THE WLDLFE: INTERVIEW

by madden levin

photo by madden levin

At the last date of Grayscale’s tour, we caught up with the incredible THE WLDLFE as they closed out the last two dates on the tour. After an incredible set, the members chatted with us a bit about recent projects and what’s in store for fans always waiting for new content. The music video for their newest single, “Close To You,” is out now and we suggest taking a peek at that before you go! And be sure not to miss our coverage of all acts from The Umbra Tour right here on our site now!

For those who have not been lucky enough to come across you guys just yet, can you give us a bit of a quick introduction to who THE WLDLFE is?

THE WLDLFE: “The Wldlfe is a pop-rock-indie-alt-fuck-boy-band from Indianapolis. Jansen (vocals, guitar) and Carson (vocals, guitar) are brothers, and Jack (bass) I met in college. We like to do a little bit of everything and are just here to have a good time.”

If you had to pick one song of yours for a new fan to listen to first, which would you pick and why? Is there a song that you’d recommend they warm up to first?

THE WLDLFE: “We probably would all have different answers for this, but I would personally say that ‘Blood Orange’ or ‘Boy On A Phone’ would be the ideal introductions to our band. Both are songs that we feel like we haven’t gotten tired of and have stood the test of time in our own heads.”

During the last year and a half where life was put on stand still, do you feel as if the band took time to reevaluate any goals or plans? Did it help give time to inspire and really dedicate time to creating Repaint My Mind after releasing Waking Up Is Hard to Do?

THE WLDLFE: “Short answer: Yes. We just kept our heads down and worked really hard on writing and creating a sonic and visual space for Repaint My Mind. We are really happy with how it turned out and similarly found that the whole project has really remained super important and lasting for us as a band.”

Speaking of Repaint My Mind, it seems like fans are clinging to songs like “Anxious” and “Blood Orange” most. Though there is no doubt that these songs are incredible and deserve the recognition, why do you personally think these two are the songs that are really making their mark in The Wldlfe fan universe?

THE WLDLFE: “I think it’s probably because of how singable the chorus of each song are. We pride ourselves on trying to keep melodies catchy and lyrical content meaningful and those songs do a great job of that in our opinion.”

As a “New Age Meds” fan myself, I’m really curious as to what sparked the inspiration for this song? As the queen of self-deprecation, I think this song has a unique perspective, while still lightly tackling a heavy subject — do you think it is important to continue this outlook while creating all your music?

THE WLDLFE: “For sure. I think that with every season of life there are different challenges that arise and so what is important to us is remaining vulnerable, whatever the subject matter is. I don’t know if there was one specific moment that sparked ‘New Age Meds,’ but just a general repetition of posts on social media that often minimize one’s individual self. One can assume it’s bred out of insecurity and is being used to cope with what those insecurities are, but at the time, I was just finding it to be pretty annoying, so I wrote a song about that.”

With quite a few memorable shows back since the return of concerts and some of the best music I’ve heard to be played live, what newer song have you guys been most excited to play live for fans and newcomers?

THE WLDLFE: “‘Close To You’ is the newest one and it’s been fun to play that one live. Also loving ‘How To Move On’ because we never really got to play that one live until now.”

After experiencing your live performance, I can’t even begin to explain the comfort and happiness — and of course, the talent — that radiated through the walls of The Queen in Delaware. Why do you think it is so important to keep up with this environment at all your shows?

THE WLDLFE: “In a sentence: We’re here for a good time, not a long time. We want to have fun and want everybody else to have fun, so we try to create our show with that in mind.”

I just have to ask... Jansen and Carson, what is the real inside scoop of working alongside your brother? I can imagine that your relationship has to be strong (because if I worked with my brother that closely, I think I would lose my mind), so what would you suggest to anyone thinking about starting a band or getting into business with a sibling or family member...?

THE WLDLFE: “We’re brothers. It’s probably more challenging for some reasons to be in a band with your brother, but at the same time there are a lot of reasons why it works really well for us. I definitely don’t think that being in a band with a sibling is for everybody, but I think the three of us make a really great team.”

As a group, what are your goals or plans for the near future? Can fans expect to see you at a show again near them sometime soon?

