Trev Rich: Pain (Single Review)

“This Whole Fucking Year, I’ve Been Suffering From Depression; A Lot Of First Impressions And A Lot Of Second Guessing”

 

 

Trev back – now more than ever – according to my recent interview with one of the hottest rappers coming out of Colorado right now. In an attempt to reinforce that statement, the Squizzy Gang artist dropped a second single from the third instalment of his highly praised “Heights” series. Produced by BrinkyBeats, “Pain” is a track in which Trev projected that his fans would love most due to its introspective, emotionally resonating nature which seen him suit Joe Budden’s MME group perfectly. As I’m sure is evident by now, after a plethora of positive reviews, I’m a big fan of the “Dreams” rapper but there is a reason I’ve never written a review for the first single – “Go Get It”. Trev Rich is an artist I have often applauded for his consistency in his entire catalogue. Even before “Heights”, Trev was making marvellous music in under the pseudonym of Rockie G5 in the “Gold Dreams” project. Unfortunately, “Go Get It” just wasn’t for me. I was reliant upon “Pride” to reinstore my faith for “Heights 3“, and thankfully I was not disappointed.

BrinkyBeats is becoming a producer that Trev Rich fans are fast becoming used to, he has created a vast array of amazing instrumentals for the rapper including “Numbers To Letters” and “L.A Interlude”. It appears that Brinky will be a regular name on the “Heights 3” project as he has a produced both singles from the highly anticipated mixtape – to be released on the 19th of November. The “Pain” beat is beautifully pieced together with a blend of delightful drum patterns, captivating piano chords and a sampled voice which isn’t dissimilar to the Ellie Goulding sample on Drizzy and Hov’s “Pound Cake”.

The brilliant production provides a phenomenal foundation fit for Trev’s fantastic ability to rip his heart out and lay it in a verse. The layout of the track seems scattered, and that might be the one downfall. I was convinced the sections in which T spits “You don’t wanna be sober, don’t want be hopeless, don’t wanna be lonely no more” was the hook, but turns out a segment saying “I smoke, I drink, I’m supposed to stop but I can’t” might be more appropriate for that title and the former is more of a bridge. Aside from that confusion, Trev’s lyrical contribution throughout the track isn’t far from flawless.

Trev’s built a name for himself for his frank honesty in his verses and is more aware than most artists as to why his fans love him so much. So when he spits “truth of the matter is the pain got us here” I’m curious as to whether this entire song is another about his career cleverly concealed as a love song – of sorts – similar to Eminem’s “25 To Life”. This could be backed up by the bars in which he essentially – arguably egotistically – crowns himself king of the city (Lets be honest, could anyone else claim the throne?) as he raps:

“City up for grabs, everybody wanna claim; like I didn’t have a six year reign.”

The problem with that perception of Trev’s wonderful words is that why would he be “addicted to anything that make the pain go away”? For the record, despite the mention of “you”, I understand that Trev is talking about himself. Is this a case of Trev wishing his career way? I doubt it. So maybe the song is purely a twisted love song, and the “Heights” artist wishes he could make the pain go away for his loved one rather than they turn to drugs and alcohol. But then, isn’t that the beauty of Trev’s music? It’s open to interpretation, and anyone can relate. TREV BACK!

What do you think? What is your interpretation of the meaning of the song? Do you like it? Are you excited for “Heights 3”? Let us know in the comments below!

Trev Rich: Heights 3 Interview

“When I say Trev’s back I mean it now more than ever.”

Every other one of my posts on this site – and my own blog for that matter – seems to focus on or mention Trev Rich. It can hardly be considered a bad thing, bearing in mind that milehimusic.com was created to give spotlight on Colorado’s hottest talents because as far as I’m concerned Trev epitomises that very goal. Not only do I believe he is the hottest musician coming out of Colorado right now, he’s a permanent name in any of my top five lists – dead or alive. So it is an absolute honour that since taking up blogging almost a year ago, that I now have the chance to consistently conversate with someone I consider an inspiration; In the latest of our formal interviews, I interrogated Trev about his upcoming mixtape, “Heights 3“, his newly found relationship with Atlantic Records and what ever happened to “New Forever” which was followed by a couple of fan questions which were submitted through Twitter.

