In this interview spotlight, I chat with Smokey Smothers about the latest single, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
Born and raised in Kenosha, WI and also spent some time in Eau Claire, WI. I would say music is for true lovers of music. I literally have something for everybody. I’ve done open mics and have had die hard metal fans tell me they don’t even like hip-hop but really love my music.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
I was still a toddler when I discovered my love for music and wanting to create it. As I got older, my grandfather Big Smokey became a heavy influence of mine to actually pursue a career. I feel like music is what my soul is made of. It’s like I don’t have a real choice in making music or not, as if I would stop breathing if I stopped making music. This makes my consistency effortless because I’m not overthinking it, I’m just doing what’s natural to my soul.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
I truly stepped outside of my comfort zone for the singing in the hook of this track. I’ve never liked anyone hearing my singing voice but I decided it’s time to be the artist I really am and let loose! I wanted to accomplish a sense of freedom and self love with Go Nutz not just for myself but listeners as well.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
My biggest challenge is I’m young enough to be digitally literate, but in terms of social media, I just haven’t fully grasped it yet lol I’m still trying to learn more about what my followers want to see from me content wise and how to be more consistent. I don’t pay too much attention to how saturated the industry is because I feel like everyone has their own lane. Find your tribe, ride your wave and keep creating. Technology is a big help. For me personally, I’ve gained fans in places like Sweden and Argentina thanks to social media.
What was the last song you listened to?
Took Her To The O by King Von
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
There’s nothing like vinyl. I don’t currently own a record player (this needs to change very soon), but if it were up to me I’d listen to everything on vinyl. It just hits different.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I mostly use Tidal. I love being able to get a look at the credits on a song or album. It gives me the nostalgia of buying CDs and flipping through the booklet to see song credits. I also like that the personal playlists they piece together for me actually consist of songs I like most. Other than that, I don’t have a huge reason in my preference, I enjoy all kinds of platforms, including LUM and Audius.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
I’m most present and consistent on Instagram. Be sure to follow me @iamsmokeysmothers
Anything else before we sign off?
Be on the lookout for my next project “Shadow Work”, it’s an EP produced by DizzyBoy Beatz. I’ll even have a break up song and a love song on there. I also want to thank ya’ll for the opportunity to do this interview and for putting my music in rotation. Much love.
