Interview

Exclusive Interview with Pop/Rap Artist Denae

Pop/rap singer-songwriter Tayler Denae, better known under her stage name Denae has recently released her latest collection of 5 tracks, the EP My Dark Place. We had a chance to chat with her about her new EP, upcoming projects, and more.

How does it link to your own personal story?

It’s a personal story for sure but most mental health stuff is right… I was actually in a moped accident about 5 years ago that caused some pretty horrible brain stuff, I lost my ability to play music or even talk for that matter.. and it caused some serious mental health stuff as well… It’s been a long road to recovery, but these were really the songs that got me through it. Whenever I’d feel like I didn’t want to be here, I’d just write about it.. turn it into something beautiful, and get excited and focused on the beautiful thing I had just created. Writing has always been my escape but now it’s becoming a way to make sense of everything. I’m hoping these songs can help some others too.

What were the challenges you faced while recording My Dark Place during the pandemic?

Honestly, I was really lacking the energy to pull myself out of depression which is ironic that that’s what the album is about. I’ve always struggled with mental health but the pandemic brought it to a new level. I’m a very DIY musician, we do everything ourselves… all my music videos, photos, writing, recording, mixing, mastering, marketing… you name it lol. The pandemic helped immensely in our productivity after all the songs were written cause we both just kind of put our heads down and finished the thing. And when I say we, I’m talking about my ride-or-die boyfriend Alex, oh and our 21 year old cat Tipsy but she doesn’t really do much.

Please talk us through your creative process when coming up with your new EP, and your vision to merge seemingly far apart genres into your sound?

I’ve always been obsessed with the energy from big EDM drops and the fast-paced lyrics and intricacies of rap and poetry. I grew up writing all genres so combining them to me felt pretty natural.

Would you like to collaborate with other artists? If yes, who would be your top 3?

Hundred percent! I’ve always wanted to write some lyrics with LewisCapaldi so the top three would be him, Noah Kahan, and FINNEAS (along with every other girl on the planet lol)

What’s some of the best advice you’ve got regarding your music? Is there anyone you consider a mentor?

The best advice I’ve ever gotten was to stop overthinking my genre… I struggled for 5 years chasing different genres.. and it wasn’t until my therapist said, I was maybe thinking of it too black and white, to just let it be what it’s going to be. The minute I did, the songs started essentially writing themselves. The EP is all about bringing a bit more realism to mental health and it’s funny that the biggest mentor on the EP has been my therapist.

What’s next for Denae?

I’m releasing a Stripped version of the EP at the end of June. I re-imagined all of these songs to be more folk-based acoustic songs.. sort of defying the genres even more – they are almost completely different sounds yet share the same story. After the ‘Stripped’ album comes out, I’ll be planning a West Coast mini-tour to play them all out live and meet some new faces!

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Artist Spotlight

A Conversation with Singer Songwriter Eddy Mann

Eddy Mann is a smile for the soul. He’s a combination of cultural and spiritual traditions living in an ever evolving neighborhood. He’s ever comfortable in his hometown Philly roots that speak of peace, and brotherly love. An award winning and prolific singer-songwriter, he’s moved gracefully through a catalog of twenty diverse albums. His hit single, “The Consequence” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit.

His latest album, “Chapel Songs” featured the #1 UK ITunes hits, “Hallelujah” and “Hope of the World.” His new album is out on June 7th, with the first single being released today. Eddy took some time to answer some questions about his music, his career, and of course, his faith…

HM: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your single “The Humble Cottage by the Sea”? What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from it?

Eddy Mann: The inspiration came from a gospel story that presents a theme of healing and hope. In a world that’s broken and hurting, one can only pray that a message of peace and unity might be found within the spirit of the song.

“Turn Up the Divine” is your latest album set to release soon. How does this album differ from your previous work, both musically and thematically?

EM: The album is a collection of divine stories and prayer moments that have been put to song over the past year. They’re really just a reflection of my daily experiences. The musical influences are a little more diverse than usual, but that’s just what the songs were calling for.

Your music is known for blending cultural and spiritual influences. How do you navigate incorporating these elements into your songwriting process?

EM: I don’t consciously bring influences into a song, but what I’ve been exposed to naturally becomes a part of my fabric, and then it’s re-processed into my own creativity. I’ve had a very diverse upbringing and it probably shows throughout my catalog.

