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Exclusive Interview with Danny Hughes (DCPA)

Please describe to our audience how you came about on the music scene and what is the biggest difference between your first piece of music to your latest! 

I was a musician growing up, and I played a few instruments (piano, guitar, trumpet). In high school I took a music production class and fell in love with the software, electronic production methods, song writing and scripting melodies. Although my passion for music took a back seat in college, I always contemplated what role it would play again in my life once I got settled as an accountant in Dallas TX in 2011. From my high school days through 2015 I watched the electronic music scene grow exponentially in the USA. I was always very much into European dance music early on. Eventually I realized that my favorite style of music and the showcase aspect of DJing went hand in hand and it all made sense. I wasn’t meant to remain a classical musician or play guitar in a band, I’m the type to go mad scientist in the studio and mesh all these different sounds together in a unique way, then bring it to a live audience while also sharing great music from other inspiring artists.

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Initially, I was producing progressive house and trance instrumentals. I wasn’t too focused on the commercial aspect and had no idea where to find a vocalist or how that process worked. I outsourced some of the production work to a Netherlands based studio and eventually found a roster of vocalists via that outlet. I learned more about songwriting and producing music around existing vocals, enjoying the collaborative aspect. Over time since my first release in 2016 I’ve gotten a lot more flexible as to my style and making it commercial while keeping its integrity. I can thank the EDM stars who preceded me for acclimating society to electro-pop fusion. Lately I’m incorporating pop, electro-house, nu disco, and punk into my 2023 release plan! I’m aiming for the music to be edgy, catchy, and danceable.

What are you doing to push a positive message as the year comes to an end and there is a new beginning coming up with this new year?

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I’m always looking to leave the listener feeling understood and empowered with my music. I want them to relate to it and be part of my ‘soul tribe’. It’s important as an artist to have a positive mission statement. We can be highly influential to people we’ll never meet, and in ways we don’t always see. Apart from the music I share, I only put out content with an insightful message, share my life experiences with a tempered mind, or post something funny/wholesome. Viral negativity is a real scourge these days.

Are there any rituals you have developed over the years that are helpful for any upcoming changes happening? 

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I try to add creative value every day whether it’s many hours on one upcoming song or jumping around to many different ones. I keep a normal sleep schedule and get outside regularly; I stay active and eat well to keep a sharp mind and body. Live gigs are big physical and mental battles and aren’t always routine in nature. So being up to date on the latest music while staying organized with older libraries is important in being ready for anything. I check my gear regularly too, the last thing you want is to show up and your stuff doesn’t work as expected.

Could you talk about a success that happened this year that you would attribute to all your hard work?

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I’ve been focused on growing my fanbase and traction on streaming platforms. It’s important that those can grow organically and generate ‘true fans’, not just play counts. Based on the relevant data, my Spotify grew 56% and is getting a lot more of that algorithmic traction, so I’m happy my efforts are paying off. Also, I reached the top 5% in Spotify artist rankings this past Fall for several months, and that was a shock! It really gave me perspective on how far I’ve come. Lastly I charted on iTunes House: Poland for ‘Iconic Love’ and iTunes House: United States for ‘Filmatic – Carefully Together (DCPA Remix)’.

Could you talk about an obstacle that you persevered through?

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Times of loneliness are inherent to a music career, usually those are counterbalanced with moments of abundant attention from others. Personally, when going toward my music career, I accepted a reduction of income and really challenged my physical self. It’s a different world than my prior desk job but endlessly fulfilling in so many ways! In addition I’ve used music as a way to revisit past experiences and reconcile/transmute leftover and confusing energies. My latest track ‘I Feel It Too‘ is a perfect example of this.

How do you think these experiences have helped you shape your career and approach your music? 

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It’s brought back a grittiness to my life; and though I value the time I spent in a corporate environment, I currently appreciate these new opportunities to fly by night and get out in front of new audiences, sharing my passion for music and a side of myself that was mostly hidden for many years. For a long time I was more reserved with my emotional energy but I’ve realized the value of honest and intense expression in life, spreading light through art and intend to fully embody this in my personal relationships as well.

How do you continue to develop your community of fans over the years? 

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Being present and available is important. I see fans as being collaborators on a bigger project. To make that collaboration work, I know I need to show up in conversation and in my actions. By responding to others in a genuine way and appreciating everyone’s time and input, you start to feel a larger community forming around you and feel more significant and motivated in your role as an artist.

Thank you for sharing all your music with us! Can you give us any exclusive on more music coming up?

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My next song is called ‘Broken Heart’. The chorus line for this electro-pop-punk track is “Someone tell me how to let it go…I don’t wanna feel this anymore.” Look for this track to drop in February or March 2023!

Socials for everything happening NEXT!

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⇒        Amazon

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⇒        Apple Music

⇒        Audius

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⇒        Beatport

⇒        Deezer

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⇒        Facebook

⇒        FENIX360-iOS/Android App

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⇒        Instagram

⇒        Pandora

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⇒        Soundcloud

⇒        Songkick

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⇒        Spotify

⇒        Tidal

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⇒        TikTok

⇒        Twitter

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⇒        YouTube

⇒        Website

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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…

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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.

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“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.

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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.

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“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?

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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?

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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?

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.  

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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

Quentin Tarantino

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

 

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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.

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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.

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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!

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