LA-based creative force Uche discusses the release of his new project “HOW TO DIE”, his musical origins, and what’s next.
Curating a sound submerged in 808’s and eccentric synths, LA-based trailblazer Uche is an artist who’s constantly thinking ahead. Pushing creative boundaries sonically and lyrically, his enchanting sound is harnessed with an disruptive approach that sets him apart from rappers alike. Posing as the next hottest prospect to emerge, the multi-disciplinary artist has unveiled the first half of his double-sided album.
Inspiring his listeners to go against the grain, embrace authenticity, Uche has built a reputation that transcends international borders. His profound desire to create an original experience through music and cinematic visuals hasn’t gone unnoticed. He shared the self-directed music video for “HERE I GO”, a symbolic masterpiece that instantly demands your attention, and more recently another self-conceptualised visual outing for “FN”, solidifing his bubbling status. Speaking to a generation whose angst is in constant battle with the overwhelming yearn for success, this razor-sharp single delivers the motivating push needed to see through any obstacles and internal pressures. A first part of a two-sided album that surpasses his discography thus far, “HOW TO DIE” captures Uche’s evolution seamlessly.
Catching up with Wonderland during his time in London, Uche spoke all things “HOW TO DIE” and more.
Listen to ‘HOW TO DIE’….
Read the interview…
How are you? How are you finding your trip in London?
Great! It’s been a smooth trip so far. It definitely feels like a place where I should have been, I have a lot of creative ties over here. It’s been productive, it’s important to shake hands with the tastemakers – a successful trip so far!
Take me back to the beginning, how were you introduced to music?
My earliest memories of music go back to when I was five or six years old. I grew up in Nigeria, I sang in the choir at Church up until I left the country. Myself and my brother, at the time, were the youngest to be inducted into the choir so that’s how I got my start, taking part in a Classical setting. It involved sight reading, going home and listening to Whitney Houston, Rod Stewart, The Temptations and Boyz II Men. A very eclectic selection of music was constantly being played in our household!
Were there any key artists that you listened to growing up, or even now, that you would note as a key influence or inspire you in some way?
I’m a fan and inspired by everyone that’s great. I’m inspired by greatness, period. A key artist would have to be Lil Wayne, when I first came to America “Mrs. Officer” was the first Rap song I heard back in 2008. I knew immediately that I wanted to rap after listening to it. Michael Jackson is another key name for me!
Growing up with music at the forefront of your mind, at which point did you start putting pen to paper?
When I delved into music, I was sure that it was my path. I didn’t start off writing lyrics, I used to freestyle with the homies a lot. That eventually transitioned into me writing my thoughts down and creating songs from pen to paper. It’s ironic now as I no longer write and prefer to express myself in the moment. I started off being very methodical but four or five years ago I changed my creative process, it’s all based off a feeling now.
Let’s dive straight into “HOW TO DIE”, I know this is the first half of a two-part album. Can you talk to me a bit more about the inspiration behind these projects? Is there a particular theme or story that ties the songs together?
It all started with “HOW TO DIE”, being in a place where I felt as though my back was against the wall and feeling fed up. It started as crash-out music and transitioned into a refined collection of angst, frustration and an edgy sound that not only reflects where the world is now but people’s personal journeys as well. It speaks to the idea that to live, you have to die. It’s centred around self-evolution, allowing versions of yourself to pass in order for new situations to come to life. As soon as I finished that project, I felt as though I needed to create “HOW TO LIVE” which plays on the flip side of it all. There’s a prudent, dark toxicity that follows the album as much as it feels vibrant. Ultimately, it’s mapping out how to live in order to die and telling that story through experiences, relationships and thoughts.
You’ve just shared the visuals for “Here I Go” – from the credits, it seems you had a very hands-on approach with these, it’s so good and very cinematic! Talk me through the process of bringing this song to life visually?
I’m a very hands-on artist! I directed, styled, designed and edited the video. I wanted “Here I Go” to feel like a punch. I was working on the concept for months, we had to evacuate LA due to the fires, as soon as I landed in London, I got sent the colour grading for the edit and didn’t realise how symbolic the fire and burning scenes were to what’s been happening in LA.
Throughout the creative process for both projects, were there any challenges you came across along the way?
It was originally one big album; I had a lot of good music that was beautiful, but didn’t merge in the way I’d hoped for. When I came up with the “HOW TO DIE” and “HOW TO LIVE” concepts, I was able to separate them. Much of the project was recorded in a huge chunk of time, I was constantly in the studio producing the beats. Once I saw which perspective each project was taking, I went in again and decided how to dictate the pace, aesthetic, and vibe. I’m still working on “HOW TO LIVE” right now and being in London enables me to catch a different vibe, work with different artists and it’s putting a different spin on how this project closes out which is dope!
In comparison to There’s Fire On The Lake how do you think these differ? Do you feel as though your sound evolved, and if so, how?
I feel as though in There’s Fire on The Lake and the “Lost” EP you’re seeing me clear space for the room I am about to take up. I’m a big kid in the mosh pit. Now, I don’t care as much anymore whereas previously I was more careful. I’m not promised tomorrow and that’s how I want to push my boundaries going forward!
What do you hope your fans will be able takeaway from “HOW TO DIE”?
I’m hoping I can act as a mirror to people’s personal journeys but want people to understand that I’m turnt, I’m here and I’m going against the grain! I will continue to make a statement and show out.
What else have you got in store for us this year?
I’ve got a lot of dope visuals and records in the vault. Whilst I’m out here in London, I’m tapping in with some great artists and creatives so a lot of features. There might be a mixtape or two on the way as well. I’m excited!
Words – Elle Evans
Photography – Sully
