overall sound for your forthcoming releases in 2020?
No, I think the new EP I am working on will be a lot different. This was the first ballad, if you can call it that type of song, which I have never done before. However, the new songs for 2020 will be totally different.
About AA Dog Rescue
“AA Dog Rescue (Organisation based in Essex) is dedicated to saving ‘pound dogs’. These are dogs who, through no fault of their own, have found themselves placed in council pounds, where they have 7 days in which to be claimed, or go into rescue. Unfortunately, there are only so many rescue spaces available, and when their 7 days are up, if they are still there, they are put to sleep at the pound. The mission of the AADR, is to get the dogs out, before the unfortunate has a chance to ever happen.”
Artist | JASH
Writer | Onur Baykal | Music Curator & Web Blogger | www.onurtheplaylister.com
Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/obaykal100
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/onur_baykal
Mikyla Cara
In January 2017, inspired by her recent journey into motherhood, Mikyla released her debut EP entitled ‘Grown’. The lead single, of the same title, was penned to pay homage to the emotional growth experienced after the birth of her daughter. After the release, she went on to perform her first sell-out headline show in her hometown, ultimately debunking the notion that being a mother means the end of pursuing your dreams.
Seen below is just one of her more recent music videos, for her song titled, “He Can Do Better”.
Currently, Mikyla is experimenting with a fresh sound which she is developing alongside talented musicians and producers. Predominantly, she is working closely with versatile, South London producer Scarz on a collation of new songs showcasing her soulful vocals, complimented by edgy RnB productions. Mikyla released three consecutive singles this year produced by Scarz, the latest being ‘Love To Love’ which racked up over 10,000 streams within the first week! With the success of the last few singles under her belt she is putting pen to paper again writing new material, set to be released in the coming months.
Artist | Mikyla Cara
Writer | Prempeh Akontoh | Music Curator & Web Blogger | www.positivechangeformyjukebox.com
Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/positivechangeformyjukebox
Website | https://www.dpbrecords.com
Chloé Caroline
I Recently had the privilege of Interviewing up and coming Los Angeles Based Artist Chloé Caroline, in anticipation of her latest Single & Music Video Release.
Her latest single “Forgive Me” is available now, on all major Music Streaming Platforms.
Tell me about “Forgive Me” and why this song is important to you?
I wrote this song out of emotion honestly. I’ve always had a rather sunny disposition to the point where I’ve been told jokingly I smile “too much”. I am a half full type of girl and always try to make the best of things but I realized that even though I’m “mostly” that person, I shouldn’t have to apologize for bad days or days where I might not meet the expectations of who others want me to be. In a time where mental health awareness is at an all time high (yet so is Instagram’s “highlight” reel), I really hope people can relate and realize that it is okay to be human. It’s okay to show more than one type of personality, to feel, to screw up because concealing the truth can be detrimental.
Your voice is very different from a lot of artists out there right now. Who do you draw inspiration from?
Thank you! I really want to expose my soul when I sing, I want to feel it and want others to as well so I try to let go and remember that while I sing. A lot of my voice I think comes from the variety I listened to growing up and the emotion behind those artists when they performed. I love Stevie Nicks, Avril Lavigne, Karen Carpenter, Alanis, Michelle Branch, Colbie Caillat… the list could go on but all of these artists have a rawness to their vocals. You can feel their soul in the inflections in their voice and it’s genuine.
What are your thoughts in regards to the songwriting side of the creation process?
I always say, first and foremost I’m a songwriter. I learned how to write by myself at a very young age and it took writing 100s of songs to find my different voices. As artists we need to be able to relay what we NEED to say honestly, that takes challenging yourself with collabing with people better than you and different than you and never forgetting how to write by yourself. It’s my favorite part.
You write a lot about California. How has growing up here been an influence on you?
It’s a place of so much versatility and freedom. It let my creativity run wild, it let me feel ok with being whoever I wanted to be because there are so many different types of people, cultures, music, etc. I’m also a beach baby, so being close to the water and fresh air, it’s the perfect place to get in touch with nature and yourself.
What aspects of your music do you feel are the most representative of your identity?
I’d say lyrics are the most literal representation of me but to be honest I really throw myself throughout all the moving parts that make up a song. From the melody to the production I try to listen to my gut and make sure there’s a purpose and a vision behind everything you hear. I’ll sit with my producer and mold it together with him/her until I feel like we’ve made magic. Not afraid to put the time in.
Your voice is very different from a lot of artists out there right now. Who do you draw inspiration from?
Thank you! I really want to expose my soul when I sing, I want to feel it and want others to as well so I try to let go and remember that while I sing. A lot of my voice I think comes from the variety I listened to growing up and the emotion behind those artists when they performed. I love Stevie Nicks, Avril Lavigne, Karen Carpenter, Alanis, Michelle Branch, Colbie Caillat… the list could go on but all of these artists have a rawness to their vocals. You can feel their soul in the inflections in their voice and it’s genuine.
