International reggae artist Alandon has recently release a new track titled “1980.” In a one-on-one interview, Alandon discusses who he is as an artist and where he is in his journey thus far.
Where are you from and how has that influenced your music?
I was born in Kingston [Waterhouse], Jamaica. I moved to Hartford, Connecticut, in 2004. Growing up in Jamaica wasn’t easy. As you know out there in Kingston, it’s basically survival of the fittest. We didn’t have much growing up so I had to make the most of it. So music was like an outlet for me. An escape from the violence. For me, music was a better way. A positive way for me to express myself and my feelings.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I have been a musician since I was 10 years old. I grew up around music. My great uncle is the late King Tubby. As you you know he was the creator of the “Dub” sound. I’m always looking to further my sound. I am a dancehall artist but I don’t want to be put into any box or one genre. I make music for all people to enjoy. I’ve worked with rap artists to EDM artists. I guess you can say I’m inspired by the creative process. I’m always looking to push myself to the next level. Sometimes I surprise myself. I make sure I keep good people around me at all times.
How do you get into your creative space when making a track?
Once the music starts playing, I just go in. I’m always creating and always coming up with different melodies. That’s why sometimes in my records you will hear me harmonizing and singing. What can I say I get lost in the music. It’s easy for me to come up with hooks. Usually dancehall records are more upbeat and fast tempo so the high energy is always there from the beginning. I love the ladies, so they always inspire me as well [laughs].
Do you have any new music out? If so, what inspired you to make this new piece of music.
Well, ever since I linked up with SmokeStack Recordings, which is my label, I have a lot of new projects that I have been working on. My new single, 1980, is out now. It’s available on digital platforms such as iTunes, Amazon, E music, and Spotify. Wherever you can buy music online it’s there. I have a project that I just did for Juvenile that should be coming out soon. I did a track with Chris Webby called “So Fly” which just came out on his new album “Chemically Imbalanced”. It is one of the bonus tracks on the Deluxe edition. Working with him was great. We were both in Texas for SXSW [South By Southwest] and my manager linked us up out there. We got in the studio and the rest was history. Chris and I are both from Connecticut so it was all love and great energy. It was a pleasure to work him. I was recently in the studio with Dougie F. I mean I have a lot of great music that’s coming this summer, so definitely look out for some new heat this summer.
What artists or producers would you like to work with in the future?
I have already recorded songs for Kick Raux, who is a big EDM producer. Kick Raux has produced records for Diplo and Walshy Fire. I’d love to record with Ed Robinson. I’m working on doing a record for Statik Selektah with Joey Bad Ass. I just got a riddim that I’m going to be on with reggae artist I-Octane. I mean I’ve performed with Beenie Man, Konshens, Chronixx, and Elephant Man to name a few. I would love to work with some more R&B artists. I’m definitely looking forward to working with Kranium, who just landed a deal with Atlantic Records. As long as the vibes are right, I’ll make music with anybody. I’m not going to limit myself. I’m a musician. I make music, period.
Check out the link below to hear “1980.”
