Charlie J has released his debut EP 'Middle Times', following a spate of well received singles released in 2020/21. The Australian-born, Bridgend-based artist who is known for his sunshine tinged hip hop delivers a 6-track EP with features from fellow emerging Welsh artists The Honest Poet, E11ICE and Mistry. Check out his EP here.
We had the chance to ask Charlie J some questions. Here's how it went:
Where was the audio recorded for the EP?
I have a small studio setup in my room where I record most of my vocals. I've always been prolific when it comes to creating music, so I enjoy having a setup near to me which allows me to record song ideas at any time. This was where the EP was recorded. I also have a little 2-part documentary that shows my setup and how the project was created, available to watch on my YouTube channel.
Who produced the audio for the EP?
For the most part, me. I'd say at least 90% of the music I release is produced by me, and this project is no exception to this. On a couple of tracks I had help from my friend and fellow musician Katy Mumford, where she added in some basslines and guitar and the project was mixed and mastered by Breijen but aside from that everything from the beats to the transitions and arrangements were done by me.
How long have you been making music?
I've been rapping for 6 years and producing for 5. I'd say it was about a couple years ago when I really started to take things seriously.
What first got you into music?
Probably the boxing club I used to go to when I was younger. I was going through a tough time at school and my mum suggested I joined a boxing club to improve my confidence. In this club they played old 2Pac, Eminem and 50 cent songs and shortly after that I fell in love with hip hop.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Sunshine tinged hip hop. When I was younger, my music was more experimental, but I believe I've found my sound with groovy, smooth hip hop and neo soul beats, the type of music you could chuck on in your car during a summer's drive. I'd also say that my music is very honest and personal to me.
How long does it usually take you to write your songs?
From starting a beat, to finishing recording vocals I'd say about 2-4 hours. It really depends on how inspired I am to make the song at the time, but generally speaking I try to finish everything (except maybe the mixing and mastering) the same day that I start a song.
Who are your most favourite artists of all time?
This is difficult for me because I enjoy so many different artists. D'angelo has got to be up there. So have Outkast, Frank Ocean and Kendrick Lamar. As for the UK, definitely Loyle Carner - he's still one of the biggest influences on my music to this day.
What would be your dream collaboration?
Another tricky one... right now I'd say Madlib. Pinata with Freddie Gibbs is one of my all-time favourite albums and Madvillainy is also a classic. I feel with Madlib's production I'd be able to create an amazing project.
What music are your listening to lately?
My brother got me Voodoo by D'angelo on CD for my birthday so I've had that on repeat in my car recently. I've also been listening to Lemfreck's new single "Falling" as well, he's definitely one of my favourite artists here in South Wales.
Where would you like to visit?
New Zealand. Although I was born in Australia (only a few hours’ flight away from New Zealand) and have family in New Zealand, I've never actually visited. Through the power of the internet I've also made some cool connections over there with some upcoming artists so it would be nice to meet them too.
What would you like remembered about you?
I'd like to be remembered as someone who had a positive impact on the life of others.
What is your biggest/weirdest fear?
Having a kid right now. The world becomes bigger than just you then and I'm really not in the position for that right now - I've only just turned 21 and in some ways still feel like a kid myself.
What pet would you love to have?
Probably a frog, we used to have green tree frogs in Australia and they were pretty cool.
What’s next for you in 2021?
I have a remix and music video for "Solo" coming next month, as well as a 3-part poetry project that was produced by ZUUBEK. I'm also starting a podcast (no name for it yet), where I aim to interview local artists about their creative processes and experiences with the music scene. I still plan to release a new single each month as well, and would love to do a follow up to this EP before the end of the year.
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