Artist Spotlight: Interview with @MikeLyriK Winner of the November Rising Star Best Video contest
Hey MikeLyrik! How long have you been in the music scene and how did you get started?
Eyy, I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember, I’ve been working in the music scene for over 10 years now. I got started as a teen doing talent shows, fashion show performances and any event that would have me. I gained a following via social media, Myspace at the time which caught the attention of some key people overseas who helped me to get my first tour contract.
Tell me about the concept for the music video “What is Love”.
The directors (Shane Drummond and Alisun Dellimore) and I wanted the concept as simple as possible so as not to distract from the intensity of the lyrics of the song. The character is meant to be frustrated and alone in his search for the meaning of love. At some point he comes close to encountering a being that may or may not give him the answers he seeks but it eludes his grasp.
What are some of your personal and professional highlights so far in your career?
Sometimes I listen to highlights when I’m announced at places that I’m performing or appearing at and I feel overwhelmed, blessed and in disbelief. I’ve travelled to places I would have otherwise never knew existed such as Bahrain, Dubai, Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi and other exotic countries. I’ve been the recipient of several Underground Music Awards, (shouts to the platforms for indie artists such as this one) as well as have been featured on amazing music blogs, television spots overseas, hosted events with major celebrities… All feats I believed were only possible after being signed.
Has there been any one piece of advice you were given that has helped you along the way in your career that you can share with other artists who may be reading this?
A very successful major artist friend of mine once told me to remain humble & true to myself. Also to keep in mind that even though everyone isn’t going to like your stuff, stay original because that’s how legends become legends. Keeping those thoughts in mind while grinding makes each success, no matter how small or large in scale, feel much more satisfying even during bump-in-the-road times.
What are some of your goals in this industry?
Each time I meet a goal in this industry, especially specific ones that seemed impossible, a new goal takes its place. So I just want to stay inspired & keep entertaining in various ways while inspiring others to work hard to live their own dreams.
Music can cross boarders from North, South, East and West, what do you feel is the best feature to your music that helps you cross those boarders?
I feel that the energy of the music that inspires me to even do what I do, can be found in my music. I look to legendary timeless artists like Prince, Madonna, Babyface and Aaliyah among others, and I believe that people feel me on that, or rather I hope that they feel that!
Tell me about what you are currently working on.
I’m currently working on an EP entitled “These Lyrics”. It’s a collection of songs written by various talented writers (some of which you may already know) and myself that showcase how important lyrics are to me as an artist. Music can be beautiful alone, but with lyrics, we get full song experiences. We get to connect our ideas through these lyrics, realizing that we are not all that different from one another when it comes to certain thoughts…
What can we expect to from you in 2015? Any plans for new releases or live appearances?
I’m so blessed right now, beyond the shows that I have coming up to close out 2014, I have bookings already set up for 2015 as well as plans to finish up that EP and get it out there. There are also some great surprises that I’m super proud of coming up. God is good, hard work pays off and all that good stuff.
Thank you for taking the time out for this interview, can you let our readers know where they can find your music?
It’s an honor and I’m grateful for the opportunity. HUGE shouts to all of my supporters and fans who voted for my video and made this interview possible. All of my social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) is under my name @Mikelyrik. It’s one word Mikelyrik, pronounced Mike lyric. I try to update the sites as often as possible with everything that goes on with my career. Also you can visit me at www.mikelyrik.com, there are links there to explore as well.
