London Calling. British virtuoso Choze is the harbinger of music’s next wave. Star quality is necessary to pivot the culture and Choze was born with charisma. Whether he’s performing with an entire orchestra or in a grime cipher Choze commands attention. An artist in the truest sense, Choze offers a carnival for the eye in the visual medium whether it’s creative art design or ambitious music videos.
Hey! How did you get into music?
After I retired from playing football, my second love was always music. I was surrounded by alot of Inspirational and supportive Mc’s who believed in my craft and helped me break through to the pirate radio scene. I officially started my solo career around 2015 in the alternative grime/rap scene. My first record was a DUBSTEP/GRIME tune called “Muzik 4 the masses”. It was my introduction aiming to capture an audience that appreciate
innovation and embrace different forms of creativity that brought an additional art form to a new cult scene within the uk at that present moment. Thanks to the massive support from bbc 1xtra, kiss, rinse fm and a large amount of regional pirate radio stations, I captivated a following that believed in my sound and visual.
Who are some of your musical influences?
Honestly I have vast amount of musical genres that have influenced my production and writing. I’m a big supporter of the prodigy with their face smacking sound to classical/hiphop production of Kanye west. Grime has a secured place in my heart for the story telling and abstract synths which relate to the day to day experiences. I have eclectic tastes in music so one day I will be listening to Jungle then next will be Dizzee rascal. It really depends on the mood I’m in.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
My manager (Fran Macmillan) always reminds me that “if you keep doing what you’re doing, you keep getting what you get!” This statement rotates in my mind every time I’m trying to push my limits with my music. She also states that “if it was that easy, everybody would be doing it”. These phrases keep me humble and motivated every time I’m entering into a new chapter as an artist. Definitely advice that I would i recommend.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Lived experiences from growing up in London first and foremost then Research. I’m always watching documentaries of iconic artist whether it’s Rolling Stones, Roll deep or soul to soul. I study their stories, performances and their creative process. It gives me inspiration on how I can be more artistic and carve a lane that puts me in a similar Box.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the music industry?
I grew up in the best era of music where so many artist had signature songs that have stood the test of time. We’re now in the era of social media which is the blessing and a curse. So many artists are more visible around the world which is great for exposure and reach however not all musicians are being rewarded fairly due to streaming platforms.
What’s the story behind your album, ”DIY”?
My musical journey has been an interesting one, not to be bias. I’ve learnt soo much as an independent artist that I wanted to share a body of work that represents my timeline in the industry. No label backing, Me and my team gained something much more than finances to support a movement which a lot of independent artist struggle with and that is information. Information is key in this scene. It’s not what you know that will get you in a position to evolve but it’s what your willing to learn that will place you in a different realm than the rest. Always be a student in your craft, never take your eye of the ball and depending on others to fund and change your status will be a route to failure. DIY is about empowering yourself and believing in your sound. This album is my truth, my book, my life and I hope it’s also becomes apart of yours.
Can you shortly describe each of the tracks that are on the album?
- Badderz- an introduction telling the listener to brace themselves of what’s about to commence.
- Wake up- the generation of today are becoming “sheep” and need to open their eyes and ears more.
- Built 4 Dis- Many so proclaimed artist are making music for the wrong reasons. Test of time will show who has longevity.
- Drug Muzik- being a music fanatic. Supporting the craft in any capacity.
- DIY interlude- an in-depth spoken word to describe the purpose of “DIY”
- DIY- believing in yourself no matter what situation your in
- Nothing to lose- we’re living in a time that we’re truly disappointed with the empty gestures that the authorities have stated time and time again. Our voices won’t be silenced anymore.
- I apologise- apologies for all the mistakes I’ve made involving my close ones and people I don’t see eye to eye with anymore.
- Last ones left- questioning artist morals in the music scene.
- Sending the signs- detailing how some subliminal signs have played a massive part in my decision making in life.
- You- dedicated to my first love, My mum
Why should people listen to it?
Because it’s something for everybody and it comes from the heart. It represents truth, belief and empowerment.
How do you know when a work is finished?
I follow my gut. It never fails me plus my team always do a listening session before we sign off a song. They have brilliant ears and their honesty plays a big part.
What are your favourite musical genres, and are there any you dislike?
Grime, hiphop, jungle, classical, dubstep, indie, Dance, house and I love Amapiano right now.
Would you like to say anything to emerging artists?
Perseverance is key. You fail when you quit. Keep pushing even when you don’t see results at a particular moment, you’ll be surprised of what’s in store for your career.
