Interview
Professional Basketball Player, Eugene Campbell III Has Proven His Worth Today By Playing His Way Up to Higher Leagues
Eugene Campbell III is a professional basketball player from Jersey City, New Jersey living in an environment where violence, drugs, and crime were the norm. Growing up, his family was not the wealthiest, but they managed to provide him with the best life filled with enjoyment and valuable life lessons. His passion for basketball is rooted in his relationship with his father and older sister. We had the opportunity to interview this incredible player on how he became a true dream chaser and how he has managed to overcome so many challenges and become who he is today.
Hello Eugene, welcome to Honk Magazine. Can you tell us a story about what brought you to this specific career path?
Eugene Campbell III – “Before I took basketball seriously, I was into baseball in the eighth grade and was pretty good at it. Unfortunately, one of my teachers did not like the idea that I was playing on the baseball team and told my parents that I was failing her class and wouldn’t be able to play baseball. Come to find out, I was never-failing my class and was kicked off the team anyways, even though I wasn’t ever failing. This teacher never wanted me to play baseball and lied to my parents as I was never failing the class. When the Baseball incident happened, I stopped playing sports up until the end of middle school. It was hard for me to play any sport, knowing that I would always be cut just because of who I was. Once I went to high school, though, I started to get back into sports and focused more on basketball instead of baseball. I felt that I was one of the better players in my freshman year, but because my school was again not fond of me, I was cut from the team. I used this to motivate and fuel me to have the career I have today.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started this career?
Eugene Campbell III – The most Interesting thing that happened at the start of my career was my teammate and I being placed in a city in Moldova where we were the only people who spoke English. We had to use sign language and pronouns just to communicate with people. It was also interesting that we were the only Americans in the whole city. At times we were often starred at walking to the stores and asked for photos with people. It was very interesting and it is something I won’t forget.
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Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
Eugene Campbell III – The funniest mistake I made at the start of my career was bringing expensive white Jordana with me to Moldova during my rookie year. It was a funny mistake because when I got back to the United States my sneakers were brown. I learned my lesson and that movement on I either brought cheaper sneakers or darker colored sneakers.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?
Eugene Campbell III – I am working on some new designs for my clothing brand coming out this spring. I am going to be modeling a couple of brands that I am a brand ambassador for and I’m working on getting news coverage from News 12 New Jersey to come my community service events coming up.
Who are some of the most interesting people you have interacted with? What was that like? Do you have any stories?
Eugene Campbell III – The most interesting people I interacted with are people from Armenia. They had upbeat energy that was unmatched and very memorable. The best story is on my birthday when I went to the mall and I told the people at the burger place I always got to that it was my birthday and they gave me free food and played the birthday song in English and danced with me. It was very kind and sweet and it was a memory I will never forget.
Which tips would you recommend to your colleagues in your industry to help them to thrive and not “burn out”?
Eugene Campbell III – I would recommend them to take care of their bodies. The best ability is availability which is what my college coach uses to always tell me. If you are available to play you have a better chance of longevity in your career than someone who isn’t available.
You have been blessed with success in a career path that can be challenging. Do you have any words of advice for others who may want to embark on this career path, but seem daunted by the prospect of failure?
Eugene Campbell III – My advice is for the people out there seeking professional basketball careers is to stay locked in and make sure you give everything 120%. The bigger the dream is the early your going to have to wake up and then later you are going to have to stay up.
Can you share with our readers any self-care routines, practices, or treatments that you do to help your body, mind, or heart to thrive? Kindly share a story or an example for each.
Eugene Campbell III – The best self-care treatment for me is listening to Eric Thomas who in my opinion is the greatest motivational speaker in the world. Whenever I’m not feeling the most motivated I always listen to him and I am instantly motivated and ready to take a goal at hand.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why? Please share a story or example for each.