“The Consequence” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit. Could you share the story behind that song and its impact on your career?

EM: The Consequence was released in November of 2016 on election day. I wanted to make a statement about the apathy I was witnessing. Our system only works if everyone participates. Anything less than that doesn’t reflect honestly about who we are, and how we feel. It was my hope that I might bring a few more folks into the fray and that would help in the cause.

Both “Hope of the World” and “Hallelujah” from your album “Chapel Songs” topped the UK iTunes Christian chart. What do you think contributed to their success, and how do you plan to build on that with your new album?

EM: Both of those songs took a very simplified approach musically and lyrically. I was looking for an easily remembered melody with an easily remembered lyric, and both songs seem to reflect that it was successful on some level. I’m pleased that they’ve done as well as they have.

Your career spans over 20 albums. How do you keep your music fresh and relevant while staying true to your artistic vision?

EM: I’m a student by nature, I love learning new things and I think that helps to naturally put me in new situations where I can be surrounded with challenging thoughts and different soundscapes.

You mentioned that God often appears in humble settings, such as the cottage by the sea. How does this concept influence your approach to music and ministry?

EM: As a man of faith, I never wander anywhere on my own. What I mean is that my faith is always traveling along with me, usually leading the way, and yes, sometimes correcting my faulty navigation. It doesn’t matter where I might be, or what may be going on around me, my God is not influenced by the trappings of this world.

What can fans expect from “Turn Up the Divine” in terms of sound and lyrical content?

EM: Everything was written, performed, and produced in house, under the Spirit’s watchful eye, and with the blessing of the One. So the success of the project will be measured in it reaching each and everyone that God intends.

With the changing landscape of the music industry, how do you see Christian music evolving, and how do you position yourself within that evolution?

EM: I’ve reached an understanding that I just need to be an honest reflection of myself. I don’t feel restricted or restrained by what the business tells me I should be doing, about the how the mix should sound, or about what messages are deemed appropriate. What God wants is for me to speak, write, and record what the Spirit puts on my heart, and then he’ll use it to fulfill His purpose.

What are your hopes and aspirations for your music career moving forward, especially with the release of your new album?

EM: I have no expectations anymore. I’ve been blessed to have produce an abundantly humble catalog. So I’ll just continue to follow the Spirit wherever it leads and be grateful.

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Interview

Tarantino’s Cinematic Empire, Unveiling the $120 Million Maestro of Hollywood in 2024

Tarantino’s Cinematic Empire, Unveiling the $120 Million Maestro of Hollywood in 2024

Renowned for his bold narratives and unique storytelling, Quentin Tarantino has become a cinematic legend, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. As we step into 2024, the maestro’s net worth is a staggering $120 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Join us on a thrilling journey through Tarantino’s career, from his humble beginnings to the zenith of success, uncovering the milestones that have paved the way for his substantial wealth.

Tarantino’s love affair with cinema began in Los Angeles, where he nurtured his passion for storytelling while working at a video rental store. This early exposure laid the groundwork for his distinctive cinematic style, blending pop culture, dialogue-driven narratives, and a penchant for non-linear storytelling.

The turning point arrived with his debut film, “Reservoir Dogs” (1992). Despite controversies surrounding its violence, the crime thriller catapulted Tarantino into the spotlight, establishing him as a visionary director in Hollywood.

Post-“Reservoir Dogs,” Tarantino continued to make waves with critically acclaimed and commercially successful films like “Pulp Fiction” (1994), “Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2” (2003-2004), “Inglourious Basterds” (2009), and “Django Unchained” (2012). Each release not only garnered critical acclaim but also contributed significantly to Tarantino’s ever-growing net worth.

Venturing beyond filmmaking, Tarantino explored novels based on his films, directed theater adaptations, and made a mark in television by directing episodes of hit series like CSI and ER. Collaborations with major brands and merchandise associated with his films further boosted his income, creating a consistent stream of revenue.

Quentin Tarantino’s net worth is a testament to his enduring impact on the film industry. From humble beginnings fueled by a passion for cinema to groundbreaking directorial work, Tarantino has carved out a niche uniquely his own. As we witness the maestro’s influence in various mediums, one thing is certain – Quentin Tarantino’s legacy is not just in Hollywood history but also reflected in his substantial net worth. Join us in celebrating the $120 million maestro who continues to redefine cinematic brilliance!