STUDIO 01: Recent Episodes
Studio01
STUDIO 01 is a global artist platform based in Toronto. In an industry that is becoming more genre-bending, STUDIO 01's Jibril Osman graciously hosts artists of all flavors. SEASON 01 consisted of 10 in-person interviews, featuring international stars like MUNA and local gems like Jay Whiss. Season 02 has halted shooting since the beginning of the pandemic, but STUDIO 01 stays committed by rolling out video and audio chat interviews every Wednesday, on Youtube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
On the tenth episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sat down with Toronto artist Theo Vandenhoff. Making dark and romantic sophisti-post-punk from miasma, Theo Vandenhoff recently released the EP, "In The Throes of Love." Discussed in the conversation, include, how he got into music, his early records and inspiration, touring and of course, the new record.
On the ninth episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sat down with Indie-Rock band The Hails. Discussed in the conversation, how the band got together in college, their debut single "Younger," and the importance of it, being on tour and their debut album, "What's Your Motive."
On the eighth episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sat down with Tik-Tok Viral Artist Addison Grace. In the conversation, Addison Grace's debut album, "Diving Lessons," was discussed, blowing up on Tik-Tok, going from listening to Cavetown to working with them, the importance of being yourself and identity, and what touring has been like, with a show in Toronto.
On the seventh episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sat down with Cian Godfrey, aka Somebody's Child. In the conversation, among other topics, discussed were his self-titled debut album, "Somebody's Child," growing up in Paris and Dublin, his love for film, touring and playing a show in Toronto.
On the sixth episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sat down with Tyler, Texas Chance Peña. In the conversation, among other topics, discussed were his smash record, "In My Room," how Kid Cudi influenced him to be more vulnerable in his music, tour life, and taking care of your mental health.
LAYKS, aka Sam Martin, recently played the Glastonbury festival. Sam catches up with us again on eating bad rice, his journey as an artist, and his love for both John Mayer and his girlfriend.
Hey folks! Michelle here! I'm a fresh face on STUDIO 01, so I thought I would introduce myself. I'm a drum & bass enthusiast who is incredibly happy to be here and spread the DNB love. When I'm not interviewing kickass artists, you can find me watching anime, shopping for more books or playing with my pup, Luna. On today's episode we sit down with the incredible drum & bass producer, Alpha Rhythm. Hailing from Pittsburgh, this liquid drum & bass producer and DJ is one you cannot miss! Tune in to hear all about his collaborations, his podcast, video game soundtracks, festivals and plenty more!
Follow Alpha Rhythm on socials
Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/alpharhythm
YouTube / https://www.youtube.com/alpharhythm
Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/alpharhythmdnb
Website / https://www.alphariddim.com/
Host and Editor - Michelle Charbonneau
Executive Producer - Jibril Osman / @jibilosman
Branding and Graphics - Jay Aramboo / @jayaramboo
Follow Studio 01 on socials to stay up to date
Instagram / @TheStudio01Show
Twitter / @Thestudio01Show
We're back! Mike has a beautiful conversation full of laughter with HMLT and Kei-Li, known collectively as Drifters. They talk about growing up Asian near Toronto, going to school with Simu Liu and Young K, and everything else!
Mike chats with Portland artist Falling Alice about crafting short films, dating in the pandemic, pickup courses, and Portlandia.
Mike sits down with young Toronto alternative R&B artist Chris Chand to discuss his perspective of the Toronto music industry, growing up in a musical family, and our mutual love for photography. Chris Chand's latest single, "Your Heart," is a groovy and melancholy certified BOP about indecisive love. Chris is currently working on finishing his "Indigo" EP project, which dives into themes like self-awareness and introspection, self-care, and being there for yourself like nobody else can.
All-around musician, good dude, and fellow Sandbox Studios alum EYES ENTER SPACE sits down with Mike over Zoom to catch up on his childhood struggles, crypto & NFTs, and his craft and life philosophy. EYES ENTER SPACE is set to drop his debut single "AFTERLIFE" off his upcoming 8-track project "RIOT" on July 19. "RIOT" will be released later this summer.
Mike had the honour of speaking with the executive director of PhemPhat Entertainment group and producer of the Honey Jam concert and programme for young female artists, Ebonnie Rowe, in an enlightening and open discussion about the history of Toronto music, societal issues we face today, and the value of being focused in all aspects of life. We see this episode as a milestone, the fruit of our labours thus far, and we are nothing without your support.
