The more we talk about the many industries and fields that are on a constant rise, the more we feel like talking about it. The fundamental reason behind their constant growth is some of the greatest talents it has given birth to. We had the opportunity to interview Singer Songwriter/ Producer, Radio Stevie.

Hello Radio Stevie, Thanks for coming to Honk Magazine to talk about your career.

Tell us a little more about when you first got into music?

I am from a pretty musical family and music has always been a way of connecting with each other. Whether it was dancing at a cookout or singing in church choirs, music has always been kind of central to my life and upbringing. When I was a kid, my uncle gave me a trombone so I could join the school band and I think that is one of my earliest memories of being a student of music. I would later learn to play drums too. 

However, I think I really fell in love with music because of my brother. When we were kids, he had this idea of making drum kits out of shoeboxes and empty coffee tins and we would freestyle songs by pretend artists we drew on paper. We were definitely mimicking the music of our time, but we observed things like key changes, hooks, bridges, image, and I think that is how we both kind of fell in love with the idea of being creative. We’d later evolve from makeshift drum kits to making music of our own, but I think that freedom we had sitting on the floor really stayed with me. I continue to create from that place today.

If you could describe your sound/style in one word, what would it be and why?

I would say “freedom” is a word that comes to mind. I think my entire vibe is based on that liberating feeling I get when I am making music. There are a lot of things in this world that hold us down or challenge us, but when I am making a beat or writing lyrics I am really in a state of peace. I am free for that moment and it is so important to find moments of peace in a chaotic world. I hope people feel that when they’re dancing with me or listening to my music.

The word “freedom” also gives me the space to embrace many sounds that influence me. I grew up on 90s rap, soul, and R&B, but I love post-punk, electronic, pop, jazz and many other sounds from my time and before. So, the “freedom” in my music is also about letting go of this idea that I need to be confined to one genre or one sound. The message is what ties it all together so the sounds can take many shapes. 

What would you say to any aspiring recording artists who look up to your work?

I’d say thank you for listening, first! Then, I’d probably encourage them to trust their own process. I think what makes an artist great is someone who has found something that is uniquely their vibe and isn’t trying to imitate anyone. Of course, you can hear some of my influences in my music, but I think I’ve found a way to make a vibe that is unique to me so I’d want to pass that kind of thinking on to someone that might be inspired by what I’m creating. I hope they’re out there. 

What quote or mantra do you live by?

“Life is short. Eat dessert first!” HA! Just kidding, I don’t really do mantras or anything like that. I guess if I had to choose something it would be any quote that encourages breaking the rules here and there. It is necessary sometimes.

What is your hobby outside of music?

I love being outdoors and camping at National or State Parks. I am not a very spiritual person, but being in nature makes me feel a connection to something beyond me. I also love being in art spaces like museums. My day job is working at the Guggenheim Museum in digital media. Outside of making music I like to be around things that inspire me.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I don’t know where I see myself, but hopefully I’m making music and I’ve continued to grow and evolve. I certainly don’t want to be the same person I am today, but I am open to waiting and meeting that person in 5 years and not trying to map out of a 5-year plan. Time will tell. 

What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why.

I don’t know if I have 5 things, but I have 2. I wish someone told me that I didn’t have to take every gig. When I first started, I had a couple shows where I was like, “why did I agree to this?” I’d still give it my all, but just because someone knows someone at the club doesn’t mean it is the right gig. I try to be intentional about where I perform these days. 

I also think every young artist falls for the exposure line. Exposure doesn’t pay the bills and someone that doesn’t pay you for your work and time is lame. Period. 

Which tips would you recommend to your colleagues in your industry to help them to thrive and not “burn out”?

I try not to make music to keep churning out singles in hopes for a viral hit. Music is very personal for me so my soul tells me when it’s time to make something new. So, to avoid burnout, my advice would be to always create from a real place and when it feels right. Can’t force it.

Do you have anything new or upcoming we can expect to see from you? 

I am working on a few new songs that will be coming in the fall and winter. Hopefully, a few collaborations this round too. 

What is the inspiration behind your latest song? 

My latest single, “Change” is in keeping with my music style that is centered on freedom. The lyrics really capture the art making process, which for me feels like a constant joyride where you’re free to do whatever you want, take detours, and change things as you. That was the vibe of the songwriting process and it turned into something really interesting. Musically, I love a buildup to something dramatic and I think that came through really well. 

How can our readers follow you online? 

I am available on Instagram @radiostevie. I also have a website radiostevie.com where people can discover new music and connect with me.