Leo Dessi (previously Art of Shades) Discusses new song ‘Somebody New’

Leo Dessi is a Franco-Italian producer and singer based in Los Angeles. After releasing music for the past 6 years under his former name, Art of Shades, his new project represents a change in sound landscape.

Leo’s new single “Somebody New” blends hip hop and electronic elements to create a unique take on modern R&B.

Listen to the latest single and read our interview with Leo Dessi!

What makes ‘Somebody New’ different from your past work?

Somebody New is a real switch in my new music. I use to compose more chill/deep house music. I’m not saying I won’t do this ever again, but there is for sure a difference with this single and the previous one. It’s more hip-hop mixed with classical elements and also I’m singing on it which is new too.

Can you describe the concept behind the track?

This song is about love. It’s divided in 2 sections. The first part is mysterious, pretty and fragile talking about love and how unstable it can be. The second part is complete opposite. Super intense, energetic. It’s about this feeling when you just let go you emotions and go out party, go completely crazy. Then it comes back to the first part at the end. The structure is unusual showing how unpredictable love can be.

How would you describe your artistic evolution throughout your career?

It changed a lot with time. At first I wanted to do Berklee in Boston in the scoring section. Making music for movies is something I still want to do today. Meanwhile I was studying jazz and classical music in Paris I was dropping songs on Soundcloud. I released “All Away” and it did very well so I created my label in Paris and changed my career projection by doing my own artist project. I was doing more deep house music but I felt that I was just trying to surf on All Away’s success. So at some point I decided to actually do the music I always wanted to compose. So I changed the name of my project and here we are. New song, new project with the music I really want to do! It’s very exciting.

What’s been the biggest change in your life over the past year?

Definitely moving to Los Angeles from Paris. It changed my whole vision of music. Met incredible people and stepped up my production skills. It’s always scary to leave your comfort and hometown but what a great decision.

What song by another artist do you wish you had written?

Nights by Frank Ocean. The beat switch is something I really love. In this song it’s absolutely insane. It’s literally everything I love haha.

And finally, where can readers keep up with what you are doing?

I’m the most active on Instagram! I answer every message, do silly stories.. It’s still my favorite social media so far. Let’s see if a new platform will emerge soon?

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Tags: art of shades, hiphop, leo dessi, Los Angeles, Pop, RnB