THE WLDLFE: “2022 is hopefully going to be a year of shows, shows, and more shows. Finishing up some new music as well that we are pumped to release.”

Would you like to share a message to your fans? Let them know what you guys are up to!

THE WLDLFE: “I am sitting by the door in a coffee shop right now and I am very cold.”

 

FIND THE WLDLFE ONLINE

WEBSITE TWITTER INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK

CMAGIC5: INTERVIEW

by lauren kovolenko

photo courtesy of cmagic5

World, meet Cmagic5, a super vibrant girl with a powerful voice. Unclear has had the chance to sit down to talk about her upbringing, her music life, as well as her pastimes. She spills some very insightful commentary and talks more about why her songs matter. If you are into fun music you can dance to, read on to get to know Cmagic5. You won't regret it!

Can you tell us a little about your recent single “Dancing On My Heart” and how it came about?

Cmagic5: “‘Dancing On My Heart’ is a riveting party anthem inspired by the universally relatable struggle of moving on after a breakup when your ex-lover finds an opportunity to let themselves back into your life. I wanted to create something fun and playful, but also empowering and impactful. I wanted to write something upbeat that would inspire energy and confidence in my listeners. The track’s infectious tune showcases my abilities as a vocalist by enabling my voice to soar through its wide range and emphasizes my soulful vocals through the melodic structure. I absolutely thrive on powerful beats and catchy melodies that are accompanied by my energetic and charismatic delivery.

This track emphasizes the ‘moving on’ part after falling out of a relationship and the frustration that develops when you’re avoiding falling in love with the same person all over again, knowing they’re not the one for you (but hey, it happens!). It’s all about how my ex dances on my heart like it's his stage and steals the spotlight. This can be summed up in the lyrical lyrics ‘I keep giving in and that’s my crime.’

The songwriting process for this track was unlike any of my previous releases. It definitely is one of my favorites and showcases my artistic evolution. As my debut album was entirely self-written, self-composed during quarantine, this was the first track that I collaborated on with established songwriters. I wanted the song to reflect my bold and fun personality through big sounds and groovy bass lines while articulating relatable feelings through my lyrics. No matter what I choose to write about, there is always an underlying theme of self-empowerment accompanied by energetic vibes. Personally, I feel like you can turn any emotion or personal experience into a bop and inevitably find yourself dancing and singing along to it on repeat, and that’s what I love about songwriting.

photo courtesy of cmagic5

I believe ‘Dancing On My Heart’ is anyone’s story at some stage or phase in their lives. The theme diversifies to a broader reality when someone is always ‘dancing on your heart’ and it’s up to you to let them in. This track is accompanied by a high-energy music video with an underlying relatable theme, enhanced visualizations, and addictive dance moves.”

How do you feel performing influenced your own self esteem?

Cmagic5: “My passion for singing and acting manifested itself when I was very little with me performing to a living room audience at the age of five. By six I began performing to a larger audience. I captured anything around me that inspired me at that age, such as colors and animals, and put it into a song. By the age of ten, my articulation developed and my lyrics matured, and I had written and composed my very first original song along with an EP in just a few days, titled ‘Destiny’s Calling.’ My elementary school years were a challenging time for me, being bullied. It was during this time music became my sole companion and it empowered me to express myself creatively. Although I didn’t really have a strong support group of friends at the time, I grabbed my acoustic guitar and dived deep into songwriting. This was the defining moment in my life when I knew that I wanted to pursue music for the rest of my life.

Performing has definitely boosted my self-esteem. Vocally, classical studies have strengthened my technique and shaped my soulful voice. Music history and theory have enriched me as I am able to use this knowledge when it comes to my songwriting and composing. While I would like my music to be fun and enjoyable, I also want it to be musically respected.”

Was there a main mentor in your life that influenced you?

Cmagic5: “As an artist, one of my greatest musical influences has always been Nina Simone. Her voice, style of music, and work ethic have all inspired me to be the greatest musician I can be. One of her most successful songs, ‘Feeling Good,’ was the first song I began to perform in front of large live audiences. The more I sang it, the more I began to discover my true abilities as a vocalist. The profound response from the audience motivated me to think of my art and passion as a career and hone my craft even further.  My other musical influences include Whitney Houston, Dua Lipa, Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, and Toni Braxton.

