evrYwhr - 10 Questions
Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, spoken wordsmith and producer evrYwhr kicks off 2021 with new single ‘Positive Vibes’, out now on all streaming platforms.
An emotion-tinged modern R&B ballad with a heartwarming message at its heart, ‘Positive Vibes’ is an ode to keeping your head up while the world crumbles around us. The track pairs slick, spoken-word vocals with warm, Neptunes-reminiscing production, while the heartwarming official video sees evrYwhr enjoying himself on the ice rink accompanied by his baby boy.
It follows last year’s ‘Letter To The White House’, a poignant single that has so far amassed more than 1 million streams whilst being championed by US networks BET and MTV. Both tracks will feature on his forthcoming debut album, out later this year.
evrYwhr sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
I remember as a baby, I would sit with my dad on the couch in our basement and listen to vinyl. Songs like Marvin’s - “After The Dance”, The Chi-Lites - “Oh Girl” & Curtis Mayfield - “Move on Up” led me to my own internal reservoir of joy. Music was ubiquitous, and the artform stuck with me as a way of expression; it gave me an opportunity to provide my unique voice of perspective to the greater collective.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I’m looking forward to working with Kadhja Bonet, Childish Gambino, Tobe Nwigwe, Hans Zimmer, Pharrell, Frank Ocean, Madison Calley & Andre 3000. The list goes on, but we’ll just leave it there cause I could go all day; I’m extremely eclectic.
3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the coronavirus pandemic?
In all honesty, I’m blessed to say I haven’t really had an issue creating or releasing music. I’ve been extremely creative and expressive during this time because it’s pretty much all I have. I’ve been connecting with family and those I love like never before, so the inspiration is pouring in from our need to feel connected as humanity. I miss going out like I used to, but the amalgamation of all the stories I’ve already lived are coming to the surface and begging me to write about their existence. I’m also tapping into the raw inspiration of the times we’re all living in.
4. How would you describe your sound?
I refer to my sound and genre as Eclectic Soul.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
My proudest moment as an artist would have to be when I stopped feeling as though I needed to sound like my peers on the Billboard Top 40 in order to be successful. I’m thankful to be guided by God’s calling on my life, and I pray to stay in alignment with telling the stories that come from an authentic place.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
We’re always 2nd place when we attempt to be like someone else. There’s an unavoidable beauty to being inspired others, but the world shines a little brighter when we give out our light. Be You.
7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?
Kayo Genesis is an incredible wordsmith, artist and visionary that you need to check out. I’m also inspired by the ethereal and heartfelt sounds of SiMitrē, that man’s voice of authenticity has the ability to touch my soul and bring tears to my eyes. Finally I’d have to say Kadhja Bonet because I’m ridiculously surprised more people don’t know about this gem of a creative; she’s probably received over 50,000 streams to her music just off of my recommendations to people since I’m constantly telling everyone about her brilliance.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Check out the ‘Freedom Lovetribe Gang’ Spotify playlist named “TRIBEGANG! Traveling Playlist Series | EclectiLuvSōl”. It’s a collaborative experience with over 20 hours worth of musical taste and contributions from our TRIBEGANG! members from around the world.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
I enjoy connecting with self, loved ones, and building new experiences for the global garden of humanity I founded in the Freedom Lovetribe Gang (aka TRIBEGANG!)
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
I conduct a Gongfu tea ceremony during every session when I have my set.
A diffuser with essential oils are a must as well. I like to enhance the atmosphere of the session with aromatherapy to support whatever mood I’m in.
Authentic, loving, supportive and open creative energy.