Interview: Selassie (Shutters Studio Residency)

Shutters Studio Residency: The Synth Fun Continues - The Fourth Episode is here!
Shutters and Kommerz Records are delighted to announce the release of the fourth episode of Shutters Studio Residency, an exciting new video series that takes viewers on a captivating journey behind the scenes, offering a glimpse into the artistry and innovation that unfolds within the walls of Synthesizer Studio Hamburg. This episode features the Berlin based multi-faceted artist Selassie, as he showcases his musical prowess and unique style.
Born in Ghana and shaped by the vibrant landscapes of his upbringing, Selassie is a multi-faceted, self-taught artist who breathes life into his art with an extraordinary palette of colors. Approaching his creative journey with a sense of naivety, he remains at heart the curious kid from Accra, Dansoman, allowing his experiences to shape his artistic expression. “My sound is related, actually, to how we used to walk to school and just move freely with a sense of innocence,” he explains.
Originating from a dance background, he effortlessly translates the fluidity of body movements into the delicate brushstrokes and vibrant hues that adorn his canvas. Through this fusion of dance, visual art, and music, Selassie weaves a tapestry of poetry within his songs, offering a transparent conversation with himself.
"Breaking the stereotypes and the mentality of kids from Africa to Europe."
"Son of Kafui: Playlist Four Ma Mother," the remarkable debut album from Selassie, self-released in 2019, serves as a poignant introduction to his artistry, deeply rooted in hip-hop influences. The album title itself cleverly encapsulates the essence and pays homage to the four most influential women in his life: his grandmother, two aunties, and his beloved mother, Kafui. Tragically, his journey to Germany, following his mother at the age of fourteen, was marked by her untimely passing a few years later.
Alongside a repertoire of noteworthy singles, Selassie released his highly anticipated second studio album, "Hidden Identities" on his own label Emotional Intelligence Agency (EIA) in 2021. The album marked a significant milestone in his artistic journey merging sounds across hiphop, jazz, house and African melodies. However, Selassie has recently returned to the captivating allure of single releases, showcasing his ever-evolving creativity and artistic vision, with cuts like “STAR SIGNS” (Sony, 2023) featuring German rapper Badchieff - his biggest song to date.
Selassie takes the stage in Shutters Episode 4, captivating viewers with his dynamic presence and enthralling sound. With his latest offering, "Free Form," Selassie delivers a hip-hop-infused sonic experience drenched in synths, reminiscent of the iconic Kid Cudi.
Shutters Studio Residency presents a rare opportunity for talented artists to immerse themselves in the creative atmosphere of Synthesizer Studio Hamburg. Founded by renowned German engineer legends Sunny Vollherbst and Frank Husemann (known for their work with Tocotronic, Tomte, Blumfeld), this iconic studio resides within the captivating Feldstraßen bunker and offers a unique collection of around 30 vintage synthesizers, organs and pianos, as well as 16 drum machines and beat boxes.
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Shutters Studio Residency and partnering label Kommerz Records are providing this platform for artists to push the boundaries of their sound, explore the possibilities of vintage analog synthesizers and present their creative creations.
Music Production: Gabriel Selassie Tsagli, Leon Weinhold
Executive Production & Direction: Malte von der Lancken
Art direction: Max Cremerius
Videography: Lucas Martens, Max Cremerius, Nilz Hamer
Audio & Studio Engineering: Synthesizer Studio Hamburg - Sunny Vollherbst, Frank Husemann
Set Design: Milan Paul, Dennis Poser, Neoligism - Lasse Schoenfelder
Mastering: Christian Jakob
Edit: Lucas Martens
Design: Jochen Schütt
Photography: Max Cremerius
Label: Kommerz Records
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