In my personal life, I would say my dad! He’s been there for me throughout my entire career and has supported me no matter what. I always call him my ‘dadager’ (dad + manager). He was the one who first introduced me to music at a young age. Believe it or not, this guy has never missed a single one of my performances, and for that, I am forever grateful.”

photo courtesy of cmagic5

Is there a particular career achievement that you aspire to reach?

Cmagic5: “I would love to see myself as an internationally recognized and respected artist, impacting and inspiring a wider audience through my music. I hope to go on international tours and connect with fans from all over the world. Performing at Madison Square Garden in New York is definitely on the bucket list too!”

How do you personally feel you will you know when you have succeeded?

Cmagic5: “I think success is different for everyone, and there is no way to truly measure it. Success to me is knowing I’ve made a positive impact through my music and adding value to people’s lives. The pandemic really took a toll and affected different people in many ways. A lot of people were forced to look at who they are without their art. However, with resiliency, they were able to find ways to create even with restrictions. To be able to cross that bridge and come out on the other side with new music and impact lives in a positive way is my success. Just being able to transcend boundaries and make people feel good even during these trying times is when I know I have succeeded by reaching a wider audience, and when my listeners relate with my song, create a video, sing it, and remember it especially after hearing it for the very first time.”

How did you get involved in advocating for mental health?

Cmagic5: “I am a strong believer that mental well-being is as important as our physical well-being. Especially in this day and age, where the future is so uncertain, and where the world is adversely impacted, economically, socially, and emotionally, each one of us has a responsibility even if it means playing a small role. It is important to keep our minds fit and strong. Kindness, being humble, and smiles go a long way in spreading positivity.

With the medium of the arts, music enables me to deliver simple yet positive inspiring messages by reiterating self-worth through my own experiences. Music has the power to heal. By raising awareness and being a mental health ambassador, by collaborating with platforms and campaigns that also champion the cause, I want to enhance awareness and reduce the negative stigma that is so often associated with mental illness.

As a mental health ambassador for different charity organizations, my goal is to inspire and impact people positively to build their self-confidence and self-esteem. As a qualified mentor in the arts, I am dedicated to helping the youth to amplify their voice in society and to develop and pursue their passion. By sharing my own story, I want to encourage teens to focus on their dreams and pursue their passion.”

As a young person, how does social media and “likes” affect your performances?

Cmagic5: “As the live music and grassroots in-person variables are diminished right now, it has opened up a plethora of online avenues and live streams, reaching a geographically wider and diverse audience which I think is truly amazing in the midst of the pandemic! Social media especially during these times is important as many resort to the media to relax, destress and have fun. That’s why I strive to put feel-good and encouraging content out there. I understand how certain quantitative aspects of social media in ‘likes’ and comments can really cause people to compare themselves to other’s highlight flashes and can feel like numbers prove your worth. Honestly, I used to feel this way a lot, until I started telling myself that numbers don’t determine who you are, but YOU do. Although easier said than done, it is a process that takes time and will be totally worth it.

I try to represent my artist brand in a way that takes the uplifting and empowering messages from my music, and channel that energy through a vibrant and exuberant visual style. This is reflected in my personality as well. Music to me is rewarding because of the support and feedback I receive from my followers. I am humbled, grateful, and feel blessed by their love and appreciation for my work. I engage with my fans constantly and make it a point to not only thank them but also encourage them to pursue their dreams. Their support means the world to me and they are part of my extended family.”

Where does inspiration for your music come from? 

Cmagic5: “Music was all around me as a child. Although no one in my family sang or played music, it was a medium that helped us all get through difficult and challenging times and brought everyone together through thick and thin. For me, music is medicine — something I have a deep and personal relationship with.

My music has been greatly inspired by real-life experiences and is a blend of reality and my vivid imagination. To me, music offers a tool, where I can creatively express myself. Throughout my elementary school years, I was bullied for having a vibrant personality and a creative sense of style. However, my experiences have only made me stronger and as a result, I was able to channel my emotions through various art forms such as music and fashion, to express myself without limitations."

