Music is at it’s best when it invokes uncertainty, excitement and surprise. It is to this end that artist/producer Suspence devotes his musical aspirations, crafting intelligent lyrics about life’s struggles over rugged, in your face grooves.
Suspence was born in Southern Africa, and grew up in Toronto, Canada where he absorbed the rich musical mosaic. His influences include Kanye West, Will.i.am, Coldplay, Wyclef Jean, and Andre 3000 (from Outkast). This eclectic artist sings, raps, writes and produces all of his own original material. He defines his musical style as “electro-hiprock” which he describes as a “funky fusion of electro, hip hop and rock.”
Suspence has also formed an independent hip hop label Hot Jewlz Entertainment (www.hotjewlz.com) which is dedicated to promoting honest music. “Hip hop has been held captive by too many fantasy tales and unattainable lifestyles. I’ve always tried to be honest with my music.” Suspence launched the “Keep it Honest” music campaign in 2007 with his hilarious satirical music video “Ballin’ on a Budget” which debuted on Youtube.
This artist is a prolific and personal songwriter. “No matter how many times you’ve been knocked down, you’ve got to get up and try again, and that also sums up why I do what I do, it’s music therapy.” The theme of music as therapy is interwoven in his music, as he often shows a sense of vulnerability, allowing the listener to access his innermost thoughts and feelings. Love lost, career disappointments, hopes, politics, and community involvement are all topics that Suspence addresses with humilty and humour.
Suspence has also been active in the community, volunteering at festivals and special community concerts like the East Africa Famine Relief Concert. “I always try to address issues such as AIDS and poverty that are close to my heart. I have an internationaI music focus, and I want to give back through my art and time.”
On October 16th, 2008 Suspence won the Ontario Independent Music Award in the “Best Urban” Category. Currently he is finishing his debut album entitled “We Are One” which will be released on Dec 11th, 2008 (Human Rights Day) and available for free. Upcoming singles include “Hush” a story of a young girl’s difficult life and redemption, and “Float Like A Butterfly” which highlights many trailblazing black artists who have opened doors for the next generation.
Suspence is also preparing for a “Music and Lifeskill” tour throughout South Africa and Botswana in 2009, culminating in a Human Rights Concert in South Africa. “We hope to provide some music and life skill training, while tackling issues that affect us all.”
For more information, bookings, and artist interviews please contact:
Earl Phillips at (416) 908-7810 or earlphillips@hotjewlz.com
Label website: www.hotjewlz.com
