Charles Edward

 

There is a current of old world tension and modern angst captured in the music of Charles Edward and that energy, as embodied in his debut radio single ‘Good Ol Days’, has got listeners enthralled. It's time the world learned more about this intriguing ambient / instrumental artist.

Some artists try to scale their way to the top of the music industry by personal flamboyance (or inscrutability). Others work the business like hardened politicians and hope that money and fame will redeem whatever compromises are made along the way. But a very few can do it by a golden amalgamation of originality, musicianship and talent. Charles Edward is such an artist. Currently residing in Long Beach, California, Charles Edward has been fast attracting recognition and honors, and one recent critic's account of his award-winning work probably explains why: ‘Immense, bold, and effusively funkadelic, 'Good Ol Days' is a skillful conjugation of technical talent, production savvy and melodic brilliance.’ You can hear the authenticity in every chord and melodic twist of his new ambient / instrumental single, which undoubtedly explains its rapid ascent up the charts. Independent reporter Lily Clark recently caught up with Charles Edward to talk about his history, musical influences and exciting plans for the future.

LILY: As an artist on the rise, what is one thing you are most excited about and one thing you are most afraid of happening in your career?
CHARLES EDWARD: The one thing that most excites me is uplifting people through my music which allows me to live out my dreams I am fearless when it comes to music but, if I had a fear it would be becoming comfortable and not challenging myself to be a better artist.

LILY: Your song ’Good Ol Days’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
CHARLES EDWARD: It's crazy to hear something that started in my garage and now is being well received abroad. I'm grateful, motivated, and just flat out happy that my music is starting to receive the recognition I feel it deserves. Been a long time coming. I want to thank all my supporters real talk!

LILY: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
CHARLES EDWARD: I just wanted to create a good feeling something that reminds people of late 90's early 00's. Good Ol Days does just that and sounds great enough to be played today, tomorrow, as well as years to come.

LILY: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
CHARLES EDWARD: My art definitely comes from humble beginnings I remember sleeping and my car, broke, but, still wanting to record and produce songs. I feel like coming from the bottom makes me appreciate where I am now and where I am going.

LILY: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
CHARLES EDWARD: I'm a Serious artist that expresses my life through my music. I'm down to earth as well but when it's go time my game face is always on.

 

LILY: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
CHARLES EDWARD: Simply great from the promoters to my fellow collaborators it’s all love and respect.

LILY: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
CHARLES EDWARD: No didn't come from one. So, I built it from the ground up. Yes, my Uncles, as well my nephews all have the gift of gab when it comes to music!

LILY: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
CHARLES EDWARD: I can create something from nothing that moves a person soul. I love that feeling! I find it most challenging to not be a perfectionist. Perfection is madness I'm slowly letting go of the idea everything has to be perfect. Life isn't perfect so why should I pretend to be like I am?

LILY: Who are your role models in music?
CHARLES EDWARD: Dr. Dre for production reasons. Timbaland for the same reason. Jay-Z and Snoop for being two of the most influential rappers of all time. Last but not least Frank Sinatra. He knew how to keep his audience engaged constantly.

LILY: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
CHARLES EDWARD: Thus far my most memorable performance would be the recording of "Knowledge Is Power". One of my more raw no holds bar type of records I'm glad I didn't shy away from making this record.

LILY: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
CHARLES EDWARD: Stay true to you. Don't let anyone tell you what your dream should love it and live that dream to the fullest. You never know when you will inspire someone else to go for their dreams.

LILY: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
CHARLES EDWARD: Worldwide takeover in the form of three new albums. One album called "Holidaze". Which will feature my version of holiday music with a hip hop twist! The second album will a google play called "Eastside Dreams". Which will be a compilation by Long Beach California artists. Last but not least, the third album "Success Is The Only Option". This will be an album that shakes up the music industry!

LILY: Wow, that all sounds very exciting! Thank you so much for letting us get to know you all a little better. I look forward to hearing and seeing more great things from you in the future.

http://www.charlesedwardmusic.net