EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: BLK ODYSSY

When it comes to new albums, we’re selective on which ones we allow into our playlists. Luckily for our ears, BLK ODYSSY’s 1-800 FANTASY has made the cut. It’s full of pop-funk tracks like ‘GEMINI’ and ‘CHANGES’ that we’ve had on a consistent loop. To celebrate the album release, we sat down with the musician to discuss what it means to genre-bend, his aspirations for touring, and a special message for fans. 

Welcome to The Honey POP! We are so glad you came to chat with us in the Hive today. Let’s start at the beginning. Tell us about your first few memories surrounding music. When did you first discover your passion?
I discovered music in the back of my dad’s Volvo; I specifically remember late nights on the New Jersey turnpike, having my first exposure to music.

1-800 FANTASY

On this new album, 1-800 FANTASY, you’re working with some iconic features like Wiz Khalifa and Joey Bada$$. How was the collaboration experience? What did you learn from each of these two artists?
It’s always amazing to collaborate with artists I’ve looked up to since high school. I learn almost every day and working with them was no exception of that.

Which song from the new album was the most challenging to write? How about the easiest?
The most challenging to write would probably be ‘GEMINI.’ It just took a while to come to me.

We love the way you are able to incorporate multiple genres into just one song. How do you view the relationship between funk, pop, and R&B?
To me, I pay attention to the root word of pop which is just popular. I think paying attention to song structure and the psychology of how it makes people feel is the through line.

Your style is amazing, and we especially love your hat collection. What’s your favorite hat that you own? 
I have a floral knit hat from London I wore on Tiny Desk. Love that thing. 

Final Thoughts

This fall you are headed out on tour! What’s it like hearing fans all around the country sing every word of your songs? 
It’s a feeling I can’t really describe. I usually lay in bed when I write as I need to be relaxed. To go from laying on bed coming up with lyrics to seeing crowds sing them is really breathtaking.

Do you have any final messages for OG (or new!) BLK ODYSSY fans?
The message is in the name. Odyssey. We’re all taking a trip together. Do away with expectations and take the exploration.

Thanks so much to BLK ODYSSY for joining us in discussing 1-800 FANTASY! We are so excited to see him out on the road and watch his growth for the rest of the year. Have you had a chance to stream the new album yet? Let us know which track stood out to you the most in the comments or by buzzing with us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook 🐝

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