Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Lupe Dragon
THE RELEASE
Lupe Dragon is a powerful alternative singer-songwriter from Northern New Jersey who has graced venues around her home state, garnering a reputation as a dynamic performance. Lupe draws inspiration from Ed Sheeran, Billie Eilish, Hayley Williams, and Alanis Morissette, among others, to create a fascinating sound that is completely her own. She made her debut in the music industry in 2018 with the release of her EP "Can't Even Stand It," which served as a precursor to her formal debut in 2019. She linked up with rap artist Aarvee to rework her smash tune "Not The Same (Out of Spite)" in 2020, further stretching artistic limits. In the years afterwards, Lupe has released hits such as "Happiness" and "Butterflies," which showcase his ability to weave nuanced emotions into resonant melodies. Her contemplative acoustic EP "Bedroom Files Vol. 1" was released in 2021, providing listeners with an intimate look into her work. Lupe Dragon's charismatic stage persona distinguishes her as an emerging star in the alternative music field, engaging audiences and leaving an indelible impact. She has a reputation for igniting explosive live events.
Rooted in the wisdom of Yung Pueblo's insight that "True love does not hurt, attachments do," Lupe's latest creation, "Attached," dives into the complexities of modern love and manipulation. With a fervent desire to break away from crafting angry music, "Attached" became her cathartic release, a single bursting with passion and righteous anger, laying bare the aftermath of a twisted mind game. Lupe's voice intertwines with the opening guitar chords, demonstrating her unique ability to inject genuine emotion into every release. Each of Lupe's compositions is a whirlwind of catharsis, a testament to her profound love for the art of music, as she continues to carve her unique path in the alternative music scene.
THE INTERVIEW
What song or moment in time sparked your passion for music?
A lot of Dashboard Confessional and Jack's Mannequin albums sparked my passion for music, a lot of early 2000's music has inspired me over the years.
If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?
Dashboard Confessional, Ed Sheeran, Jack's Mannequin, Paramore
How does your creative process work from the moment you develop the idea to the completion of the record?
It usually starts with my guitar and some lyrics. Sometimes a melody drives the words or the words drive the music to come out of me. Daily journaling also has helped me in writing new lyrics.
As for this release, who is the producer and what about the production moved you?
Matt Pelosi is the producer of this song! I've been working with him now for about 2 years but it feels like forever. We were going for a heavier pop/hip-hop influenced vibe for this song. He is always open to new ideas and always helps me explore ALL possibilies I have to a song. We never have tunnel vision, we love experimenting with sounds.
When it comes to the songwriting on this record, what is the message you want to get across to your listeners?
That it's okay to be angry. But however, if you feel the same way I feel in this song... you should immediately LEAVE whatever situation you're in.
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