Yagi (formerly MikeyR) landed on our radar earlier this year when we premiered ‘Hold On’. Since then, he’s been grinding hard, pumping out tunes and building his catalog. With a new album on the way early next year, Yagi is back with a beastly new single in ‘hiLITe’. When those dark keys hit you in the intro, it’s hard not to be captivated. The blurred vocal loops and chords build things up and leave you wondering where things are headed. The trapped out “heys” give some indication before blasting into what makes this song special: the bass and percussion. Stretched across two drops, Yagi delivers an absolutely abusive beat down on the drums, exceptionally backed by dark and deep bass. If you’re a fan of that raw trap sound then this one is for you.
To coincide with the premiere we also had the chance to catch up with the young producer for an exclusive interview. We chatted about his upcoming album, how he got into producing, the recent name change and more. Stream the track below and be sure check out our interview.
When did you start making music? How did you get into production?
A few years ago, when EDM was just starting to branch out, a couple friends and I were listening to Joyenergizer by Sander Van Doorn. It really peaked my interest so I decided that my goal was to educate myself and start digging deeper into music production. I started off with Logic 9 because my father had done some projects here and there. At first, I really had no idea what I was doing haha. I would put mismatched tempo loops and it was such a mess. But over the years, I’ve been learning more and more about production, mixing, and mastering.
You recently changed your name. What prompted the decision?
Although many people were fans of MIKEYR, I felt like the name wasn’t a good representation for myself. So one day, I was trying to come up with some names, and Yagi hit me. It was more of a joke name at the time and I wasn’t really serious about it, but it started growing on me, so I went and rebranded myself. A lot of people say it wrong haha but the actual pronunciation is [yah-zhy].
Do you have any collabs in the works?
Actually, I do lol, I have a few that are almost done and some sitting. I got some new music coming out with artists BLSZRD, Twerl, Roshima, Abelation. Vanz, and Joeker. I always love working with different producers because they all have their own unique sound. They all bring stuff to the table and overall, they are some really rad dudes.
Can you tell us a little bit about the upcoming album? Do you have a release date in mind?
Yes! I’m really excited to share my new album Champion. I had a ton of singles just sitting but I wanted to put together a special package. I had recently put out my Wind Up EP and I was really surprised that I had finished an album given the time. The release date is not set in stone yet, but be sure to expect it in the early 2017. The album varies in genre, flowing through trap, future bass, house, pop, and future bounce. Super stoked to share this.
The project is entitled Champion, what’s the significance of the title?
Well probably the main theme of the title is that basically anyone can create incredible things. I mean, when I started off, I was not even sure if I wanted to pursue in production because at the time, my tracks were complete garbage. But it’s all time and effort and once you get the hang of things, it only gets better.
It explores a few different genres. Do you see yourself continuing to produce across genres?
I always love creating new music or new ideas. I don’t wanna be locked in one specific genre like some artists I know. I often experiment with new sounds and jazz samples because there is so much diversity in modern culture or even in really old recordings. Plus, making new music is just totally fun too. I never get bored of it lol.
What do you do outside of music?
Well, it’s pretty much school for now lol but I love chilling on the couch with some good old Netflix. I also love hanging with my homies from time to time. Btw my older brother and I have a new side project coming soon with some really crazy tracks so stay tuned for those ;)
What should people expect from you in 2017?
I’d say that people should expect some crazy new tunes! Also maybe some merch coming, some more shows, and more premieres!
