By: Staff
Molombo's latest release, "Starstruck," is an undeniably captivating and multifaceted musical masterpiece that has us utterly spellbound! This dynamic track seamlessly blends an electrifying array of genres, including Afropop, hip-hop, alt-rock, pop, alternative pop, and even political hip-hop, all delivered with the sheer vocal prowess of this artist. The song's infectious energy and irresistible groove immediately grab your attention, leaving you with an irrepressible urge to dance. Yet, beneath the surface, "Starstruck" also possesses a deep, thought-provoking quality, drawing inspiration from the legendary Bob Dylan's "Only a Pawn in Their Game." This fusion of infectious rhythms and profound lyricism is a testament to Molombo's exceptional artistry and creative vision. What truly sets this track apart is the incredible international ensemble that brings it to life. With a Harlem guitarist, a Nigerian pianist and choir, and a Cameroonian vocal chanter all contributing their unique talents, the result is a captivating musical tapestry that transports listeners to a realm of pure, unadulterated musical magic. Molombo, a multi-disciplinary Congolese-American artist who first burst onto the scene in 2020, has undoubtedly solidified their status as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With "Starstruck," they have delivered a track that is not only irresistibly catchy but also deeply meaningful and intellectually engaging. We can't wait to see what other musical marvels this talented artist has in store for us in the future. Be sure to stream and add "Starstruck" to your playlists today!
Wait, there's more! We caught up with Molombo, this exciting and emerging artist in “The Cage” to talk about music and much more.
Here’s how it went:
What first sparked the passion for creating music?
Molombo: Growing up with the rich cultural mix of traditional Congolese rhythms and Motown ballads, I was always surrounded by music. But it was a live concert blending African beats with modern electronic music that truly ignited my passion. The energy and connection I felt pushed me to pursue my own path in music creation.
Can you walk us through your songwriting process for this latest project? Where did the inspiration come from?
Molombo: Creating "StarStruck" was a journey. I start with a melody that resonates, layering it with traditional African instruments like the Kora and modern sounds like the electric guitar. The lyrics draw from my personal experiences, cultural heritage, and global issues. Themes of class struggle, revolutionary optimism, and resilience are central. Collaborating with Mrdees (guitar), Tijesunimi Adebiyi (piano), Rinus N (vocals), and Olawepo Tayo’s Nigerian church choir added incredible depth.
When you become famous, what band or artist would you love to tour with?
Molombo: Touring with Santigold, Kid Cudi, Oumou Sangaré, and Kanye West would be a dream. Santigold and Kid Cudi push creative boundaries, Oumou Sangaré connects deeply with traditional African music, and Kanye West's innovative approach is unparalleled. It would be an incredible opportunity to reach new audiences and learn from their experiences.
What was the most challenging part of bringing this project to life, from the initial idea to the final recording?
Molombo: The hardest part was keeping a cohesive vision while blending diverse influences. Balancing traditional and contemporary sounds took experimentation and patience. Coordinating with collaborators from different locations added to the challenge, but it pushed us to innovate and enriched "StarStruck."
Is any part of your music's message or purpose you feel fans or the industry has overlooked? If so, what is that element, and why is it so important to you?
Molombo: Cultural storytelling is sometimes overlooked. "StarStruck" tackles contemporary struggles faced by marginalized communities, reimagining themes from Bob Dylan's "Only a Pawn in Their Game." These stories of displacement, identity, and resilience are drawn from my experiences and heritage. Music is more than entertainment; it's a powerful tool for education and empathy.
What has been the most motivating force in creating your music?
Molombo: Connecting with people and inspiring change motivates me. Knowing my music can bring comfort, joy, or provoke thought keeps me going. Fan support and their stories about how my music impacts them fuel my passion and drive to keep creating.
What part of the music-making process is the most stressful, i.e., the creation, the actual release date, etc.?
Molombo: The final stages before release are the most stressful. Perfecting every detail of "StarStruck" and ensuring it aligns with my vision is overwhelming. Deadlines, promotions, and audience anticipation add pressure, but the sense of accomplishment when it's out is worth it.
If there was one thing you could change about the music industry, what would it be?
Molombo: I'd push for more equitable opportunities. The industry favors certain genres and backgrounds, making it tough for unique voices to be heard. Providing more platforms and resources for underrepresented artists would enrich the music landscape with diverse stories and perspectives.
Where do you see your sound and artistry heading in the future? Are there any exciting new directions you're exploring?
Molombo: My sound is always evolving. I'm diving deeper into blending traditional African music with modern electronic and experimental sounds, like in "StarStruck." I'm also exploring multimedia projects that combine music with visual art and performance to create immersive experiences.
Please tell us about the last time you performed. Where was the show, and what was your experience?
Molombo: My last performance was at a cultural festival in Kinshasa. The energy was electric, and the audience was incredibly responsive. Performing in my homeland brought a unique sense of pride and connection. A spontaneous jam session with local musicians was a highlight, reinforcing music's unifying power.
Have you ever been on tour, and can you tell us a little about the experience?
Molombo: Touring is a whirlwind. It's exhausting but rewarding. Meeting fans worldwide and seeing how my music resonates is humbling. Each city has its own vibe, and performing in diverse venues, from intimate clubs to large festivals, offers unique challenges and rewards.
Was there ever a time when you emotionally felt, “I can’t do this anymore”? Can you tell us why this happened and how you found the strength to continue?
Molombo: I've had moments of doubt and exhaustion, especially with industry pressures and personal challenges. At one point, I felt lost in my music direction. Leaning on family, friends, and fellow artists was crucial. Reconnecting with my roots helped me find my passion again. The spirit and themes in "StarStruck" were key in this renewal.
What advice would you give your younger self and why?
Molombo: I’d tell my younger self to stay true to your voice. Don’t compromise your vision to fit in. The industry’s tough, but authenticity and perseverance are everything. Embrace the journey, highs and lows. Your unique perspective is your strength. This advice shaped "StarStruck" and my whole artistic path.
What is the most motivating thing a fan or anyone has ever told you about your music?
Molombo: A fan once told me my music helped them through a tough time. That hit deep. Knowing my songs bring comfort and strength is incredibly fulfilling. Moments like these reinforce why I do this. "StarStruck" was made to have that kind of impact.
If you could go on any late-night talk show, which would it be? And based on present life, what would be the topic of discussion?
Molombo: I’d love to be on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." It's got that perfect mix of humor and heart. We’d probably talk about "StarStruck," the blend of Congolese and Coloradan influences, and the importance of cultural preservation and innovation in today’s world.
Check out his latest release and listen to more of Molombo on Spotify & YouTube.
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