Meet The Other Shade

The Other Shade is a multifaceted artist in which he is known to be a talented R&B singer, a producer and owner of his own clothing brand. Pushing his artistry to become a notable powerhouse, the Virginia native is making a name for himself as he set the tone throughout the industry. Pyro Da Arsonist had the pleasure of interviewing him as you learn more on who is The Other Shade.

Pyro Da Arsonist: Please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us what do you do and where you are from.

T.O.S: Thank you for having me, I’m an R&B artist named T.O.S. Also known as The Other Shade. I own a clothing company called KALIFRAGALISTIC, and I also produce beats for movies and musical artists of different acclaimed levels.

Home used to be Fairfax, Virginia, in my early life I moved around different areas in the same county till I came to college in Morgantown at WVU.

Pyro Da Arsonist: Why did you choose The Other Shade as your stage name?

T.O.S: I remember I was making my first Instagram account in the middle of 7th grade and I wanted to make a name no one will think of but that represents me. To me the other shade offers colors and the shade between the lights of things. Basically I’m just always the other aspect.

Pyro Da Arsonist: What or who inspired you to become an artist?

T.O.S: Big L, Rick James, The Weeknd, Tupac, and Nas were the biggest influences when it comes to greats in music. I had two close friends that passed at the beginning and the end of 2020, those two were my most physical influences which is what pushed me to be the no look back artist I am today.

Pyro Da Arsonist: How would you describe yourself as an artist and describe your sound?

T.O.S: As an artist I see myself as very detailed and extremely personable. It’s always been hard to show my emotions but I found the easiest way to express is through music because I can only judge myself. The sound that comes out is very cinematic and has been compared to films more than day to day music.

Pyro Da Arsonist: What project are you currently working on and what kind of feedback have you received from your current single?

T.O.S: So I’m working on my studio album called  “D’evils of beauty” that I’m recording at IMI studios throughout the month of April. My current single “All in Ones” will debut and mark the first release of the project. After submitting to music reviewers I’ve had nothing but positive feedback, the most negative comment was a better mix-down which IMI studios will undoubtedly take care of in April.

Pyro Da Arsonist: What is one of your most memorable performances and why?

T.O.S: I would say my very first one at 123 pleasant St. in Morgantown. It was a beat battle and we had a whole promo and everything for the area. It was my first taste of the life I always felt needed me.

Pyro Da Arsonist: Have you ever had a bad performance and if so how do you move past it without letting it affect your confidence?

T.O.S: My second beat battle had more of a randomness to it, my competitor had lost their father just a few days before so it kind of dulled the atmosphere. I noticed I felt sympathetic but I realized no matter what music is music and pushed forward.

Pyro Da Arsonist: In this age of social media what do you feel is more important in an artists success, talent, number of followers or an investor?

T.O.S: In this age I would say investors for sure, money makes the world work that much faster for you. Social media makes chances more available for the everyday artist but no matter what money comes into play at some point.

Pyro Da Arsonist: What words of wisdom would you give to those who want to start a career in music?
T.O.S: My best advice would be that if it’s been your gut feeling over multiple years and you keep ignoring it? Don’t. That’s how history gets lost. Those artist with a natural tug to them are the ones to watch out the most for because they’re usually behind the scenes till they realize they are the scene.

Thank you for sitting down with The Artistry and we wish you lots of success in all you do.

Follow T.O.S on all Social Media

Meet Sasha Melo

Sasha Melo is an American recording artist, performer and creative from Brooklyn, NY. with a sound packed full of drums, clever lines and a New York spirit. Sasha Melo embarks on a music journey familiar yet uncharted read more below as you learn who is Sasha Melo.

V-Henny: Who inspired you to make music? 

Sasha Melo: To make music & pursue a career in it, my cousin, Worldwiide inspired me. I’d say Aaliyah & Drake as the artists who inspired my approach to the craft & industry of music. Aaliyah showed me whatever your style is, be true to it. Do what you must but add your flavor to make it alright. With Drake’s early music I was introduced to an artist who was emotionally connecting & reflecting on experiences that I also was able to resonate with in a sonically different way. It showed me, another example of how music could transcend through tough feelings & experiences. 

V-Henny: What age did you start writing and recording music?

Sasha Melo: I wrote my first rap when I was 8 in third grade. No beat, acapella & it was the hardest rap ever. I don’t remember the words but there was a vibe there. I first recorded music like songform with Worldwide when I was 15. 

V-Henny: What made you want to become a player in the music industry?

Sasha Melo: My love for performing is what drives me. Growing up, my uncle would play music almost everyday in the house. Different genres, but mostly dancehall, hip hop & rap. He & I would come up with dance routines for me to perform to whatever song was hot in the moment. I wanted to rap the raps, dance the routines & sing. I wanted to do all of it. As I got older, my relationship with music just kept growing deeper. & we’re here now. 

