Interview with Upkvst

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

I would have to say my love for music started back when I was in my early teens, after attending a few music concerts (U2, Carney, Arcade Fire and others) I started singing at home for fun and realized that I wasn’t as bad as I thought. It fueled my drive to learn and practice many of my favorite songs at the time. I ended up taking a little detour during my life but im happy to say that im back making music and creating new songs. If I wouldn’t be doing music, I could picture myself being a Child Youth Care Counselor, I feel like I have a good understanding when it comes down to feelings and what we can do to shift them in anyway we need to, and I like helping others help themselves.

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

When im not playing music, I like to read, go for walks, get tattooed and hanging out with a few close friends.

How long have you been making music?

I have been making music for 2 and a half years

Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?

At the moment, I am based in Moncton, New Brunswick. Coming from Moncton and being bilingual, I grew up listening to a lot of French music, particularly with my Mother and Grand-parents. I like to mix up some of my songs and add a verse or two in French. I am proud and grateful to be able to say that I can speak two languages. I wouldn’t say Moncton is a big influence, it mainly stems from how I grew up when I was younger and the people surrounding me.

Tell me about your most memorable shows, if you haven’t played live what is your vision for a live show?

I’ve never played live as of yet but I have had pre recorded performances before (in the editing stage at the moment). Honestly, the only vision I can see for my first live performance would be having a few close ones around for support and just having a great time and going with the flow!

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

I don’t have a venue in mind and no not particularly

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

If I could pick, id have to aim high and go with my inspirations. Post Malone, Frank Ocean & Russ.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

For advice, Id have to say just enjoy the journey and know that it is not one that comes overnight, you need to work hard, build solid connections and network with people in order to grow. Market yourself and your brand properly and you’ll be able to find the right fans. Its about building a community that can support each other!

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

Out of all of my songs, id have to say  “Euphoria” means the most to me, I really love the way it came out and the storyline of the song. Writing that song made me feel like my lyricism was improving and that I could come out with some better stuff next time.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

At this moment, my most favorite song would have to be “Euphoria”, “Midnight Club” & “Dvrk Plvce”. Three different vibes.

What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?

I like to make myself a cup of tea, meditate and then start creating. Going into a fresh page with a clear mind can do wonders, especially if you’re feeling blocked when it comes to writing. If I’m struggling still, ill step away and do something else for a few hours then go back to it when I feel ready.

Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music, if so please tell me about them?

No messages in particular, a lot of the time I make music based off how I feel in that present moment so having others say they relate to my songs is a huge thing for me because it shows that I’m not the only one going through those things and that I could help out many others with my music.

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

I rather keep my plans a mystery until the time is right, nothing too spotlight at the moment.

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?

The best way to keep up with me, would have to be on Instagram or Facebook.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upkvst/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086415850587

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@upkvst888

Streaming Platforms: https://withkoji.com/@upkvst