Out Now Magazine Spotlight series featuring rising star Joseph Lanyo for an interview
Tell us about you:
My artist name is Joseph Lanyo, which is part of my full name, Joseph Amegadzie. I was born in Lome, Togo and got to grow up in Cincinnati, Ohio where I currently reside. I’m currently working as a CS rep full time to finance my dream of becoming a full-time musician.
Where are you from?
I grew up in West Africa and relocated to the United States when I was 13.
When did you start making music?
I’ve always been interested in making music but never saw it as a practical career because of my upbringing. I decided to go into college as a double major in neuroscience and vocal performance; I knew that music was my way of expressing myself and also allowed me to connect with the world around me. During the pandemic, performance opportunities were limited and my creativity felt stifled – this is when I realized that I could put that energy into a different kind of performance so I started recording. Within the following year I got to record my debut single and the rest keeps being history made.
How do you describe your music?
A combination of african rhythms with string and soulful instruments teleporting you into this vibrant, energetic world where all things are possible.
Favorite moment from your career?
Getting the play my single for my grandma and having her love it and sing along was definitely a top tier moment.
Who is your biggest musical inspiration?
Burna Boy, Mr Eazi, Timaya, Peruzzi, Adekunle Gold to name a few.
What is your producing software?
My engineer uses Pro Tools but my go-to producer uses FL.
What other things do you do besides making music?
I am also a personal trainer; I love working out and being in nature. I want to work with others for personal improvement.
What is your favorite track of all time?
This song is not even my typical afrobeat, but it speaks to the worldwide language of music. It represents and sounds like everything I described my music as, it’s “Love in the Time of Socialism” by Yellow House.
What is your best-producing tip?
This one is from my producer, don’t use loops.
Why did you start making music?
I wanted to release all of these songs I have echoing in my head.
What are your goals for the future?
I would like to perform live for my first project this summer and work towards making a living as a musician.
What advice can you give for young music producers/DJs?
Start somewhere, somehow. But just start, the journey is where you’ll grow.
Please write a message to your fans.
Hello! This year, I am aiming to consistently release my songs in a systematic manner that reaches the most people. I hope you like them and keep sharing them. I will keep showing up and am striving for constant growth! I want to remain relatable through connection with my fans! I thank you for being a part of the journey. With this being my first full year of music, I’m making sure to be strategic and consistent with my releases. The Ep is right around the corner but in the meantime, keep streaming and sharing Ye Dze Pe. I am so honored and thankful for you support.
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