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Ladies and gentlemen, we are thrilled to present an exclusive interview with a rising music sensation. We had the privilege of sitting down with this enigmatic artist backstage at his electrifying London show in the heart of Camden Town. Known for concealing his identity with a mask, his unique music blend has captivated global audiences.
As anticipation grows, it's essential to note that he is on the verge of releasing his eagerly anticipated album, "Lucid Dreams." With fans buzzing in excitement, our interview will delve into the artist's journey from humble beginnings to global stardom, the evolution of his music, and his personal and professional aspirations. Stay tuned for an intimate conversation with this extraordinary talent.
Welcome back to the UK! What is that one thing you like about London? To be honest, it's the fish and chips. Fish and chips, and the crowd's energy are always on another level. The last time I was here, it was my first-ever show, and the crowd was something else.
What are your crowds like? We've just been to Amsterdam, and this time it was even crazier. But I think the biggest difference is that the crowd has become more comfortable with my show, and I've become more comfortable with the crowd. I remember my first run of shows in Europe, and I didn't know what to expect.
Going back to the beginning, how did it all start? I was always writing music during my sophomore year of high school. I would write songs to beats I found online. Then, it wasn't until my freshman year of college that my little brother, who had heard some of these songs I'd been keeping to myself, told me, "Put this on YouTube, bro." Shortly after, he encouraged me to use TikTok. At the time, I didn't really know what TikTok was, but I started using it anyway. I would post some of these songs, along with funny videos, and from there, things started moving upward.
Were you expecting it? Or maybe your brother was expecting it? Not at all. I put the stuff out expecting nothing. It was just a hobby. It all started gaining attention, and that's how it became my career. It's my job now.
Did you have other dreams back then? When I was younger, I had always wanted to be a professional football player. However, in America, you must go through these complex levels to become a professional. I was going to play football in college, but then COVID happened, and I was stuck at home and couldn't do anything. It was a significant career change, but I'm glad it worked out the way it did.
Was it weird to find out that people were interested in those videos you put up online? Well, the fame doesn't really bother me when I'm not wearing the mask. When I'm walking around, I just feel like myself. However, when I put the mask on and I'm on stage, I'm often taken by surprise. I see these people singing along to my songs. Sometimes, especially during this run in Europe and in Asia, I get a little bit emotional underneath the mask, and people can't see it. I wonder if they can hear it.
If you had to compare "Toxic" and "Trauma," how are they different? I feel like my songs now are more polished in some ways. In my early stuff, you can hear a few errors, or maybe only I can. Also, before, there was no set plan or anything like that. Now, we have a strategy with the help of my team.
What is "Trauma" about? "Trauma" is one of the most personal songs I've ever written, if not the most personal. The lyrics are meaningful and deep. The song is about my childhood. I didn't have much money growing up, and my childhood was quite challenging, to be honest. But I feel like that sort of experience grounds me in reality. With fame and all that, you can get lost in the sauce. But as long as I remember where I came from and the struggles I've gone through, I know I'll be fine.
Your songs are very personal. Usually, I write about girls, but recently, it's been a bit more random.
You collaborated with some big names, from Blackbear to Oliver Tree. How was it? I think "IDGAF" was just popping off on TikTok, and it made sense for us to collaborate. I feel like it might have been a bit gimmicky, but it was a banger, to be honest. I thought Blackbear's voice was unique, and it would fit well. So that was an easy choice for us, and we reached out, and he agreed, thankfully. Initially, I was a bit hesitant about collaborating with Oliver Tree. It was something my team and the label had wanted, but I'm now glad it happened. I like his verse on it—in my opinion, another banger!
Who's next now? I'm a big fan of a lot of bands. But maybe a dream collaboration would be with Twenty One Pilots or Dominic Fike.
My last question will be, what is next for you now? I don't think there's an end goal. I don't look at it like that. I'll keep going. I've got the album 'Lucid Dreams' coming out on October 6th! More shows, bigger venues in Europe next year.
Follow BoyWithUke's journey here.
Words by Sal. F
Creative Direction by Ines B.
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