PREMIERE: Billy Scott - Black Dog (Official Video) + 10 Questions
The most impactful artists are often those with a compelling story to tell; and emerging rapper Billy Scott is no exception to this rule. His signature brand of “been there, done that” undeniably has mass appeal, but his technical ability and passion for sound is what really seals the deal.
With Billy's debut single "Flowers" capturing the attention of rap fans and industry tastemakers across the UK and beyond, we are now pleased to bring you his follow up release "Black Dog"- a track exploring the importance of discussing mental health, timed to release during the 2023 "Mental Health Awareness Week".
Billy Scott 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?
My passion for music has always been present. My parents were quite alternative, a little older and more free-spirited than others. To give you an idea, my dad was trippin’ during Led Zeppelin concerts in the 1970s, and my mum was constantly dancing, playing music, or singing. As a result, I inherited their passion for music. I had four elder siblings as well, and our house was constantly busy with sounds. Also, I was a child during the "Golden Age'' of Hip Hop, and as a result have great memories of taping music videos from the TV onto VHS from artists such as Dr. Dre and Skee-Lo.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
My musical influences are drawn from a wide range of genres. From Eminem, Nas and classic British rap to John Lee Hooker, The Clash, Bob Marley, and Linton Kwesi-Johnson, among many more. A combination of these sounds would have had some influence on what I do now. But I'm no longer influenced by artists in that way, or at least I try not to be. Of course, artists who respect their craft and create wonderful pieces of art will always inspire me. But, as cliché as it may seem, I believe that nowadays, I draw inspiration from life itself, the obstacles I've faced, and the troubles that people around me are dealing with.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
My second single “Black Dog” is now available on all streaming platforms, alongside an official animated music video on my YouTube channel. We have a range of new music in the works that will showcase my versatility and deliver exceptional listening experiences for my audience. I highly recommend that you follow and subscribe to stay up to date! In addition, I am also working on a poetry collection and an independent film. Soon to be released!
4. How would you describe your sound?
My music is a sonically and lyrically nuanced articulation of chaos and lived experience.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
I've got two...
The first would be showing one of my songs to my mum for the first time and witnessing her reaction. She cried because she was so proud and overwhelmed by it. That was a moment.
The second would be performing in a packed prison chapel for Black History Month. I felt honoured to perform a track for the guys in there on such an occasion and the reception the song received will stay with me forever. It went off, the reaction was so mad that they had to wheel it up. The energy that day was indescribable. A wheel up in a prison chapel?! That was a proper Johnny Cash moment!
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Free yourself from the expectations and limitations of others, have faith in yourself and go for it.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
So, one of the artists on my radar right now is LMcD – a young and hungry hip hop producer from North London who pretty much eats, sleeps and breathes boom bap beats. He had a hand in the production of my new track ‘Black Dog’ and has a bright future ahead of him. Also, the guys at Clock Tower Audio based on the South Coast - the variety of quality production they bring is crazy.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Other than my go to playlists, the album that has to be on rotation is ‘Heads or Tails’ by Gullistar. An absolute hidden gem that beautifully fuses afro-beat and hip hop.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
I like growing things. I also love cooking and experimenting with different spices.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
A notepad, a bottle of water and a wild amount of energy.