Mike has a joyful and bonding time with LAYKS, British ambient indie-pop artist and overall sweetheart, on topics like finding oneself during prolonged periods of isolation, LA dreams, and the effect of the time of the day on one's emotions. LAYKS is looking to release his debut EP this summer, and recently released the blissful summer jam "Cowboy."
Mike has a lovely time with the hilarious and introspective Russell Louder, who grew up in PEI but moved to Montreal right at the start of the pandemic. Russell released their debut album, "Humor," back in February this year. We like to think of their voice as hauntingly beautiful, driven by folksy and synth-friendly production. Take a listen! Thank us later.
Mike joins Paris Pick, Whitehorse-based yacht-pop soulstress, in an intimate and joyful conversation about finding yourself, overcoming insecurities, and the value of traveling. Paris Pick is set to release her second album, "Hope for The Best," on June 11th.
Mike joins Toronto musician and outdoor educator Pete Moss in a conversation on modern parenting, embracing local nature, and his upcoming project all about birds, led by the recently released single, "Chickadee."
Mike had the honor of interviewing Toronto's own STAYOUTLATE collective. Inspired by A$AP Mob and Grade A Productions, STAYOUTLATE features a diverse cast, each with their own strengths and specialties. The group consists of Tremayne, Charlie Noiir, Scotty IV, and YoungWolf. STAYOUTLATE is in the midst of finishing their upcoming album, and just released "Lavish" with accompanying video.
Mike sits down with his dream guest, Sylo Nozra, in an epic and intimate heart-to-heart. The two talk about their cultural identities, current Netflix shows, Sylo's philosophy behind his craft and attitude towards life, and their many shared personality traits. This is the start of a beautiful friendship. Enjoy.
Mike welcomes JESSE MAXWELL, a soulful Toronto R&B artist back onto STUDIO 01. We talk about lessons from live-streaming, Jesse's memories of theatre productions, looking forward to life after Covid, and songs from his upcoming EP "Hellion," to be released on May 7.
Mike welcomes LEXXICON, the King of Toronto Dancehall, back to STUDIO 01. We talk about Chet Hanks, LEXXICON's first venture into Spanish vocal performance in "No Hay Mejor" from his newest EP "Bashment SZN," operating a community artist collective, and future endeavors.
On the fiftieth episode of the video call interview series and the last with Host Jibril Osman, he has a conversation with Dark-alt pop duo Charlotte Spiral. Charlotte Spiral is a collaboration between Amy Spencer and Avi Barath and they recently released the ep "New Light."
Brampton Tamil rapper Jarin Alab joins Mike in a conversation about Toronto's music industry, YTV cartoons, his ambitions as an artist, and our mutual love for Jay Aramboo. In anticipation for his next major project release, "Petta Raps Vol.2," he has just dropped the singles "Aathi Vaasi Freestyle" and "YVON OF THE YUKON." "Petta Raps Vol.2" is scheduled to be released on April 30th, 2021.
Mike, STUDIO 01 Editor, chats with Rence, a self-described "Seattle boy in Los Angeles", who also happens to be a musician blending genres of indie, pop, or whatever he's into. We talk about his roots in the music industry, his love for video games, and his ambitions as an artist. His latest single, "Endless," wows fans like a coming-of-age movie with his signature themes of hope, yearning, and nostalgia.
Thumbnail photo provided by Jessica Robinson.
On the forty-ninth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with Toronto artist DUTCHY. Over the years, DUTCHY has released three singles, "Change Up," "Sweat," and this years newly-released single, "Light It Up."
On the forty-eighth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with Justin Tessier. Tessier is a member of the Canadian Blues-Rock Band The Blue Stones from Windsor, Ontario alongside Tarek Jafar. Recently, the band dropped their second album called, "Hidden Gems." This is Jibril's second meeting with The Blue Stones on STUDIO 01, making them our first returning interview artist.
On the forty-seven episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with 24-year old Canadian R&B artist Grace May. In 2019, Grace May released her first single "Quiet." In 2021, Grace May is gearing up to release her debut EP in the spring and is dropping a new single "Angel."