V-Henny: Looking back then to where you’re at now, give me a moment that made an impact within your music career. 

Sasha Melo: Meeting and working with my mentor Jhai Signature, may he Rest In Peace. From our first meeting until our last conversations, he was always an encouraging force. Reminding me to trust my instincts, see the potential in myself as an artist, writer & creative. He came in my life right when I needed guidance, right on time. Helping me to tap in to my talent & channel it “correctly”. It wasn’t easy because he never let up on me, always challenging me to be better than my last take. It was pressure then but it’s the discipline that’s paying off now. I miss him a lot though. Especially after a new music accomplishment but I’m grateful for our time together. 

V-Henny: Has it been a smooth road for you as an artist? 

Sasha Melo: It hasn’t been a smooth road at all & I’m not where my destination is but, the journey I’m on is lit though. 

V-Henny: What were some of the steps you had to take to get to where you’re at in your career?

Sasha Melo: In the middle of a pandemic, my step 1 was to realize who really runs shit concerning me, & it was me. Everything else is out of my control therefore out of my worry zone. My Step 2 was to figure out what to do with the truth of  Step 1. Step 3 was to apply Step 2 & make it work. 

V-Henny: Has the pandemic affected your career? If so, how?

Sasha Melo: The pandemic halted me on one journey in a separate profession & sat me down in stillness. In that stillness I was able to mourn, heal, purge, cleanse, create & begin a new journey, completely different path. Really able to tap back into self which at the time when the pandemic hit was needed. As scary as the unknown was, everything coming to stillness was a reset button I needed.

V-Henny: What projects are you presently working on?  

Sasha Melo: My new single Lionheart is on the way. Near the end of March. Something for the people. A song I hold close to my heart about self courage, an ode to cycles of change & rebirth but heavy on the turn up. I also just finished recording some tracks for my mixtape too. Soon come. 

V-Henny: Other notables you have worked with?  

Sasha Melo: My debut single “Choosy” has gotten some airplay on HOT 97 by Dj Drewski & The New Movement, in addition to Desert Storm Radio via The Last Take podcast. I’ve also performed in the Grind or Starve Showcase and will be performing there March 20th. Pop out. 

V-Henny: Ultimate goal within your artistry ?   

Sasha Melo: My goal is to leave a great entertainer’s legacy behind when I’m finished. To be the best Sasha Melo in the spot. To be able to say I helped pay it forward for the next generation of creatives. When you think of Sasha Melo I want you to get hype, get lit & want to make the most of every moment. 

V-Henny: What is one message you would give to your fans? 

Sasha Melo: To my day one OG fans, thank you for believing in me. Thank you for spending your time on me & supporting me. Dancing, engaging with me at the shows. Being amazing crowds, I humbly appreciate it. Thank you for the streams, the reactions. All of it. To the fans on their way, you right on time, wassup widdit ? Tap in with me. 

V-Henny: Is there anything else you would like the world to know about you?

Sasha Melo: World, we soon come. 

Check out her latest music video “Choosy”

Follow Sasha Melo

https://www.facebook.com/melothemagnificent

https://instagram.com/melothemagnificent

AZIA- Multifaceted Brooklyn Artist Takes The Spotlight

Written by: Julz Mancini

Having the ability to develop one’s self into a quadruple threat in the entertainment business creates a recipe for success. As each ingredient is added, it helps increase the probability of making a name for yourself in an over-saturated industry. Mastering each talent you intend to showcase to the world is imperative, as it portrays your diligence, work ethic, and capabilities. When striving for the spotlight, executives seek to find the “it” factor; a marketable and unique individual who has the potential to rise to the top. We have been able to witness superstars such as Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez effectively dabble into singing, acting, fashion, cosmetics, and more. It is not surprising that recording artist, Azia, is heading in the same direction as the superstars mentioned. She is reaching heights that many can only dream of.

Usually the love for music flourishes throughout the duration of a person’s childhood. As a teenager, Azia strategically created a show on cable access T.V. titled, “Flex in Brooklyn” while also hosting parties that quickly became popular. As her buzz grew louder, the opportunities started to knock at her door. As a natural beauty, it was only a matter of time before the masses approached her to be featured in videos, television, etc. Her video credits include, “Panda” by Desiigner, “Change Your Mind” by Trey Songz, and “Pick It Up” by Famous Dex, to name a few. Azia’s energy, beauty, and talent glowed on camera allowing for more prospects to pour in. Kanye West’s “Yeezy Season” and Nike’s “Caribbean Pack” were her next ventures. Due to the amount of exposure Azia was receiving, it was the perfect time to allow the world into her sanctuary of music. She was able to prove herself, not only as model, but also as an artist when she released her debut album, “The Audacity”.

