10Qs: Xadi – Movies (single & video)

Introducing the multi-talented West London based artist, Xadi. Following on from the huge Mañana last year – featuring the Manchester soulstress Nina Cobham – Xadi is back with the fragile introspective Movies, that focusses on the nostalgia around bygone relationships; universally relatable, no doubt. He’s also dropped an equally pensive music video alongside that’s been diligently self-shot and edited; definitely worth a peep. On the back of this we caught up with the man himself for a quick-fire 10Qs…

1. Contestant, what’s your name, chosen craft and where are you based?

My name is Xadi, I’m a singer, rapper, and music producer, and I’m based in hounslow, West London.

2. How would you describe your sound?

Chilled rappy singing I guess?? I would say kind of melodic hip-hop with some influences from R&B, Jazz, and a bunch of other genres.

3. Who/what do you consider to be the biggest influence on your music?

I would say production-wise probably Kanye, but really I think my music is most influence by the people around me. What my close friends are bumping, the other musicians I work with probably have more of an influence on me that artists at a distance.

4. What’s the proudest moment to date for you as an artist?

I think my proudest moments are from making music that is as close to how I want to represent myself as possible. So literally writing songs like ‘Off the Gas’ and ‘Mañana’ make me prouder than any of than any of the things they go on to achieve.

5. Do you have any advice for our readers who are maybe trying to play the mad game of music?

Consistency. Don’t be knocked back by a release not getting the attention you’d hoped for, just move on to what’s next, don’t get in your own way and let fear stop you from putting out your songs. Putting out songs that, in hindsight aren’t as good as they could have been, is one of the best ways to learn and develop. Take advice where it comes but don’t listen too closely to what outside opinions, its your craft so don’t let too many people alter your vision.

6. Name 3 people you would love to work with and why?

Kojey Radical, I think what he does is so unique and pioneering. He’s carved a whole new lane and I find that really inspiring.

Lous and the Yakuza, I don’t speak French but I am a real fan of her stuff. I think that says a lot. Her whole vibe and sound is just so cool and unlike anything I’d heard before.

Drake, this guy is just the goat, I have been such a big fan for so long, and it would be like a lifelong dream come true to work with him.

7. What have you got planned for the not so distant future?

A string of singles are coming out to start the year off, followed by a short project, and I also have a couple of joint projects planned with some close collaborators of mine.

8. What’s the album you’ve played more than any other?

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

9. What’s the best concert you’ve been to and where was it?

In recent memory it would have to be a KarimThaPeasant show, it was in a bar somewhere in Peckham and the vibe was just so lively.

10. Name three things you can’t live without?

Ableton, a guitar, the ability to travel

Be sure to follow Xadi for the latest news and releases. Movies and his back catalogue is available to stream everywhere.