On the forty-six episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Australian musician, singer and performer Joe Agius of RINSE. In 2020, Joe Agius started his own musical act called RINSE and and recently released the debut EP "Wherever I Am."
On the forty-fifth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Cincy-based rapper/producer Chloe Hotline. Chloe Hotline recently released her album "+NSTYNCT," the follow up to the 2020' record "Cynthia."
On the forty-fourth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Toronto multi-genre rapper and lyricist Skevious Tips. Skevious Tips recently released the single "Litty, and It's Alright."
On the forty-third episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Florida-raised songwriter, producer, and vocalist Ethel Cain. Formerly known as White Silas, in 2019, Ethel Cain released her debut single called "Bruises" under her new name. Since then, Cain has released two outstanding EPs, "Carpet Bed" and "Golden Age." Recently, Ethel Cain released "Michelle Pfeiffer," featuring Lil Aaron, the first single from her upcoming release "Inbred," scheduled to be released this April.
On the forty-second episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Toronto group The Accents. Consisting of Mathijs Kriebel and former artist manager Richard Weller, they started working together when Richard approached Mathijs with various lyrics and musical ideas he had written. This collaborative effort was the spark that ignited the start of The Accents. Back in 2020, The Accents released the single "In My Head," the first release since their debut EP "Still On Film."
On the fifth episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Toronto singer, songwriter, and producer Kennen. A self-taught producer since the age of 12, KENNEN eventually decided to sing on his own tracks by the beginning of 2020. He caught the attention of music lovers around the world after self-releasing the single “Timothée Chalamet” and releasing his debut EP “Kennen’s Cassettes." Recently, Kennen released the video for the single "1 2 365 4 Me."
On the forty-first episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Texas artist Kyba Morales. Kyba Morales is the frontman of the ever-evolving group Ponderosa. Dipping in multiple genres like Pop, Rap, Funk and Dream Pop, in 2019, Kyba Morales began cooking up "DIE, GTS," A 6-EP series surrounding the theme of "pure freedom". "Do" & "ii" released in 2019, February 29th and April 30th respectively. Kyba Morales recently released the third project in the series called "Ever."
On the thirty-ninth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with pop artist Morgan St. Jean. In 2018, St. Jean’s debut single, ‘Addicted’ was featured on the FOX TV show "STAR." Her song, ‘Famous,’ with platinum recording artist Borgeous, was featured on Spotify’s "New Music Friday," and has garnered millions of streams and international radio play. Her electric show has allowed her to play all over the US, including a recent west coast tour. St. Jean wrote and featured on Loud Luxury’s latest single, ‘Aftertaste,’ which received 35 Spotify "New Music Friday" placements across the globe, earned support from the likes of Tiesto and Martin Garrix, and amassed over 40 million streams across multiple streaming platforms. Recently, Morgan St. Jean made her major label debut in October 2020 with "Lola," a self-written debut single, and recently dropped the video for it.
On the thirty-eighth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Queens, NY based singer, songwriter and producer Hadji Gaviota. After graduating from UPenn in 2017, Hadji released his first single, "Harajaku," and received immediate praise. As the years progressed, Hadji has continued to build his fan-base and release music. Recently, Hadji released his "TELESCOPE" EP and a new single “4049 SPRUCE,” and earned a spot on Spotify’s widely popular, hand-curated “Anti-Pop” playlist.
On the thirty-seventh episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Vancouver artist and YouTuber JEN Z. Having amassed over 2.5 million subscribers on YouTube with her DIY style videos, Jen Z recently rekindled her passion for music and released a new single called "Falling To Your Knees."
On the thirty-sixth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with genre-bending Persian/New Zealand producer and rapper CHAII. This summer, CHAII released her six-track debut EP "Lightswitch." In June, CHAII became the first-ever Spotify RADAR artist from New Zealand. RADAR is Spotify's global emerging artist platform, which has launched international stars like Lauv, King Princess, Jorja Smith, G-Eazy and Trippie Redd. Despite being relatively new to the music scene, CHAII’s music has already attracted FENDI for their "FENDIVA" fashion campaign, and UFC used CHAII's song “South” for a "Main Event" promotion video. She has also been added to the soundtracks of Activision’s re-master of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 & 2, and EA's FIFA 21.
On the thirty-fifth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with 23 year-old alternative pop artist Christian French. Boasting a series of breakout singles like "Head First" and "By Myself," Christian recently released a brand-new EP called "Good Things Take Time."
