For those that may not know of you, please give a description of who you are, what you do and what you represent as a person and as an Artist?
I’m Mudblood, a hip-hop producer from Saint Petersburg, Russia. I’ve been in love with hip-hop music since I was 11. That’s exactly when I decided to become a musician. For the last 3-4 years I have been exclusively making beats.
You and I have a collaboration album titled “Sui Generis” , which means unique. Your music definitely has a unique sound. Was that intentional or how did that come to be and how would you describe your sound?
In addition to hip-hop, I love classical and ethnic/folk music. These genres definitely influenced my style. My beats are very melodic. And I pay a lot of attention to melodies, instruments, and the mood of the melodies. This is probably even more important to me than the drum part. I also prefer to use traditional musical instruments instead of synths.
I hear so many influences in your production, everything from Trap to
Boom Bap and even outside of Hip Hop… more, recently I found out, you
play the violin! how did you come to have such a worldly sound?
Violin has always been my favorite instrument, because it evokes very deep emotions in me. I’m just an amateur though. I never went to music school to learn how to play violin. Before I met you, I never really made a lot of boom bap beats, I was into trap mostly. However, I’ve never been a big fan of trap music. Now I try to do both in the same proportion.
What is something an outsider may not know about the Russian culture?
That you believe is important to know, musically or otherwise.
In Russia, music, as well as other areas of the entertainment industry, develops much more slowly than in the United States. The quality leaves much to be desired, as a rule. When I was a teenager, hip-hop was not very popular in Russia. Now the situation is different – hip-hop is trending and teenagers like it.
I once asked you what your favorite Hip Hop group was and you replied
“EPMD” (who I love) but, you being a 25-year-old from Russia, that answer surprised me, how did you come to love of EPMD and Hip Hop in general? What was it that drew you to their sound?
I’ve always been a fan of the traditional hip-hop sound. Old School is everything! I’ve always loved to discover artists outside of the mainstream. And EPMD are definitely one of my favorite hip-hop groups. I discovered them a long time ago accidentally and immediately downloaded their whole discography.
When I talk to you, I feel like you have an old soul, wise beyond your years, were you always like this? If not, where did it come from?
Thank you! It’s actually a compliment. I think this is due to the fact that I am a very thoughtful and introverted person. I was never into what most of people consider “fun”. I read a lot and make music. This what makes me happy. Mental health, physical health, creativity and self-awareness are the most significant aspects of my life that I focus on.
What advice would you give to yourself at 16 years old?
I would say to myself that time is the most valuable resource, and it is not worth wasting it on useless stuff. You need to set goals and start your journey as early in life as possible. Don’t rely on anyone or anything. Don’t be afraid to fail, let go or start something new. This is how you figure out what works for you and what doesn’t.
Where do you see the music industry in 10 years?
I think there will be a lot of interesting things happening in the music industry in the next 10 years. New genres will appear. More independent artists will be finally discovered. Now all the tools necessary to create, distribute and promote music are available to every artist, which is fantastic. Artists will become more educated about the music
business.
What is your favorite quote? Why?
‘A ship in harbor is safe — but that is not what ships are built for.’
I love this quote because it reminds me that fear is just a sign showing me the way to the prize. Act no matter what!
What is your favorite book? Why?
Currently it’s Unscripted by MJ DeMarco. This book is eye-opening. It helped me understand the power of value.
What is your favorite movie? Why?
I don’t have a favorite movie, because I don’t really like watching them.
If you could have anyone narrate your life movie, who would it be? And
why?
It would be me myself, because no one else knows my story that well.
What should people know about you, that they probably don’t already
know?
I’m half Russian, half Malagasy. Proud of my roots!
What’s next for Mudblood, upcoming projects, adventures?
After Sui Generis I want to continue working with you of course. I believe that together we can create a lot of hit songs. Dream team! And most likely, I’ll make and drop an instrumental album this year.
Thank you very much for this interview!