Great to have you on Xttrawave. Please, introduce yourself?
I am Adri’d from Montego Bay, Jamaica. I’m a singer, songwriter, and producer. I love Music…it’s my only escape, it’s that job I do that I enjoy while I’m doing it. I need nothing more, nothing less.
What got you into music and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
I’ve been doing music from as early as 6 years old, my parents sent me to piano classes and I was heavily involved in the performing arts in school.
I use to love watching pop concerts on TV but I also would go to local concerts with my family and I always saw myself being on a stage one day, performing in front of thousands of fans. So it was clear from then; that music would’ve been my chosen path.
Tell us about your new music? And what’s the story behind it?
I have two singles out now on all digital platforms, “Jealous” and “No Drama”, together racking up over 30K streams on Spotify and counting.
I’m currently working on my 5 Track “Black Opal EP” which will be my first self produced project. “Black Opal” is a precious stone and is very valuable and colorful.
This name means a lot to me, because I believe it is the perfect representation of me. I’m colorful, my colors represents my moods, personalities, achievements and failures all that life has to give is embodied within this one gem. It is also the birthstone associated with my birth month, October, which confirms its relevance.
The “Black Opal EP” is about 70% complete and should be ready for release by August 2019.
What makes your music unique? And how would you describe it?
My voice is unique, so that’s the first thing. I do alot of experimenting and fusion within my music. I tent to fuse different genres and styles together, especially Dancehall and RnB/HipHop.
I try to meddle around with Jazz and Neo soul as well, however you will not hear any of that in my upcoming project, but definitely for future projects you can listen out for more Jazz and Neo Soul influences within the music.
First impression upon listening to my music is RnB, or even soul. Some would say Caribbean pop. I call it Alternative Fusion. I think because of its characteristics and elements that’s the perfect name. However, to be on the safe side, it is RnB. 🙂
Do you play any instruments? And why do you love it?
Yes, I play the keyboard and I love it, because it was my first love really, and being introduced to it at an early age, helped me throughout my musical journey thus far. Playing an instrument I believe is key in this business and every artiste should consider learning at least one.
How is your creative process when recording music? And what makes a good recording session?
First of all, I have a home studio, or better yet, bedroom studio, however my process is as any commercial studio. Preparation is key. I ensure I prep for my sessions, both technically, and personally and I adjust the space based on the type of mood I’m going for in a song, for example, the colors of my drapes or how dark or lit the room is.
A good recording session is well prepared for and focused. The environment must be clean and comfortable and mood appropriate. The right attitude, Discipline a good and work ethic is also important in having a successful session.
Who are your biggest musical influences? And any particular artist/band you would like to collaborate with in the future?
Wow, there are so many, my biggest musical influences are Prince, Bryson Tiller, BJ the Chicago Kid, Lucky Daye, Drake and Daniel Ceasar.
I would love to collaborate with Lucky Daye, he’s an amazing artiste and I’m a big fan.
Which is the best moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of?
Well my proudest moment is when I released my first self produced single, “Jealous” earlier this year, and seeing all the positive feedback and the love I got was just amazing.
How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends or work?
It is hard to balance. I work a full time Singing job at a Hotel on the north coast, the hours are structured in such a way that it becomes hard to find the time. However, I’ve had to sacrifice a lot of time, sleep deprived nights burning the midnight oil just so I could be able to release my music.
My friends would be upset with me sometimes because i’d just go MIA for long periods….because im working working working. 🙂
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
My best advice is that if you love Music, Just Do it. Go for what your heart desires and not for what people want for you.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
Thank you for the support and the love. Keep spreading the news, you are the ones to tell the world that Adri’d is here…you are not just fans you are Fam.
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects or tours?
After this EP, I will be working on a Christmas project, hopefully a 10 track project, but if not it might just be a couple Christmas singles. Ultimately I want to start working on the Album, however i will be more focused on promoting the EP for now, and releasing Singles and collabs up until such a time.