On the thirty-fourth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with the Command Sisters. The power-duo behind the killer name are sisters Charlotte [vocals, keys] and Sarah [guitar, vocals] Command. Recently, the sisters released a single called "Feel Good," an upbeat anthem followed by their latest single, “Lonely Lullaby,” and the debut singles “I Can Do What I Want to” and “I Like it." The sisters recorded these tracks in Los Angeles with award-winning producer Tim Pagnotta (who has worked with WALK THE MOON, Weezer, Blink-182, and Neon Trees), setting the stage for their debut EP, slated for early 2021.
On the thirty-third episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Toronto artist KRSRAGA. After releasing singles in 2018 and 2019, KRSRAGA released her debut EP in spring 2020 called "In Case You Missed Me." Recently, KRSRAGA released a video for the single "Deep End" off this EP.
On the thirty-second episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with JUNO nominated indie-pop band VALLEY. VALLEY consists of Rob Laska, Karah James, Mikey Brandolino, and Alex DiMauro. In the past two years, VALLEY became one of the leading internationally-streamed Canadian acts. With only a pair of self-written and self-produced debut releases under their belt (including their EP "This Room is White" and their album "MAYBE"), the band has collected nearly 53 million streams on Spotify, became supporting acts for Lennon Stella and The Band Camino on sold-out North American tours in 2019, earned a JUNO Award Nomination in 2020, and confirmed support billing with LovelyTheBand once the tour re-opens. VALLEY has recently released a brand new EP called, "sucks to see you doing better."
On the thirty-first episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Paul Klein of the American alternative-rock band LANY. Paul formed his band in 2014 in Nashville with Charles Leslie "Les" Priest and Jake Clifford Goss. Since 2014, LANY has released two "Top-40" albums, "LANY" (2017) and "Malibu Nights" (2018). LANY had just released their third studio album "mama's boy."
On the thirtieth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with Australian electronic duo Cosmo's Midnight. Cosmo's Midnight consist of twin brothers Cosmo and Patrick Liney, forming as a group in 2012 and releasing their debut studio album "What Comes Next" in 2018. Recently, Cosmo's Midnight has been promoting their follow-up record, "Yesteryear," releasing a string of singles with features by Ruel, Age.Sex.Location, and Matthew Young. "Yesteryear" was just released.
On the twenty-ninth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Minnesota artist Lupin. Lupin is the solo act of Hippo Campus front-man Jake Luppen. After releasing several singles and music videos, Lupin has recently released his self-titled debut album.
On the twenty-eighth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Montreal's Zach Zoya. Since the release of his 2018 EP "Misstape" produced by platinum producer High Klassified (who has worked with Future and The Weeknd), Zach has been one of the most talked-about rappers in Montréal's vibrant music scene. In the last two years, anticipation for a new Zach Zoya project has been building. Recently, Zach released the video for the single "In Da Way,” Zack's third single and second music video from his upcoming EP "Spectrum," which will be released on October 30th.
On the twenty-seventh episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Texas-born, LA-based singer-songwriter Lou Ridley. On September 2019, Lou released a full-length debut EP, "Cowgirls Don't Cry." This spring, Lou dropped a new single "Poor Baby."
On the twenty sixth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with 18-year-old Toronto singer-songwriter renforshort. renforshort's edgy, unfiltered alt-pop has quickly caught the attention of both music fans and the music industry. After her two self-released singles racked up over 7 million streams, she was named both an Apple Music "Artist of the Week" and a Soundcloud "Artist to Watch." renforshort then signed with Geffen/Universal and released her debut EP "Teenage Angst," which has been streamed over 6.8 million times in Canada alone. This past spring, renforshort collaborated with Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda for the remix of her song "i drive me mad" and dropped new single "fuck, i luv my friends." Recently, renforshort released a brand-new single and video titled "nostalgic (luvsick)."
On the twenty-fifth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Rozzi, a singer-songwriter from San Francisco. At nineteen, Rozzi was discovered & signed by Maroon 5 leader Adam Levine. Rozzi would then tour with Maroon 5, releasing the EPs "Space" and "Time" while honing her craft as an artist. In 2016, Rozzi and Adam parted ways. In 2018, Rozzi released her first album "Bad Together." Recently, Rozzi released the single "Best Friend Song."
