In the heart of Medellin, Colombia, a musical visionary is breaking boundaries, seamlessly blending traditional Afro-Colombian and Indigenous influences with modern club beats. Killabeatmaker’s journey of sonic exploration is a testament to the power of music to transcend borders, cultures and genres. In an exclusive interview, we dive into his artistic odyssey and the rich tapestry of influences that shape his distinctive sound.
Discovering a Unique Fusion
For Killabeatmaker, the path to his unique musical fusion began in the recording studios, where he spent over two decades refining his craft. His work provided him with the chance to delve deep into the world of traditional Indigenous and Afro-Colombian instruments. It wasn’t until 2010, when Killabeatmaker embarked on his DJ career that the full potential of merging sounds truly became clear. He discovered the “strength and power of fusing eclectic and captivating sounds,” opening up a new layer in his creative journey.
Known for his lively performances, Killabeatmaker elevates his shows by incorporating vocals, freestyle and beatboxing. He approaches the delicate balance between live elements and pre-produced tracks with finesse. “One of my goals with live shows is to offer the audience sounds and experiences that are a touch more interesting than the recordings,” he explains. Collaboration with talented musicians is key, creating a diverse, detail-rich atmosphere that amplifies the music’s impact beyond the confines of a DJ set or a recording.
Medellin’s Influence
Medellin, with its warm climate and vibrant culture, plays a pivotal role in shaping this artist’s music. His works carries the imprint of his sunny hometown, where joy is a way of life. However, he acknowledges the city’s tumultuous history, marked by violence, adding an edge that lingers in the air and streets. The fusion of these contrasting elements infuses the music with depth and complexity. Local musicians have also significantly impacted his style and enriched his influences.
Multifaceted Artistry
This artist’s creative spectrum extends beyond the roles of DJ and producer; Killabeatmaker is also an audio engineer and a singer-songwriter. These diverse roles intersect together in his creative process, fostering independence in various aspects of his art. He can initiate, create, record, mix, and manage projects independently, reflecting a multifaceted approach to his music.
When it comes to his creative process, there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. He often begins with a captivating melody that lodges itself in his mind, whether it’s a voice, a piano riff or a simple drumbeat. From there, layers are meticulously added to enhance the depth of sound. The track’s structure takes shape logically, followed by editing, sound placement using analog equipment, mixing and extensive testing on various audio systems. Only when the music sounds solid across different formats is it mastered and ready for release.
Music with a Message
Killabeatmaker’s music is more than just melodies; it carries messages and reflects cultural and social themes. One track that holds special meaning for him is “ME CURARA LA LOCURA.” This song poetically conveys the idea that, after hardship or tragedy, healing rains arrive to mend wounds and guide us with a forward message of resilience and hope.
As a genre in constant flux, Global Bass is nourished by world music, ensuring its perpetual evolution. For this artist, the genre provides an exciting canvas for innovation, allowing him to infuse in his Colombian and folklore influences.
Killabeatmaker has a dream: to collaborate with traditional Colombian singers like Nidia Gongora and blend their voices with African artists like Naira Marley.
Balancing the preservation of Afro-Colombian and Indigenous traditions while pushing the boundaries of innovation is a delicate endeavor. The artist’s roots stems from his mixed heritage and the experiences he encountered at home.
Future Horizons
Currently, Killabeatmaker’s focus lies in personal growth and community contribution, all channeled through music. Killabeatmaker’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, innovate, and unite.
Check out his new releases here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killabeatmaker/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/killabeatmaker/
Website: www.killabeatmaker.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/37wP9xRIgEc1Bb25jvRjQb?si=nKcY8ppQRtywaKVKhcHM3g
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOr3T8GigveEEzSa8q3Ohgw
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/killabeatmakeroficial
Mixcloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/KillaBeatMaker/stream/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/killabeatmaker
Vimeo (Amanecer official video): https://vimeo.com/349980844
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