When it comes to my original music, I always try to ensure that the instrumental music and song melody alone, are powerful enough to tell a story. My sound is all about a meaningful narrative wrapped up in an infectious beat and singable melody.”

photo courtesy of cmagic5

When you aren’t Cmagic5 the musician, who are you in your outside life?

Cmagic5: “While being a self-managed artist, I am a university student as well. I believe in dreaming the dream, keeping the faith, working hard, and staying humble! I feel truly blessed to live a life that I love waking up to each morning. Music is not part of my life but is my life. I live and breathe music.  During the weekends, I enjoy mentoring and coaching aspiring students who want to create or those who are working towards a musical career. I am also an advocate for mental health and wellness programs. 

I am also an ardent traveler and food lover and movie buff. I love to try cuisines for different parts of the world and watch every new movie that hits the theaters, especially now with a gradual return to normalcy.”

How do you relax in your free time?

Cmagic5: “With my back-to-back schedule, 24 hours in a day is not enough for me!! However, I absolutely love what I do. Through the hard way, I have learned that self-care and self-love are not only important but crucial for your mental health and this is the core message I also convey through my music. When I’m not working on my music, I love watching movies, hanging out with friends, and indulging in some of my favorite self-care activities like going for walks and taking a warm bath! Self-care activities are different for everyone, so find what works for you! Of course, I also love going to concerts! Fun fact, I love playing laser tag and have never lost a single game so far! I also love to travel and hope to as soon as it is safe again to do so.”

Can we expect to see “Dancing On My Heart” on an album soon?

Cmagic5: “Yes, indeed you said it. ‘Dancing On My Heart’ is the first song off my forthcoming EP in 2022.  Being a musician, I feel it is important to explore different styles and genres. While my main genre is pop, the uniqueness of my sound is created by fusing other sub-genres into my songs. I never want my music to be predictable, and always want my listeners to expect the unexpected when it comes to my music. I truly believe that ‘variety is the quintessence of life.’”

 

FIND CMAGIC5 ONLINE

WEBSITE TWITTER INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK

JORDY: INTERVIEW

by brittany and everly ormiston

photo by dante velazquez jr.

JORDY is re-inventing pop music with his recent debut album Mind Games, a 12-track masterpiece. The album draws from JORDY’s personal experiences from the past year, and effortlessly tells a story as listeners descend down the track list. The cohesive body of work includes mostly upbeat tracks, such as “Long Distance” and “Till It Hurts,” and ends with a ballad which holds a special place in JORDY’s heart. “That voice at the beginning of the song [‘South Dakota’] is my dad from a home video of me at summer camp. There are a lot of personal touches to that song, which I love,” shared JORDY. It is evident JORDY is not afraid to be vulnerable and authentic when it comes to his music, which allows him to connect with fans on a whole other level.  

JORDY had the opportunity to bond with fans face-to-face this fall while on his country-wide tour to promote Mind Games. He was overwhelmed with emotion every night knowing crowds of people were in attendance to hear the songs he was so proud of. “It feels very surreal because there was so much growth over the past year during the pandemic. It is such a crazy feeling and experience to go from statistics to real human beings who are buying tickets, and coming to hang out and sing the songs with me,” said JORDY. Touring was a very memorable and positive experience for JORDY, especially his sold-out show at Lincoln Hall in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois. He reminisced the next day on Instagram and stated, “I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life.” The Mind Games tour was JORDY’s first headlining tour, and he is just getting started. 

Now that tour has come to a close, JORDY is looking forward to “getting back in writing mode.” He will be able to pull from experiences while on the road, and write about how the tour was a dream come true. JORDY’s creative process varies, but it typically begins with “bringing a concept, idea, or title into a writing session and going from there.” There are other sessions that are a bit more laid back and less structured, and the conversations he has with his co-writers tend to spark inspiration. JORDY has several musical influences including Julia Michaels, FLETCHER, Lauv, Troye Sivan, and Julia Wolf. He is continuously inspired by Julia Michaels’ songwriting, and loves how she “let’s us in on her personal stories.” He wants everyone who listens to his music to feel the same way, and strives to “lay it all out on the table as he develops as an artist.” 

