INTERVIEW:
Zitro
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IT is has been great speaking with Zitro…
about his upbringing and influences. He talks to me about his new track, DVD, and taking control of the music video. I ask about the origins of the track and whether he is planning ahead regarding future material – Zitro discusses his touring plans and how he unwind away from music.
I ask the songwriter whether he has goals to achieve before the year-end; what advice he would give to fellow songwriters emerging; a new act we should check out and investigate – he reveals three albums that mean a lot to him.
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Hi, Zitro. How are you? How has your week been?
My week has been painful and stressful - like every other week. It’s been a rough year. Trying my best to get to where I need to be, mentally.
For those new to your music; can you introduce yourself, please?
I go by the name, ‘Zitro’. I write tunes for the broken, the weak and the silent in the styles of R&B, Pop and Soul. I produce my own music, therefore every note and sound you hear is 100% my own.
DVD is out. Can you reveal the inspiration behind the song?
It’s actually a summary to the theme of my sophomore album, Cult Classic. The world is one big bystander to people’s pain and struggles and, in most cases, the world finds them entertaining. I talk about how they are “cult classic” T.V. shows/movies to society. Social media plays a big role in this as well.
I believe you directed and edited the music video. What was it like putting the video together?!
It gave me a lot of confidence - just the fact that I could bring my vision to reality without paying thousands of dollars to do it. I love working on film and I regret not thinking of it sooner.
Is there more material coming? Are you working on more material?
First comes my sophomore album, then a couple of E.P.s along with various collaborations. I’ve also had some cool film ideas, including one I thought of last night before bed.
How important are The Bronx and its people regarding your music?
My music is directed towards the whole world and society, not just The Bronx. I hope The Bronx can get on board with the message that I’m giving and, hopefully, then it’ll be a more peaceful place to live in.
Which artists did you grow up around? When did music come into your life?
In elementary school, teachers would assemble us students in some classroom and have us watch Michael Jackson tapes on V.H.S. and then that’s when I knew what I wanted to do in life.
What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?
As much as I can...
More films, more songs; more live performances and maybe even something different.
Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?
The first chance I get to go touring, I’m jumping on that opportunity - AND it will start in the U.K.
Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?
The show that I did at The Delancey was a show I’ll never forget; although I could’ve done it more differently. I still strive to create better memories. There’s more I want to do.
Which three albums mean the most to you would you say?
Janet Jackson - The Velvet Rope
Prince - Come
Gallant - Ology
If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?
It would change my life if I opened for Gallant, or worked with him at all. I’ve met him a few times but we’ve never discussed a collaboration. Hopefully, next time, I won’t be such a chicken about it.
What advice would you give to new artists coming through?
Everyone’s a critic - but be your worst one. See everything wrong with your craft from the harshest critic’s eye and perfect it afterwards.
Also; don’t sign anything without reading it first.
IN THIS PHOTO: Joshua Morata
Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?
Joshua Morata, a brilliant songwriter and filmmaker. He’s the one who actually influenced me to make my own video. His new album, Somewhere, just came out this summer and I feature on one of the songs.
Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?
Playing some good ole Fortnite! I haven’t had so much fun playing a game since World of Warcraft. Season 5 blew my mind.
Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).
Ladies and gentlemen, this is Belinda Carlisle’s Heaven Is a Place on Earth. A song that I’ve kept close to me this year to get me through depression and anxiety. I hope it’s your favorite, too
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