ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: MAZZ
Mazz's journey from Cascais' vibrant local music scene to England's diverse musical landscape has significantly shaped his unique sound, exemplified in his latest single, "Bad One." In this exclusive Q&A spotlight, we explore the fusion of Portuguese and English influences in his music and how his African background adds a distinctive flair. While some might detect hints of artists like Plan B and B Young in his tracks, Mazz's creativity is fueled by authenticity rather than imitation. He shares his songwriting process, highlighting the universality of his personal narratives. Collaborations with Regi and Danger Sounds have elevated his music, hinting at exciting future releases. With a growing fan base and recognition from BBC Music Introducing, Mazz's evolving, genre-blurring sound promises an exciting trajectory in the ever-changing music landscape.
Mazz, your journey from the vibrant local scene of Cascais to the diverse music environment of England is fascinating. How do you think this transition has influenced your music style and the creation of "Bad One"?
I have been into music from young so I have witnessed the growth and development from Portuguese and English artists. I have clear influences from both countries which you will probably hear in my music and I have been able to add my own style into the mix to become the artist I am today
Your music seems to resonate with a blend of cultural influences, combining Portuguese vibes with English tones. Can you share how you integrate these diverse elements to create a universal appeal in your music?
Well, I come from an African background and there is a lot of African influence in the music in Portugal. I just try to jump on fun beats that can you get moving, thinking and bopping your head.
"Bad One" showcases a clear influence from Plan B’s “Charmaine”, merged with Afroswing vibes similar to B Young's style. Can you delve into how these artists, and their respective tracks, inspired the sound and feel of your single?
To be honest, I wasn't inspired by either artist. I am a fan of B Young and appreciate his deliveries on his singles, how he can sing and talk about sensitive topics but still have a street element to it.
Your lyrics often portray a vivid narrative of your experiences, especially those during the COVID-19 lockdown. How do you approach the songwriting process to ensure your personal stories resonate with a broad audience?
I just write what I am feeling at the time or situations that I know people have gone through. Everyone has or will go through something I talk about so naturally, people are drawn to the lyrics/songs.
The collaboration with Regi and the continued partnership with Danger Sounds seem to have elevated "Bad One". Can you talk about the creative synergy in these partnerships and how they contributed to the final track?
I am massive fan of Regi and the style of beats he produces. I have so many songs where Regi has produced the beat so I hope to link up with him in Miami in 2024. Regarding Danger Sounds, we have a good relationship and we are very critical and honest with each other which is great for productivity. Danger Sounds has produced most of my songs so I can't wait for you to hear the rest.
The profound impact of your musical journey, both culturally and emotionally, is evident in your music. How do you maintain a balance between staying true to your roots and exploring new, innovative sounds?
I do try different sounds and will do in the future as the landscape forever changes. I started rapping at first and then moved to the melodic raps using autotune but I have R&B, Pop, Kizomba and Afrobeats songs too. I just love music in general and will experiment so I will never box myself in.
Being featured on BBC Music Introducing must have been a pivotal moment for you. How has the experience and the response from the growing fan base shaped your perspective on your music career?
I think it has shown people that I am serious about my career. It has enabled me to network with industry professionals and even grown my fanbase regionally. My first 2 singles have been featured on BBC Music Introducing and for me personally, that is amazing that people are genuinely liking what I am doing.
Your sound is characterized by smooth melodic flows and relatable lyrics. How do you plan to evolve this distinctive sound in your upcoming projects, and can fans expect more genre-fusing tracks in the future?
I'm only 2 songs in so I have much more to show and prove. My first single "Keys To My Heart", I was flowing on a drill beat whereas "Bad One" had more of a R&B feel to it so I feel that I am diverse, especially in the songs I have coming up. In every release, I will try to show my versatility whether that is lyrically, my flow or choice of beat.
The move to England was a significant change in your life, aimed at providing better opportunities. How do you think access to world-class education in England has played a role in refining your musical skills and perspective?
Education was important because that is where I met my close friends who support me with my music and help me network with industry professionals. Personally, it gave me another path to life where I was able to look at things differently and experience opportunities that some of my other friends didn't or couldn't. In a lot of songs, I refer to my experience in education whilst some close friends were incarcerated or in a different lifestyle to me, and how difficult it was to balance everything.
Lastly, with "Bad One" bringing such a diverse and compelling sound to the table, what’s next for you, and where do you see yourself in the rapidly evolving music landscape in the coming years?
I see myself as being one of the best upcoming artists. I want to show everyone my versatility and what I can do. I want to be a household name, I want my songs on the radios and in the clubs. I have a few more singles coming up with some videos followed by an EP in 2024!