|
And that’s the guy y’all chose to name your company after?
-
Nas
You can almost predict the fate of a record label by breaking down its name. Rocafella, Cash Money, Murder Inc, Death row, No Limit. If you know the history of these labels (or the Wikipedia page) you'll notice that their karma never strayed far from what their moniker implied. So what can you expect from a Montreal-based independent label that calls itself MindPeaceLove?
To let artist and founder Jonathan Emile tell it, the name came from a "...life idea." He goes on to explain, "I was trying to figure out how I was going to deal with situations in life. I was trying to figure what was the right way to live, the right way to go about things. Going through cancer really put it to the test." At just 18 years old, Emile was diagnosed with cancer. While the physical effects are well documented, sometimes the toughest battle is the one fought against the mental strain brought on by such dire circumstances. Through it all, Jonathan remained strong. There would be no white flags. So it was chemo for the body, "Mind Peace Love" for the Soul. That philosophy is the guiding force behind everything that comes out of the MPL camp.
In October, Jonathan released his first EP entitled The Lover/Fighter Document. The 7 track opus is Jonathan's own unique blend of hip hop soul and socially conscious lyrics. Jon E's musical influences include Bob Marley, Nas, Tupac Shakur and a handful of other lyrical laureates "with knowledge and a message, who want to usher change." Also on the MindPeaceLove roster is Kalmunity Vibes performer, Preach Ankobia. Of Preach, Jonathan says: "If there is anyone in Montreal who is the voice of the streets or understands the game in Montreal" he's the one. Preach's defiant persona and penchant for delivering knowledge and street wisdom through his lyrics, has garnered him much acclaim and respect amongst the city's elite. Simply put, "He's Montreal's Tupac." the MPL front man states unapologetically.
In perfect contrast to Ankobia's gruff style, MindPeaceLove added one of the most magnetic singers I've ever seen grace the stage in Montreal, Sonia Soul. The name couldn't be more fitting. The soulful singer/songwriter was introduced to Emile by label mate Preach. On the strength of Preach's recommendation, Jon invited Sonia to the studio and the results were impressive: ten songs within a week's work. While the bulk of those songs remain in the MindPeaceLove vaults, the anticipation continues to build for a Sonia Soul release. "You gotta be a business person. You gotta do things the right way." says Jonathan as he flips effortlessly from artist to CEO mode. He goes on to say, "We want to make it as tight as possible, 'cause she's bringing something special."
With MindPeaceLove, Emile hopes to finally establish an authentic identity for the schizophrenic Montreal sound. The usually even-keeled composer gets animated when he shares his views on what's holding Montreal's urban music scene back: "People in the city have this idea that they got to sound like Americans - What we need to do is find out what's special about this city and bring it out." He adds, "What we're trying to do is pioneer a new type of music, a new type of hip hop." A mix between Neo Soul, conscious Hip Hop, and Caribbean vibes, or "Hop Soul," if you will.
In a market where a Canadian act has yet to make a significant impact (though Drake is on his way), Montreal artists continue to play (the NOT so talented) Mr. Ripley to the American originals. MindPeaceLove is forging a path for artists who aren't afraid to be themselves. Even if that means being... (gulp) Canadian.
By Shane “L.E.S.” Scully
Jonathan Emile - The Lover/Fighter Document is available on Itunes and at HMV now...
Preach Ankobia – Voice of the Streets is available on Itunes now...
Sonia Soul – Find out more at www.mindpeacelove.com
> |
