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Words By Joey Rochert.

Welcome back, Thomas! We’re thrilled to have you here, and we’re eager to learn more about your new single, ‘Up In Smoke.’ Could you provide our readers with a glimpse of what they can expect before delving into the track? 

💛 Yes, absolutely! Thank you so much for having me. ‘Up In Smoke’ is my ninth studio single of my upcoming debut album, ‘Late To Bloom’. It’s a dance track that I like to call the sexy song on the album, and it kind of speaks to all the things that try to distract us and throw us off course; such as sex, drugs, temptation in whatever form… in it, I say “my good intentions up in smoke / your sweet sativa has a hold / my good intentions up in smoke / not gonna lose control / not gonna take you home.” So it’s kind of an internal battle as to where to draw the line, because, let me tell ya, actions have consequences. The lyrics and music video tell a story about being approached by someone at a bar, while being in a relationship, and how to kind of manoeuvre that situation. 

Your growth as an artist has been evident in the progression of your previous releases. It’s clear that you’re evolving and becoming more influential with each new release. What fuels your inspiration to consistently produce such captivating music?

💛 Thank you very much! I like to think with each song release, I’m getting better and stronger at what I do. It’s very much a learning process and you learn through trial and error what works and what doesn’t. Unfortunately, I’m a virgo, and a perfectionist as a result, so it’s important to me to put out captivating art that engages the audience. 

Collaborating with Rudy Bundini for the official video must have been an exciting experience. How did that collaboration came about? 

💛 Oh, Rudy and I go way back! Maybe eight years ago, we met modeling and walking the runway for all kinds of New York designers. The great thing about social media is it keeps everyone close in a way. Even though all that time had passed, when I was imagining the concept for the video, I immediately saw him as my co-star, so I reached out and he said yes!

As we approach the midsummer of 2023, we’re curious to know what standout moments or experiences have been the highlight of your summer so far?

💛 Honestly, rehearsing for, and filming the ‘Up In Smoke’ music video was a real stand out moment this summer. It was my first time having choreography and professional dancers in a video, so it took a lot of work, and seeing it come to life was really special. Other than that, I saw Ava Max on tour…finally, last month. She’s been a huge inspiration for my music and finally being able to see her live, after covid screwed up her last tour, was really really a highlight of my year! I’m taking my husband to the South of France to celebrate his birthday next month, so that’s something super exciting, still, to look forward to! Maybe it’ll inspire a song on the next album…who knows?!

With the release of your latest single, ‘Up In Smoke,’ in the spotlight, can you hint at any plans you have in store for more releases this year?

💛 Well I thought you’d never ask! YES! My debut album, ‘Late To Bloom,’ is set to release on September 29th. It has 11 dance tracks, all produced by the brilliant LA producer, Electropoint. You can preorder it on vinyl, as well as the digital versions, now. Head to my website www.iamthomascole.com for more info. You may be getting a surprise or two before then as well, so stay tuned!

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Photo Credit: Thomas Cole.

Words By Joey Rochert.

Hello, Marsha, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘In Parallel’, what is the meaning? 

The song is reflecting on what is involved in maintaining a long-term relationship. I reference swans, as a symbol of loyalty. Not only do they mate for life, but they can often be seen swimming in parallel together over great distances. As humans, we have many distractions and interferences both internally and externally that can knock us of our path. In the video, I use ballet to represent the expansive dance involved for any couple.  I include in this dance, each person’s understanding and management of their own inner child. I also wanted to get across that whilst some threats to the relationship may be conscious, others may only become knowable via dreams. However, it is the ability to face up to or throw sentient light on what lies in the shadows,  that can ultimately strengthen a relationship.

I found it particularly poignant to learn that swans sing when they die.  I feel that each song of mine is perhaps a swansong of sorts, because there needs to be a death to give rise to a birth so it is inherent in any creation.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

The way that David Bowie continued his music to the very end of his life, incorporating his own dying process into his art was profoundly moving and inspiring. Even though he died in 2016, the ripples of this legacy are still powerfully current.