As Azia continued to soar through the entertainment world, she became the star of BET’s “Hustle in Brooklyn”. Coming from Brooklyn herself, it was a perfect match and helped her become a well-known socialite in the business. In addition to being a Brooklyn native, Azia is Haitian and Trini all of which she has showcased in her music and videos. In her single, “Pull Up”, she stayed true to her roots grasping the attention of her fans as they watched and listened. Azia recently released her single, “Eat It Up”. With sexy lyrics and unique word play, this catchy song is certainly a fan favorite. Not only is the song superstar quality, but the music video brings the viewer to Azia’s neck of the woods. As she dances on an ice cream truck, chills in the park, and flaunts her beauty and sex appeal, Azia portrays her true self. “Thirty-one flavors, never know what you can get. I got thick ones, slim ones, tall ones, red hair, brown hair, blonde hair, all fun. Now, how many licks does it take to get a stick…” “Eat It Up” definitely has a fun and flirty vibe that causes the listeners to seek more content from Azia.

While navigating through her website, iamazia.com, I noticed Azia is not only a model, recording artist, and popular socialite, but also a designer. She owns “Brownie’s Couture”, a cosmetic line in which offers lip gloss of many shades, enhancing the beauty of her customers. To ensure her customers will be happy with the products, Azia offers them free samples.

It is apparent that Azia is multi-talented and is eager to continue her journey in the entertainment business. With her fan base increasing and the opportunities piling up, she isn’t going anywhere. Her fans anticipate the release of her upcoming project titled, “A Whole Mood” due to be available this fall. Azia is someone you want to keep an eye on as the sky is the limit for her. She is a force to be reckoned with which is obvious with all of her accomplishments.

Click on the links below to follow Azia and her journey!

https://www.iamazia.com

https://www.instagram.com/azia.iam/

JAYR DION – SEEN IT HAPPENING

A perfect way to observe and analyze the work ethic of an artist these days is to check out their social media. With continuous promotion, content, and engagement with his audience, it is clear that JayR Dion takes his music seriously. It is known throughout the industry, that although talent is imperative, so are image, marketability, work ethic, and a good following. JayR Dion is the entire package. 

As mentioned, JayR never disappoints with consistently sharing new content and music. Behind the scenes footage, new songs, music videos, and graphics keep his fans on their toes, yearning for more. JayR recently released his new project “Seen it Happening”.  For those who have read my content, you know what time it is. As I write this article, I let the artist’s music consume my ears in hopes to present the best description of his project.

JayR begins with “Up to Something”, a perfect way to introduce this work of art. This track helps the listener visualize their goals and intentions for the future. “Momma working, she need a never ending break. That’s why I been working so she can count up all this cake. I’m for certain we gon’ be everything we say we will”. I can guarantee this song will resonate with many of you. The struggle, the grind, sleepless nights…we have all been there.

As I continue to listen to “Seen it Happening”, the song “Insomnia” captured my attention. The beat is soft and catchy perfectly embracing the lyrics. This track paints a vivid picture of the artist’s drive. You can tell a lot about an artist by paying attention to his/her lyrics. He asks questions like, “How you complain when you ain’t working? How you live without a purpose?” JayR creates music that makes a listener think but also has you moving to the beat simultaneously. 

In hopes that I have given the reader a well-rounded description of JayR Dion’s music, I encourage the reader to stream his new project, “Seen it Happening” to experience his talent for yourself.

“Seen iT Happening” Available everywhere!!!!


https://linktr.ee/jayrdion

Apple music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/seen-it-happening/1522380680

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/26tQAzXtcyMCS0cm7Gha8b?si=5deOEtO0RNKegvrb-j1Fyg

Tidal: https://tidal.com/album/147699982

Follow JayR Dion

https://Www.instagram.com/jayrdion

https://Www.facebook.com/jayrdion

https://Www.twitter.com/jayrdion

Written by JULZ

Facebook: https://Www.facebook.com/Julzmancini

Instagram: https://Www.twitter.com/julzmancini

The Artistry Show: Ep 110 with V-henny, G Outakaractr x Scott Morris

Each and every Sunday | Catch a vibe with your host V-Henny ( @Vhenny_ ) x G Outakaractr ( @FumaMucho ) .

On Episode 110, we speak and congratulate Quavo on getting his High School Diploma, We discuss Black America and what’s happening during the protest. Is it a crime to be black? Our opinion with everything and learning. We speak on hip hop and certain new music such as Slaughter house without Joe Buddens. We Also sit and talk with Scott (@LifeSMorris) on his process, trial and tribulation within his work, from rumors to his growth and approach.

Production by The Artistry Live

Follow us on all Platform IG: www.Instagram.com/TheArtistryNY

FB: The Artistry Show Host: www.Instagram.com/vhenny_ Co-Host: www.Instagram.com/FumaMucho

Producer: www.Instagram.com/King_Jvded