Eugene Campbell III – I wish someone would have told me that euros are worth more than the U.S dollar that way I would have known in advance that I would be losing money exchanging USD. I wish I would have known in advance that in my rookie year in Moldova that the city I was in didn’t have an ATM that way I would have just brought a lot of money to exchange. I wish someone told me that Armenia was a racist country so I would have been more prepared for it instead of dealing with the culture shock as soon as I entered the country. I wish someone told me that a full overseas season lasted 7to 8 months that way I would have packed more clothes and sneakers. I wish someone told me that bringing a laptop is very important being overseas. It would be 10x easier to get work done if I had my laptop with me.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
Eugene Campbell III – “Trying suggests the option of failure and failure is not an option” This quote is very relevant in my life because it comes from a very special brother of mine Shawn Hawkins who was my educator in my intake process of being a proud brother of psi sigma phi multicultural fraternity incorporated. It made me eliminate the word trying out of my vocabulary and now I just say it’s going to get done it has made me more confident and determined in getting things done.
None of us can achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
Eugene Campbell III – I have to give a big thanks to a great family friend of mine Kenneth Faried (NBA player). Kenneth is someone I grew up with and my father and his father are best friends. He was able to make it to the NBA have a great career and I was blessed to be able to receive some meaningful advice from him. Kenneth called me in the spring of 2019 when I told him that I officially wanted to be a professional basketball player. He sat on the phone with me for over 30 minutes giving me the blueprint and the tools I needed to become a pro I listened to every word he said followed the blueprint and became a pro two years later. I still talk to him to this day and I always thank him for giving me the advice and motivation I needed to get my career started.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
Eugene Campbell III – I want to build my recreational center for children and adults of all ages who like sports. They don’t have enough of these in New Jersey that cover all sports so I want to be the first. People don’t understand that sports not only build lifetime friendships but also keep people active and lower the obesity rate around the world. I will not only change the community but I will change the world.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might see this. 🙂
Eugene Campbell III – I would most definitely love to have breakfast with my favorite basketball player of all time Paul Pierce. He is the reason I love basketball the reason I am a die-hard Celtics fan and was my biggest motivation to keep playing. I imitated everything Paul Pierce did from the headband to the wristband to even the trash talking. He is my role model and I would love to sit with him and just talk basketball.
How can our readers follow you online?
Eugene Campbell III – You can follow me on Instagram – @iamgenecampbell
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San Sebastian shares his creative inspiration and aspiration for the new single “Again and Again” – [Exclusive Interview]
Swedish artist San Sebastian has released his second single, “Again and Again.” Known for his danceable pop sound infused with a nod to club music, San Sebastian presents a sonic vibe that resonates deeply with his audience. Drawing inspiration from notable artists like Tove Lo, Kylie Minogue, and Troye Sivan, he creates a distinctive blend of vulnerability and optimism. His latest single exemplifies a personal journey, exploring the intricacies of navigating complex emotions within a fractured relationship. Here, San Sebastian takes us behind the scenes, providing insights into the creation of “Again and Again,” detailing the production choices that shape its emotional core and outlining his future aspirations.
Questionnaire
1. Who are the band members, if any, and were there any particular artists, genres, or band’s main influences?
San Sebastian: I’m a solo artist, though I often perform with professional dancers Alicia Gjerulf and Elsa Davidsson. My musical inspiration is drawn from renowned artists such as Tove Lo, Kylie Minogue, and Troye Sivan.
2. Where was the single recorded, and who was involved in its production? Name the record label, producer, and sound engineer who mixed and mastered the song.
San Sebastian: “Again and Again” was originally written by the well-known Swedish artist Darin Zanyar and songwriters Pär Westerlund along with Petter Tarland. I worked on re-creating the track with senior producer Johan Kronlund, who also produced my debut single, “Hear Me Out.” Both singles were released under the auspices of my record label, Metronica.
3. Regarding production, what aspects of “Again and Again” caught your attention? What were some of the critical production decisions that shaped the final sound, and how did they contribute to the overall sonic quality of the track?
San Sebastian: I collaborated with the producer, Johan Kronlund, for nearly 2 years, so we have developed a good understanding and shared vision for the desired sound we aim for in my music. The goal was to turn my flaws into something optimistic, capturing a sense of future possibility by blending a melancholy message with an upbeat, danceable rhythm.
4. What inspired you to write “Again and Again”? Was there a particular ethos, music style, or events that sparked the songwriting process for this single? Were there any collaborations on writing the lyrics?
San Sebastian: The song “Again and Again” was initially composed by the famous Swedish artist Darin Zanyar and his co-writers. I immediately liked the idea of the song’s core concept; its melodies and lyrics spoke to me. The producer and I reimagined the sound to make the song reflect entirely my unique artistic identity.