Hello Trev, thanks for agreeing to another interview with me. How are you and what have you been up to over the summer?

Trev Rich: All work no play type of summer. It’s been pretty wild musically a lot has happened in my life in which I don’t want to spoil for the tape. I’ve been great though. Couple ups and downs but that’s life.

 

 The big news is that this month, you’re releasing the third edition of Heights 3. Is the recording finished?

Trev: Yes my portion of the recording is done! Finally it didn’t take that long to get back in a zone after a little while so the process was a lot easier this time.

 

You claim Heights 3 to be project of the year, what makes it so much better than others?

Trev: I’ve heard some pretty dope projects this year. A lot of dope production as well as substance but when I say Trev’s back I mean it now more than ever. I risked it all with this project.

November has produced some brilliant tapes already (including my own – Class President) and it’s only 5 days in. What have you been vibing to recently?

Trev: H3 getting everything ready I’ve skimmed through a couple other projects that dropped as well. I’m confident in 3. Very.

 

You’ve also stated that Heights 3 has a different style to the other two, what makes H3 different to your other projects?

Trev: I feel like a lot of my fans love the emo style I offer. The poetic Trev. They haven’t really got to see another side of me that much. This project shows my versatility more than any other. I talk about it all.

 

I’ve spoken to you before about my love for Dear Ma, what track do you expect to be a fan favourite from the new tape?

Trev: Going back to the last question I know what my loyal fans want and I expect “Pain” and “Migraines” to make a lot of noise this time around. Also “Old Thing” which has a familiar twist to it.

 

What is your favourite track and why? Do you tend you like tracks you enjoy recording more than those you don’t?

Trev: I love them all! I can’t pick a favorite they all mean something different to me but equally special. I didn’t want any fillers so I went the extra mile to make sure none of the tracks could be considered such.

 

@igot_theblunt got in contact on twitter and asked if we’ll ever hear a collaboration project between you and Jimmie Murphy?

Trev: Me and Bro are always hard at work I’ve been working on 3 and he’s been working on Descendre 2, so somewhere  in the middle we’ll meet and make magic. Like always.

 

Does he feature on Heights 3?

Trev: Yes, on a track called “Cocaine.” Which is geared towards the women but the fellas will understand just as much. I tend to do this a lot but always different and better than the last in my opinion.

 

What other features can we look forward to? Who’s got the best featured verse in your opinion?

Trev: I’m not telling yet. When the official track list drops you’ll see. There are a couple features still in the works so depending on those I’ll put it out there very soon.

 

I’ve not seen the full tracklist yet, any chance of you sharing the full thing with us now?

Trev: Not a chance. We got two weeks left and when we start to push all the dominoes will fall around the same time. You’ll see very soon.

 

Outside of recording the mixtape, you’ve been writing for Atlantic Records, how did that come about?

Trev: It’s still in the beginning stages so I can’t really discuss too much but much love to the entire Atlantic and APG staff. I look at them like family now.

 

As I imagine you can’t disclose who you’ve written for. Who would you like to work with from that label?

Trev: If I said that you’d know who I’ve written for [Laughs]. Having absolutely nothing to do with my writing opportunity I’d love to work with Kanye West. And a close second Adele.

 

Before H3 was even mentioned, you were promoting New Forever..what happened there?

Trev: I’m still a new artist. A lot goes into an album that I just wasn’t ready for yet. I’m getting to that point though. The album is still in the works as well.

 

@beatinodds got in touch via Twitter to ask if Heights 3 follows a story line?

Trev: You guys are ruining all of the surprises. You can say that but, I won’t tell you the story I’ll see if you guys can catch on to it first.