On the twenty-fourth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Alex The Astronaut. Born Alexandra Lynn, Alex The Astronaut is an Australian singer-songwriter who has been described as "One of Australia's most powerful and important songwriters." Recently, Alex released her debut album, "The Theory of Absolutely Nothing."
On the twenty-third episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with Tyler Shaw. Tyler Shaw is a multi-platinum selling artist, producer and actor. The Chinese-Canadian artist released his hit song "Kiss Goodnight" in 2012, and the track quickly hit platinum sales. In 2014, Tyler earned a JUNO nomination for ‘Breakthrough Artist of the Year.' He then went on to release the certified gold tracks "House of Cards" and "Wicked," all from his 2015 debut album "Yesterday." Tyler then followed-up his debut album with "Intuition," an album which featured the double-platinum hit “With You” and the top-ten hit “Cautious.” This past April, Tyler spearheaded the COVID-19 relief single "Lean On Me," which assembled some of Canada’s greatest musical legends, including Justin Bieber, Avril Lavigne, Michael Buble, Sarah McLachlan and Bryan Adams. To date, Tyler Shaw's efforts have raised over $100,000 for the Canadian Red Cross for COVID-19 related initiatives. Recently, Tyler Shaw released "Remember," the first single from his upcoming 3rd studio album.
On the twenty-second episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Wesley Hill of rising Los Angeles atmospheric alternative-rock quartet, The Only Ocean. Formed in Lompoc, CA during Wesley’s high school days, the band has evolved from an auspicious bedroom solo-project to a flourishing four-piece that has carved out its own unique place within the sea of playlists and festival stages in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara, eventually settling further south in Los Angeles, where all four members grew up. The Only Ocean's sound has continued to evolve and diversify with the addition of new band-mates: Guitarist Tamara Simons, drummer Jonathan Palmquist, and bassist Jordan Kaufman. In 2015, The Only Ocean released their self-titled debut. Recently, the group released a new single and music video titled "Watch It Fall."
On the twenty-first episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with American singer, songwriter and musician Zella Day. Zella is 25 years old, hailing from Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona. In 2015, Zella released her major label release in the form of "Kicker." The debut was preceded by the singles "Hypnotic" and "East of Eden." After five years, Zella has returned with a brand new EP called "Where Does The Devil Hide," produced by The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach.
On the twentieth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with New York-based singer-songwriter SAMIA. In 2017, SAMIA released her debut single "Welcome To Eden," and her career took off after her second single "Someone Tell The Boys," an empowering anthem. Now, after three years of releasing music, touring and refining as an artist, SAMIA delivered her debut album, "The Baby."
On the nineteenth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Toronto singer and multi-instrumentalist GRAE. Crafting her own empowering indie-leading pop with mystique, fierceness and a DIY twist, GRAE has been making waves in the music industry: Since dropping her first EP "New Girl" in late 2019, GRAE has accumulated over three million streams across all platforms, graced the cover of Spotify's "Indie Pop and Chill," "Outliers" and "Introducing" playlists, and won the SOCAN Young Canadian Songwriters Award. Recently, GRAE released a brand new ep called "Permanent Maniac."
On the eighteenth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with rising star and platinum certified Canadian artist Ryland James. Ryland James is a 21-year-old artist from Deseronto, Ontario. Ryland recently released his debut self-titled EP, a milestone achievement following a year of immense growth and success. Ryland capped off his momentous 2019 campaign with a North American tour as the opening act for fellow Canadian superstar Alessia Cara. The self-titled EP features Ryland's recent releases “Better Off,” “Shoulder To Cry On,” and the platinum certified hit “In My Head."
On the seventeenth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with rising Canadian country artist Jade Eagleson. With a #1 song on the Canadian country radio chart ("Lucky"), the most-viewed domestically-signed country music video in history for "Got Your Name On It," 85M+ global streams and two certified-gold singles ("Got Your Name On it" and "Count The Ways") under his belt, Jade Eagelson has been shining since he began releasing music in 2018. Recently, Jade Eagleson released his self-titled debut album. This album is packed with fan favourites like "Got Your Name On It," "Count The Ways," "Still Gonna Be You," "Good Country People," and "Lucky," as well as his recently released singles, "Close" and "Hackin' Darts," along with three brand new tracks, "Whiskey Tonight," "Boom Town," and "Little Less Lonely."
