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Erwan Alexis was born in the United States to French parents who continuously exposed him to music and dance, and together with his own creativity, he flourished as a bold and sincere musical artist. Growing up in NYC, Erwan dealt with the hardships that face an inner city youth. Though he sings much about love and heartbreak, his upcoming album also deals with the internal and external battles that a multiracial youth may fight everyday.
The inspiration behind this song is the question "Is it selfish, that I want you - I can't help it I didn't want to". These are the words Erwan asks in the chorus, and they come as a revelation in a song about infidelity and a woman with multiple suitors. Erwan realizes that he's selfish in his pursuit of this woman in a happy relationship; But the words, "You can't have your cake and eat it too".Written by Alexis in late 2019, “Selfish” came to fruition during a trip to Paris. Alexis collaborated with Felix Sabal-Lecco for the single. The musical giants emerged themselves in the studio and the Cameroonian producer added his signature sound to the track.
Q. Have you always had the passion to sing?
Yes I've always had a passion for music. My mother was a singer and dancer, my father was a percussionist. I grew up in music around some really world class musicians and performers. My mother actually recorded an album with me in her belly, so naturally I was pushed towards learning an instrument and singing. Singing is especially important to me, because it really demands more than muscle memory and mastery. In order to touch people you have to sing with "soul", soul isn't taught in a school! Q. Tell us about your new single "Selfish" and who's it for?
Selfish was written by myself and produced with Felix Sabal-Lecco in Paris. We really wanted the single to be fun, to have groove and be something to dance to. It's lighthearted and fun, but was inspired by some hurtful relationships! I think Selfish is for everyone, I don't typically make music with a demographic in mind, I'm just pouring out what comes to me. The song is pop music and it's a love song. If you like love songs and if you like the pop genre then Selfish is the song for you.
Q. Your upcoming album highlights the internal and external battles that biracial youth face on a daily basis. Is this your story also? And why did you choose to bring awareness to it?
Yes, I think the perspective and even topics on the album reveal part of the story, of my story. I am a child of Caribbean parents, both biracial and multicultural. That means that my reference points aren't only based in America, but also Martinique, France, Africa and beyond. We all have a story to tell, all of our stories matter, and, in this moment, I chose to tell my story. Racial injustice, inner city upbringing, political issues but also love stories and struggles of identity and self-expression. No part of our story is too small, or too big...
Q. What takeaways would you like people to receive when they hear your music?
I want people to have fun. I want them to listen and dance, the audience can choose to pay attention to the words and the message or choose not to. Ultimately, the music has to be good, If you feel good afterwards, then I know I've accomplished what I set out to do!
Q. Do you believe that you are living for your purpose?
Absolutely.
Q. What does success mean to you?
Success means doing what I love and loving what I do. I want to thrive financially and spiritually off my passion and projects and be proud of the results they yield.
Interview by: Leading with Lee
PR: Pilar Scratch
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