 

@2_eazzi asked a question which asks how you have such bars. What advice would you give to aspiring rappers when it comes to lyricism?

Trev: Be very observant. Then think of a second way to look at everything. Then a third. From people to words to situations. Then the bars will surface.

 

Thank you for the interview, any last words?

Trev: Trev Back!

Jimmie Murphy: The Comeback Interview

“I’m going to let God take the wheel and let my music carry itself”

A few months ago, I reached out to Jimmie Murphy following his comeback from ‘retirement.’ As a part of the super talented Squizzy Gang (SG), I was surprised by the decision to retire at a point in which he seemed destined for greatness along with his SG comrades. The Colorado native can spit a sixteen better than most rappers but is even more talented at serenading a microphone with his smooth singing. I was absolutely delighted at B.More’s decision to come back, and although all has gone quiet from both of us since this interview took place, I’m extremely excited for anything Jimmie has in store for us in the future.

 

Lee Hawthorn: You recently returned from a short-lived retirement, however it was never made entirely clear why you went on a hiatus. What made you give up music?

Jimmie Murphy: I gave up music because I felt as if I was at a stand still in my career. I felt that I had reached my peak and couldn’t go any higher from where I was at the time. I lost hope but I prayed about it and had some good people around me that wouldn’t let me let it go.

 

It’s safe to say many are happy to see you return, what did you do during your time away from creating music and what made you consider a comeback?

Jimmie: I really just continued to write and just connected with my inner self. Family and friends pushed me through it though and I couldn’t be more thankful

 

Prior to your retirement, you released “Sincerely Jimmy” which has since been deleted from your own and SCB promotions Soundcloud stream, why did you decide to have the track deleted?

Jimmie: I deleted it because that sad bitter chapter in my life was over so I felt that it was necessary.

 

When you announced retirement, one of the first things I looked out for was the reaction from your fellow Squizzy artists. How long have you known Trev, AP, LKeys etc? Were they a key reason in your return?

Jimmie: They were definitely a big part of me making music again. Those are my brothers so they know me very well. I think they knew I was gonna come back so they just supported me and let it blow over. But I’ve known guys for years! Blood couldn’t bring us closer.

 

Do you think we will ever hear a collaborative Squizzy mixtape?

Jimmie: Honestly I think there will be a squizzy mixtape once all these Hollywood niggas stop with the shenanigans [Laughs].

 

Being from Colorado, a state in which no urban artist has made it very big. Do you think its harder to break out to big success than the likes of New York or LA or do you think its easier because there isn’t as much competition in CO?

Jimmie: It’s definitely harder but it isn’t impossible. Once Colorado gets over the hating mentality it’s possible. I think Denver he the best music around so I think the competition is the same Its just a lot more people in those states.

 

Aside from Squizzy, who do you think is currently the best artist in Colorado from any genre?

Jimmie: Aside from Squizzy I would have to say Adam Duncan would probably be my favorite out of Denver.

 

I recently discovered an old cypher on YouTube comprised of Colorado artists, would you be willing to contribute to a cypher? If so, who would you like to join you?

Jimmie: I would love to do a cypher! And my cypher would consist of all my Squizzy brothers Afox. Ray reed, PC, FL of Food Chain and Lpeez

 

Your have more pseudonym’s than any other artist I’ve come across. I’ve seen you called Jimmie Murphy, B.More and Jimmy Mack and then variated spellings of each…What do you consider your stage name to be now? Why do you have so many?

Jimmie: My stage name is Jimmie Murphy. My previous stage name was B.more and that was because I’m from Baltimore, MD. Jimmy Mack was just a name I put up on my twitter. My dad and uncle use to call me Jimmy Mack when I was a kid but that’s very irrelevant to my music.

 

What are your aspirations for the near future. Life as an artist is a hard struggle particularly at the start of a career. Now that you’re back, what do you hope to achieve within the next year?

Jimmie: Within the next year I’m going to let God take the wheel and let my music carry itself.

