Clifford is a musician who plays the bass guitar, keyboards, and electronic drums. "Too Big Too Strong" is about having faith in yourself and facing your fears head on. Clifford wrote, recorded, and produced this track in his home studio, which he uses to write, record, and produce all of his music.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Kamil) Hey Clifford, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
I began playing drums at 8, acoustic guitar at 11, first band at 13...and I haven’t stopped adding instruments since. I’ve always had music in my life but it wasn’t until an unfortunate soccer accident where I tore my achilles heel that eventually lead me to music. I was laid up for 13 months, during which time I began a Twitch channel. Other than playing games I sang covers for people. Eventually I found all my followers tuning in for the music more than the gaming. I tried creating music while streaming but that was impossible for me. So I began solely making music…that was 3 years ago.
Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?
There are so many. I particularly admire artists who have a real sense of longevity when it comes to their music careers. People like Diana Ross and David Bowie are two that I feel have/had that sort of mindset. Also I just love their sheer magnetism and charisma on stage.
Your latest track is 'Too Big Too Strong'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
“Too Big Too Strong’ is about that moment when you’re able to say “YES!!! That’s why I didn’t give up!” You’ve reached a point of clarity and validation to keep going. It’s the idea that we don’t even realize how great we are until our courage pushes us to the next level.
Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?
The three skills that have helped me the most are learning the drums, piano and the guitar. With those three instruments I’m able to create most of the sounds I need for my music, even though the sounds created are sometimes nothing like the sounds those instruments make.
What are your favourite musical genres, and are there any you dislike?
All genres serve a purpose and as an artist who genre bends I wouldn’t say I prefer one genre over any other. But some genres suit my musical style more than others. Like as much as I listen to and love Rap I know my ability to rap is minimal at best. What seems to work for me thus far is alt-rock, synth-wave, indie, twangs of country, world music and singer/songwriter.
Describe your creative process when you write new music.
My creative process is full of multiple sprints. When I have ideas I work on them for short periods of time. The last stages of mixing/mastering are more like marathons (or so they feel when I’m going through them haha).
What are your long term goals?
Long term I see myself collaborating with other musicians and producing.
What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?
The challenges and outlets for self expression it brings. I enjoy having the choice of many options when creating music. Selecting the right ones, in the right order, for the right reasons can be very complex.
How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?
Great access to lots of music, but in need of a re-think so artists can survive financially.
What are your plans for the future?
Currently I’m working with a Grammy award winner…fingers crossed the outcome sparks the next phase in my musical career.