Rapper and artist Saint Brown stops by to talk about life during the pandemic, his new music, what inspires him, and his plans creatively moving forwards. Here’s the conversation in full.
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Hey – great to chat with you, how has 2021 been treating you so far?
So far so good, in my last year of nursing school, and working on a new album Therapy Sessions. Working on a Covid unit definitely puts things in perspective as to how precious each day really is.
For those new to your work, how would you describe your sound and style as an artist?
I’m a 90’s kid at heart. Lol. I love the boom pap sounds, with soulful and meaningful singing. Like rap that tells stories and actually has a message. I generally write from my heart as I want the story to be loud and clear.
How did the single One Day come to be, and what does it represent for you?
This is a true representation of my life and the opening song for the new album Therapy Sessions. It reflects a tumultuous period in my life that by making it into a song, I can get rid of the burden. I can also pass this on to others that may be going through the same thing today and now they can know they aren’t alone.
You have a refreshingly classic, clean-cut yet characterful rap style. Is this something that came naturally, or that you have honed over time?
Thank you! It just came to me one day (no pun intended) to be honest, I never thought I would be rapping and making songs.
Who or what has been your greatest inspiration when making music?
Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Eminem, Drake, all of the greats! I let my songs come from my heart. I write with the intention of sparking an emotional response from the audience as it sparks in me.
In contrast to the conceptual depth of One Day, Benz N Friends seems to be more of a late-night anthem for the good times. Is there a different creative mindset involved when moving from heavy subject matter to that which is lighter and more laid-back?
There is, I feel that there needs to be a mixture of serious message along with some “lets just have fun”. Benz N friends I created in the rap duo “Conscience Media” – our collaborations are usually fun-styled and light hearted.
How long have you been making music, how many projects have you released, and has your style evolved at all over time?
Only a couple of years, I feel that it had definitely evolved with each song I create. I have about 6 or seven solo projects and about five collaborations with Conscience Media.
On your IG profile you quote – “Laughter makes the world a better place! Let go of the things that you can’t control.” Would you say that you weave these qualities into your music at all?
Oh man! I live by that every day! I have to often remind myself of that when times get tough.
Has there been any positive impact on your creative route as a result of the world’s tumultuous past twelve months?
Yes, I have received emails and messages from people who have heard my song and were moved by the words. They have told me things like they were feeling down and it helped to lift their spirit. That’s a great feeling and a motivational one as well. I also feel a sense of relief with each song I release about my life. It’s like I am shedding an emotional burden.
If you could collaborate with anyone at all from a different genre, who would you choose, and why?
Sam Smith! I like his powerful music that always has a message as well. Demi Levato simply because of her voice and how her music is thoughtful and moving.
What’s next for you?
Upcoming album Therapy Sessions coming in June. A couple of independent films Desper Hallows, and I am writing a full length feature film A Better You.
Is there anything else we should know?
I am currently on all platforms and you can also find me on IMDB for music videos I have directed, written, and starred in. There are a few indie films as well.
Thank you for taking the time to interview me. I appreciate it greatly. One love! Peace!
Saint.
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Check out Saint Brown on Facebook, Spotify & Instagram.
