Music News South Africa

Nevis for The Masses

On Monday, 3 November, 'The Masses', sophomore album by home-grown pop prince Jimmy Nevis was released. We caught up with him in cyberspace to get the scoop on the new album, growing up and Gatsbys.

BizcommunityWhat was the recording process like album 'The Masses'?

It was extremely creative - often uncertain and unknown, but in the best ways. I found myself discovering new things about myself personally and creatively. It truly felt like I've entered a new wave in my career as a musician. It feels like the first time.

Nevis for The Masses

Does the title of the album refer to your feelings on pop music and making meaningful pop music for the masses?

Yes. It also refers to the content of the album: it's for the masses and about them. Other people's stories, some experiences shared and others completely foreign inspired the music.

How would you say that this album differs from debut album 'Subliminal'?

It's a lot wiser and is more mature from a content and production standpoint. I wanted to explore other topics, other than just love and hate. It was challenging but really forced me to learn more about my community and my country.

If you had to describe the album as a meal, what would it be and why?

A Gatsby - because it's home grown, full of unhealthy, fatty and greasy elements, but it tastes so good and will leave you feeling overwhelmed and full.

What have been some of your personal musical highlights so far?

Performing at the Ultra Festival as well as in Alexander Town. I also enjoyed singing the national anthem at the last Rugby Currie Cup Final.

Nevis for The Masses

Was there one particular moment in your life when you realised you wanted it to be a musical life?

I always knew this was something that I wanted to do, but it was only early in 2012 that I really committed to the idea. It was a do-or-die moment for me and I chose to do something. I wrote and produced Elephant Shoes (my first single), I then took it to all the Cape Town radio stations and begged them to play it. They accepted and I haven't looked back since then.

What's the grand plan for Jimmy Nevis?

World domination. I plan to continue to make great music and get into other parts of the industry; maybe television and production. For now, I am going on a nationwide tour at the end of the year and I'm also planning on graduating.

Quick-fire questions

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the following words:

Jumping Castles: Ice cream
Groovy: Austin Powers
Lol cats: Tango (was my childhood cat growing up)
Boy bands: Nsync (I actually never liked them but they just came to mind)

'The Masses' is now out on iTunes

jimmynevisofficial.com

Images by Earl Martin

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