North West LDN rapper Casscade returns with his most creative project to date ‘Dance For Me’. Channelling influences from Kanye to Drake to ?? ‘Dance For Me’ is a global looking rap/trap banger which is out now, alongside a mini movie-like music video. The track was produced by German producer OUHBOY (with additional production at the end by Matt Grifasi) who has previously worked with Casscade on his track ‘finesse’

The track starts with an atmospheric piano and acoustic guitar intro which sets the scene for story of infatuation, lust and obsession. The Latin-inspired instrumentation gives gangster movie feels, which blends nicely with the crispy beat and clever wordplay. Like much of Casscade’s work, there’s a melodic approach to his bars and a memorable chorus hook, nailing down its radio friendly vibe.

Casscade 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?

Definitely started from the household. Both my parents being DJ's was a blessing in a sense. There was always some party to go to or wedding to be at since they would be DJ'ing there. I always loved the vibe and seeing how people reacted to songs. The right song selection could literally light up any room. My dad always tells me of this story of when I was young I'd literally crawl over to his vinyls and whatever was reachable I'd pull it out the sleeve and literally scratch it. No pun intended. I'm sure I've spoiled some favourites... Haha. Fast forward though I initially wanted to be a DJ in my teens but then got motivated by people in my local area MC'ing and it wasn't long till I jumped in. The rest was history. 

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Kanye West for sure. Drake. I'm actually a big Frank Ocean fan too. That would be Super dope.

There's a new guy in the states right now called Baby Keem. I really mess with what he's doing. "No Sense" has been getting played religiously!

I mess with Don Toliver heavy.

Here's a nerdy one. The composer for final fantasy Nobuo Uematsu... I'd love to get him in the studio with some Hip-hop/Trap producers. I really think that would be magic.

Definitely Skepta but I heard he's retiring... So I doubt that'll happen at this point. I Think I could make some A1 magic with Yxng Bane. Scribz Riley is definitely someone I'd like to work with.

3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the corona virus pandemic?

I had some plans to explore Europe and link up more with my friend and previous collaborator, Joshimizu but the pandemic really put that on pause. Besides that, at first the pandemic seemed to give me a breath of fresh air but after a while I started to feel claustrophobic musically. It was kind of like I couldn't see the future because music was just in this real un-certain place. I hit a wall eventually creatively and was just looking into my real life issues. It took me a little while but I managed to wake up and it brought me to new heights in my creativity and a new vision for my journey. I'm excited for what the future holds at this point because I definitely feel like the direction I'm going isn't really something I've seen from anyone else. Risky!

4. How would you describe your sound?

A complex approach. I'd say it's like mixing your favourite movie soundtrack with Trap music. Nothing but epic.

One day I want to get to a stage where I can do a live show with a whole orchestra. It's on the to do list.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

I would say when I had my first sold out show in 2018... But I think when Anthony Kilhofer and DJ Semtex were vibing out to my track "Finesse" hard last year definitely took top spot. I got onto their Instagram live late that day. I popped up and was just commenting and a whole load of people in the live were like "Yoooo Casscade's here, He's here". I was thinking what the hell did I miss LOL. He then came to look at the comments and he was just sharing his appreciation for the song and saying how hard it was and how everyone was feeling it. He was like "yo, I'm playing it again at the end of the live".

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Stay true to yourself. Don't be afraid to experiment. Be very realistic. Keep all business on your end as thorough as possible. Dream hard and work even harder. Can't work smart if the hard work hasn't been done. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Enjoy the process. Surround yourself with people that see your vision, can help build it with you and chime in with criticism that can shape things for the better. Don't be afraid to ask but if you can do it yourself.... DO IT YOUR BLOODY SELF!

7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?

Yeah! As i mentioned before... Baby Keem. I think that kids gonna be big soon.

Paris Texas, I think what their doing is dope.

There's a girl in the UK called Alewya. I found her by chance. I think she's wavey. Sick Haunting vibe.

Ragz Originale dropped one of the sickest EP's this year.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

I'm still playing my favourites from Baby Keem - Die For My Bitch

Been taking J Coles album in. I like the new energy he's got and the subject matter.

I actually think Justin Beibers latest album is hard.

I've been banging out Frank Ocean Nostalgia Ultra recently. Throwback!

I can't lie though... recently it's been more a selected tracks vibe rather than entire albums.

Solid - Young Thug, Drake, Gunna.

Baby Keem - No Sense

Master Peace x Kasien - Slow song

Don Toliver x Masego - Mystery lady

There's more but yeah. That's just off the top at the moment.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I listen to a lot of different kinds of things for inspiration. I actually listen to soundtracks to things. The odd day that I'm off I'll lock into some anime. Been a big anime fan from a kid. Guess it just never left me. I be checking out some art these days online. You can definitely find me at a shisha spot! I think that's actually the place where I gather the most thoughts. I'm currently on a ban though as I need to get my fitness up... I've got my first festival to perform at in July!

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

I actually like my studios sessions with minimal people. I just feel like it allows the vibes to bounce around the room easier and more freely subconsciously. I'll defo need my snacks though. Get me A flaming hot monster munch, white twix, ribena/ lucozade and maybe a few pulls on a rolled one (depending on the session) and I'm good to go!