Following on from the release of his much-loved EP 'For The Winners' earlier this year, Montreal-based artist Taigenz is back on the grind once again to deliver his bouncing new effort 'Knock My Door'.
Capturing more of that fresh and shimmering aesthetic he has been cultivating for himself over the years, 'Knock My Door' makes for a rousing return to form throughout. With its bold and enticing textures, vibrant atmosphere, and his own killer flow at the helm, he continues to shine as one of the more inventive names doing the rounds right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was the saxophone. That's what I played in my first year of High School before switching to the Trumpet which was also an instrument I learned to love.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Maybe to the surprise of many people, I loved techno/electronic and punk music when I was younger. Bran Van 3000, Eiffel 65, Darude, early Daft Punk, Blink 182, Sum 41, Good Charlotte, Billy Talent, etc.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I remember having Get Rich or Die Tryin’, Beg For Mercy, The Black Album, and Obie Trice's first album all at the same time.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
There are quite a few, but I honestly wish I wrote “Trust” by Nas.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I tend to go on long walks to let myself get immersed in the production or allow ideas to swim in my head.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
At the moment, I’m listening to a lot of Asake, Jorja Smith, JMSN, J Hus (I think they all dropped amazing projects this year). And my most recent crush, Tyla.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
The artist I am VERY often compared to, Burna Boy.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to affect the people and by extension the world, even on a small scale. Your thoughts, feelings, ideas are extremely powerful and to be able to have that gift is something I don’t take lightly.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Feeling misunderstood by the people you want to reach. The whole world may not understand you but when you have something to say in hopes it reaches a certain crowd and they don’t get it, it can get to you.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
“There’s a perfect flow and there’s an authentic flow. Always aim for the authentic.” Shout outs to Cali.
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Taigenz's new single 'Knock My Door' is available to stream now. Watch the new video for it in the player below.