PREMIERE: BVNK - BVNK Season (EP) + 10 Questions
Coming on the back of his acclaimed Emo Season N Tough Times project, which was released at the start of the year, exciting up and coming Denver rap artist and songwriter BVNK is not resting on his laurels as he unveils his second project of 2021 titled BVNK Season, marking his fifth EP in just over two years.
The 8-track project is all about self-love, according to BVNK, who says, “I made this record as therapy for healing, for a way to regain my self-confidence and find joy in myself. It’s for everyone that has been living their life for other people and feeling heavy laden, this is to rid ourselves of that kind of negativity”.
Produced by frequent collaborators Viikaden and Yemi25, with additional contributions from Miami beatsmith Luda Bandz and Atlanta duo TrackTeam. BVNK Season is a captivating fusion of hip-hop, trap and R&B, driven by BVNK’s infectious rap-singing flow, vivid storytelling and wordplay, as well as his personal, honest and relatable lyrics – from the unapologetic opening track ‘My Life’, which sees BVNK taking control of his life, and ‘Impatient’ about trying to fix a toxic relationship, to the catchy ‘Know Me’ where BVNK is crying out for love and acceptance, and the life-affirming and uplifting ‘Oh U’, to the spiritually grounded ‘Blessings’ about gratitude and the perfect short and sweet track ‘Float II’ to close.
BVNK 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?
It all started in high school. English was my favourite class. After taking the class on synonyms and antonyms, I fell in love with words. Just felt this strong attraction for putting words together. I rhymed on my first beat and never looked down again.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I really admire J. Cole. He’s a non-conformist and fully expresses himself with his music. I love Ella Mai’s vocal range, Drake for always switching things up. He understands emotional psychology and fuses into music to stimulate people every time. I'd love to work with all these people.
3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the Corona virus pandemic?
The pandemic was very instrumental for creating some of my best works. When people see a problem, I see a time of solace to really dig deep and tell important stories. I got to understand myself even better. I got to experience people for who they really are. We were all stripped of our privileges. It was really a creative moment for me. Thankfully I had access to the studio and that kept me grounded and sane during the tough time.
4. How would you describe your sound?
My sound is art, a true reflection of my thoughts. I call it art because sometimes it feels like scribbles and other times it takes other forms. My sound is very unpredictable. I can’t even put a box or words to it. It’s always a fusion of many elements.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
2020 – It was a real moment to understand self. I’ve been able to close a lot of resolutions about internal conflicts. It was a revelation.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Music is a real mad game. Do it because you love it. Focus on making an impact. Find a real reason why you do it. My 'why' is telling truly compelling and real stories. Enjoy the process and other blessings will most likely follow suit.
7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?
I listen to myself too much but lately I’m feeling Amarae from the continent, her sound is super spiritual, Blxst, and I can't leave out the African Giant – Burna boy, Tyler the creator is so underrated but his music knows no bound, add some Sza and Summer Walker and the playlist is set.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Billie Eilish 'when we all fall asleep, where do we go?', J Cole 'The Off Season', Blxst 'No Love Lost', Burna Boy 'African Giant' and Wizkid 'Made in Lagos'.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
When I’m not making music, I love travelling and taking in life experiences. I slowed down a bit but I’m about to resume the travel life again.
10. Name three things that you can't live without when in the studio?
Water - very important to re-hydrate, Mint - somehow mint is more soothing in that moment, and a positive energy to be in tune with the moment in order to create the right vibe and my phone.