Haastattelussa Washingtonin Seattlesta kotoisin oleva räppäri-tuottaja Anthony Danza. Hänen musiikkinsa on saanut hyvän vastaanoton kriitikoilta ja faneilta, jotka arvostavat hänen kykyään yhdistää erilaisia musiikillisia vaikutteita luodakseen omaperäisen äänimaailman. Anthony Danza on tehnyt urallaan yhteistyötä muun muassa Jay Worthyn, J. Stalinin, Suga Freen, Kokanen, Larry Junen, Devin The Duden ja Messy Marvin kanssa.
- Hello, Anthony Danza! We’re thrilled to have you for this interview. First and foremost, thank you for joining us. How are you doing today?
I am good, I’ve been very busy working on a lot of music lately.
- Let’s start by exploring your background. Can you share with us what it was like growing up in Seattle, Washington, and how the city influenced your journey as a producer?
Although I was born here in King County, I grew up in the state below (Oregon) in a small town and was always driving back to Seattle to visit family. Being in a small town really helped me hone in on my passion to create things out of thin air. Having a lack of resources and opportunities made me have to create them myself.
- When did you first discover your passion for producing music, and what drew you to this creative endeavor? Was there a particular moment or experience that sparked your interest?
My father was always creating mixtapes and digging for records during my whole childhood. It helped me learn the landscape of funk, R&B, pop, and hip-hop music.
- Can you tell us about the tools and equipment you use to produce your beats? Do you have any favorite software or hardware that you rely on to bring your musical vision to life?
I create on Pro Tools, and I just play everything freehand into my DAW. I play keys and synths, so I construct melodies and usually add drums, working from there.
- As a producer, you’ve likely drawn inspiration from other notable producers. Who are some of your favorite producers, and how have they influenced your own production style?
Definitely old West Coast producers. Mike Mosley, Bosko, DAZ Dillinger, and others.
- One standout collaboration on your new album, “We Got Plays 2 Make,” is the track “The Finer Things,” featuring Suga Free and Kokane. How did the idea to bring these legendary artists together on a song come about, and what was the experience like working with them?
We actually just shot a video for this song, and it has been a great experience working with all these amazing artists. Especially Kokane, because he has taken me under his wing and shared so much knowledge with me.
- You had the opportunity to collaborate with Larry June. How did that collaboration come about, and what was it like working with him? Can you share any memorable moments from your time working together?
Working with Larry was amazing. My boy Ill Chris linked us up, and it was a very smooth, organic process. We recorded it in Seattle, and I believe Larry did his verse in one take (which is very rare).
- Throughout your career, you’ve likely faced various challenges and obstacles. Can you share an example of a hurdle you encountered and how you overcame it, ultimately strengthening you as a producer?
Any time you have a vision and an expectation with your art, and you have to compromise it for the sake of collaboration, it’s always a very humbling experience.
- Apart from producing music, do you have any other creative outlets or artistic endeavors that you pursue? How do these additional creative pursuits enhance your overall artistry?
Lately, I have been hosting a night in Seattle where I curate the music, food, and vibes. It is artistically fulfilling, to say the least.
- Are there any specific musical genres or styles that you’re interested in exploring or incorporating into your future projects? Is there a particular direction or sonic landscape that you’re eager to explore?
I want to do some yacht rock music.
- As a producer, you play a crucial role in shaping the sound of an artist’s project. Can you describe your collaborative process and how you work with artists to create the desired vibe and atmosphere for their music?
The more immersed a student you are to the artist you’re working with, the sharper your blade will be. I just try to make my version of the sound that we know and love from the said artist.
- Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the future? Are there any specific projects or collaborations that you’re excited about or currently working on?
I want to continue gaining more notoriety and become known for my independent brand and work ethic in a funky lane of music that I enjoy and pay homage to.
- Finally, on a personal note, what do you enjoy doing in your free time when you’re not creating music? How do you recharge and find inspiration outside of the studio?
I love playing sports and games. I’m very competitive. I love basketball, pickleball, and trivia.
- Any last words for our readers?
I have some amazing music on the verge, and it’s some of my best work to date. I am very excited to share it with my fans and look forward to continuing to blaze my trail and leave my musical legacy.
Haastattelu: J-P / Fileerausveitsi
