10 Questions: Esso

We’re back with another round of 10 Questions to get the lowdown on artists that are on our radar. This time round we’ve got West London based artist: Esso. His DIY ethos to music production is inspiring and the results equally so; Esso dropped his self-produced, sun-kissed track Magically last month, which was produced under lockdown – even the vocals were recorded in a wardrobe! His resourcefulness knows no bounds. Be sure the catch the visuals too; a proper Summer screen-full. Without further ado, we caught up with the man himself for a few quick questions…

1.Contestant, what’s your name, chosen craft and where are you based?

I go by Esso, an all-round musician out of West London.  

2. How would you describe your sound?

There’s a bit of everything. I like to draw on influences that make people sit up and reminisce and bring them in line with how I'm living currently. My sound is always developing. The only constant is that it’s wavy.

3. Who/what do you consider to be the biggest influence on your music?

My environment. I could point to specific artists who I’ve been inspired by, but to me, my music makes more sense when you look at it in the context of the sounds I grew up listening to.

4. What’s the proudest moment to date for you as an artist?

My first proper show in London. Unlimited vibes. 

5. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

It’s difficult, but try not to measure your success against that of other artists. They are where they are and you’ll get to where you’re going eventually.                                     

6. Name 3 people you would love to work with and why?

Sango

A2

Mereba

7. What have you got planned for the not so distant future?

A couple more singles and an EP before the year’s up.

8. What’s the album you’ve played more than any other?

It’s probably between Aquemini by Outkast or Demon Days by Gorillaz.

9. What’s the best concert you’ve been to and where was it?

Not a concert, but Kaytranada’s set at Parklife 2016 changed my life.

10. Name three things you can’t live without?

Vaseline, Football and harmonisation.

Photo by Sophia Naziris • Visuals by Alt

Be sure to follow Esso for updates on new releases. Magically is available to rinse and repeat now.