Undertow On Sight Interview

Serving up one of the slickest videos of the year, multi-faceted hip hop artist Undertow releases fresh visuals for his single 'On Sight' filmed by Kenna Filmz released via Likeminded Recordings.

The single was written over a period of time pre/post CO-VID, and is about his life and how the rapper lived, whether it was good or bad, he just keep moving forward. It references things that were happening at the time of the writing.

He goes on to say, "Friends were going through various struggles, from breakups to heart-attacks, this song is about how I perceived that at the time and how that affected me. From an artistic point of view, the track is about doing what you want, maintaining your vision and integrity. Don't abide by the rules with art as it's an expression of yourself,"

"The message is no matter how buried you are in life, mental thoughts, day to day hardship, and how down you feel, you just need to push on and get what you came here for,"

The accompanying visual overflows with energy and see's Undertow roam through the streets of Sydney with conviction. Capturing the glow of the city and it's surroundings.

Having made a bold and confident statement within his career, Undertow is no stranger to the stage. He has over 20 years tenure entertaining Australian and New Zealand audiences never swaying too far from the spotlight. Since releasing his debut LP 'Minds Believing' in 2010 to some great reviews and recognition. He then went on to release two albums and an EP with the act Kobra Kai. As a founding member the D&B/Grime/Hip Hop/Electronica act Kobra Kai made a huge impact on the Australian scene. Following that release, 'Light in the Distance' dropped 2018 and a collaboration with Sydney producer O.T and Dj Maniak for 2019's 'Staircases' release.

Undertow has gone on to perfect his craft of connecting metaphors and syllables over crafted instrumentals. Along the way he shared the stage with some of the best in the business, including Caspa, Dizzee Rascal, Scratch Perverts, Dr Octagon, Lyrics Born, The Four Owls, Ocean Wisdom, Jam Baxter, MIA, Footsie and more.

Undertow's upcoming EP 'On Sight' sees him go back to his bass music roots, with production handled by UK producers and all around a 140 BPM, his ability to switch in and out of modern hip hop, grime and anything in between is what really makes this release stand-out.

Interview with Undertow

Question: How would you describe your music?

Undertow: A mix of hip hop and grime from 90s to now


Question: Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

Undertow: Seeing I have not done a lot in the way of a hip hop gig in a while, Nights til High Noon from Light in the Distance always go down a treat! Huge energy and the beat slams. Other than hip hop I love to mc over a good reggae or dnb tune with a ready dancefloor.

Question: If you could have anyone, in the world, attend a show, who would it be?

Undertow: I'd have to say everyone that I've lost along the way, Kray, Lauro, Vesper, Dad, Scepaz, ALF RIP!


Question: Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Undertow: Definitely performing live! Nothing beats the energy and rush!


Question: What motivates you most when writing music?

Undertow: It can start with the beat, an idea in your head or sometimes for a purpose. I get all sorts of inspiration from so many of my friends, and people that I see out there hustling also.


Question: Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

Undertow: I have been listening to Indigenous artists like Kobie Dee and JK 47, I'm pumped on the fact that Indigenous musicians and artists are getting the voice they deserve! UK artists like Dabbla, Jam Baxter, Chester P to name a few but generally most hip hop from the Uk I am a fan of. Not so much artsits but a steady diet of Drum and Bass, Grime and Reggae is always on rotation. Apart from that bands like Neighbourhood Void, Trophey Eyes and Tunstile are great.

Question: What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Undertow: I started playing guitar at the age of 13, I was in my fired band by 16 playing shows, started rapping at 19 and just continued form there. I use to take my mic in a backpack and basically go to every party I could and ask Djs to let me MC with them. It was all hard work and determination that eventually paid off. I have had a lot of fun over years playing music and meeting amazing people along the way.


Question: If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

Undertow: I'd like to get Kobra Kai back together and play music again, haha sounds ridiculous but damn that a tight fit unit!


Question: Did you have any pre-conceived ideas about the music industry?

Undertow: The music industry is tough, always had been and always will. It's just about staying focused, doing you and continuing on your path.


Question: What's a typical day like?

Undertow: Weekdays - Exercise, work/work on music, cook something amazing for dinner and relax. Weekends – depending on the level of the hangover from the night before, just as good food and drinks and company that I can cram in. Hopefully the future will be gigs and radio but that's a waiting game!


Question: What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?
Undertow: I would definitely say entertaining people, and the fact my lyrics and songs can inspire and help others. The amazing times I've had travelling around the country and abroad, and all the great characters and friends I've met throughout the time.


Question: Can you tell us 5 things required for a happy healthy and enjoyable life?

Undertow: Good friends/family, all the food (and some drinks), exercise and if possible be submerged in water often, some form of meditation/thought/process, and most important just a positive and respectful attitude.


Question: Can you share your socials?

Undertow: Instagram 
Facebook 


Interview by Gwen van Montfort