5. How did you aim to take listeners on an emotional journey with the message or lyrical narrative you are trying to convey through this song? What feelings do you hope to evoke through the music so far?
San Sebastian: I want my lyrics to be honest and resonate with many people’s feelings. I try to transform my flaws into something optimistic, showing that everything has a future. I hope that people, by listening to “Again and Again,” will find pieces of their own experiences within the song’s lyrics while still perceiving this growing hope through the positive upbeat and alongside the danceable energy inherent in the production.
6. Please briefly describe the song, the E.P./Album, and the thinking behind the Project. What does “Again and Again” mean to you personally? How does it reflect your growth as an artist?
San Sebastian: The song tells the story of a broken relationship, where one person is left behind, feeling shattered and powerless. Unable and unwilling to let go, they cling to the memories of a love that once felt real and the hope that they might reunite. Despite knowing they will get hurt again, the chance to feel happiness, even briefly, makes the pain seem worthwhile. By combining vulnerable lyrics, expressive melodies, and a more positive and hopeful production, the song illustrates those who put on a positive front and hide the absolute truth.
“Again and Again” represents my second single in collaboration with Metronica. I describe my musical style as danceable pop inspired by club music. Both my debut single, “Hear Me Out,” and my recent release, “Again and Again,” follow this musical direction. My active involvement in a DJ duo also keeps my heart closely connected to the club vibe, which naturally influences my music.
7. Do you have any favorable quotes from previous reviews or specific aspects, lines, and phrases of the song that you would happily share?
San Sebastian: My previous song and debut single, “Hear Me Out,” was recognized across various blogs internationally. The fact that it was so well received is heartwarming and makes me very happy. However, if I have to highlight one thing, it would be all the positive comments regarding my vocal abilities, specifically its range and how I deliver the songs.
8. Did “Again and Again” create any standout moments or surprises that made it a memorable atmosphere or mood for you? If so, what were your biggest challenges, and how would you describe them?
San Sebastian: A memorable highlight was our spontaneous release party, which drew almost 500 attendees. It was an incredibly heartwarming experience to see how all these people adjusted their schedules and re-booked engagements, altered travel plans, and other meetings to join. I will be eternally grateful for this display of support and gift of love.
9. How do you envision performing this song live? Are there any special events, musical tours, and performances that San Sebastian’s fans should expect soon or plan to incorporate?
San Sebastian: I have actually had the opportunity to perform “Again and Again” live on stage several times with two of my professional dancers, Alicia Gjerulf and Elsa Davidsson. I hope to present “Again and Again” on more stages in the future, incorporating additional live band support from professional musicians and dancers to create an immersive experience for audiences.
10. Is there a music video planned for this single? If so, can you share any insights into its concept? How does this single fit into your future musical plans? Is it part of a larger project, like an album or an E.P.?
San Sebastian: I’m not planning to create a full music video for “Again and Again.” However, I have already created teaser videos, which I use in the release marketing and the ongoing song promotion. I have no concrete plans to release an EP that includes “Again and Again.” Instead, I am focusing on my next single, which I plan to release in early 2025.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM San Sebastian’s “Again and Again“ on Spotify.
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Indie
Interview with Free Mace
Free Mace’s new album “Better off Bitter” is releasing 7/19/24. This new album was independently produced, engineered and funded from a home studio location in Jacksonville, FL. All processes were done by Mason Thomas Staub over 3 years time. Mason sat down to answer some questions in this one-one-one interview…
Mason, your new album “Better off Bitter” is set to release on July 19th, 2024. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this album and what themes, tones, and stories the listeners can expect?
The main inspiration behind this album is the evolution of artistry and production. Free Mace’s previous album, “Media,” was the transition into more Rock and Indie music. “Media” is a genre fusion set in a dystopian, technocratic, and bleak world, inspired by the global pandemic. As soon as “Media” released, I began drafting the early instrumentals to songs (such as Reality). Every album or EP has been a concept and “Better off Bitter” is no different. The main concept of “Better off Bitter” is being better off bitter. Over the 4 years of living in Jacksonville, FL and not being originally from there, I was the new guy in town. Because of this as well as the advantageous disposition of others involved in or surrounding the industry, I’ve faced ageism and superiority, judgment and prejudice, as well as seclusion and loneliness. Add an incredibly toxic relationship that consumed all my mental capacity for a bit (refer to the song Good Time Girl), and you get the varying emotions and experiences of “Better off Bitter.”
