Hil St. Soul: Music & Life
Let’s hop right into this lead single, “A Feeling So Beautiful” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?
“A Feeling So Beautiful” is the 4th single released from my new album Back In Love. This is a song I co-wrote with producer Regi Myrix, the producer also responsible for “One Life.” He sent me the track, and I was immediately drawn to it because of its infectious vibe. The song is about the physical and spiritual connection between two people. It’s a song sung by a woman who is clearly loved up, and is reminiscing on the previous magical night with her significant other. It’s about living in that present moment, and expressing her desire / need to create more special magical moments.
Of course “A Feeling So Beautiful” comes courtesy of your new solo LP, Back In Love — Conceptually, what does this title represent both to and for you?
The album represents LOVE; my love for music and life. It’s about the special relationship I have with music. It’s also a love letter to my supporters / followers and die hards, who have stuck by me and been with me through my musical journey / adventure.
How then does Back In Love either differ and / or compare to previous Hil St. Soul entries?
It differs from previous albums in that it showcases my evolution as a singer and songwriter. The predominant theme that runs through the album is LOVE in its different guises. It touches on the physical aspect of love; such as working off some of that unwanted stress by lovemaking (“IN MY GROOVE”), spiritual love (“KING,” “BLESSED” & “AMAZING,” “SWEET HEAVEN”) or both (“HEAVEN MUST BE LIKE THIS,” “A FEELING SO BEAUTIFUL”) love of music and the importance of music as a form of escapism from life’s dramas (“PARTY ON”), keeping love alive and the relationship fires burning (“LOVE and FIRE”), dealing with the emotions of still being in love with someone when you’re no longer in that relationship (“FINGERPRINTS”). I would say it’s a LOVE FEST!
As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw your inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from life, from my environment / surroundings, from my interaction with the people I meet in passing and those closest to me. I could be riding on the train and something happens that will immediately inspire me to write a song.
It’s been more than a decade since your last studio effort — Why such a lengthy delay between projects?
I took some time out as I wanted to find some new musical inspiration, and just experience life outside of music.
Aside from this new collection, what all else had / have been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during this lengthy musical hiatus?
I took (a) hiatus from recording music. I spent a year in the motherland – Zambia – visiting my folks and spending time with them. It was the best decision ever. It allowed me to refocus, realign and rejuvenated my zest for life and music. I got to travel around my homeland and take in the beautiful sights; Victoria Falls, which is one of the 7th Wonders of the world, and soak up the music of course. I met and worked with some very talented local musicians, and curated live shows amongst other things. I traveled to Kenya – performed out there – and South Africa, where I got to meet the late great Hugh Masekela. We spoke about working together, but unfortunately that never came to be as he sadly passed away. On my return to the UK, I collaborated with some soulful House producers on some soulful House projects. This allowed me to a explore and delve into a different creative side of myself.
You also semi-recently dropped a new song, “Christmas With You,” for the holidays — Talk to me a lil bit about this seasonal gem…
After completing the album Back in Love, my producer and I, Lorenzo Johnson, started a conversation about doing a Christmas song, as I had an open window before the album release. We wanted to work on an original composition, and to write something that captured the true spirit and essence of Christmas. This song is about the longing to spend Christmas with your loved one(s), who either spend a lot of time abroad or work far away and only return home for the holidays. We exchanged ideas, and a week later “Christmas With You” was born.
Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Hil St. Soul?
Well, my musical journey really started when I took a year out of university. I had just completed a year in my degree, but decided I wanted to take time out and explore my passion for music. I found a recording studio, and recorded three demos. One was an a cappella of Stevie Wonder’s “Until You Come Back to Me.” The studio boss at the time was impressed with my vocal prowess and introduced me to some in-house producers. We recorded some more demos, which found its way (to) my very first label, Dome Records. I continued working on and writing new songs, and the end result was my debut album Soul Organic.
Now you’re a native of Lusaka, Zambia, correct? So growing up overseas, who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
I grew up listening to my Dad’s record collection. My dad is a vinyl junkie, and has (a) numerous collection of soulful classic albums; from artists such as Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, Aretha Franklin, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, Candi Staton, The Staple Singers….the list goes on. This is the kind of music I grew up listening to. As I got older, I was exposed to an eclectic selection of music and artists.
In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?
I would say my overall sound is a fusion of the retro sound with a contemporary twist.
Where does your moniker originally derive from?
Hil is short for Hilary, and the St. Soul was just something I decided to use to describe the style and vibe of my music. The foundation of what I do is Soul / R&B, sprinkled with other styles of music; such as Jazz, Gospel, Hip Hop, etcetera.
What has been the key to your longevity? And, what will continue to sustain you in music?
I think that the key to my longevity has been my persistence – never giving up – being as authentic as I can be, and staying true to myself despite the ever changing trends of music and artists, and ultimately creating music that firstly feels good and resonates with me. I’m constantly aspiring to make timeless music, and create my own lane.
What do you want people to get from your music?
I want people to get the feel good factor. For me, music is a form of therapy and escapism. I’m always trying (to) make music that has a positive message, will uplift and take you to a euphoric state of mind…irrespective of what the subject matter is about.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?
I think that the current state of R&B is healthy. R&B has grown and evolved quite a bit since way back when. There are some amazing artists out there making great music, but there’s a lot to sift through…you just have to do a little digging around sometimes. I think the beauty is that there are so many choices, and there is something for everyone…music to suit different types of musical palates.
Do you have any other outside / additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?
I love fashion and styling and co-directing visuals. I’ll be looking to delve more in the visual side of my art. I also love interior designing.
To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?
There have been many musical highlights, but I would say being able to perform with Terence Blanchard and his Orchestra in honor of Spike Lee. That was mind blowing! Being in a position where I’ve had five albums released is another high point.
What’s an average day like for you?
Everyday is a blessing! Unless I’m preparing and rehearsing for a show, which means it’s all systems go, I’m quite a chilled out person, so l love doing ordinary things and spending time with loved ones. I also love doing spontaneous things; from going to the cinema and live concerts or traveling abroad.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
After a live performance, I always make an effort to meet and greet as many of them as possible, engage in conversation and take a few selfies. I try and respond or at least acknowledge any messages on my social media platforms. I think it’s so important to stay connected with my followers and supporters of my music. There is so much love out there, and I love reciprocating that love.
What is your favourite part about this line of work? Your least favourite? And, why?
My favourite part is getting to do what I love – singing and writing – as a living. My least favourite is the early morning starts.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Do you, stay true to you, be patient because it can be a long bumpy ride, take each day as it comes and enjoy every moment. My advice would be that music is a gift, so first and foremost do it for the love. Also, ensure you have a good team and the right people around you.
Lastly, what’s next for Hil St. Soul?
There is definitely more music, more visuals coming from me. I’m also working on some live dates in the U.S., so watch this space. I’ve started toying with the idea of writing my autobiography, so watch this space.
Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?
Everyone can find me / follow me on the following platforms…
Website : http://www.hilstsoul.com
Linktree: www.linktr.ee/hilstsoul
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3EvIMoS
SoundCloud:
https://soundcloud.com/hilstsoulmusic
Twitter : https://twitter.com/HilStSoul
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/HilStSoulOff
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/hilstsoul
Spotify : http://spoti.fi/2poyJwm
Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?
Throughout my whole career, I’ve had (a) loyal fanbase. I would like to thank them for the love and support, as what I do wouldn’t be possible without them. And to the new ones…welcome to the Hil St Party! I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I look forward to connecting with you in 2023 and beyond!
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