In a world where music often feels commodified and soulless, Osunlade, a luminary in the house music scene, emphasizes the importance of creativity and authenticity. In a recent episode of Househead, he shared his journey and perspective on the current state of music, urging artists to reconnect with their roots and express their true selves.S
The Journey of a Creative Soul: Osunlade reflects on his artistic journey, stating, "I do music. This is what I'm here to do. I'm here to express myself and do music where it lands." This mindset allows him to create music that resonates with his spirit rather than chasing commercial success. He mentions that there are times when he might go years without writing a song, only to create multiple albums in a short period when inspiration strikes. This ebb and flow of creativity is a testament to his dedication to genuine expression.
The Roots of Music: Growing up in St. Louis, a city rich in soul, blues, and jazz, Osunlade was influenced by live musicians who inspired him to push the boundaries of his craft. He explains that even as he ventured into house music, his goal was always to create soulful arrangements over a simple 4-4 beat. He emphasizes that the essence of music lies in its ability to connect with people on a deeper level, stating, "It's something that organically can connect with people because of the frequencies that I chose to make."
The Crisis of Authenticity in Music: Osunlade raises a critical point about the current landscape of music, where he feels the soul is often stripped away in pursuit of popularity. He states, "The soul is the part. It's the most damaging thing to our culture." He expresses concern over the appropriation of genres, particularly Afro house, which he argues has been misrepresented and commercialized without respecting its roots. He urges artists to remember the essence of their craft and not to dilute their music for mass appeal.
Navigating Technology and Creativity: The conversation turns to the impact of technology, including AI, on music production. Osunlade points out that while technology can enhance creativity, it often leads to a lack of genuine artistry. "You don’t need talent anymore; you just show up with your boobs out and just dance," he quips, highlighting a troubling trend. He calls for artists to focus on their craft and to find balance amidst the chaos of modern music trends.
Guidance for Aspiring Musicians: For those looking to break into production, Osunlade offers valuable advice: "Learn piano. That’s the first thing I would tell anybody." Understanding music theory through piano can provide a solid foundation for any aspiring musician. He also emphasizes the importance of mixing and mastering, stating that a well-mixed track is crucial for the music's success.
Conclusion: In a time when the music industry often prioritizes trends over authenticity, Osunlade serves as a reminder of the importance of soul in music. His insights encourage both established and aspiring artists to focus on genuine expression rather than commercial success. As Osunlade eloquently puts it, artists should create music that they would want to leave behind, ensuring their legacy is one of authenticity and soul.
Key Takeaways:
- Authenticity is key in music creation.
- Understanding your roots can enhance your creativity.
- Technology should enhance, not replace, genuine artistry.
- Learning music theory, like piano, is essential for aspiring producers.
