Matt R talks about his music career

Mor Music Group volunteer blogger Laura a.k.a Miss Vengeance recently conducted an interview with 24 year old solo artist Matt Richards, otherwise known by his stage name Matt R.

What made you want to work in the music industry?

Basically my main interest has been music. My dad used to play music, and it basically went from there. So it was was my dad who got me into it.

What is the genre of music that you play?

Its mainly Pop, R n b, and I also do acoustic songs. These are my three main areas of music.

What has been the highlight/memorable moment for you so far?

I’d say it has to be writing a song called 'Superhero'. I wrote it in half an hour, and recorded it on the same day. The next day it went out on BBC Radio 1xtra.

When did you realise this is what you wanted to do as a career?

Its always been something I wanted to do. I wanted to take a step back from doing Law, and wanted to do Music. From the age of 18, I wanted to make it a profession, but before that I wanted to make it a hobby.

Out of any artist in the world, who would you like to collaborate with?

I’d have to say Usher if I could pick anyone.

Do you have an all-time favorite song? What is it and why?

I’ve never thought about that before, but I'd have to say 'Kiss from a Rose' by Seal. One reason is because I used to watch the Batman films, and I always liked that song. I like it when there is a powerful meaning to a song,  it always stuck, and has been one of my favourites.

If you had the chance to play at a festival, what festival would it be?

Glastonbury

If you had an album out what would you call it, and what inspired you to call it that?

I’ve always wanted to call my album 'My Time' and thats because when I first started music I used to get a lot of criticisms. I always had an ambition. I've done some pretty cool stuff, and they (my  critics) now tend to be on my side. I wanted to make negative criticisms into positive, to make me a better person

Is your family musical?

My dad side is, my dad is the main one, and he taught my cousin how to sing. My cousin is now an artist in London, and has toured with N'Dubz. That’s what I always wanted to do.

How do you handle mistakes when performing?

I just basically carry on - act professional, and carry on. 

You can follow Matt R on Twitter@MatthewROnline

Rebecca interviews up and coming artist Izzy Fortuin

Mor Music Group volunteer blogger Rebecca recently interviewed  Izzy Fortuin.

What is it about singing that attracted you to this career?

I've always loved singing but never saw it as a stable career. However, I believe following your dreams is more important than a steady pay-check, and you should take every opportunity to do so.

What has been the biggest obstacle in your singing so far?

Self-confidence always prevented me from performing. However, after a few years travelling independently, I learnt that I'm stronger than I ever gave myself credit for.

How did you get involved with Mor Music Group?

I heard about the audition through my mum who gave me the confidence to go for it. I'm so glad that I did, as I'm finally doing what I love.

What tips would you give to other artists who hope to get signed?

Never give up, no matter what comes your way. Also don't sacrifice your beliefs for a contract, if you love to sing, it won't matter where you do it.

            

What is it like working with Mor Music Group?

It's brilliant. It's such a friendly work environment, there's no competition between the other artists. Bemi (Mor Music Group Founder) is fantastic, she's really passionate about music, and I know she'll push me to the best of my abilities.

Have you ever tried any other ways of getting into the music industry, would you recommend them to other artists?

I've tried reality TV shows before, but the atmosphere was toxic. They treated you like a product rather than focusing on your talent. Which is why I love Mor Music Group, because it's simply about the music.

You've covered Christina Aguilera on the Mor Music Group YouTube channel, is she an idol of yours?

Definitely, I've always admire her powerful vocal range, and I aspire to get my voice up to her level.

            

Who do you love on the current music scene?

I love Ke$ha, she's crazy, and seems to have fun with her music. I also respect Iggy, because from a young age she followed her dreams, and is an inspiration to other artists.

            

A lot of female singers present a sexy image, would you conform to that?

As I've spent a lot of my career working with young children, I want to show young girls that you don't to have to be sexy.  Your body does not dictate who you are.

            

If you hit One Direction level, what will you do in order to stay grounded?

My family, although supportive, won't hesitate to keep me inline, and stop me from becoming fame-obsessed. However, I'm doing this because I love to sing.  If I had to choose between singing or fame I would chose singing every-time.

            

Are you excited to record your new single?

I'm incredibly excited. I'll finally feel like a professional singer.

You can follow Izzy Fortuin on Twitter@IzzyFortuin

Laura's interview with rapper Rakim Bailey

Mor Music blogger Laura a.k.a Miss Vengeance recently interviewed rapper Rakim Bailey.

How does it feel to finally be doing something you love?

It feels quite good. I feel content, if you get what I mean.

What do you hope to do with your music?

I hope to work with a lot of main stream artists I really like, for example Frank Ocean who I really enjoy listening to.

What do you think your listeners will get out of listening to your music?

A good vibe I hope, like a good feeling, something they can relate to and relax to.

Who are your influences?

If I had to give a name, it would have to be Frank Ocean. The way he writes his music influences me. Also have to add Slick Rick, as I grew up listening to him.

What is it like to be a rapper?

It’s interesting, I quite enjoy it. I’ve always wanted to be a singer and musician. Being a rapper is good as you have a lot of variety, a lot you can do with it, and you can do a lot of styles.

Do you aspire to make it big internationally? Or do you enjoy being a local rapper?

I aspire to be big and local at the same time - so a bit of both.

Where would you most like to perform?

Something like V festival.

If you could dabble in another genre of music what genre would it be?

Like house music, like Sam Smith, I'd like to do that.

Is there any advice to give to young aspiring rappers out there?

Be yourself, and be original in what you do.  The more you try to copy someone, the more you take away from not being you.

Rakim Bailey’s single with Aimee is due out next month (November 2013).

Check out Rakim's Youtube video:

'Ra ft. Arbaaz Cassim-Like you'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=HIBXoGX0Kpc

You can follow Rakim Bailey on Twitter@Rakim_B