On the sixteenth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with 16-year-old rising Canadian artist Anna Sofia. At just 16, the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has garnered critical acclaim, millions of streams and legions of dedicated fans. Earlier this year, Anna released her debut "Self Aware Bitch" EP, which received critical acclaim from Ones To Watch, Affinity Magazine, That Buzzing Sound, and accumulated over 3 million cumulative streams. Recently, Anna unleashed her sophomore effort with the "Broken Perfection" EP. Lead by stand-out track "Don’t Play Pretend," this new EP is another glimpse into the stunning potential of Anna Sofia, who effortlessly go from creating a gorgeous, sparse indie vibe in "Either Way," to a blissful pop track in "Happy For You." Working with long-time collaborators Jeff Hazin and Frank Dukes (who has worked with Drake and Taylor Swift), Anna Sofia has been earmarked as "the one to watch."
On the fifteenth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Grizzly Coast. Grizzly Coast is the musical brainchild of Toronto-based indie-rock musician Alannah Kavanagh. Formerly performing as an acoustic singer-songwriter, Grizzly Coast evolved into a band with relative ease, having toured her powerful and effervescent live show throughout Ontario and Alberta, including opening for Fast Romantics, Begonia, and Exclaim! magazine’s Class of 2020. After releasing singles since 2018, Grizzly Coast has recently released its debut project, "Party Of One."
On the fourteenth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Nikki Yanofksy. Nikki is a JUNO-nominated artist from Montreal, best known for her performance of "I Believe," the 2010 Winter Olympic anthem (which she recorded & performed when she was only 16 years-old). Over the course of her career, Nikki has worked with a ton of celebrated artists including Herbie Hancock, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Quincy Jones, and was named on Billboard’s "21 Under 21." Recently, Nikki released the album "Turn Down The Sound." On this new record, Nikki comes full circle on an ambition she’s been angling towards for years: To believe in and act on her own creative intuition.
On the thirteenth episode of the video call interview series, Jibril has a conversation with Toronto artist nodisco. nodisco. is the moniker of Chris Toufexis. In 2018, after creating demos with the help of Mike Brandolino from the indie band VALLEY, the first nodisco. demos were formed. These demos would later be embraced by legendary R&B producer Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds to invite nodisco. to a week-long songwriting camp in Toronto. Fast forward to 2020, nodisco. has recently released “Unrelated,” his fourth single to-date, which is finding success with his past records like “Moonlight in My Bedroom,” “Luv U Early,” and his debut single “Thoughts From Your Car.” His work has been featured on a slew of top playlists like "Study Break," "Fresh Finds," and "New Music Friday Canada," and received international praise from the likes of Line of Best Fit, CBC Radio, and Variance. Shrewdly balancing his deeply personal and honest lyrics with undeniable pop sensibilities, nodisco. creates records that are a league of their own.
On the fourth episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Bristol-based artist James Humphrys. In 2017, James released his full length EP, "Sun Mantra," and in 2020, he released a follow-up EP, "Memory Palace." Consisting of four tracks written and recorded off the coast of Alaska while working on a cruise ship, the EP includes the recent singles "Colour" and "All The Same," and pays testament to James' ability to create multi-layered, genre-bending indie anthems brimming with optimism and energy.
On the twelfth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Aylesbury-based quintet Birthday Card. Crafting their own brand of genre-bending pop, Birthday Card consists of Josh Saw (Vocals), Conor Richards (Lead Guitar), George Harrison (Synths), Leslie Adriaans (Drums) and Tom Ritchie (Bass). Back in 2019, Birthday Card released the single "Shy Away," and in 2020 have followed it up with "Talk Talk," and their most recent single, "Radio Star."
On the eleventh episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Toronto artist Jesse Maxwell. In 2019, Jesse Maxwell released three singles with Trans Phatt Records – "Blade," "Life on the Rocks," and "Colossal" – all while working on his nine-track debut album now known as "Radio Silence." This March, Jesse Maxwell released the first single of "Radio Silence" named "Average," and in May released the album in its entirety, blending his own brand of pop, R&B, Neo-soul, jazz, and blues.
