Are you a music listener who actively branches out to wider genres? Are you a songwriter who often experiments with varied styles and techniques to expand your sound? Maybe you are, maybe you aren’t – I’ll let you decide whether you think that’s beneficial. While you’re contemplating that decision, let me introduce two artists who truly stand out for their unique sounds and innovative approaches: Joe Millz and Manofsteel. These artists, though hailing from different musical traditions, share a common passion for pushing boundaries and engaging with their audiences in meaningful ways.
Through their distinct musical styles – Joe Millz’s fusion of hip-hop with elements of R&B, soul, riddim, and genge, and Manofsteel’s vibrant blend of old-school Afrobeats with contemporary Afrobeat elements – they bring fresh and captivating experiences to listeners worldwide. Carry on reading to explore how both artists, through authenticity and innovation, are redefining their genres and creating new musical paradigms (and maybe you might consider expanding your palate).
Authenticity in Storytelling
At the heart of Joseph Millighan’s music (artistically known as Joe Millz) is a commitment to authentic storytelling. “What makes my sound unique is the blend of authentic storytelling with innovative beats,” Millz explains. His music is deeply rooted in his personal experiences, offering a raw and relatable edge that resonates deeply with his audience. This responsive nature, paired with inventive musical techniques, evokes a brand-new listening experience and can truly be eye-opening.
Similarly, Aloysius Ejiasi, or Manofsteel, emphasises the importance of authenticity in his Afrobeats and Afro-fusion tracks. “The incorporation of traditional aspects from my background adds a rich and authentic layer to my sound,” he shares. His track ‘ONIFE’ is a prime example of how a song can attract different generations, demonstrating both traditional elements combined with a modern, dancehall vibe. If you have yet to experience this unique sonic blend, then I highly recommend you check it out.
Pushing Musical Boundaries
Innovation is a key theme in both artists’ work which successfully expands their musical versatility. Joe Millz is unafraid to experiment with different sounds and production techniques. “Pushing musical boundaries is a big part of my creative process,” he says. This experimentation keeps his music fresh while staying true to the core elements that define his style. Manofsteel echoes this sentiment, balancing experimentation with maintaining a sound that resonates with his audience. “Balancing experimentation with maintaining a sound that resonates with my audience is key,” he asserts. Both artists understand the importance of evolving their music while keeping it grounded in its roots, ensuring that their fans remain engaged and excited.
Engaging with Audiences Through Social Media
It’s not just their music that goes above and beyond. Social media plays a crucial role in how both artists connect with their fans. Joe Millz uses all of the platforms to provide a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process. “I love to engage directly with my audience through Q&A sessions, live streams, and interactive posts,” Millz notes. This interaction not only strengthens his bond with fans but keeps them excited and invested in his music career whilst simultaneously drawing in newcomers. Manofsteel also utilises social media to share his music-making process and engage with his audience. “By being authentic, interactive, and consistent on social media, I can build a strong connection with my fans,” he observes. These creatives recognise the power of social media in building a loyal fanbase and keeping their audience informed and involved.
Cross-Genre Collaborations
Both Joe Millz and Manofsteel see value in cross-genre collaborations. Millz expresses a keen interest in working with artists in EDM or alternative rock. “These kinds of collaborations can create something truly unexpected and groundbreaking,” he enthuses. It’s refreshing to see an artist’s desire to try out genres that can be viewed as the polar opposite of their usual focus. For instance, his track ‘Angels’ with Worl’Wide Rick features an old-school style sample enhanced by accompanying synth strings. These are overlayed by Millz’s compelling, raw vocals, which create an unusually conflicting yet dynamic piece overall. Their two creative minds channeled a new take on the rap scene, blending different sonic landscapes and embodying the epitome of creativity.
Manofsteel, on the other hand, is excited about the potential of collaborating with artists from genres like country, R&B, and hip-hop. “Each genre brings its unique flavor and vibe,” he says, highlighting the potential for creating truly eclectic and dynamic music. His most streamed track titled ‘Bread & Juice’ featuring Regifiz does stray slightly from his usual sound, in the best way. This is a true club anthem that exposes Manofsteel to a whole new audience base. It’s safe to say that through these special collaborations, both artists seek to explore new musical territories and bring fresh perspectives to their work.
Impact of Streaming Platforms
Streaming platforms have significantly influenced both artists’ reach and discovery, giving them the platform for listeners to stumble upon their music. Joe Millz acknowledges the transformative effect of curated playlists and algorithms. “Playlists curated by these platforms can significantly boost an artist’s visibility,” he observes. Similarly, Manofsteel recognises the role of streaming platforms in expanding his music’s reach. “Playlists and algorithms play a significant role in expanding my music’s reach, and they’re able to reach listeners who might not have discovered my music otherwise”, he acknowledges. As Spotify offers curated playlists with broad themes such as ‘Good Mood’ or ‘Dance Party’, any song from any genre can be featured, thus making it easier to showcase all artists – big or small.
With new music on the horizon, Joe Millz and Manofsteel exemplify the power of authenticity and innovation in contemporary music. Through their unique sounds and dedication to engaging with their audiences, they continue to push boundaries and redefine their genres. Whether through heartfelt lyrics, innovative beats, or cross-genre collaborations, these artists are poised to make a lasting impact on the global music scene.
As they prepare for their upcoming releases, fans can look forward to new music that is not only fresh and exciting but also deeply rooted in personal experiences and cultural heritage. Their journeys highlight the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of music.
Perhaps you’re now more inclined to delve into some alternative musical genres and catch a glimpse of what the wider music world offers.
Cover photo: Manofsteel by Trent
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