Artist On The Rise: What inspired you to become a music artist, and how did your journey begin?
Louis Davis, Jr.: My journey began as a child singing in my church choir. My mother would sing solos and once my jitter bugs of singing in front of a heavily populated congregation went away, I sang solos as well. I know it sounds lil cliche, but First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Oakland, CA. on Telegraph Ave really gave me the rhythm and voice I would forever utilize the rest of my life.
From there my first Hip Hop & RnB performance was in front of my 5th grade Jefferson Elementary school class in Berkeley, Ca. with my best friend at the time Faraji Wright. Most people know him as Rexx Life Raj. He would actually go on to become a (currently) Major San Francisco Bay Area Super Star and he is still my favorite artist till this day.
We sang "it's just Raji Raj and Loui Lou/ Up on Stage Cause we Just too coo." After our class cheered at the finale I started thinking to myself "I could actually make people happy from the stuff I write and perform it on stage"....Those ideals wouldn't kick in for me until a lot later on in life when I realized I perfected my craft.
There was sooooo much talent that came out of my hometown it was completely ridiculous. We had Rexx Life Raj, The Pack, Marty Grimes, and most famous right now G-Eazy. We all grew up around each other. And now everybody is doing crazy numbers. I couldn't compete with those guys back then because I didn't believe in myself when all along I was probably one of the dopest composers on the scene.....a sleeping Gargantuan of talent drowned out by all of the success that was happening around me.
Artist On The Rise: Could you describe your creative process when composing and producing music?
Louis Davis, Jr.: When it comes to writing I'm a big fan of metaphors and triple double entendres. I usually create a Lyrical rhythm by saying meaningless words or jargon and record myself doing so. once I finally get the rhythm of how my flow is going to go I place words within the rhythm......but not just any words......words you don't hear on a regular basis but literally mean the same exact thing as your favorite word....words of wisdom with themes relating to powerful concepts that people can mutually agree on. But I don't shy away from controversy because it's all very ironic to me.
I write all of my own lyrics and I also write a lot for other people. My mother is an author so I could never succumb and get away with being a mediocre writer without any form of annoying degradation. I was always being graded by her standards even before the letter A would appear on the top of my essays.
Artist On The Rise: How would you define your unique musical style, and which artists have influenced you the most?
Louis Davis, Jr.: I'm influenced by conscious rap because it provokes more thought. Rexx Life is probably the most influential because we grew up together and it's really coo to see your childhood best friends do really well. But I kind of developed a style similar to the powerful punches of Busta Rhymes mixed with a New York State of Mind Nas infused with PartyNextDoor and J-Cole with a dash of lil wayne....My BoomBap is on hit mode. That BoomBap culture is epic because you can take it wherever you want to go. not only
Artist On The Rise: Your latest album/song has received critical acclaim. Can you tell us about the story or inspiration behind it?
Louis Davis, Jr.: Yes, this album is huge.... I literally made every beat constructed every song and gave it a lot of thought. as for the buildup, in the beginning to the party, middle to the calm down at the end. Keak Da Sneak jumped on LottaAppleBottom which is going crazy right now. I'm inspired by good messages. having a good time and doing great things.
Artist On The Rise: How do you balance your personal life with the demands of being a music artist?
Louis Davis, Jr.: I have two kids. two boys. two kings I am the head Coach for My son's lacrosse team and I also coach his football team as well. I am a very active father. My boys mean the world to me. we do things all the time together. when I put them to bed and kiss my lady. good night, I get some homework done because I'm working on my master's degree. I've got a bachelor's in sociology from Sonoma State University and I'm working on my masters of Business administration with a specialization in human resource management because I feel like society isn't recruiting in the right places. after that it's music time. they're in bed by 8:30 p.m. And I'm up from 8:30. p.m. about 5:00 a.m. then I go to work.
Artist On The Rise: In the ever-evolving music industry, how do you stay relevant and adapt to new trends?
Louis Davis, Jr.: I keep an open ear. And I listen to the rhythm and flow of the world world and what gets people going and I transition that into my own style so that I can stay relevant in a vuca world.... volatility is inevitable. So Darwin has to adapt
Artist On The Rise: Collaborations are a significant part of the music industry. Can you share your experience working with other artists, and what you've learned from these collaborations?