On the tenth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down Matt Quinn (vocals, guitar) from Mt. Joy. Mt. Joy is a five-piece indie-rock group based in Los Angeles, with roots in Philadelphia. Alongside Matt, the band consists of members Sam Cooper (guitar), Sotiris Eliopoulos (drums), Jackie Miclau (keyboards), and Michael Byrnes (bass). Recently, Mt. Joy released their sophomore album, "Rearrange Us."
In the last week of February, before the COVID-19 Pandemic took over the globe, we at STUDIO 01 had just wrapped our first season release and were in the process of filming and producing Season 02 of our main STUDIO 01 series. As time went on, we shifted gears and have been diversifying our content with additional series like Video Call 01 and Audio 01. Before in-person productions were halted, we had already filmed the first episode of Season 02 and created a teaser trailer for the new season. After releasing video calls and audio interviews on a weekly basis, we at STUDIO 01 have decided this week to show the first episode of Season 02 and releasing what would be our official Season 02 teaser trailer. Our guest for Season 02 Episode 01 is French Canadian singer-songwriter Matt Holubowski. Matt Holubowski recently released his album "Weird Ones."
On the third episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with MALACHI, a 22-year-old emerging Toronto R&B artist. In 2019, MALACHI released his debut mixtape, "Bread Winner," and kicked off the new decade by releasing the singles "Soul is Mine" and "Aquafina." Recently, MALACHI has followed-up with a new EP called "Right Now."
On the eighth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with BAD CHILD, a Canadian singer-songwriter, producer and instrumentalist. Last year, BAD CHILD released his debut project, "Sign Up" which had the previously released singles "BAD CHILD," "Pay Back," "Breathing Fire" and "Desert Island Lover." This year, BAD CHILD followed-up with a two-pack single called "I" that included "Candy," a song that was included in the original soundtrack for the Netflix film "To All The Boys: P.S. I Still Love You" and "Behave." Recently, BAD CHILD released a cover of Bill Withers' "Hope She'll Be Happier," and was featured on "Stronger Together, Tous Ensemble," a Canadian music broadcast alongside Justin Bieber, Avril Lavigne, Alessia Cara and company, singing the track "Lean On Me," and released the video to the aforementioned single "Behave."
On the seventh episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Uptown Boyband. Uptown Boyband is a Korean-Canadian trio based in Toronto, Ontario consisting of 25-year old rapper Justin Trash, 24-year old singer Joe Rascal, and 24-year old singer & engineer Roc Lee. Earlier this year, Uptown Boyband went on a Canadian tour as a supporting act of Korean rapper BewhY and released two singles, "Blackpink" and "Roller Girl." Recently, Uptown Boyband released their new single, "Read My Mind," with an accompanying visual.
On the sixth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Jack Metcalfe, the drummer of the U.K. Band "The Hunna." Alongside Jack, The Hunna consists of singer & guitarist Ryan Potter, lead guitarist Daniel Dorney and bassist Junate Angin. Through releasing two albums, "100" in 2016 and "Dare" in 2018, the Hunna grew as a band in both in England and around the world. The Hunna are gearing up to release their forthcoming record, "I'd Rather Die Than Let You In," working with the likes of Travis Barker, Pete Wentz, Josh Dun and John Feldmann. The band have recently released the lead single called, "Cover You," and just dropped a new single, "Dark Times."
On the second episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Billy Raffoul. Billy Raffoul is a singer/songwriter from Leamington, Ontario. After releasing his first single, "Driver" in 2017, Raffoul would release his debut EP, "1975." In the years that followed, Raffoul would drop another EP coined "The Running Wild," perform for big acts like Kings of Leon and X Ambassadors while building as an artist and performer. Recently, Raffoul released a brand new EP called "A Few More Hours At YYZ," and was on his own headlining tour before it was shut down due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Not wanting to part with fans, Raffoul created "The Social Distancing Tour" to perform for fans on Instagram Live.
On the fifth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with the Snotty Nose Rez Kids, a Haisla Hip-Hop duo from Kitimat, B.C., composed of rappers Yung Treybez and Young D. After forming in 2016, Snotty Nose Rez Kids released two albums in 2017, their self-titled debut and "The Average Savage." Their accolades would later include Best Hip-Hop Artist at the Western Canadian Music Awards, "Short List" at Polaris Music Prize 2018, and a 2019 Juno Nomination for "Best Indigenous Music Album." They would wrap up 2019 with the album "Trapline" that would be named on Exclaim's "One of The Best 50 Albums of The 2010s" list and make a return to the Polaris Music Prize "Short List." Recently, they released a new EP, "Born Deadly."
