Apollo Liberace, formerly of Minus Gravity, cares about not only the musicality of his craft, but the impact of his work on generations to come. With his new self-titled body of work being hailed by critics and fans alike, he is creating music that matters.
How has transitioning from Minus Gravity to a solo career impacted your musical creativity?
Really well… not to sound egotistical or anything, but in the group I did most of the work, so I like it even more that it’s all on me… Succeed or fail, I’m all the way in control.
Describe the musical politics you experienced while signed to a major label.
I would describe it as a learning curve… I knew it was time for me to get inside the machine and see what it was really about. I’m a student of the game always trying to learn, so it was a great time honestly.
What advantages do you enjoy now as an independent artist compared to when you were signed?
The main advantage I think any independent artist has is consistency and being able to put out music whenever we want as independent artists.
You tackle a diverse range of social issues through your music. Why choose to do so when it’s harder for conscious music to reach mainstream success?
I just feel like if I don’t have a message or something to say, what am I even doing this for? I’m going to be honest, there’s no REAL money being made in music unless you’re the top-five artists in the country… So, I’m doing this because this is what I love to do.
Do you feel that more artists should explore social responsibility through music?
Not necessarily. I think there’s space for all types of music… I like to turn up, also.
What would you say is the most defining song on your album and why?
To me personally, it’s “Pretty Girls Hurt.” I had a lot to do with building the production exactly how I wanted it on that song, down to the background vocals… Being more hands on with most of the production on this album was great, but that’s my favorite song personally.
How do you decide which songs will make it on the final project?
I make a playlist and play it through a bunch of times and see what feels right and if it flows with the project.
What advice would you offer someone deciding whether to sign to a major label or be independent?
Only advice is it’s all a business… Have a good lawyer, really study and fall in love with the business side of music.
How would you describe the reception of your album so far?
Amazing, already over a million streams in a few weeks, and it’s just getting started. I’m really proud of this but also still working and almost done with the next project.
Be’n Original