 

You’ve named Prince as an influence in the past, would he be your number one dream collaborator? If you could pick five collaborations for a future album, who would it be?

Jimmie: Prince is one of my biggest influences most definitely! If I had to pick 5 people though it would have to be: Frank Ocean, Prince, Jay-z, James fauntleroy and Maxwell.

 

In “Sincerely Jimmy” or at least on Twitter at the time of it’s release, you announced “Descendre 2” would never be released. Has that changed now that you’re back? Can we expect Descendre 2 or at least another mixtape? If so, when?

Jimmie: There will be a project to drop soon. That’s all I can say. [Laughs]

 

 


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Treyy G: Interview

Treyy G is an up and coming producer hailing from Colorado by way of Cali. He’s one half of the Hiphop duo TKG, which is how we first discovered him. One of his most recent mixes “Trumpsta” with Contiez has garnished him worldwide recognition which you have to admit is well deserved. From his catchy hooks to eclectic mixes, his reputation is that of a hit maker. To us it seemed like over night he was on every EDM flyer in Colorado, supporting some of the biggest names in the Trap game. We truly believe that it’s only a matter of time before he’ll be headlining shows all over the world. Actually…we’re willing to bet on it. Get to know him…

Did you learn how to mix on your own or did someone teach you?

Treyy G: I Learned on my own!

Who are some of the producers that inspire your creativity?

TG: Well, i’m inspired by many producers by my main inspiration comes from Calvin Harris, Zedd, & Deadmau5.

Who are some of the producers you don’t like?

TG: There’s not too many producers I don’t like, If I don’t mind them, I just don’t listen.

What software and gear are you using, and what software and gear do you wish you had???

TG: I’m using FL Studio 11 for producing & Pioneer CDJ 2000 Nexus set up for Live show, Couldn’t ask for anything more!

How would you sum up your music in 2 words?

TG: Bang Bang

What was the first EDM concert you went to? 

TG: Glo5 In Colorado Springs Jan 23rd 2010.

Denver is a HUGE market for EDM, but what other city do you dream of playing a show in and why?

TG: One place I dream of playing is Ibiza, and because its also a huge world wide staple for EDM music!

In regards to your workflow, do you work on multiple tracks at once or do you start one finish it then start on the next?

TG: I work quick, so I’m usually working on 7-10 different tracks at once, not including track I do vocals for!

Dude, “Trumpsta” is all over the web! How does it make you feel knowing that all these people that don’t even know you are listening to your music?

TG: It’s great, really one of the main reasons I make music. I love sharing the love of music with others that love music just as much as I do, haha.

What was your biggest obstacle when you were first starting out, and how did you overcome it?

TG: Learning the politics to the Colorado EDM scene, and honestly, you can’t overcome it.. It’s something that will always be there!

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment thus far?

TG: I wish I could share, but the announcement Is kept in close only for a little longer, but as of now, Trumpsta signing to Kontor records, Ministry of sound & reaching 8,000,000+ Views and counting about 60-70K Plays A Day.

If everything goes just as you plan, where or what do you see yourself doing in the next 5 years?

TG: Only time can tell!

We all have those few people who have had our back and supported us to the fullest since the beginning; who are those people around you?

TG: My mother, my girlfriend, my sisters/family and my bestfriend Austin!

 

 

Make sure you follow Treyy G on Twitter: https://twitter.com/treyyg & like his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TreyyG5

Strange World Part II: Ces Cru Interview [Audio]

I know you’ve become accustomed to the usual. Rap music these days can be so predictable. But I hope you’re not too attached to your preconceived notions. If so your comfortability is about to be slaughtered. Ces Cru has no interest in catering to the conservative. There is nothing mainstream about Ubiquitous and Godemis yet their talent has the potential to launch them into worldwide renown. The eccentric duo exhibit a lethal combination of cerebral intelligence and lyrical ferocity. I had the privilege of conducting a lobotomy on Strange Music’s odd couple; delving into the brains behind their devilishly delightful music.