Along with creating his own music, JORDY has had the opportunity to write for other artists in the music industry such as VINCINT, Catie Turner, Betty Who, and OSTON. He finds these experiences very rewarding and enjoys “letting the artist lead the conversion and being their backboard.” Sessions as a songwriter tends to “take certain stresses off my shoulders when I am in the room as just a writer. I am there for the artist and to help them tell their story,” mentioned JORDY. He is able to help bring an artist’s story and emotions to life, which is very powerful and unsurpassable. JORDY finds it even more fulfilling to witness songs he helped co-write being performed live.  

JORDY is making a positive impact in the music industry in more ways than one. He always wears his heart on his sleeve, and expresses his thoughts and emotions without holding back. His confidence and ability to be himself without fear is admirable and inspirational. JORDY will continue to be a fan-favorite and a true pop star for many years to come.

 

FIND JORDY ONLINE

WEBSITE TWITTER INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK

AUSTN: INTERVIEW

by tiffany arunarsirakul

photo courtesy of austn

Electronic pop sensation AUSTN focuses his music into his songwriting, opening a world of emotions inspired by his own experiences with love and life. With his latest single "Touch," AUSTN focuses on new love and catching feelings where this song is "based around the concept of somewhat toxic, but mesmerizing lust that you just can't get enough." With this interview, AUSTN talks about his music, personal life, as well as offering some valuable advice and insight.

How would you describe yourself?

AUSTN: “I would describe myself as one of a kind. Which sounds cliché, but I truly [believe] we are all very unique in our own special ways. I have never met anyone like me. I love to be adventurous and be outdoors doing things that most people would think are crazy, but I also love to stay very in touch, and vulnerable with my emotional side which enables me to write songs!”

What was your inspiration for "Touch?”

A: “‘Touch’ was originally inspired by the atmosphere of the guitar chords you hear at the beginning, and all throughout the song. Almost instantly when I first heard those chords I knew that this song would be based around the concept of somewhat toxic, but mesmerizing lust that you just can't get enough.”

How often do you go back home to Oregon? Are you still in touch with your childhood friends?

A: “I am actually currently in Oregon while writing this! I am here most of the time, but I am planning to move down to LA very soon, which I am very excited about. I do still keep in touch, and hang out with a lot of my childhood friends on a day to day basis while they are still some of my best friends. It's not too common to meet people like my friends back home who work, ski, skate, and sneak into neighborhood hot tubs all in the same day.”

What are some things that you have learned throughout the pandemic?

A: “The pandemic was a much needed time of self reflection and introspection for me. I found myself becoming a lot closer with myself, and listening to myself more than I used to as I was isolated like many of us for a long time. I was able to solve a few problems in my mind, and find inspiration that I never knew I needed. As shitty as it [is], it was also in another way a blessing for me.”

When creating music, what thoughts are going through your head?

A: “When writing songs or creating any sort of music, there is a lot of imagery going on in my mind. It's hard to explain but I'll try my best. Typically I find myself with a notepad, ukulele, or guitar in hand when I am or have been feeling a significant feeling that would sound great in a song, or that I just simply need to get off my chest. I love to go into storyteller mode. Including cool words, rhyming, and imagery to help the listener connect and feel as much as possible.”

Do you prefer intimate shows or large venue shows? Why?

A: “I think there are cool qualities to both. With a large venue you really feel like you are living out your rockstar dreams, it is quite a rush. Surprisingly it's actually less nerve-racking for me to play a large venue than a smaller venue. But with a small venue, although it's more nerve-racking, you are able to connect and become a lot more intimate with your audience, which I feel like I take more away from at the end of the day.”

What is some advice you would like to give those aspiring to enter the music industry?

A: “If it is truly what makes you happiest, never give up and never give yourself away. Although it is a bitter and corrupt business, it's your dreams we are talking about. I always like to imagine what I would think of my life if I was on my deathbed, and I know I would be damn proud of myself if I pushed through the tough shit, never gave up, and made the career I had always dreamed of.”

Anything else you would like to say to your fans? Any new works for us to anticipate?

A: “As always, thank you. I can't wait to meet you someday on the road. I am looking forward to releasing more singles, hopefully projects this summer, and maybe even getting on the road and touring soon. I hope so.”

 

FIND AUSTN ONLINE

TWITTER INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK