What's Theomatic Listening To?

Photo by MXT Visuals

Take a quick glimpse into the current vibe, inspiration, and story of Totem Star artists.

Theo, what song do you currently have on repeat and why do you like it?

Lately I’ve been listening to Kali Uchis’ new album, "Isolation." Melodically it sounds amazing and there's a ton of good vibes in the music. I’ve also been listening to J Cole’s "KOD." He spits a lot of real shit I can relate to.

How would you describe your music preference in general? What qualities make a song truly great?

My music preference is just anything with soul. I don't confine myself to a single genre, both as a listener and a artist. If I can feel the energy and I can vibe to it, then its good music

How does the music you listen to affect the music you write?

The music I listen to affects what I write because I get inspired by it. For example, growing up I listened to artists like the Blue Scholars, Ice Cube, Tupac, A Tribe called quest, Nas, and more. I learned thru all of them that through music you can really express yourself. Not only could you teach others about your experiences , but you could be vulnerable and speak out on sensitive topics, such as mental health, to let others know that it is okay to have conversations about those things. I learned a lot of ways expressing about mental through artists like Tupac, J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Joey Badass. I learned about social injustice through artists like the Blue Scholars, Ice Cube, NWA, Public Enemy, and KRS 1.

Daniel Pak Featured In The International Examiner

Photo Credit: Avi Loud

Check out the International Examiner article entitled "Musician Daniel Pak goes solo: See him at the Crocodile on April 20" written by Alan Chong Lau.

Below is a snippet of the article:
"Totem Star has been a big part of my life for the last eight years. After our first program in 2010 working with young people released from juvenile detention, it dawned on Thad and me that this was truly our calling. We had to do whatever it took to make sure young people had a safe and encouraging space to take creative risks, tell their stories, and build a supportive community. Today we have mentored over 1,500 young recording artists, offering them free studio time, performance opportunities (including shows like The Crocodile), and bringing in guest touring artists and music industry professionals to inspire them.

Totem Star is all about amplifying youth voice and mentoring the next generation of leaders. I think singer-songwriter Monica Elenes says it best: 'What people need to understand about Totem Star is that, more than a record label, first and foremost we’re a family. Before you’re an artist, you’re a human, and Totem Star teaches you that. You can be an artist and not be a role model but Totem Star teaches you to be both.'"

Check out the entire article at iexaminer.org