My daughter listens to a lot of Billie Eilish and as a result of this, I have been exposed to more of her music over the last few years than almost any other artist. I have been really struck by the power of her vision, from her songs to her videos, her performance and even the way she engages with her fans. 

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?

All musicians who lived through the pandemic have seen that music still has a place, even when we can’t perform live. For all its widely reported problems, technology has enabled us to both record and share music without even leaving our homes and that is incredible. I think in 2023 we are all appreciating being able to play live again, whilst also knowing that whatever the circumstances, the music will still play on!

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

When I’m writing for my own need to express something, it will always be on my piano in my lounge. A piano that goes back 3 family generations and is still able to keep its tune! If I’m writing as a commission, or as a project or co-write, it is a very different head-space and I can do that anytime and anywhere!

What is your first memory of music? 

I don’t know that I could trust any answer I gave to this question. Memory is so unreliable as we tend to construct and fabricate our stories without realizing it, shaping them subtly over time like a Chinese whisper. However, I do have consistent and powerful early childhood memories of my Dad’s best friend singing to me before bed on his guitar. I loved his voice which was gentle and soothing. It certainly had a formative impact on me.

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Photo Credit: Marsha Swanson.

Words By Joey Rochert.

Hello, 4Qua Of OrioN, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘4QuaZulu’, what is the meaning? 

4Qua simply means 4Qua of the zulu spirit, Zulus were remarkable people in ancient Africa and they are still a great people so it’s simply 4Qua meaning myself bathing in the glory of Zulu fame for lack of better words 🙂

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

It’s hard to say in particular as majority of the acts / artists currently charting are excellent, I tend to be more drawn to Genre of music  and that itself is a temporary thing as my genre of choice this hour might not necessarily be the same in the next hour if you know what I mean,

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?

The tools available for exposure and marketing ones arts have never been so accessible so this is a great time for musicians in my opinion

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

Not really, so far i’ve not been able to relate, when I hear musicians or composers imply or insist that having a dedicated space or  time is a prerequisite for success in or with their work, hahaha one just never knows when inspiration will come, for me it’s  not something i can switch off and on like it’s some sort of laboratory science endeavour, no jose. 

What is your first memory of music? 

My first memory of music? Hmmm…. listening to the Bassline by Aston Family Man Barrett on Bob Marley’s Rastaman vibration for the first time, I can clearly remember how i felt, i think i must have been 6 0r 7 years old.

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Photo Credit: 4Qua Of OrioN.

Words By Joey Rochert.

4Qua Of OrioN’s latest single, ‘4QuaZulu’, showcases the artist’s remarkable growth and talent, solidifying their position in the music industry. With this track, he has successfully blended the infectious rhythms of afro-pop with the contemporary elements of western pop, resulting in a captivating and unique musical experience.

From the moment the song begins, ‘4QuaZulu’ immediately grabs the attention with its pulsating groove. The rhythm is undeniably contagious, making it impossible not to move along with the music. Also, the track boasts a refreshing sound that effortlessly bridges cultural boundaries and appeals to a wide range of listeners.

For us though, what sets this single apart is the sense of journey it takes you on. 4Qua Of OrioN masterfully crafts a sonic landscape that transports you to another world. The catchy melodies and vibrant instrumentation create an immersive experience that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

You can listen below.

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Photo Credit: 4Qua Of OrioN.

Words By Joey Rochert.

Prepare for the exciting arrival with Thomas Cole’s highly anticipated new release, ‘Up In Smoke’, out on May 19th. This multi-talented artist, known for his acting, modeling, and singing prowess, is about to make yet another grand entrance, igniting the scene with even more intensity. The release also comes with an official video, featuring the charismatic model and former heavyweight boxing champion Rudy Bundini, scheduled to premiere at 9 am ET on the 19th!

‘Up In Smoke’ is sure to captivate and it brings an allure of temptation that will lead you astray, before pulling you back in again! Also, with its pulsating bassline, infectious beats, and soaring vocals, this track instantly grabs the spotlight and refuses to let go.

Pre-order here.

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Photo Credit: Thomas Cole.