Who are your major influences?
I draw a lot of my sound from a combo of genres, but a lot from the 70s and late 90s/early 2000’s. In both eras, there’s this combo of rock, pop, R&B, and even folk combined that I love. The songwriting is bold and intentional. There’s a uniqueness that comes from taking bits and pieces of your favorite genres and molding them together with a great song.
What artist do you admire most and why?
There are many! But Stevie Nicks for her incredible swagger and artistry.
If you could collaborate with any artist dead or alive who would it be?
Ed Sheeran I think would be my current pick because I admire his authenticity and love that in a pop world that’s primarily synthetic, he still uses real instruments a lot. His rhythm is insane too!
What was the first song that made you cry?
Father and Son by Cat Stevens
What is a current song that you wish you had written?
Don’t Give Up On My Love- Caitlyn Smith
What factors initially drew you into the style(s) of music, you’re now most comfortable recording & releasing in?
The freedom and range of connection globally. I think it’s commercial but it stands in its own box of pop. When I finally just started accepting that my authentic sound is made up of a melting pot of genres and influences, I realized that a variety of people of all sorts found a home in it. No not everyone will like my music but I do feel like if I’m true to me, that intention makes waves and stands out.
What are the most important things you envision, a newfound listener of your songs, would take from them, both musically & lyrically?
The honesty and individuality behind them. My hope is that they can pinpoint some connection to them whether it’s in the lyrics relating to them, the groove making them want to drive down the highway, or cry in their bedroom. I hope they speak to everyone differently but that they deliver meaning.
What are your thoughts on digital interactions (Social Media), between yourself as an artist & your fans?
I’ve met so many incredible souls because of social media from across the blogs and I could never be ungrateful for that. Of course there’s algorithm bs, fake accounts, and you never know what’s going to take off regardless of money or time put towards something, which is frustrating. It’s hard to break through the competition. But if even one person you never would have met yet reaches out to you, it’s incredible. I haven’t been able to do a real tour yet and right now it’s one of the only ways to get to people. I’ve had people from social media drive and show up to one off shows and wow is that humbling.
How do you take all that’s contained within your work, and bring it to life, when performing live for an audience?
I always love telling stories and talking to the audience. I like to bring them behind the creation and Inspo for the songs so they feel part of everything. The goal is to be so real that every person in the room feels like you’re talking to them personally. I want to be approachable.
You’ve had a few songs in movies and acted in one. How does acting compare to performing live?
I’m still a newbie to acting but in both situations you REALLY have to let go and put yourself in the scenario of the character in the script or as an artist, in the song. Of course I want to be 100% me on stage but there’s definitely a variety of personas you have to take on when you are performing a sad song or a sassy song, it needs to be believable.
If you weren’t a singer songwriter what would you want to do with your life?
Still something creative. Probably still do something with creative writing. I’d probably write novels or tv shows. Or I’d go into something with cooking, become a chef or have a cooking show.
How would you advise someone who desires to follow in your footsteps?
Nothing is impossible. Practice, remember your why for doing music and always listen to your gut.
Artist | Chloé Caroline
Writer | Onur Baykal | Music Curator & Web Blogger | American Top 40 & iTunes Top 100
Facebook | https://web.facebook.com/obaykal100
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/onur_baykal
HANA 2K
At the Jukebox today we would like to introduce Hanna 2K Evans she is a 19 year old pop singer-songwriter from a small village called Sully near Cardiff. Writing her own material since the age of 15, her songs display teenage life in all its complexity. Her self-released single “I don’t want to” caught the attention of the music blogosphere. Consistently supported by BBC Radio Wales culminated in BBC Introducing selecting Hana as ‘Track Of The Week’ it also received playlisting on BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio Wales, Dermot O’Leary Radio 2. Her influences include SOPHIE, Oshi, Terror Jr, Imogen Heap, Katy Perry and Max Martyn.
Whilst juggling her education, Hana build up a close network of producers. She has worked relentlessly to get to the point where she is ready to release new music, with all aspects, including her live show, ready to hit the road! Hana recently played a packed out Moon Club at the Swn Festival, she has also performed at the O2 in London.
Her latest EP of four songs have amassed a million streams, she received blog support from The Best Line of Fit, Hilly Dilly, Going Solo and more.
Hana is currently supported by BBC Horizons project, and “Women Make Music” PRS Foundation
For more info contact | Guto Evans | 079 7662 7656
QUICK LINKS
GENERAL INFO
NETWORKS
SUBSCRIBE
KEEP THE JUKEBOX PLAYING
JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK
