Coming at you from a place most people don't like to talk about, Greylove is like an open book with his latest single "Cruel World". Taking sonic inspiration from the likes of The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, and Juice Wrld, Greylove uses his latest track as a vehicle for opening up about his personal experiences with drug dependency and abuse. Even as a cry for help from Greylove's past self, it also serves as a cautionary tale for those going through substance abuse and dependency.
Rattling bass paves the way for a very catchy chorus with fat horns and big kick sounds. What “Cruel World” does best to showcase Greylove’s talent is balance the emotional and almost tender message beyond the song with such an aggressive sonic backdrop at times. It’s what makes Greylove such a compelling artist to keep an eye out for.
Your production stands out as unique, especially the vocal processing. Do you produce your own music or work with any collaborators?
I produce, mix and master all of my own music. I’ve been making music for about 3 years now and I started out in electronic music. My influences range from people like Avicii and Madeon and extend all the way to The Weeknd and Billie Eilish. I love combining my love of multiple genres and I will take inspiration from anything that resonates with me, regardless of genre.
When it comes to collaboration I work with anyone and everyone regardless of musical experience. If the idea is good I will incorporate it into the song and credit the person fairly. In my experience, being open to collaboration has elevated my music and production in ways I cannot even imagine.
For example, something that I do frequently in my music is sample my contemporaries. I will typically send some close friends the fully finished track and just ask them to come up with anything that they think might fit into the track.
Sometimes I get back vocal samples and other times I will get additional instrumentation. It really depends on the track and I never know what I’m going to get beforehand. For me, this process helps give each track a unique identity within my discography.
Why do you feel the world is cruel, what specifically inspired this track?
This track is inspired by my personal experiences with drug dependence and abuse. I’ve sacrificed personal relationships, mental health, and physical health in an attempt to pursue my dream of being an artist full-time. I want nothing more than to succeed as a creative but sometimes I find that I am a victim to my own drive.
With the ups and downs that come with being a creative, sometimes I just feel the need to find an escape. During the writing process, I chose to be completely vulnerable and honest with my experiences because at the end of the day, that is the point of the Greylove brand. I strive to tell honest, vulnerable stories in the hope that someone will be able to find solace in my art.
Who is the girl on the single artwork, does she relate to the subject of the song?
The girl on the art is my good friend Sam. Within the context of the song, she is the personification of drug abuse and addiction. I wanted to focus on the seductive aspect of these substances and I thought that her look and style matched the aesthetic of the song perfectly.
What can we expect to hear from Grey Love next?
Right now, I am releasing one single a month in an attempt to build my brand and create a name for myself. Expect to hear more music as well as some visual projects such as music videos and visualizers.
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