Los Angeles-based recording artist FAZE has just released his debut EP titled “Eclipse.” The release takes FUZE on a journey communing with the planets, rocketing to the moon, transcending galaxies and swimming through tidal waves.
As a member of the LGBT community, FAZE spent years struggling to find a sense of belonging. His struggle was complicated by the fact that at age 7 he was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome. Music provided some salvation.
“This project is about trying to find out who you truly are and what it means to be human, without any rulebook or any guide at all,” FAZE says.
INTERVIEW
What was the inspiration for your new release?
I was inspired by questioning the universe, my life and human existence. I reflected on myself, looking inward, outward and everywhere in between for the answers to my questions. At the same time I found the importance of living in the present and never taking a single moment for granted.
It seems to have a message and theme. Please let us know if that’s the case and what the message is.
I named my EP “Eclipse,” because an eclipse is when the sun, the earth and the moon are all in perfect alignment. Making this project was all about perfect timing and alignment in my life. Eclipse is more than just space themed; I wanted to dig deeper and go beyond the horizon with it. Recording “Eclipse” was the most exciting thing for me in my career thus far, but it also came with its share of heartbreak. I recorded this project throughout a very rough patch in my life. It was key for me to take what I was going through and use it as fuel to create something that was honest and relatable. I put myself in a vulnerable place, and I wanted nothing more than to be transparent. We all go through our own personal struggles and ups and downs. Sometimes we feel so alone and that no one truly understands. My message is that no matter what you’re going through, you are strong enough to get through it, and you’ve gotta keep on going, just like the waves.
Do you think that you are destined to be a singer?
Yes, absolutely. I’ve always been drawn to music and the arts, and I’ve always loved creating. Writing and making music is and always has been what I want to do with my time here on this planet!
What are some of the biggest challenges that you’ve encountered thus far in your career, and how have you dealt with them?
The music business is definitely tricky. There is no rule book on how to do it—you just do. What I’ve learned is that there is really no right or wrong way to any of it. It seems to be ever growing and changing, which makes it hard to wrap your mind around at times. I’ve definitely dealt with producers, managers, writers, etc. over time, and what I found to be the biggest issue was that when it came down to it, people aren’t always as serious or driven as I consider myself to be. There’s been a lot of talk and no action. Waiting around and false promises. In the same breath, I don’t think of that as any time wasted, because it all led me to where I am now. I am in a place where I love the people I work with, and I’m so grateful for that. It’s important for me to have fun while creating. Everyone brings something to the table, and when it’s time to get down to business, we put our heads together, get the work done and create magic.
What are your proudest moments thus far?
I am extremely happy that “Eclipse” is finally available for everyone to hear! I poured my heart and soul into this project. My ultimate goal is to connect with people in hopes that I can make a difference or some sort of impact. I’ve got an amazing support system; my mom and sister mean everything to me. They’ve always had my back, so it’s a really awesome feeling to know that after all these years they can finally see what I envisioned come to life.
Do you plan a tour in support of the album?
I would definitely love to go on tour at some point. I just started performing at venues around Los Angeles, so for now it’s more local, but I never box myself in. I wouldn’t set any limits on where I can take this, how high I can go or what I can do through music!
What’s on the horizon for you for 2020 and beyond?
I’ve always got a lot of my mind, and I always have a vision. I’d like to keep performing this project and add more to my repertoire. Venturing out into the fashion world is definitely on my list as well. I’ve already got some ideas flowing about what my next project will be like, so I’d like to start figuring that out in between the other stuff I’ve got going on. Although, I’m sure I’ll already have a million new ideas by the time I start recording the next one! I am striving to reach the place where I am constantly creating new music and writing new material.
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