Interview: Stemin - Falling

Stemin, the Netherlands-based, Italian-raised, multi-lingual musician, continues to extend in and out of his multidimensional rnb, with the smooth and soulful brand-new track "Falling" featuring the Italian singer and composer Chiara Stroia. Stemin's latest work, with subtle ramifications and frank efflorescence, marks the next frontier of his vibrant depiction, demonstrating the richness of his creative vision. And, as in perfect harmony, Chiara Stroia's distinctive touch enriches the palette of "Falling" with a series of nuances that amiably support the song's beautiful galaxy.

By Kamil Bobin

Discovered via Musosoup

What have you been up to over the past year in this big old mess?

I have been working on new music. As you might know, I will be releasing a new album in 2022, as a result of an intense period of songwriting, personal development, and production. Throughout 2020 and 2021 I have tried to focus on expanding my own style and work on a new sound. And I am very excited to share more music with you all.

Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

There are many musicians that have inspired me. Artists such as Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Lauryn Hill and Donny Hathaway had and still have a big influence on. There is always something new about them that I discover and appreciate in time. I mostly love songs with a strong groove and a strong storyline that captures my attention and inspires my artistic journey.

Your latest track is 'Falling'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?

‘Falling’ was co-written with Chiara Stroia which is a great friend of mine and a great musician-artist. It has been a dream come true to write a song with her. While I was working on new music last year, I came up with parts of the melody which now are part of ‘Falling.’ We then had some intense song-writing sessions during which we completed the song. The song talks about finding rescue in a hidden world made of desires and dreams. A world we share with the ones we love the most. It’s a safe place in which we are allowed to be vulnerable and happy, and find satisfaction.

Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?

My parents have taught me perseverance and persistency, which has helped me a lot in the past and still helps me to be creative and productive. Music requires a big amount of patience, which is something that I had to learn throughout the years. I guess this applies to everything in life. As long as you persist and fight for what you want to do in life, you will succeed. It might take time and a bit of luck, but I strongly believe that the things we fight for the most, will come around in time. To add to the above, I think that kindness and curiosity help me to strengthen my artistic development.

What are your favourite musical genres, and are there any you dislike?

I like all kinds of music. There is not such a thing like genres, for me. I like good music. As long as it grooves and it has appeal, or portrays a strong message, I love it. I find it inspiring. Music has a strong power that unites, empowers and changes people.

Describe your creative process when you write new music.

This differs from time to time. I can say though, that I love to write songs on the piano. The piano is one of the instruments that I play since I am a kid. It has always supported me in various chapters of my artistic life. So that’s why I tend to jam on the piano. Depending on the mood, I use certain chords that have a certain color and flavor. Sometimes I have a melody stuck in my mind, so I record it with my phone then later check it back with the piano. Sometimes I have a structure in mind, a mood or an idea. Inspiration comes from every angle possible, such as other artists, musicians, poetry, books, songs, movies, art, personal experiences etc.

What are your long term goals?

I would like to evolve in my music, in my artistic path. I want to explore different music styles and integrate them in my music. I always want to be inspired to inspire others. I feel like this is the most important goal that we have on this planet: support and empower each other. This is what I love to do. As long as I can do that, then I am happy.

What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?

Music unites people. I love the emotional part of music and how it crosses language barriers. I love how it can speak to every human, no matter where one is from. Music is a strong weapon that speaks for itself and it doesn’t need explanation. There are so many music genres that are a form of expression and go beyond cultures, languages and people. In music we all hear the same melody but we all feel something different. That’s very unique to music.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

The internet has had a strong impact on music. There is so much music out there that can be heard through the internet. And this is revolutionary. The internet is a beautiful world where you instantly connect with people from other parts of the world. It can also damage music, of course, but with all the things in life, you got to find the right way to use it, benefiting you and the people around you.

What are your plans for next year? Do you have any productions ready to be released?

I will be releasing my new album intitled ‘Unspoken Dreams.’ I will also be recording a studio session, both audio and video: an acoustic version of some of the album’s tracks. Hopefully, I will be able to tour and play live concerts with the new project. And I am very excited and look forward to this. I can’t wait to connect and meet people on the road, again. I can’t wait to share stories and mostly, share music with you all.