On the fourth episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman has a conversation with Paul Chin, a Polaris-nominated Toronto producer. On March 20, Paul released "Full Spectrum," his first release in five years following his 2015 project "Dancing Drums." The new release features the likes of CBC Searchlight winner Desirée Dawson, and Polaris Music Prize nominee Shad, with the album mixed and mastered by Toronto’s Freeza Chin.
On the third episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with STORRY, a Juno-Nominated artist that was trained in classical music but dives deep in other genres. Back in February, STORRY released her debut album, "CH III: The Come Up," based on a chapter of her life; a woman exiting the sex industry to enter the music industry. Recently, STORRY released a Claymation film, "Up," set to a song of the same name from the album.
On the second episode of the video call interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with ZOLA. ZOLA is a singer, songwriter from San Francisco. Recently, ZOLA has been releasing records from her upcoming full-length project in the form of the singles, "Crystal Floors," "Tèlèphone" and the most recent single, "Don't Eat."
On the first episode of the audio interview series, Host Jibril Osman sits down with Dom Want (Guitar/Synth) and Joe Gaskell (Drums) from the U.K Band Larkins. Larkins formed after members Josh Noble (Vocals) and Dom Want started making music in school. Henry Beach (Bass/Synth) and Joe Gaskell were eventually added into the line-up. Recently, the Manchester band released their EP "Hit And Run," and the music video for the single, "Hit And Run." Before their Toronto show on their North American Tour, I connected with Dom and Joe for a sit down.
On the first video call interview, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Tarek Jafar, a member of the Canadian Blues Rock Band The Blue Stones from Windsor, Ontario alongside band mate Justin Tessier. Recently, the band has been working on their new record and released two singles "Shakin’ Off The Rust," and "Grim." The Blue Stones have been nominated for the 2020 Juno's for Breakthrough Group Of The Year.
On episode ten and the season finale of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Toronto-based Hip-Hop/Dancehall artist LEXXICON. LEXXICON recently released the album, "Bashment Trap House."
On episode nine of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with artists Jerelle and Sofia Monaro from the collective Beware. Jerelle and Sofia Monaro have newly released the single, "OTW."
On episode eight of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with multi-talented, alternative Toronto artist Connor Mowat. Connor Mowat has recently released the single, "Blue Mask."
On episode seven of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down with French- Congolese rapper Keynes Woods. Keynes Woods spent the first eight years of his life in Kinshasa, DRC before migrating to Ottawa, Canada and started his music career at 16. Recently, Keynes Woods released a single from his upcoming EP called "Spiritual Healing," featuring Toronto artist Just John and Vancouver artist So Loki. Keynes Woods is currently preparing to release an upcoming EP titled, "Kongo Kane."
On episode six, STUDIO 01 Host Jibril Osman sits down with Toronto rapper Jay Whiss. Garnering attention with his first single, "Watch This" in 2015, Jay Whiss has become a staple in Toronto and global hip-hop culture alongside his Prime Boys members Jimmy Prime and Donnie. Currently, Jay Whiss is preparing to release his solo debut album, releasing the first single from the record called, "Valet," featuring Toronto rapper and Halal Gang member Puffy L'z and produced by Murda Beatz.
On episode five and the mid-season finale of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Vancouver born Toronto R&B artist Khabbazi. Khabazzi's most recently released single is "His Teeth."
On episode four of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Toronto rapper and artist Tremayne from the Stay Out Late collective. Tremayne most recently released the single "Kidz Bop 41."
On the third episode of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down with John Nolan and Mark O'Connell from Taking Back Sunday at Toronto's Danforth Music Hall. Taking Back Sunday has been on an extensive world-wide tour in celebration of the 20th anniversary as a band and released "Twenty" a compilation in celebration.
On the second episode of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down and has a conversation with Toronto R&B Artist Joyia. Joyia has recently released an EP called, "Purple," with Toronto collective HMLT.
On the first episode of STUDIO 01, Host Jibril Osman sits down with American Electronic Pop Group Muna. Consisting of Katie Gavin, Josette Maskin and Naomi McPherson, the group recently released their second studio album "Saves The World."