PREMIERE: COLL - Blue Magic 3 (Mixtape) + 10 Questions
Photo Credit: Bartosz Halicki
This year has been a huge one for Norwich based rapper, producer and songwriter COLL. Stemming from his first 2021 release ‘L8 Nights’, an anthem designed for the determined, he swiftly followed this with the fun, quirky and equally as catchy second single ‘Who’s That’. Showcasing his ever growing versatility as an artist, this new twist created an even deeper connection with his incredibly supportive fans.
Now, as if planned to perfection, the moment we have all been waiting for as COLL unveil his eagerly anticipated third and final mixtape of the series ‘Blue Magic 3’. A fully formed, carefully cultivated project, this new mixtape contains 10 tracks and is overflowing with exciting and innovative collaborations. A mix of singles and interludes, COLL takes us back to the classic days of ‘the mixtape’ without skimping on any of that juicy quality. A project that effortlessly flows from one tune to the other, yet still treats listeners to a whole new flavour with each passing song. As if writing for the seasons and for your feelings, COLL’s lyrical flair and production technique shines through, providing a soundtrack for your ‘Coldest Winter’ and those warm summer days, from self-reflection to self-motivation, he documents the many experiences he has faced and the lessons learned. Joining him on this final stretch and send off are a collection of the finest Rap artists from near and far, with Sleep's Cousin hopping on the aforementioned ‘Coldest Winter’, Big Jeezy on ‘Wave’ and JR & Megamind on ‘Oh MY’.
COLL 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 at school when I heard 50 Cent's album get rich or die trying and then a bit of Biggie Smalls album Ready to die. When I heard these two I immediately fell in love with everything about Hip-hop.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I like Kanye West, Jay-Z, Wretch 32 they definitely influenced my earlier work. I would Like to work with Alicia Keys and Mike Dean, he is such a prolific producer in the scene and has done so much.
3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the corona virus pandemic?
Live shows. That has been the biggest problem for me personally. Not having that face to face interaction with people and not being able to get on the stage and perform new music.
4. How would you describe your sound?
Eclectic, energetic & motivational.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
There's been a few but I think signing 3 songs with a publisher last year was the proudest moment for me as this was always a goal for me and it was just nice to see it happen and for the hard work to payoff.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
My advice for this mad game is stay true to your art and why you want to make music at all times because you want to look back and have integrity at the end of the journey. Also make some interesting music, dont follow others too much.
7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?
Yes there's a few but I would say Sleeps Cousin who is featured on this mixtape as he is doing some great things right now. A singer called Clara Moschetta, real great voice and also EV a rapper from Bury St Edmunds who has good energy about him.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Nipsey Hustle - Victory Lap
Wale - The Gifted
Morray - Streets sermons
Good motivational albums.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
I spend a lot of time with my family and kids as the are my backbone. I like comedy so when I can I watch a lot of comedy or go to comedy shows.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
Energy drink, Native instruments and a pack of Haribo’s, or anything sweet I can grab.