Spotlight.
Jeremy Mbiba
INTRODUCTION
Raised in Glasgow, Scotland and surrounded by music his entire life, the release of 'I Am An Instrument' – a completely acapella record focusing on harmonies and vocal layers – sparked an even deeper love for Jeremy Mbiba's creative process. Bouncing between R&B, pop and jazz, he has made it his mission to continually chase growth as an artist and constantly challenge his artistry. The love and heartbreak singer has since taken to the stage to translate his feel-good melodies into an engaging live set. Whether he's tearing it up on the legendary King Tut’s stage or slowing it down for a flowing intimate and personal set with M4&Friends, every performance feels tailor made and relatable.
Jeremy performs at AMPLIFI at The Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh, Wednesday 11 March. Full information and tickets HERE
INTERVIEW
How did you get into music? What initially inspired you?
I was fortunate enough to grow up in the church where myself and my friends were encouraged to explore our talents. We had a little gospel group that spiralled into us creating music outside of church and helping each other with hooks and verses. I fell completely in love with the process of recording and building a world in a record.
What themes do you tend to interrogate in your work?
I try to always try something new with my writing. The main focus so far has been centring around love and heartbreak. It’s where I feel most at home.
What is your favourite project you’ve ever worked on and why?
My favourite project so far has to be ‘How Not To Love Me’ I wrote and recorded that project at a time where I was very uninspired. It all sparked from my hopes of making a documentary called ‘View Into My World’ where I recorded my studio sessions showing the demos I was coming up with and how they would grow. The 3 songs which stuck ended up being released as a small EP. I also think it is my best writing and vocal production. It will always have a place in my heart ha!
What advice would you have for creatives of colour looking to get into music?
Leap into it with both feet. I strongly believe that music is something that needs to be played with. Incorporate and weave yourself into your music - it’s what the audience falls in love with and it’s what will come so naturally. I would also say to explore your culture and add it into your art, it’s what will set you apart and make you super distinct.
What are you currently working on?
My mind is always all over the place. I am currently working on another documentary where I will once again record my sessions and creative processes. My style has evolved and I really want to challenge myself musically so I am struggling right now haha. But hopefully some of the best music I have ever made will come to life in the ne