What is your name?
Amir Brandon. First name pronounced “Aaaamir.” You can pronounce “Brandon” however you like!
What is your genre of music?
Pop/R&B. A sprinkle of Bieber, a pinch of Ariana, and a dash of Sade. Then you have me!
Give us a little bio about you.
Hey, it’s Amir Brandon here! I’m a Toronto based singer-songwriter with a passion for hooky melodies, Pokémon, and sour candy. I’ve had the opportunity to get my music placed in FM radio, Spotify editorial playlists, and various TV programs (Netflix, Disney, etc.). I usually like writing songs when I’m sad; it really allows me to be vulnerable in my lyrics. My music reflects on my experiences with heartbreak, loneliness, my identity, and challenges in the music industry. It’s a silver lining when I can use my sadness to inspire an awesome song
What made you go into music?
When I was in grade 2, I climbed to the top of the play structure during recess and sang Britney Spears“ ’Oops I Did It Again” at the top of my lungs. While my performance was received to mixed reviews, that was the moment I realized what I really wanted to do.
Who are your influences?
I’m heavily influenced by pop music. I think that there’s so much power in a cleverly constructed hook when it comes to connecting with as many people as possible, and I’m always looking to hear what’s currently happening in the pop world. My favourite artists are Mariah Carey, Sufjan Stevens, Sade, and George Michael. Nevertheless, I’m equally as excited to tune in to the latest Spotify playlists and hear what’s popping off.
You released your debut single ‘champagne’, tell us more about the single.
champagne is the first single off of my upcoming album, Lonely Club. It’s got a good balance of my favourite elements of pop and R&B music—dreamy production, soul-inspired vocals, and catchy lyrics that mean a lot to me.
What is the meaning behind the single?
champagne is an anthem for heartbroken introverts. Sometimes it feels better to stay in bed instead of going out and drinking the sadness away. I know friends might want to take you out and get tipsy to forget about something/someone, but sometimes it’s okay to just chill at home with Netflix and a tub of ice cream instead!
What was the writing and recording process like?
It all started with a chord progression played on a moody synth. My songwriting is often driven by a vibe, and champagne came to life after the musical arrangement was put together. I’m a big fan of light, airy vocals (à la Sade & Mariah Carey), so I feel right at home singing the falsetto-rich lines on champagne. This song really allowed me to explore different vocal qualities, since my performance gets more intense as the song progresses
Describe the track in two words.
Sad euphoria.
Who did you work with on the single?
Tayo Jacob of Nu Music Group is the executive producer on champagne, along with co-producer Ewan Kay, both amazing friends and collaborators of mine
You also released a Music Video for the single, what was the creative process like?
Such a trip (no pun intended). It was predominantly shot in a limousine, where I got the opportunity to hang out with my producer’s miniature yorkie and eat lots of sour candy (my favourite!). The visuals have a moody, colourful vibe, and really compliment the song in a fun, whimsical way. The music video serves as an introduction to who I am; for most of the video, I’m wearing a onesie inspired by one of my favourite fictional characters, and get the chance to play as myself in a custom champagne-inspired video game
Will we see an EP or Album and if so what can we expect?
I’ve got a few singles on the way this summer, followed by my debut album, Lonely Club, coming out in a couple months. I’m super excited for what’s coming soon!
What else can we expect in 2021?
More music, more videos, and some live performances, assuming COVID is out of the picture (fingers crossed)!
Where do you see yourself now in 5 years?
I want to make music that connects with new people consistently. My dream has always been to make a career out of my creativity, and I hope that music fans will enjoy coming along for the ride
What quote or saying do you always stick by?
“This had better be good!” -Yzma from Disney’s “The Emperor’s New Groove”
When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
To breathe, to be genuine, to smile, to remember that everyone in the audience gets nervous too, and to check if my fly is close
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
For sure! For the most part, if you search “Amir Brandon” wherever you use social media, you can find me. My username on instagram , and I’d love to connect with anyone who digs my music
