VINCED joins us in this episode of Sound Fiesta with his new song “Ricochet”. Coming from his latest single “Spacetime” and his last EP “I Broke My Brain”, “Ricochet” serves as an anthem for those who are dazed by the push-and-pulls of an undefined relationship. Dream-pop beats accompanied by smooth vocals, VINCED will leave you with feelings and a song that you will put on repeat. 

We chatted with VINCED as he told us about how he evolved as a musician, his latest song, and how he keeps inspired through these unprecedented times.

How did you begin as an artist?

When I was 4, like most households, my mom hired a piano/voice teacher to come to our home to teach me and my sister. When I turned 7, my mother had me take guitar lessons. That’s when I really started to understand the warm feeling I get when I listen to my dad’s music. I remember listening to the radio and waiting for the Top 5 segments to find out what’s new in pop. I even listened to Queen back then because it felt empowering. Then my sister introduced me to John Mayer’s songs when I entered highschool and ended up listening to them for a long time. When the age of the internet came in and things became more accessible, I started to learn DJing and producing at 15 years old. Eventually, I took a music course in college and majored in electronic music under Similarobjects (Jorge Wieneke V). Basically, I jumped into anything that involves music.

How would you describe your music?

My music is influenced by alternative R&B and mainstream pop. I enjoy leaving melodies in people’s heads! Although my roots are from indie pop, folk and blues, I was highly influenced by beats and pop videos on YouTube. Growing up, what I really wanted was to become a producer and make music for radio.

Tell us about Ricochet.

“Ricochet” was a demo sent to me by Fern. It was initially something we were working on for something else but I enjoyed the beat so much that it took off quickly. It was one of those rare light bulb moments. Few days in, we accomplished the track, then we decided to make it the first VINCED release under Kindred Productions.

The song talks about an undefined relationship. Lots of back-and-forth emotions. Full of anxiety, loss, pleasure, love and indecisiveness. This song talks about how two people got into a relationship they’re not ready for — a relationship with a plethora of ironic outcomes.

What are the most challenging parts of creating music nowadays?

The entirety of my first EP was written during my daily commute. Being alone with my thoughts, seated around strangers, helped me find my footing in finding inspiration. Those little things that the world took away from us really held me back on finding new ways to express myself in music. I’m very grateful to still be here during this pandemic. I believe that’s where I draw strength from now. Contentment. Being clear-headed and content helps me go back to the memories that I could draw strength from.

What can we look forward to from VINCED?

I’ve been working with the label and we’re setting up a ton of new music. Currently I’m in the middle of finishing the production for Ricochet’s music video. It’ll be very exciting.

You can stream VINCED music on Spotify, Apple Music and Youtube.

Sound Fiesta is in collaboration with Playhouse Studio for video production and Kindred Productions for audio management. This video is shot in Tetsuo, Makati City.