Louis Davis, Jr.: I have learned that other artists are really good at certain things. I love pushing my boundaries which is why I'm extremely unconventional but everybody has their niche. You have to research everything that an artist has had to offer and then Cast their role in your movie.
Artist On The Rise: How do you handle criticism and negative feedback about your music?
Louis Davis, Jr.: Nothing has ever negative. everything is always positive. I take it, run with it and use it as fuel to power the grind
Artist On The Rise: What role does social media play in promoting your music and connecting with fans?
Louis Davis, Jr.: Social media is huge but in-person connection is what is going to be popping off. if I reach out to you over social media to come to my show you probably won't come but if I knock on your door ask for your presence, remain concerned about your well-being, see how life is treating you .....and then turn around and hand you a ticket you are probably going to go. if you make everything about music, there won't be any music support. music is what happens because of the process.
Artist On The Rise: What advice would you give to aspiring music artists trying to break into the industry?
Louis Davis, Jr.: Be different. Don't let the norm curb your enthusiasm lol.
ON THE RISE
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South Korean artist Yulee Choi marks a significant milestone with the release of her single “Paracetamol,” the lead track from her debut album of the same name.
The title, a nod to the widely known pain reliever (acetaminophen in the U.S.), sets the stage for a song deeply rooted in themes of escaping pain and suffering and searching for solace.
Yulee’s dreamy vocals float effortlessly over a smooth, ethereal melody, reflecting a contemplative mood. Fans of emotive and atmospheric music akin to Lana Del Rey and FKA Twigs will find themselves drawn to Yulee’s evocative soundscapes.
On July 20, Choi will make her highly anticipated U.S. debut with a performance at Hollywood’s iconic Fonda Theater, marking her first stateside appearance promoting her new album. The showcase and mini concert start at 7 p.m.
“Music is an opportunity to tell the stories that are difficult to talk about. Sometimes people can suffer [in silence] from their environment and experiences, with music as the only opportunity to tell the story,” emphasized Choi. “That’s what I love about m
On July 9, Choi unveiled her full album. “Paracetamol” was one of five singles released along with “Atmosphere in the Heart,” conveying the tangible essence of love in the air. “Suddenly” delves into themes of loss, capturing the heartache of losing someone or something cherished.
“Twenty Years and Up” offers a contemplative reflection on life’s journey, exploring the trials of love and how they shape our identities. “After the Rain” offers hope, urging listeners to push through challenges with the promise of brighter days.
“In those five songs of pain, love, loss, reflection, and encouragement, there are many stories from daily life that everyone can relate to. I try to make socially responsible music because my hope is that people can heal through my music,” she shared. “This is the kind of music I want to make — stories of hope and encouragement.”
In her performance at the Fonda, Yulee will perform all five tracks from the album. She will be joined on stage by her band and production team, including A.M.K. 15, executive producer and educator; Lim Kyoungman, co-producer; Oh Hyunwoo, senior vocal trainer; Gwon Daeho, keyboard; Kim Hyungjoo, guitar; Tak Yongjin, drums; Kim Yechan, bass; and background vocalists Son Seokyung and Lee Yehee.
“A lot of this album was about experiences from my everyday life and represents my style of music. Ballad rock and pop rock are a big part of my style. So, I’m really excited about coming to the U.S. and hope many people can come out to enjoy my music,” she said.
She draws musical inspiration from icons like Beyoncé, Adele, Rihanna, and particularly Michael Jackson, whose storytelling prowess she deeply admires. This influence is evident in how she engages her music, taking the reins in writing lyrics, crafting melodies, and composing tracks.
Alongside her role as CEO at SRP Entertainment, she collaborates closely with various production teams across South Korea, further enriching her sound and vision.
“Composing ballad rock and pop rock songs are part of my style that I developed from studying songwriting many years ago,” said Yulee.
Blending ballad and pop rock, Yulee’s sound steps outside traditional K-pop territory. Though she is Korean, her music offers a fresh take, offering an easy-listening experience, perfect for fans of contemporary electronic music with a reflective twist.
If you are in Los Angeles, mark your calendars for Yulee’s debut performance on July 20 at the Fonda Theater. Stream “Paracetamol,” the single and album, available now on all music streaming platforms, and follow Yulee Choi on social media for updates, appearances, and new releases.
