After spending the last few years building and developing his sound, US newcomer Ohso Davis is now ready to introduce the world to his direction with the vibrant debut single 'You Who'.
Channelling a wonderfully warm and enticing blend of R&B, soul, and pop influences from start to finish, 'You Who' makes for a brilliant introduction to his sound. With his silky smooth vocals riding a laid-back bed of production throughout, we can't wait to hear what he comes out with next.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has influenced him over the years.
-
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Acoustic guitar was the only instrument I practiced for the first 15 years of learning music, so there’s a deep love there but it’s been a slow burn. Things got pretty hot and heavy with the Bass guitar over the last year. The touch feels especially like home and the low frequencies have me feeling tapped into something that I can’t get enough of.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
In my house, mom and dad controlled the tunes. Some of my fav’s Mom introduced me to were Earth, Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder and Sarah Maclchlin. Dad got me going on Bil Withers, Mark Knopfler and a lot of classic rock that I didn’t particularly enjoy. I do have a fond memory of singing hit me baby one more time in unison with the whole school bus on the way home from 1st grade.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Never owned a vinyl or turn table I'm embarrassed to say. I did however have an Alvin And The Chipmunks cassette that i played over and over in my room as a 6 year old. I’ve always worn out my favorite jams.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Dancing by Elisa.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I try to spice it up. Start with different instruments, in different locations, different sources of inspiration. I notice that if I'm in a vulnerable state of feeling something intensely, I tend to channel that into writing effectively.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
When I'm in the creative zone as I am now, I tend not to listen to music as much. I take advantage of being in silence when i’m not working on my own music.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I would love to open for so many people… Michael Kiwanuka would be at the top of my list.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to express different emotions and experiences through instrumentation. Every instrument has it’s own voice. I get such a kick out of listening for how to interpret that voice.
And what is the most frustrating part?
It's frustrating to feel limited at times with respect to what I can beautifully execute on the various instruments I create with. My ear will want to hear something that my hands can’t quite do… but that’s also part of the fun because I’ve become my own best teacher.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Slow down. Feel it first.
-
Ohso Davis' debut single 'You Who' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.