LoVel is aiming to be R&B’s newest heavy hitter.
The Harlem, New York-based singer is making major moves in the industry. He recently dropped the Backseat Memories EP and released a song with breakout rap star Fetty Wap called “The Move.” He’s now debuting his brief and relaxed tune, “Mike Tyson,” produced by The Hittas.
LoVel uses the new track to convey that not only is his work ethic off the charts, but, like the famed boxer he compares himself to in the song, his skill at what he does best is equally immaculate. His smooth voice can be heard on the hook crooning, “But when I hit them with that right hook and that uppercut/ I’m Mike Tyson in this b—, sho’ ‘nuff.”
He may soon be on every music lover’s radar, but for now, LoVel is busy cooking up a method behind his art and a plan to become a heavyweight champion in the music biz. We spoke to the rising artist and uncovered his mindset regarding his current music and the bright future of his career.
When did you know that being a musician was your calling?
As cliche as this sounds, I started in church when I was really young. Maybe 4 or 5 years old. I watched the choir singers and knew that I wanted to be a part of it. The next year I ended up singing in the choir.
Describe three other occupations you have had while prepared your break?
I’ve been a freelance audio engineer for most of my “working” life, if that makes sense [laughs]. I had a short term summer job when I was 14 years old. I think I was a camp counselor or something like that. I used the money I made there to buy Pro Tools and a microphone. From then on I used my time recording myself and every rapper I knew in Harlem. That all just expanded as I got older.
What inspires you to perform music?
My supporters’ reactions, both good and bad. The idea of me creating and displaying something I love to people, and realizing that they could love it just as much as I do is an amazing feeling. And when they don’t love it, it’s just an opportunity for me to grow.
What instruments, if any, do you play?
I’ve played the piano my whole life. And I dabble with the guitar a little bit. I know enough chords to serenade the ladies.
When you are on stage, what do you want to convey about your style?
I just want my interactions to be personal. When I write, I try to convey as much of me as possible in my music and I want the same thing in my performances.
Describe you creative process from concept to complete song?
Honestly, there’s no one process. My mind’s always on 100, always thinking of new ideas and concepts to write about. I love sitting and building with other artists/producers, bouncing ideas back and forth.
Nine times out of 10, I’m recording my own vocals, so once some kind of production idea is laid down, I record a few melodies on top of it. Then it’s just building blocks from there. I rarely write anything down anymore, so I’m honestly just pulling ideas out of the air, any thoughts I’ve had or things I might’ve gone through during that time. Feels better that way.
Once the vocals get laid down and mixed, we add some more production around them and there you go … a finished song.
How do you select your creative music partners to fashion your musical voice?
I like working with people that I can vibe with. There’s no formula. If we like each other’s style of music and the vibes are good, I think something good will definitely come from working together.
What advice would you give anyone preparing to enter the music business about publishing and management?
I’d just say be careful who you trust. Make sure you know who’s speaking on your behalf and handling your affairs, and make sure they have your best interest in mind. As far as publishing goes, I’d say to hold on to it for as long as you can. Sometimes people don’t understand how valuable their publishing rights are and they sell them away for close to nothing. Bad idea.
What kind of societal effects would you like your music to bring about?
In my opinion, listening to good music takes you somewhere else. It’s like watching a good movie, a movie so good that you forget that it’s not real. It’s a kind of zone you’re put in where, for that point in time, nothing else matters. If I can have that effect on people who listen to my music, then I’m happy.
What do you like the most about being a music artist?
The concept of creating something from nothing. When you write a song, you’re creating something that didn’t exist in any form before you put it together. I think that’s what makes it so real, so special.
What producers are you looking forward to working with soon?
I’m probably going to try and get up with my guy Justin Rose. We’ve collaborated on a few things over the years, most recently “The Grey” from my latest project, Backseat Memories. But I haven’t gotten the chance to get on any of his production yet.
Beyond that, it’s all up in the air. There’s so many talented producers out there. Hard to tell who I’ll end up working with.
Name three musicians you would like to record with who are hit makers?
I’d say Kanye [West], Pharrell, and The Dream — all timeless and undeniable hit makers. Don’t sleep on The Dream, by the way. His track record is crazy.
If you could make a duet with someone, who would it be and why?
Rihanna, because she’s Rihanna.
What music awards have you aspired to receive and actually won?
[Laughs], no musical awards yet, but I guess we’re all shooting for a Grammy at some point.
Name your two favorite books?
Right now, I can only think of one and that’s The Art of War. Read that a few years back and it changed how I approached a lot of things in life.
Listen to “Mike Tyson” below.
