Hip hop artist TOD has recently released his latest EP, 'Blurr,' which showcases his storytelling skills and musical prowess. The EP's six tracks explore his life struggles and goals, and serve as an intimate chapter of his life. 'Blurr' is undoubtedly his strongest material to date, as TOD impressively flows over hard-hitting kicks and dreamy keys.
Starting with the opener track 'Out of Reach,' listeners can feel the soulful vibes of the EP that promises to take them on a ride. TOD's sincere lyrics and the intriguing vocal samples combined with Trap beats create a hypnotic musical experience. As the EP progresses, TOD changes his attitude with each track, leading listeners to a more carefree and confident TOD by the time we reach 'Unchained' and 'Trill'.
The production quality of 'Blurr' is another standout aspect of the EP. The beats and sounds complement TOD's smooth vocals and lyrics with a lighthearted feel. The EP is an ideal showcase of the artist's unique style and his ability to make impactful connections with his listeners.
Take us back, do you recall the moment you told yourself "I'm going to make this my career", describe that moment. What made you pursue this career?
I’ve always had a natural inclination that creating music was something I wanted to do with my life but the moment that spurred me on was when I heard my voice professionally recorded and saw the reaction of my producer when we made our first song. We were both stunned and knew that with some work we could change the whole UK sound.
How would you describe your artistic style?
I describe my artistic style as contemporary hip-hop because my style changes and conforms to the timeline when I made a particular song. This allows me to grow as an artist cause my music will always be evolving as I am.
What are you most passionate about? What themes or concepts do you explore in your music?
I am most passionate about creating timeless art. Whether that be in film as an actor or as an artist. I want my music to speak on universal themes like love, heartbreak, time, escapism and finding your purpose. The goal is to create something that will outlive you.
Are there any specific artists or movements that have influenced your work?
There have been a lot of artists that have inspired my journey but the most prominent in the UK and US are Kanye West, Lancey Foux, Col3trane, 070 shake, Alicia Keys, Larry June and 1010benja.
If you had to title this chapter in your life, what would it be?
If I had to title this period in my life I’d call it ‘the waiting game’.
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
I’m not the most adventurous person but I always love to put myself out there and really go for anything I want. Last week I randomly drove to a remote spot in Tottenham and prayed by the river.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
‘Enter action with boldness because you can only be something if you do something’
Has there ever been a time when you felt like giving up and starting a new path? What keeps you focused?
I stay focused by learning to ride the waves of life, the seasons. Sometimes you’re going to feel energetic and exuberant which are the “summers and springs” in life and sometimes you’re going to feel down and like nothing this dis won’t go your way
What has been the most exciting thing that has happened to you recently?
The release of my debut EP ‘Blurr’ is definitely the most exciting thing because it shows proof you can do anything you put you
How do you show up for yourself? As in, what’s self-care look like for you?
I show up for myself by not putting expectations or rather limitations on people and life in general. Self-care for me is being of service. It’s helping out when I can even if that means helping myself become a better me.
The past years have been life-changing. What's something new you've learned or discovered about yourself in the past 3 years? How have you applied that to your work?
I discovered that I am very confident with the way I carry myself both outwardly and inwardly so I use this to connect with people. I really just don’t fear anything anymore and can’t pin a reason on how this happened, it’s just.
What was the inspiration for your new project? Can you tell us more about the meaning behind the music?
The main inspiration is Self-development which is an ongoing theme throughout the project. I like to look at ‘Blurr’ as the steps for self-improvement or signs that you are on the right track.
Describe the creative process. When did you know you had the final cut?
My creative process is quite simple, especially for this project. ‘Blurr’ being my debut EP, I didn’t want to overthink any situation. I just made a bunch of songs and noticed a recurring theme and chose 6 songs that I thought best captures it.
What do you feel has been your biggest growth as an artist?
My biggest growth has been finally releasing my EP and getting ready to perform my first show which is still tbd.
Following your dreams comes with many ups and downs. What would say is the hardest thing about following your dreams?
The hardest thing in my opinion is matching your words and actions. You have to really know what you want because life will ask you and if you don’t she’ll move on to the next person who does.
In your opinion, what do you think is not fair about today's music industry?
Everything in life is never fair. That’s just how it is. The music industry no longer cares about talent but just numbers and that doesn’t always have to be a bad thing. It’s all perspective.
How do you hope your artwork resonates with viewers or impacts the world?
I just create what I like and what I think people like me would like. The world is full of different characters so I’m sure out of 8 billion people I’ll find some with similar taste. I don’t care about impacting the world. I don’t think you should. I believe that you crest something for you and if it impacts you to show the world it’s inevitable. The world will notice.
What's next for you artistically?
To release my collaboration project with one of the producers off my EP called ‘DLK’ called ‘Super weekend’ and drop as many singles as possible. One single every 2 weeks is the goal.
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