“Better off Bitter” describes the tone and tempo of the album, as well as mood of the songs. The goal of this album was to experiment and set a new standard against mainstream concepts, while not being so far removed from them that the music is unrecognizable. I have been describing “Better off Bitter” to people as a “Jazz Orchestra in a Pop-Punk band format.” I’m aware that this is a big claim to make, however, I’m confident that the unique sound that has been created is new and nostalgic at the same time.
You independently produced, engineered, and funded this album from your home studio in Jacksonville, FL, over three years. What were some of the biggest challenges and rewards of handling every aspect of the production process yourself?
Some of the biggest challenges were motivation, isolation, and insecurity. When doing everything yourself it requires an incredible amount of discipline and vision. There were countless times I found myself vacationing in the doldrums for extended periods with minimal creative output. The beginning of an album always begins as a peak that declines over a period until release. It’s simple and stressless to explore, create and form new ideas, expressions, and feelings. After this honeymoon-like period, then the reality hits of how much goes into the processes of production. The starting production is always hopeful and motivating, so it’s easy to dedicate double-digit hours in a studio. When you start getting to the nitty-gritty, like listening to the same 10-seconds of audio on loop thousands of times, that’s when things aren’t done as jubilantly. That would bring me back to a creative null for a bit, until I felt confident to approach things again with a fresh perspective. The isolation came out of my own doing when I chose solitude to separate myself from distractions, toxic attitudes, limiting perceptions, and peer approval. I prioritized myself and focused on what was important; the completion of “Better off Bitter.” I became more mindful in the process in regards to how I would spend my time in the doldrums. I had a new motivation that allowed me to be more realistic about what songs would make the album (originally 15 instead of 10), what the context and sound would definitively be, and when a deadline would be. After finally completing it, that’s where the insecurity set in when it comes to the acceptance of the album, “Better off Bitter.” 3 years of work is a lot of time to think about how things will be, but I’ll just have to wait and see.
\Which track on the album holds the most personal significance for you, and why? Can you give us some insight into the creative process and meaning behind that particular song?
I would say that the last track on the album, “The Heretic,” has the most significance to me because it’s the finale. This is the last song someone will hear and the last chapter to the story conveyed in “Better off Bitter.” The idea of “The Heretic” comes from the snake-oil sales in the name of religion. The concept that an individual with certainty can sell others with a promise rather than those individuals being at terms with uncertainty. I wanted to provide an image of an interaction between a salesperson and a potential customer. Eventually getting discovered for their fraudulence, the salesperson is forced to lead a vagabond life until the discovery of reinvention.
Over the course of three years, your musical style and influences might have evolved. How do you feel your sound has changed or matured from your previous work to this new album?
The previous Free Mace album, “Media,” was a transition into more up-tempo music. I would see how people would react at the concerts and the up-tempo would always have a better response from what I could tell. It’s not that the audience didn’t enjoy the slower tempo music, it was more about what their body language conveyed. I started to notice people would be involved dancing and moshing to up-tempo music more than standing still with a head bob to a slower tempo. I wanted to do an album that would capture this high energy from beginning to end, while telling a meaningful story about emotions, experiences, and ideologies. “Better off Bitter” is the highlight album of the Free Mace discography, available everywhere 7/19/2024.
As an independent artist, what advice would you give to other musicians looking to produce and release their own music without the backing of a major label?
The best advice I would give to anyone and everyone would be to always stay true to yourself, no matter what.
What are your plans following the release of “Better off Bitter”? Are there any upcoming tours, music videos, or other projects that fans can look forward to?
Following the release of “Better off Bitter,” there will be 2-3 music videos available in varying cinematic styles. Currently in the process are one animated video (Available 7/19/2024 on YouTube) and one live-action Frank Sinatra/Edgar Allen Poe inspired video. There will potentially be shows in the future, but am needed a backing band on location for performance, so if you’d like a Free Mace show where you are located and have a professional band to provide, I will see you there!
