Interviews

Published on July 30th, 2014 | by Jameelah "Just Jay" Wilkerson

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V.S. a.k.a. Vishal S.: Music Is My Canvas…

Let’s hop right into this brand new single entry “Love Control” — Tell me about this track specifically? How did it actually come to fruition?

“Love Control” is a song that everyone can relate to. It’s about staying up at night waiting for your significant other to come home. Unfortunately, I think we have all been there. I feel it’s the perfect balance between that “club” song style and real relationship issue. Which is very important to me.

It’s taken from your soon-to-be released solo debut, the aptly titled, Stereotype — Although definitely self-explanatory, still tell me what prompted your decision to name the record this?

I think we all “Stereotype” one another. I think it’s natural as human beings to do so. But, let’s be real, I’m different. My style, the way I look and, more importantly, my music is different. I think we all get stereotyped, and wouldn’t we all want to break them or prove them wrong?! So, that’s what I am doing. This album does that for me. It’s breaking the mold, or changing initial perceptions, because once you listen to my single “Love Control,” and my album Stereotype, you will think of me differently.

As, of course, an extension to that last question, why do you feel it is that there is even a “stereotype” of this nature out there that, as you have already reiterated, “INDIAN PEOPLE CAN’T SING R&B MUSIC?” And, in having said this, why is it actually so important to you to erase and/or clear up these negative thoughts/ideas and/or doubts from said individuals’, obvious, cloudy minds?

Well, again, I think we all “stereotype” each other. I think we all have assumptions or prejudge one another. I think it’s natural. It doesn’t make you a bad person. I mean, maybe some stereotypes are right…I don’t know…But, I truly feel that it’s time for music to sound different. I’m hearing a lot of the same sounds and styles. The album Stereotype doesn’t have to represent only about who I am culturally or ethnically, but it will also, if not more, represent what I do as an artist. Right now, I believe music is being stereotyped as a little repetitive, and I want to change that. I think, honestly, stereotypes about me will be a blessing. Although, that’s up to the audience. Which is great.

Reflecting, how did you first discover your musical talent?

I was just hanging out with my friends one day and they were all fooling around, freestylin’, and I started singing the hook. All my friends were like, “Yo, you can sing!” So, that’s where it all started.

Who have been your greatest inspirations musically and why?

Donell Jones is a big inspiration for me. The way he told stories in his songs were great. I also am a big fan of 112 and Jagged Edge. I loved their sound! Usher is a great artist. His longevity in the game is incredible.

What do you feel you offer the music industry that we don’t already have in other performers?

I’m a vocalist, writer, producer and create my own beats. I’m a one stop shop! I do it all. Every song I create is personal, and I put all of my heart and soul into it. I feel that’s lacking right now. Everything sounds the same, or the ingredients of making a song is the same. But, every song I create has a purpose. Every song on my album Stereotype has an issue or content that is personal. You won’t only hear or listen to my music, you will feel it! It will move you, you will have a reaction to it. It will make you think, make you dance and, of course, get you ready to make love. That’s why I don’t think of myself as just a R&B singer. I am an artist, and the point of being an artist is to move people. Music is my canvas. I truly believe that.

Have you encountered any problems in getting to this point in your career?

No, not really. I’m not worried about the problems that come up or the trials that may be in my way. I don’t really pay attention to it. I just believe in God, and I know as long as I do what I love and have good/positive people around me, I will be fine.

What do you want people to get from your music?

I think I touched on this before, but when people listen to my music I want them to feel something. Be moved to dance, cry, smile, it doesn’t matter. My goal is that every song I create will make you feel a certain way. I think hearing songs that don’t make you think, or make you feel an emotion, is not what music is about. I want to give music its proper respect. I think people will hear that personal touch, and the love I have for music, in my music.

When can we, the “masses,” expect some new music from you?

Well, first of all, my album Stereotype is brand new, so go get that album! Check out my new single, “Love Control,” and the new video! But, I’ll be back in the studio real soon, working on more music, so stay tuned…And, keep following me on my Twitter and Facebook page!

What has been your greatest achievement so far?

I think just finishing my album, Stereotype, was a great achievement. Getting the “Love Control” music video done was huge for me as well. As a young up and coming artist, I can’t take that for granted.

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

That’s real hard! I couldn’t pick one. I would love to work with Nas, Kendrick Lamar, B.o.B and DMX. Any one of them would be a blessing. But, I would’ve loved to work with Notorious B.I.G. and 2Pac! But, I used to have dreams about working and collaborating with Aaliyah. If I had to pick one, it would be her. She was amazing. Loved her vocals and the way she danced. She was beautiful, sexy and strong. Yeah, definitely Aaliyah.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?

Madison Square Garden. It’s where the stars go, so if I’m performing at that venue then you made it!

One track of yours that you think defines you and why?

Not trying to be cute, but, seriously, every song defines who I am.

Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention, that you’d like to point out at this given time?

No, not at all…Just thanks for the support!

Any parting “message(s)” for our readers?

A: If you haven’t had a chance to check out my single “Love Control” music video, please do! I know they will love it! Of course check out my album Stereotype! Just thank you, again, for the love and support! Most importantly, thanks to HYPE Magazine for the love! Peace and God Bless!

Interviewed By: Hype Staff
@VSartist



About the Author

Publisher and CEO of The Hype Magazine. Follow me on Twitter @HypeJustJay


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