Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Muse L’Artiste

THE RELEASE

Muse L'Artiste, is a musician who has made an impact, on the music industry as a producer, singer and songwriter. She is part of the Recording Academy (GRAMMYs) and the visionary founder of Powher Sound. Her collaborative nature has led her to work with artists like Femi Kuti, Manu Dibango, Uhmeer, Laurnea, Medusa The Gangsta Goddess, Walter Cosby and more. Muse L'Artistes dedication to empowering women in music is evident through Powher Sound. Through this platform she has brought together a group of artists for the groundbreaking 2022 album 'Herstory' which is notable for being the first multi genre album produced and performed entirely by women. One standout track from this album is 'Its Never No' produced by Muse L'Artiste and performed by Demi Jordanae. This track was even awarded the title of Track Of The Week by BBC Radio solidifying Muses influence as a driving force, in shaping the future of music.

Following the reception of her hit titled 'No Sh!t' and her notable inclusion as a producer on Spotifys Editorial Playlist 'Created By Women' Muse L'Artiste explores the complexities of love, vulnerability and the pursuit of authenticity in relationships through her latest creation. As her artistic abilities receive deserved recognition 'Give x Take' shines as an addition to her ever evolving collection of songs not only showcasing her talent but also establishing a deep emotional connection with listeners. Muse L'Artistes musical journey continues to unfold and 'Give x Take' serves as proof of her growing influence, in todays music scene.

THE INTERVIEW

If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?

I grew up with music surrounding me all the time. There’s probably even subconciously artists that have had an impact on me that I’m not necessarily aware of. As a kid, I was a sponge, I was absorbing all this music that my parents were playing and the music they were listening to was very eclectic. I come from a Cameroonian background, so Makossa music has had a huge impact on me. My father also loved listening to great melodies, so that’s how I was introduced to Country music for example. All the classics of the Motown were also played. However I was not really paying attenttion as a very young kid, I was just taking things in naturallly. Then one day the single ‘Life’ by the British singer Des’ree came out and I was in awe of this beautiful woman with her dimples, great smile and deep voice unlike any other just bringing me pure nostalgic joy. So that was a defining moment for me.

Same year, the album ‘My Love Is Your Love’ by Whitney Houston came out. I don’t have the words to describe the love I felt for her until this day. She was a revelation to me on every level. So then I went back to all her previous work and followed her along until her last album. For me she is the GOAT, period.

On the male side, Marvin Gaye is someone I have huge love for as he has touched my soul in so many ways with songs that resonate with me on a deeper level. His delivery was just out of this world, he just gave it all. The purity, the honesty, the complexities of emotions, when you listen to his songs carefully, he was an open book. As I grew up, he definitely became part of my DNA.

Lastly, I can’t finish without mentioning my favorite Cameroonian artist Grace Decca which has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. She is without a doubt the queen of Makossa, and her elegance and delivery have always been amazing to me. There’s no one like her.

All that being said, there’s never been any attempt on my part to emulate these artists, however my musical background is definitely part of my DNA.

Were there any specific challenges or breakthrough moments during the production of your new single that had a significant impact on its final form?

As a producer, the breakthrough moment for me consistently occurs when I recognize that what I’m composing, the notes I'm experimenting with have the potential to become a song. In this instance, I was messing about with the bassline when it suddenly clicked – I played the bassline, and that was the moment of realization. These breakthrough moments serve as a catalyst, and then everything else just flows, from the integration of other instruments to the development of melodies and lyrics.

Can you share insights into the collaborative process behind the creation of your latest single, including any notable contributions from producers, co-writers, engineers or featured artists?

I wrote, produced and performed the track. I worked in a complete vacuum for this one, which is prettry much what I do when it comes to my own releases as an artist now.

In fact, I was never meant to sing at all as I started producing as a kid. It’s not until someone told me as a young teenager that I should try to sing that I started singing. Then somehow I started working with producers being taken from one direction to the next, kinda losing touch with who I was and what I wanted to do as an artist. So I gradually started taking back that control and confidence, sharpening my skillset as well and here I am today.

I love working and collaborating with other artists though, which will be the case for my next release.

Can you articulate the impact or impression you hope your new song leaves on listeners long after they've experienced it for the first time?

This song is essentially a song about fairness within a relationship. I believe that each party should be equally satisfied regarless of what shape the relationship takes. Unfortunately in a lot of cases it doesn’t happen, and if you’ve been hurt before, once or multiple times, your trust levels inevitably go down. So if people could generally treat each other just a little bit better when listening to this song, it would be a massive achievement. Also this song has been crafted to be enjoyed sonically with a downtempo beat, soothing vibes and warm vocals.‏

Looking ahead, how does the release of this single pave the way for future projects, and are there any hints or clues about the direction your music might take in the coming months?

Currently, my primary focus is on building a substantial body of work that embodies quality. This release serves as another step in laying this foundation for upcoming projects that are already in flow. I’m often trying to see things and plan them 6 months minimum down the line. You can expect exciting collaborations with other artists next year.

Regarding the trajectory of my music, I plan to continue to explore the alternative R&B space and aim to establish my unique imprint within it. However I am also committed to showcasing my African roots by releasing AfroSoul music, which will allow me to continue sharing and celebrating that aspect of my artistic identity.

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