It’s not often that an artist is able to bring back an old sound we all missed. The artist M.Rivers is able to do just that and more with his latest single Don’t Drink The Water. I was able to sit down with the artist to find out the inspiration behind his single and what else he is working on.
Don’t Drink the Water was just released on July 20th. What can you tell us about the song?
It’s definitely anti-establishment in nature. I feel as though today with so much information out there, we are still given falsified propaganda. I wanted to write a song that reflects the unethical nature of those in power and to inspire people to think for themselves.
What helped inspire you to write Don’t Drink the Water?
Unfortunately, we’ve seen our country very divided recently and with people coming forward and making a stand for human rights, I wanted to make a statement as well. I stand for equality and I stand for truth and I stand against hate and misinformation. It’s neither left or right. Musically alot of early catalog stuff I listened to boasts a similar message, which is disheartening in ways that from decade to decade we are dealing with the same problems that surround our society.
You have a very unique sound that has Rock and R&B put together. How did you come up with combining the two genres?
The overall sound of the album is influenced by soul records like Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Bill Withers etc, but I also love late 60’s and 70’s rock records. Ultimately, I always want to service the songs in the right way. There’s a lot of groove and tempo on this album, I just went for what feels good.
What is your favorite genre of music to work with?
I love certain aspects of all genres, I’m enjoying playing these songs and making these types of records right now. Someone called it Indie Soul recently and that really resonated with me.
Who have you been working with on creating new music?
I’ve been collaborating mostly with producer Jimmy Messer, he’s a great songwriter. He has undoubtedly helped me carve out my new sound for this project.
What makes you want to write new music?
It’s something I love to do. Writing music for me is both therapeutic and essential to my well-being. If I’m not writing or creating or playing live I can get pretty depressed.
Tell me one good thing and one bad thing about the business?
Good thing: I’m inspired by so many new great artists that are out there doing their thing and carving their own way, and now more than ever you are able to self-manage and distribute your music to the masses. Bad Thing: Finding visibility for your project with the influx of so many artists and content can be challenging, as well as royalty rates for streaming are still underwhelming.
Are you playing any shows in the near future?
I’ve got some shows in the L.A. area coming up, Molly Malones: 8/18 – 10:45, The Study: 9/7 – 9:30, State Social House: 10/05 – 10:15, Three Clubs: 10/24 – 10:30
Where can our readers listen to your music?
Right now, I’m on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, Youtube and Soundcloud
How can everyone keep up on the latest news about what is going on with you?
Follow me on Instagram; m.riversoffical and twitter and facebook @mriversofficial
Make sure to catch M.Rivers live and watch the music video for Don’t Drink The Water Below.
